CK Daily Updates

Happy Tuesday! We hope you are having a great week. If there is anyway that we can be praying for – let us know!

In This Issue: Your Favorite Board Games | HP BL460c Generation 8 | Understanding the Basics of Network Switches | News to Start Your Day

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The CK Daily – Your Favorite Board Games

Good Morning & Happy Tuesday! Hope everyone is off to a great start to the week!

I had a super busy but awesome weekend! I had my nephew and my little brother over on Friday night for a sleepover. We went out to dinner, dropped by Walmart to get some delicious junk food snacks for a movie night at home (watched Sonic), and played a few games of “Clue”! My nephew is now 8 years old so he’s definitely able to understand a lot more when it comes to board games which is exciting because I used to love having family game nights as a kid. “Clue” was actually a family favorite and I hadn’t played it since I was a kid! He caught on super quick and absolutely loved it!

I’m hoping to teach him some new board games in the coming months and would love to know what are some of your favorites?!

Ashley

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Product Spotlights & Updates

Servers are the workhorse of your network. They store your data, act as a web server, house your entire email library, run your applications, and occasionally act as your print server. When your computer dies and you lose all of your files, who is there? Your file server is there to save the day.

Servers can come in many shapes and sizes. CablesAndkits has you covered with 1RU, 2RU, Blade, and Tower servers. The HP BL460c G8 titanium series server is built with 256GB of HP Ram, two 300GB HP hard drives and two Intel E5-2690-V2 Processors.

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Learning Center Article – Understanding the basics of network switches

Networking is a big topic. In fact, it’s too big for a single conversation. In order to distill such a massive concept into manageable bites, it’s best to look at one component of a network at a time. This time around, that bite is network switches. They come in many shapes and sizes, but you can navigate through the field of options pretty easily when you break switch features into three categories.

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Today’s News to Start Your Day:

• At least three people were killed and dozens were injured after an Amtrak train derailed Monday in Missouri. The train was traveling to Chicago and had about 243 passengers onboard when it collided with a dump truck near the city of Mendon, located about 100 miles northeast of Kansas City, according to the passenger rail company. Authorities say preliminary reports indicate the collision happened at an uncontrolled railroad crossing that didn’t have warning lights or motion gates.
• A team of domino artists convened at a Michigan school to assemble a wall from 54,321 dominoes and break a Guinness World Record.
• Fifty migrants are believed to have died after they and others were found in sweltering conditions in a semi-truck in San Antonio. The death toll, which the city’s fire chief set Monday at 46, includes migrants believed to be mostly from Mexico, as well as Guatemala and Honduras, according to the official, who spoke on condition of anonymity.
• Sheetz announced Monday that it will charge $3.99 a gallon for unleaded 88 and $3.49 a gallon for E85, effective immediately and continuing “through the July 4th holiday travel season.

Happy Monday! Today we celebrate Mr. Happy Face who was recently crowned the Ugliest Dog in the World! Learn more about his story here.

In This Issue: Lunch with Friends | Cisco 40GBase-SR4 QSFP+ Transceiver Module | Difference between FCoE and FCIP | News to Start Your Day

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The CK Daily – Lunch with Friends

Good Monday morning! It cooled down a little bit over the weekend, but it was still hotter than I prefer.

I had lunch with some local guys in my PC gamer group, a few of whom I’ve never met in person before. We enjoyed some Korean BBQ and had some insightful conversations. I realized over the course of the meal that what we were doing could not be replicated digitally. Even though we built camaraderie during our games, actually being face to face added another dimension in our relationships to each other. I can’t pinpoint quite what exactly those dimensions were, but after the lunch, I trusted and understood the guys more, especially the ones I’ve never met in person. I think Korean BBQ is a great setting because it’s slower-paced, we talked between the delicious meats being cooked and everyone seemed to enjoy all of the different food options.

I’m more of an introvert, but I do enjoy social interaction and I tend to find myself listening to learn in conversations as opposed to sharing any given opinion. (I’m an INTJ if you are into the personality types). The lunch sort of gave me a long-needed recharge and boost. I encourage you, if you haven’t already, to have lunch with friends in person if you can and are comfortable with it! If you have the option of having Korean BBQ, I recommend that too!

Cris

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Product Spotlights & Updates

This versatile Cisco 40GBase-SR4 QSFP+ transceiver module allows you to achieve 40G speeds and also can be utilized in a 4x10G mode to allow for compatibility with your existing 10G transceivers. These Cisco original 40G QSFP+ modules are some of the most popular on the market today and are in many ways comparable to their popular 10G counterpart, SFP-10G-SR.

These 40GBase-SR4 modules are parallel optic transceivers that are ideal for short-range reaches. These transceivers utilize MPO/MTP connectors, operate on OM3 or OM4 multimode fiber (MMF), and use 850nm lasers. These modules utilize 8 of the 12 MPO/MTP fibers to transmit data over 4 duplex (4 sending and 4 receiving) parallel channels at a rate of 10Gbps/channel resulting in 40Gbps speeds.

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Learning Center Article – Difference between FCoE and FCIP

For enterprise operations, data management is an essential operation, and it requires powerful, robust designs in order to meet demand. That is why storage area networks (SAN) are so common. They provide centralized storage that consolidates large amounts of data while providing sufficient access to that data.

With SAN, you will often find that multiple types of connections are necessary to serve every need of the system, so you will be working with copper connections and fiber optics simultaneously. When those different infrastructures need to communicate, you need methods that bridge the gap.

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Today’s News to Start Your Day:

• At least 730 flights were canceled across the United States on Sunday evening, according to the flight-tracking website FlightAware. Delta Air Lines alone canceled at least 224 flights on Sunday. United Airlines canceled 71 flights and American Airlines canceled 66 flights.
• At least 21 teenagers, the youngest possibly just 13, died this weekend after a night out at a township tavern in South Africa in a tragedy where the cause remains unclear. Many are thought to have been students celebrating the end of their high-school exams on Saturday night.
• Disney, Apple and Amazon have all submitted bids to become the new broadcast rights owner of the National Football League’s out-of-market Sunday Ticket package. They’re just waiting to find out who wins.
• BMW has officially opened its new 15 billion yuan ($2.2 billion) factory in China with a strong focus on electric vehicles as it tries to catch up with leaders Tesla and domestic competitors.

The weekend is finally here! Do you have any plans? To kick start the weekend, today is “Take Your Dog to Work” day! Looks like the perfect day for your 4-legged friends to help you complete your weekly tasks so you can head into the weekend feeling accomplished.

In This Issue: Vacation Time | Catalyst 9200 | Layer 2 vs Layer 3 Switches: Which is best for your network? | News to Start Your Day

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The CK Daily – Vacation Time

Happy Friday, folks! We have officially passed the day with the most sunshine, known as the Summer solstice. My family loves these days when we stay outside during the summer until the street lights come on!

So this brings me to my question? Do you use all of your PTO or vacation time? Here at CablesAndKits, we try to encourage our team to use their PTO regularly. There is always more to do in business than can actually be done. The never-ending list of todos can create the internal pressure not to take a day off. But we also need to prioritize taking care of ourselves. For me, that means taking PTO regularly to enjoy time with my family.

I encourage each of you to take care of yourself and use your PTO. You will be far more productive when you come back. At least, I always am. I feel refreshed.

Have a great weekend!

Chris

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Product Spotlights & Updates

Upgrade your network to the Cisco Catalyst 9200 series of switches to take advantage of simplicity without compromise. These switches extend the power of intent-based networking and help users to simplify complexity, optimize IT, and reduce operational costs.

The series allows for maximum resiliency with dual redundant power supplies and fans which are field replaceable on many models. The 9200 series feature StackWise technology with up to 160 Gbps of stacking bandwidth to allow users to manage a stack of switches as a single virtual unit.

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Learning Center Article – Layer 2 vs Layer 3 Switches: Which is best for your network?

When it comes to network switches, you have a lot of options. Finding the perfect switch for every occasion can be a monstrous task. Sometimes, the easiest way to find a good choice is to take a step back and learn more about the primary differences that exist between switches.

One major difference that you will see is the OSI connection layer. Most of the switches you will see will be labeled as either Layer 2 or Layer 3. When you take a deeper look at the key aspects of each layer, you can make an informed decision that ensures you have the right equipment for the job at hand.

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Today’s News to Start Your Day:

• Instagram is testing ways for users who attempt to edit their age from under 18 to 18 or older to confirm their real age by either uploading a photo ID, recording video selfies or asking mutual friends to confirm their age. The measures are guided by the principle that teens and adults have age-appropriate user experiences on the platform
• The Food and Drug Administration announced that it is banning the sale of Juul e-cigarettes in the U.S. Juul intends to seek a stay on the decision and is exploring options, which include appealing the decision or engaging with the FDA. The ban is part of the FDA’s broader review of the vaping industry following years of pressure from politicians and public health groups to regulate the segment as strictly as other tobacco products after vaping became more common among high schoolers.
• In a clear sky, Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn can be seen shining before dawn. It’s a special opportunity to see Mercury, which is usually obscured from view by the Sun’s bright light. The conjunction was brightest on Friday morning but will remain visible until Monday from most parts of the world. The last time this conjunction happened was 2004 and it won’t be seen again until 2040.
• The Orlando Magic selected Paolo Banchero as the first pick of the 2022 NBA Draft. Banchero, 19, played for Duke University, averaging 17.2 points, 7.8 rebounds and 3.2 assists in 39 starts.

Happy Thursday and Happy National Hydration Day! Today reminds us to drink more water. With the heat waves that have been coming through it is important for us to replace the fluids lost. 💧

In This Issue: Life Lessons | Cisco Aironet Flush Ceiling Grid Clip | Your Guide to Cisco Catalyst Switches | News to Start Your Day

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The CK Daily – Life Lessons

Good morning and Happy Thursday, everyone!

I hope your week has been going fantastic. Man, it has been HOT here in Georgia already. This humidity is ridiculous! It really makes me appreciate Fall & Winter a lot more! Haha!

A friend sent me an email from one of his clients and I thought that it was really full of a lot of wisdom and it resonated with me and where I am at right now. Pretty much they mentioned lessons from life that he learned in life that he wished his younger self knew. It really got me thinking and I figured I would pass along the points in it.

1. The future is so bright. It may seem daunting and uncertain, but you will be prepared for the challenges and you will be able to navigate them and come out stronger on the other side.
2. You are more than enough. You don’t need to be perfect, just be present in all the moments of your life. Use your God-given talents and gifts to make a difference wherever you go.
3. There is a calling designed just for you. Pursue it with all your heart and when you find it, you will find a purpose that stirs your soul.
4. Decisions determine your path. Every decision you make influences the trajectory of your future. Make them carefully and seek wise counsel.
5. Life is a journey and it passes faster than you could ever imagine. Live in the moment and don’t rush to the next destination. It will come soon enough.
6. Never stop learning. Read the book. Listen to the podcast. Take the course. Learning is critical to fully living.
7. Collect people, not possessions. We were made for relationships and they will contribute to our happiness far more than any possession.
8. Give your life away. It is in the giving of your time, talent, and treasure in service to others that you will find joy.
9. Make mistakes and then own them. You will learn more from taking the risk and others will respect you for the flaws you acknowledge.
10. Let it go. Very few things are really in your control, so don’t worry so much. Live into every day focused on your purpose, pursuing your mission, and staying true to your values. It will all be ok.

Have a great rest of the week and weekend! Make the most of it!

Jason

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Product Spotlights & Updates

With the Cisco Aironet Flush Ceiling Grid Clip, flush mounting your device is simple. The installation process is quick, with the clip easily fastening to the tile ceiling system where it is being installed. This clip is compatible with the Cisco Aironet 3500e, 3500i, 1260, 1140, and 1040.

If the ceiling tiles are flush with the ceiling grid, the clip offers a snug and secure fit between the ceiling and the access point. It offers a secure mount feature, ensuring the device attached will not fall or loosen while providing a space-saving design. With this clip, you can feel confident that once it is mounted, you do not have to worry about it again, which is beneficial in a fast-moving environment where efficiency is key.

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Learning Center Article – Your Guide to Cisco Catalyst Switches

A network is only as effective as its weakest link. When you have heavy demands, you need good options to meet and exceed those demands. Cisco has been providing top-quality options for every network design for decades. This overview will introduce you to some of the most common, versatile and widely-used switches Cisco has to offer.

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Today’s News to Start Your Day:

• Ohio State University has successfully received a trademark on the word “THE.” The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office approved Ohio State’s application Tuesday by issuing a registration certificate. It allows Ohio State to control the use of “THE” on “clothing, namely, t-shirts, baseball caps, and hats; all of the foregoing being promoted, distributed, and sold through channels customary to the field of sports and collegiate athletics.”
• A Yorkshire terrier has survived a terrifying ordeal involving a bald eagle intent on making a meal of the pooch. The accompanying footage, captured by a doorbell camera in Prince Rupert, British Columbia, shows the Yorkie, named Coco, crying out as a shadow appears overhead and the eagle swoops down to grab her from a porch.
• At Amazon’s Re: Mars conference in Las Vegas on Wednesday, the company demonstrated a feature that enables its Alexa voice assistant to emulate any voice. The feature, which is still in development, could be used to replicate a family member’s voice, even after they’ve died.
• American artistic swimmer Anita Alvarez was in danger of drowning after losing consciousness in the pool at the world championships in Budapest, Hungary, on Wednesday before being rescued by her coach Andrea Fuentes.

Happy Hump Day! Wishing you a successful week of checking off all the boxes on your to-do list and a fruitful week of work!

In This Issue: Gardening Tips | Kendall Howard 15U, 18″ Deep, Open Wall Rack | Autonomous vs Lightweight Access Points | News to Start Your Day

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The CK Daily – Gardening Tips

Happy Wednesday all! We’ve officially kicked off the summer – who’s excited?! I hope your summer is full of adventure and joy.

So far this summer (I know it’s only been one day lol), I’ve spent quite a while on a scavenger hunt in our garden. It is thriving!! Our cucumber plants are loving life – so much that if we eat another cucumber, we might just turn into one! I love a classic sliced cucumber with a tad bit of salt on top, but I need some new ways to enjoy these, so please send all of your favorite recipes.

Did you plant a garden this year? How’s it doing? What’s thriving? Send all tips and tricks my way, would love to share them!

Ashley

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Product Spotlights & Updates

This Kendall Howard 15U Open Frame Wall Rack is slightly larger than its 8U counterpart and is designed to give you additional space for all of your equipment. The same open-frame concept allows quick and easy access to both sides of your units and provides optimal airflow. The unit comes with 25 rack screws and can be quickly assembled or taken down. If you have a little more verticle room, this unit is ideal for closet installations and areas where floor space is at a premium.

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Learning Center Article – Autonomous vs Lightweight Access Points

When you design a wireless network, you need to have all of your options available from the beginning. When you know what choices exist, you can select from them and make the best network possible.

In that spirit, it can help to understand the primary difference in types of access points. For the most part, a wireless access point can be autonomous or lightweight. This article will go over the main distinctions between these access points and how they can be advantageous or disadvantageous, depending on your network’s design and purpose.

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Today’s News to Start Your Day:

• Afghanistan was rocked by its deadliest earthquake in decades on Wednesday when a magnitude 5.9 earthquake struck the country’s east, killing more than 1,000 people and wounding many more.
• Volvo Trucks have begun to test vehicles that use “fuel cells powered by hydrogen,” claiming their range could extend to as much as 1,000 kilometers or a little over 621 miles.
• An assistant working at a British library said she was stunned when a man returned a book that had been checked out in 1969. Marina Rees, a library assistant at the Shrewsbury Library in Shrewsbury, Shropshire, England, said in a video posted to the library’s Facebook page that a man came in Monday to return a book he said was “rather overdue” — about 53 years.
• A total of 14,299 people gathered in Mexico City’s central square to break a Guinness World Record for the largest boxing lesson. The participants were issued red, white or green T-shirts and split into sections of the square, known as the Zocalo, so they formed the image of a giant Mexican flag.

Good morning & happy 1st day of summer! Even though we’ve been dealing with the heat for quite a while, today we can officially kick-off being out of school and let the pool days commence.

In This Issue: Penny Traps! | MPO-MPO, 12-Strand, OS | What does 5G mean for business networks? | News to Start Your Day

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The CK Daily – Penny Traps!

Good Morning and Happy Tuesday! We finally got a small reprieve from the absolutely scorching temperatures these past few days and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed it! Yesterday I actually took my laptop outside and worked for a while from the back patio. It was really nice to get some fresh air and sunshine! I’d really like to start spending more time out there but there is one small (yet extremely annoying) issue that has made me hesitant lately… overly aggressive flies. I have no idea where they are coming from or why they are so aggressive, but it seems that every time I try to spend any time out there I get relentlessly dive-bombed.

Yesterday I decided to google for some tips on how to make this problem go away and I read one that sounded absolutely crazy, but I decided to try it because there was nothing to lose if it didn’t work! So, here’s the super random tip that absolutely no one asked for, but maybe it will help you if you are dealing with the same problem!

The instructions said to either grab several glass drinking glasses or several zip lock bags and fill them 3/4 of the way full with water, then drop 4-5 pennies in each. It said to set them out either on the table where you’re sitting or somewhere close by and somehow they are supposed to help keep flies away. I know, it sounds ridiculous. But, again, I had nothing to lose by trying it, so I did… and would you believe me if I told you I only got dive-bombed once in the span of about 30 min? I don’t know if the flies were busy harassing someone else, just having an “off day”, or if the trick worked but I’m sharing this on the chance that the pennies were the game changer!

Rebecca

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Product Spotlights & Updates

Our MPO Essentials line of fiber cables features high-quality, precision-built connectors that ensure secure connections for stable transmission with minimal optical loss. This female-to-female cable features 12 strands of laser-optimized cable that allows you to drastically increase your network bandwidth. Additionally, this cable is made with a durable, Low Smoke Zero Halogen (LSZH) jacket. As with all of our products, these cables come with a Lifetime Advanced Replacement Warranty meaning that you can purchase risk-free knowing your satisfaction is guaranteed!

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Learning Center Article – What does 5G mean for business networks?

There is a lot of technology generating excitement for more applications than we could hope to name. One central theme to virtually all of that technology is an increased demand for data and the need for higher bandwidth for connectivity. More devices than ever are actively communicating, and they are placing massive burdens on existing infrastructure.

Copper networks and 4G wireless have a shelf life. Within the next couple of years, they will no longer be able to service standard demands — much less cutting-edge applications. Ultimately, we all need a network that is built for the new age of connectivity. That network will run on 5G.

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Today’s News to Start Your Day:

• Kellogg announced that it plans to separate into three independent public companies, sectioning off its iconic brands into distinct snacking, cereal and plant-based companies.
• Signify announced a new Philips Hue Tap dial switch, portable Hue Go lamp, and fully customizable track lighting in a range of smart lighting updates today. The Hue Tap dial switch is available in matte black or white and adjusts lights with a turn of the dial. The faster you turn it the faster your lights brighten or dim. It features four buttons than can control scenes in up to three rooms or zones in the home.
• Uber and Lyft suspended shared rides in March 2020 as the Covid-19 pandemic began to ravage communities across the globe. The company announced on Tuesday it was bringing it back to a number of U.S. cities after pulling the service for more than two years. The feature, which allows riders to share a car with strangers going in a similar direction for a discount.
• A record 42 million people around the United States are expected to hit the road for trips over the July 4 Independence Day weekend, AAA reported, absorbing historically high fuel costs to crowd the highways. The average U.S. retail price of gasoline recently broke through $5 per gallon for the first time in history. While that is not a record from an inflation-adjusted basis, it still represents an increase of nearly $2 per gallon from a year earlier.