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The Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam is generally your first step in the process to becoming a professional licensed engineer (P.E.). It is designed for recent graduates and students who are close to finishing an undergraduate engineering degree from an EAC/ABET-accredited program. The FE exam is a computer-based exam.
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https://killexams.com/exam_list/NCEES26 Hidden Roku Tips and Tricks for Streaming Success
Roku devices offer plenty of variety and portability, from the budget Roku Express to the feature-packed Roku Ultra. Whichever one you have, there's more to know beyond the basics. Here's how to get more out of your streaming device.
You have watchlists for all of your streaming apps, which means you have to scroll and scroll when you want to find something to watch. Instead, you can save everything to one universal list with a Roku. Use the Roku OS to search for the shows and movies you want to watch, and on the details page of each, select Add to Save List. Find the list by going to the Roku home screen and selecting What to Watch.
2. Pick Up Where You Left Off
Have you ever wanted to resume watching a movie or show where you left off, but you've forgotten which streaming service it was on? Just go to the Roku Home Screen, click What to Watch, scroll to Continue Watching, and it'll be listed there.
3. Watch Free Movies and Shows on The Roku Channel
Video-streaming services are great, but the majority aren't free. With The Roku Channel, you can sign in and access those premium channels (including Max and Netflix)—but the channel also offers free access to thousands of movies and TV episodes, if you can handle a few commercials. Roku has been adding more original content as well. Go to The Roku Channel, and scroll down to the Live TV Channel Guide for hundreds of choices. You can also watch in the Roku app, whether you have a Roku device or not: Just download it, sign in or create an account, and start streaming.
4. Search Thousands of Channels at Once
(Credit: Roku)
Instead of searching every Roku channel individually to find what you want, search across them with Roku Search. Enter your search term via the Roku remote, Roku mobile app, or via voice search, and you'll see results from over 4,000 channels. Search by title, actor, or director, and you'll get a comprehensive list. Similarly, use Roku Search to compare the costs of streaming content: Type in a movie, show, or star for a list of available titles and the prices for each across channels and services.
5. Get in the Zone
(Credit: Roku)
Roku Zones are collections of movies and shows from across channels that are organized by genre or topic. Go to search, type in a search term such as "comedy," and scroll through the zone that pops up. Roku added a Live TV Zone for quick access to live TV streaming services like Hulu, fuboTV, Philo, Sling, and YouTube TV, to name a few.
6. Photos as Big as Life
(Credit: Roku)
If you want to get a closer look at your photos or share them with a group, you can add Google Photos to your Roku. Go to photostreams.roku.com, sign in (you may have to verify your email), and you'll see a link to connect to Google Photos.
7. Turn Your Phone Into a Roku Remote
As great a device as the Roku is, navigating via the remote could be a better experience. To get around that, download the Roku Official Remote Control app (iOS, Android), and get the benefit of a keyboard, easy searching, and streaming from your phone or tablet.
8. Talk to Your Roku Remote
That said, you could always talk to your Roku directly with a Roku Voice Remote Pro, Voice Remote, or the Roku mobile app. On the remotes, press either the microphone icon and hold down as you speak your request. On the app, select the magnifying glass to get to the search page, then tap the microphone, let it go, speak your request, and tap the middle of the screen.
9. Ask Alexa or the Google Assistant
Connecting Roku to Amazon's Alexa (Credit: PCMag/Amazon)
If you have an Amazon Echo and a Roku, ask Alexa to control your Roku. First, you'll have to link both accounts by opening the Alexa mobile app, selecting Skills & Games, and searching for Roku. When you find it, tap Enable to Use, sign in to your Roku account, and select the Roku device you want to link (or Select All if you have more than one).
Close your Roku account, and Alexa will search for the device on the Device Discovery screen. Once it's found, tap Manage, Link Devices, and select the Roku you want to connect to Alexa. Then add the Roku to a group by selecting the Devices icon. Either add it to an existing group or create a new one by tapping the plus button. In the Alexa app, tap on the Roku device, and make sure it is enabled. Then you'll be able to use commands such as, "Alexa, open Netflix on living room Roku."
You can also use Google Assistant to make voice requests. First, check that your Roku player is running Roku OS 9.0 or higher or that your Roku TV has Roku OS 8.2 or higher. Set up your Google Assistant on your Google device or app. Open the Google Assistant mobile app, tap Explore > Settings > Home Control > Add Device > Find > Roku. Sign in to your Roku account and then choose which device you want to control with Google Assistant.
10. Find That Lost Remote
Speaker grille on the Roku Remote Pro (Credit: Will Greenwald/PCMag)
The Roku remote is easily lost in couch cushions and under coffee tables. If you've spent far too much time hunting for it, we have some solutions.
If you have a remote with a speaker grille, open the Roku app, tap the microphone, and say, "Hey, Roku, find my remote." The remote will emit a beeping noise.
If you have a Roku Ultra, long-press the button on the right side of the device, and the remote will emit a beep.
If the remote you've lost is the Voice Remote Pro, say, "Hey, Roku, find my remote," and it will start beeping.
To stop the beeping noise once you've located your remote, press any button on the remote.
To change the noise your Roku remote emits when it's lost, open the Roku app on your TV and go to Settings > Remote > Change Remote Finder Sound. To hear what it sounds like, click Preview Remote Finder Sound.
11. Make Your Roku at Home(Kit)
For iPhone and iPad owners, Roku devices support AirPlay and HomeKit, so you can send videos, photos, and music from your device to the TV and supported speakers. Set it up in the Roku menu by navigating to Settings > Apple AirPlay & HomeKit > Launch Apple AirPlay & HomeKit setup. A QR code will pop up. Scan it with your iPhone or iPad's camera and follow the instructions on your Apple device to finish setup. HomeKit, meanwhile, lets you control your Roku using Siri and the Apple Home app ("Hey Siri, play jazz on the living room TV").
12. Let Siri and Roku Chat
Your Roku and iPhone can work together, with Siri acting as the interpreter. The Roku iOS app has Siri Shortcuts that let you control your Roku with your voice. Open the app on your phone, tap the account icon at the top right, and select Siri Shortcuts. You can turn on the ability to open the Roku remote, play or pause Roku, search Roku, and turn a Roku on and off for certain models. Click on each option to keep the suggested phrasing or come up with your own commands.
13. Roku Screen Mirroring
With AirPlay enabled, you can mirror your iPhone or iPad screen via the Control Center to Roku, though most Roku devices support screen mirroring from Android and Windows devices too. To hook it up, press the Home button on your Roku remote, then go to Settings > System > Screen Mirroring. You’ll have the option to choose between Prompt or Always Allow.
14. Practice Casting
If you prefer Google's Cast technology, you can send music, videos, and photos from mobile devices to most Roku-connected devices easily as long as both are connected to the same Wi-Fi network. Open the content you want to share on the device, and look for the cast icon. Click it, and you should see all available Roku devices pop up in a menu.
15. Automatic Volume Leveling
How many times have you been lulled into somnolence by a show only to be jolted awake by a commercial? On most Roku models, you can turn on Leveling, so a commercial or a channel change doesn't result in a spike in volume. You can also choose to have soft sounds increased and loud sounds decreased with Night mode.
Turn on the feature either from Settings, if you have a Streambar or Smart Soundbar, or while streaming with other Roku devices. For Streambars and Soundbars, press the Home button on the remote and go to Settings > Audio > Volume Modes. For other devices, press the star button on the remote and navigate to Sound Settings > Volume Mode.
16. Use Roku Private Listening
Roku Voice Remote Pro (Credit: Roku)
When you want to watch something on your Roku without disturbing those around you, use Private Listening. The Roku Voice Remote Pro, Enhanced Voice Remote, and Gaming Remote include built-in headphone jacks; just plug in and keep watching. Or download the Roku mobile app, connect your headphones to your device, and tap the headphones icon.
17. Save That Screen
(Credit: Roku)
Maybe you paused whatever you're watching and walked out of the room. Or you fell asleep, and now the Roku logo is bouncing around your screen like the flying toasters of yore. Give yourself something nicer to look at with Roku's screensavers. Click the Home button on your remote, then go to Settings > Theme > Screensavers.
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18. Get Your Game On
(Credit: Roku)
It's not a Nintendo Switch, but your Roku is still in the game. Hit the Home button, go to Streaming Channels > Games, and you can go retro with Snake or go on a sugar-fueled rampage in Candy Bear. The Roku Enhanced Gaming Remote with Voice Search supports motion-control gaming.
19. Move the Apps on Your Roku Home Screen
Roku displays channels in the order in which you add them, but you can move them around. Find the app you want to move, press the star button on your Roku remote, and select "Move channel" from the pop-up menu. Use the directional pad to move it to the desired location.
20. Say What?
(Credit: Roku)
If you missed those last few lines in a show or movie, there's a quick way to catch up. Set up instant replay by going to Settings > Accessibility > Captions Mode and selecting On Replay. Then, when you hit the Instant Replay button on the remote, you'll also get the text on the screen.
21. Stream Your Own Stuff Via Plex
(Credit: Plex)
Though Roku offers a ton of different channels and things to watch, you'll probably still want to access your locally stored content on your TV. Sign up for Plex Pass ($4.99 per month, $39.99 per year, $119.99 for a lifetime), and you can. Plex organizes your scattered content and lets you watch it from tablets, TVs, phones, and more; you can record and watch live broadcast TV, too.
Download the Plex app. Then install the Plex channel on your Roku, launch it, then go to plex.tv/pin. Log in and enter the code from the Roku Plex channel on the website.
22. Tap Into Live TV Streaming Services
(Credit: Roku)
New live TV services are popping up regularly to meet your sports and Hallmark movie needs. To see what's on offer, click the Home button on your remote, and go to Streaming Channels > Cable Alternative to log into services including Sling and Hulu, or go to Streaming Channels > Watch With Cable to log in with a pay TV provider, such as Comcast or Spectrum. You can also go to the Roku Channel, scroll down to the Live TV Channel Guide, and flip through hundreds of channels without paying for any of them. That includes NewsOn, which streams local news broadcasts from outlets nationwide.
23. Show Your Team Spirit
(Credit: Roku)
You can follow your favorite sports teams on Roku by going to the Home screen on your device, scrolling down to Sports, doing a search for an upcoming game, going to that page, and then selecting the heart icon next to your team's name. That will create a My Favorites row under Sports with all upcoming games.
24. Cloud DVRs
A number of live TV streaming services offer cloud DVR, meaning you can record live TV and access your shows later via the service's Roku app.
If you have an antenna to watch live TV, you can record it with a device like the Tablo TV. Set it up, download the app to your Roku, and you can watch, pause, and record.
YouTube TV subscriptions come with a cloud DVR that holds an unlimited number of hours of programming for nine months.
Sling TV customers get 50 hours of free DVR storage. Upgrade to DVR Plus for 200 hours of storage starting at $5 per month.
Included with Hulu with Live TV is the ability to record unlimited live news, sports, shows, movies and events, which are saved for up to nine months.
Philo subscribers can save anything that streams to the service's included DVR for a year.
fuboTV provides subscribers with a DVR function that can be set even partway through a show's airing to capture the entire thing. How much is stored depends on your plan.
25. Be Our Guest
(Credit: Roku)
Your guests can make themselves at home by accessing their Roku settings without disturbing yours. All you have to do is enable Guest Mode (previously Auto Sign Out Mode). Go to my.roku.com/account/PIN, set up a PIN, and then press the Home button on the Roku remote. Go to Settings > System > Guest Mode > Enter Guest Mode. Then enter your PIN and select OK. When guests come to stay, direct them to the Roku guide on using Guest Mode
26. Stay Up to Date
To get the most out of your Roku, you should install the latest software version. The device generally handles this on its own, but if you've recently added a channel, or your Roku has been disconnected for a while, you might have missed an update. In that case, you can update manually by going to Settings > System > System Update.
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Wed, 27 Dec 2023 10:00:00 -0600entext/htmlhttps://www.pcmag.com/how-to/hidden-roku-tricks-for-streaming-success22 Google Maps Tricks You Need to Try
Google Maps has changed how we navigate the world. Its desktop and mobile apps have become more than just a way to get from point A to B via car, public transportation, or on foot: The ubiquitous Google service is also a geospatial search engine for the world around us.
Google continues to revamp and improve its map product, but there are a ton of customizable tools and hidden functions already baked into Google Maps that you may not know about, such as Incognito Mode. Check out our tips for how to maximize your Google Maps power.
1. We're Doing It Live
Search with Live View (Credit: Google)
You can get an AR view of the street you're on, if that street is in Amsterdam, Dublin, Florence, London, Los Angeles, New York, Paris, San Francisco, Tokyo, or Venice. Open Maps, click the camera icon at the top, and hold your phone up to scan your location. You'll get an overlay of all the places you'd see on Maps, so you can easily find restaurants, shops, and more.
Meanwhile, Immersive View for routes, which rolled out in October, gives you a bird's-eye view of your route complete with 3D imagery along the way, whether you're walking, cycling, or driving. Look for it in select cities, including Amsterdam, London, New York, and Tokyo.
2. Inside Access
(Credit: Google/PCMag)
Google Maps isn't just for the great outdoors. You can navigate through malls, airports, and other big buildings by finding the location in Maps, clicking on it, then scrolling to Directory. You'll never get lost looking for a Cinnabon again. This feature is available in over 10,000 locations worldwide.
Navigating with indoor Live View (Credit: Google)
Some places even support Live View inside, where animated arrows will guide you around airports, train stations, and malls. It launched in 2021 in the US, Zurich, and Tokyo, and in early 2023, it announced plans to expand to more than 1,000 new locations in Barcelona, Berlin, Frankfurt, London, Madrid, Melbourne, Paris, Prague, São Paulo, Singapore, Sydney, and Taipei. Just lift your phone up in a supported region to jump into Live View.
3. Plot Multiple Locations on Google Maps
(Credit: Google/PCMag)
Rarely do car trips consist of going from point A to B; more often, they are something like A-to-café-to-library-to-Joe's-house-to-B. Thankfully, Google makes it possible to anticipate real trips. To add multiple destinations in the Google Maps mobile app, enter your starting point and your ultimate destination, and then click the three-dot menu in the top-right corner. This prompts a pop-over menu with the option to "Add stop." Click that, and you can create a route with multiple stops. You can even drag and drop stops within your itinerary. (Note that this doesn't work when you're using the mass-transit option.)
4. Customize Your Vehicle Icon
(Credit: Google/PCMag)
When you're driving, Google lets you choose what kind of car shows up on your navigation in the iOS and Android apps. In the app, plug in your destination and start up driving directions. Tap the icon that shows your current location, and a pop-up menu appears with several car-icon options: a sedan, a pickup truck, or an SUV.
5. 'Hey Google, Where Am I Going?'
(Credit: Google/PCMag)
You might want to interact with Maps while you're driving, but you don't want to take your eyes off the road. With "OK Google" voice commands in the Google Maps Android app, you don't have to. For example, if you notice you're running low on gas, say "OK Google, find gas stations," and it will show gas stations on the map (which you can look at when you've come to a red light or pulled over). You can also ask questions like "What's my next turn?", "What's my ETA?", and "How's traffic ahead?" On Android, set up Google Assistant, and you're good to go. (You'll need a phone running Android Version 9.0 or higher with 4GB RAM or more.) On iOS (pictured above), tap the microphone icon at the top-right, then ask your questions via voice.
6. Access Google Maps Offline
(Credit: Google/PCMag)
Today, Maps is most useful on mobile, which brings up a problem: When you're in need of Maps, you may find yourself somewhere with limited (or—gasp—nonexistent) coverage. To help, Google Maps supports offline access. Type in an address or area, swipe up on the menu at the bottom of the screen, tap the ellipsis icon on the top right, and select Download offline map. If you have enough storage on your device, the map in question will be saved. To access it later, tap your avatar > Offline maps, and you can then get information about businesses in the region and turn-by-turn directions within the downloaded section.
7. Get Your Groceries
(Credit: PCMag/Google)
Google has incorporated grocery ordering and pickup functionality into Maps for select brands. Things kicked off a few years ago amid the boom in curbside pickup during the pandemic. That's still an option; in early 2023, Google touted the improvements it's made to the ETA function inside Google Maps for Kroger pickups. But grocery stores can also add a Place an order option to their Maps business profiles. In addition to Kroger stores (which also includes Fry's, Ralphs, and Marianos), it's also available for Albertson's and Fred Meyer locations.
8. Let Other People Drive
(Credit: Google/PCMag)
Ride-sharing services are a big part of the modern transportation mix, so Google added ride options from companies such as Lyft (sorry, no more Uber) to its mobile app. Once you enter your destination, tap the little figure attempting to hail a taxi or the mass-transit option. You'll then be presented with nearby rideshare options, along with the estimated time of arrival and fare. Tap Open App to book your ride.
9. Find Accessible Transit Routes and Locations
(Credit: PCMag/Google)
Those with mobility issues can search for wheelchair-accessible transit routes by tapping Options > Wheelchair Accessible when looking for train or bus directions. When you get to your destination, meanwhile, the Accessible Places setting offers up wheelchair-accessibility information about that location.
Turn it on via Settings > Accessibility > Accessible Places. "When Accessible Places is switched on, a wheelchair icon will indicate an accessible entrance, and you’ll be able to see if a place has accessible seating, restrooms, or parking," Google says. "If it’s confirmed that a place does not have an accessible entrance, we’ll show that information on Maps as well."
10. Change The Font Size
(Credit: PCMag/Google)
If the words on Google Maps are too small to read, make them bigger.
On an iPhone, make sure you have iOS 15 or higher via Settings > General > About. Then go to Settings > Control Center. Under More Controls, you'll see Text Size. Tap the green plus icon on the left, which moves it to the top under Included Controls. Now, open Google Maps and swipe down from the upper right where you see the battery icon. Tap on the Text Size button (an icon of a small A next to a large A). On the bottom, select whether you want to increase the font size on just Google Maps or across all apps. You can then increase the font size with the white bars. Close out of Control Center and your font adjustments should update automatically.
On an Android, you can change the size of the font or display but this is going to be a universal change across all of the device's apps. Open Settings, then select Accessibility. You can make words larger by tapping Font Size and then setting your preferred letter size or change the display size by tapping Display Size and then setting your preferred icon size.
At your destination, tap the blue location dot, and select Save parking, which adds a label to the Maps app identifying where you parked. On Android, tap that to add details such as the parking garage level and spot or the amount of time left before a meter expires. You can also set meter reminders, add a photo of where you parked, and send your parking location to friends.
To find it later, tap the search bar at the top, and select Parking location (Android) or Saved parking (iOS). Or tap the Driving arrow below, and look for Saved parking on iOS. Google will automatically delete the parking reminder after 8 hours, though you can manually get rid of it by tapping You parked here on the map and selecting Clear (iOS) or More info > Clear (Android).
12. What's the Parking Sitch?
(Credit: PCMag/Google)
Google Maps can provide turn-by-turn directions based on live-ish traffic data, but it can also provide you with a glimpse of the parking situation. When you search for driving directions to a location on iOS or Android, you might see a P logo at the bottom of the screen along with one of three designations: limited, medium, and easy (plus On-site for retailers with large parking lots). This can help you decide how much time you'll need to allocate for parking or even whether another form of transportation would be a better option.
13. Share Your Location
(Credit: Google/PCMag)
Google Maps lets you share your current location with people for specified periods of time. When you share your location with a certain contact, they'll see your icon moving in real time on their map. On mobile, tap your profile icon on the top right, and select Location sharing. Then choose with whom you want to share and for how long. (You may need to first allow notifications from Google Maps in your phone's settings menu.)
14. View (and Delete) Your Google Maps History
(Credit: Google/PCMag)
Google maintains a very detailed record of your digital activities. If you'd rather it lose your Maps data, you can erase it on desktop or mobile. On a desktop, go to maps.google.com. Click the hamburger menu, and select Your data in Maps. You'll end up on a page titled Google-wide Controls, where you can go to Location History > See & delete activity. You'll see a map with a timeline of your activity. On the bottom-right of the map, click the trashcan icon to delete all your location history permanently.
As of December 2023, the first time you turn on location history, Google will default you to auto-delete your history every three months. To adjust that, navigate to myactivity.google.com. Click Location History > Choose an auto-delete option, and choose how often Google will delete your data (every 3, 18, or 36 months) or turn auto-delete off completely.
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On mobile, go to Settings > Maps History, which will bring you to a Maps Activity page. Look for the Delete drop-down menu, where you can opt to delete your history from today, all time, or a custom range. Tap Auto-delete to select a timeframe for when Google will automatically delete Maps data
15. Go Incognito
(Credit: Google/PCMag)
For a quick way to poke around Google Maps without leaving any obvious footprints, go Incognito. Google Maps won't save your browser or search history in your account or send notifications. Your searches and movements won't be added to location history or shared location. And Google won't use your activity while you're in Incognito Mode to personalize Maps. This mode has advantages when you want to peep a location without having it tangled up with your search history, but just as on web browsers, it doesn't make you invisible. To turn the mode on, tap your avatar and select Turn on Incognito mode; the Incognito icon appears in the search bar. Tap it and select Turn off Incognito mode to switch it off.
16. Time Travel With Google Maps
(Credit: PCMag/Google)
Street View has amassed a huge collection of street imagery over the years. In 2014, Google introduced Time Travel, a way for users to see how Street View has changed over time. And in 2022, it expanded from the desktop to mobile. To look back at a particular address, enter Street View and tap anywhere on the screen. At the bottom, tap See more dates. Where available, this should produce a series of photos. Scroll through and select the date you want to see.
17. Add Some Music
If you've always got Google Maps navigation open while you're driving (or walking), you can add music to your trip without leaving the app. Sync music apps such as Spotify or Apple Music by opening the menu and navigating to Settings. On iOS, tap Navigation > Music playback controls to connect Apple Music or Spotify. On Android, tap Navigation settings > Assistant default media provider, where you can link a number of music-streaming services, including YouTube Music, Spotify, Apple Music, iHeartRadio, Pandora, and Deezer. Once you do, a pop-up to your app of choice should appear as you're driving for a quick tap to get your music started. Be sure to create your playlists beforehand so you can keep your eyes on the road!
18. Find Electric-Vehicle Charging Stations
(Credit: PCMag/Google)
More and more electric vehicles (EVs) are taking to the road, and Google Maps is adapting. You can search "EV charging" or "EV charging station" in Google Maps, and it suggests the best station for you based on traffic conditions, your charge level, and the expected energy consumption. You can filter by types of plugs, and if you're in a rush, you can select Fast Charge to find the charging stations with the most voltage. If you use Android Auto in an EV, meanwhile, it will no longer show gas stations.
19. Request Fuel-Efficient Routes
(Credit: Google/PCMag)
Want to make sure that next road trip is fuel-efficient? Turn on this setting in Google Maps and the app will prioritize fuel- or energy-efficiency over other factors like real-time traffic and road conditions. "So besides showing you the fastest route, it will also show you the most efficient one, even if they aren't the same," Google says.
Go to Settings > Navigation / Navigation settings and toggle Prefer fuel-efficient routes to on. Here, you can also tell Google Maps your engine type: gas, diesel, electric, or hybrid. Google will then serve up routes based on that engine type to help you save fuel.
20. Find Safe Drug-Disposal Locations
(Credit: PCMag/Google)
Google Maps is doing its part to fight the opioid crisis with a search tool to help users find safe drug-disposal locations. Type "drug disposal" into the search bar to pull up pharmacies, medical centers, and local authority locations where you can safely dispose of excess pills.
21. Share Your Favorite Places
(Credit: PCMag/Google)
Google Maps lets you share some of your favorite places with a friend. Just tap the share icon on the location's Google Maps card to send it to them via text, email, or your app of choice. Save favorite places by tapping the Save icon; they then show up in the Saved option in the menu bar.
If you want to share more than one favorite location, you can create a Pinterest-like list within Google Maps. When you save a favorite place, tap New List to create a collection (like "Thai restaurants in Brooklyn") or add it to an existing collection. You'll find them in the Saved tab under Your lists; tap the three-dot menu and then Share List to send a link to friends.
22. Become (or Consult) a Local Guide
Think you know your neighborhood better than Google's algorithm? Then consider becoming a Local Guide. Although anyone can leave reviews and tips in Google Maps, being a Local Guides allows you to earn points for leaving more insights and data, which—as you go up the ladder—can result in "rewards and early access to new features," Google says.
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Sat, 30 Dec 2023 10:01:00 -0600entext/htmlhttps://www.pcmag.com/how-to/google-maps-tips-tricksElectrical and Computer Engineering
Electrical Engineers build a wide variety of products and work in almost all industries. They design control and communication systems, sensors, displays, learning machines, robots, instruments, voice recognition, computer vision, electronics, motors, power systems, the internet of things—the list goes on and on. Required study includes electronics, microprocessors, digital circuit design, control systems, communication systems, power systems, signal processing, and software. Electives can then be chosen to learn more about any of the above fields or even bioengineering. It allows more freedom in choosing electives than Computer Engineering, and thus is a very flexible degree that allows the holder to work on a wide variety of applications utilizing vastly different skills. This allows our graduates to choose careers best fitting their exact interests. For instance, some of our graduates develop complex new mathematical algorithms to achieve the highest possible system performance; others work with basic physics to develop better circuits and devices; others work outside in the field to improve the generation and transmission of electric power; some become high-level executives at companies like Google; others complete law or medical degrees. The Bioengineering option of Electrical Engineering provides the right training to design medical instruments and with a few additional courses becomes a full Pre-Med or Pre-Dental major. After graduating, our students have gone on to the world’s best graduate programs: Stanford, MIT, Johns Hopkins, etc.
Degree Programs
Computer Engineering is a blend of Computer Science and Electrical Engineering. In fact, a Computer Engineering student can change majors to Computer Science within the first three semesters without losing any credits. More careful planning is required to switch from Computer Science to Computer Engineering. Computer Engineering students receive training that allows them to design complex computer systems and embed them in custom applications such as robots, spacecraft, automobiles, etc. A typical system may interface with a sensor to measure the world, then decide how to best use the information to achieve goals and eventually turn on actuators which perform the needed task. They also develop computer vision systems, high-performance computers and software, and the internet of things. They take many of the same required courses as Electrical Engineers, but fill in their electives with computer-specific courses. Graduates have the ability to design electric circuits, understand network hardware, design computer systems, and write the software inside those systems. Compared to Electrical Engineers, Computer Engineers have less breadth of knowledge in Electrical Engineering but more depth in software and computer hardware. Compared to Computer Scientists, Computer Engineers know much more about hardware and signal/system theory. Computer Engineers sometimes also major in either Electrical Engineering or Computer Science to get two degrees. Our students have gone on to the world’s best graduate programs and top companies.
Degree Programs
Sun, 12 Nov 2023 08:00:00 -0600entext/htmlhttps://www.uwyo.edu/electrical/index.htmlelectric scooter
Sometimes, a little puny matchbox-sized electronic speed controller (ESC) won’t do the job. If you find yourself looking for something heftier, say, in the range of hundreds of amps, you might look towards a design like the MP2 ESC. [owhite] has built an example of the design that can deliver some serious power.
[owhite’s] build has some serious specs: it’s rated to offer up to 300 amps at up to 150 volts, though thus far, it’s only been tested at up to 100 V. Like the original MP2, which hails from the Endless Sphere forums, it’s designed to be compatible with VESC code using the STM32F405 microcontroller. It’s intended for driving high-powered traction motors in applications like e-bikes and electric scooters, as you might have guessed by its potential output power being well into the tens of kilowatts range.
If you’re eager to build your own, you can do so, with the design files on GitHub. Just note that you’ll need some hefty parts to handle the juice, including beefy MOSFETS and juicy capacitors rated at 160 V.
Wed, 29 Nov 2023 09:59:00 -0600en-UStext/htmlhttps://hackaday.com/tag/electric-scooter/Control Tricks For Tailsitters
An RC VTOL aircraft always makes for a compelling project, but ensuring the transition between hover and forward flight can be quite challenging. In the video after the break, [Nicholas Rehm] demystifies of the flight control algorithm required for a VTOL tailsitter.
Tailsitters are one of the simplest VTOL arrangements, the testbed here being a simple foam KF airfoil wing with two motors and two servo-controlled elevons. As with almost all his projects [Nicholas], uses of his open-source dRehmFlight flight controller to demonstrate the practical implementation of the control algorithm.
Three major factors that need to be simultaneously taken into account when transitioning a tailsitter VTOL. First off, yaw becomes roll, and vice versa. This implies that in hover mode, elevons have to move in opposite directions to control yaw; however, this same action will make it roll in forward flight. The same applies for differential thrust from motors — it controls roll in hover and yaw in forward flight. Nevertheless, this change of control scheme only works if the flight controller also alters its reference frame for “level” flight (i.e., flips forward 90°). As [Nicholas] demonstrates, failing to do so results in a quick and chaotic encounter with the ground.
With these adjustments made, the aircraft can transition to forward flight but will oscillate pitch-wise as it overcorrects while trying to maintain stable flight; this is due to PID gains – 3rd factor. The deflection required by control surfaces is much more aggressive during hover mode; thus PID gains need to be reduced during forward flight. A final improvement involves adding a brief delay when switching modes for smoother rotation.
Fri, 06 Oct 2023 17:07:00 -0500Danie Conradieen-UStext/htmlhttps://hackaday.com/2023/10/07/control-tricks-for-tailsitters/These Tricks for Softening Butter Actually WorkNo result found, try new keyword!Don't worry, because we're here to help with some quick and easy tricks for softening butter. But first—why exactly do you need to know how to soften butter? If your butter is too cold ...Thu, 21 Dec 2023 08:32:00 -0600en-ustext/htmlhttps://www.msn.com/Are Electric Vehicles Really Better For The Environment?
Since the first modern electric vehicles (EV) took to the roads in the 2000s, critics have been quick to question the ‘clean’ label attached to them. From manufacturing concerns to battery power sources as well as overall autonomy, EVs have been under scrutiny from sceptics. With the amount of debate and misinformation troubling the waters, the facts behind the efficiency of electric vehicles have become somewhat clouded - so just how clean are these vehicles?
Elon Musk, co-founder and chief executive officer of Tesla Inc., speaks during an unveiling event... [+]for the Tesla Model Y crossover electric vehicle in Hawthorne, California. Musk said the cheaper electric crossover sports utility vehicle (SUV) will be available from the spring of 2021. The vehicle's price will start at $39,000, a longer-range version will cost $47,000.
An argument that is routinely put forward to contrast the clean image of electric cars is the pollution behind the manufacturing process of their batteries. There is indeed a range of rare earth metals that make up the composition of the battery, and their extraction and manipulation can contribute to carbon emissions. However, as a 2018 International Council on Clean Transportation (ICTT)reportillustrates, .
A comparativestudybetween EVs and internal combustion engine vehicle (ICEV) in China corroborates the ICTT report, indicating that infrastructure and efficient manufacturing techniques are the keys to reducing emissions during production. Chinese EV battery manufacturers produce up to 60% more CO2 during fabrication than ICEV engine production, but could cut their emissions by up to 66% if they adopted American or European manufacturing techniques. As such, the pollution created through the extraction process and production of batteries remains on par or slightly higher than the manufacturing process of petrol or diesel-based engines.
An electric car at charging station in Bergen, Norway. This Scandinavian nation has the highest use... [+]of electric cars in the world, and running on mostly hydropower they are also the cleanest.
Getty
Lifetime Difference
In its study, the ICTT also notes the stark difference in emissions between electric and internal combustion over the course of their lifetimes. With no combustion and complete lack of tailpipe emissions, EVs produce the bulk of their emissions through their manufacturing process and the sourcing of their energy, giving them an advantage over petrol and diesel-powered cars.
Whilst ICEVs have been steadilyreducingtheir emissions since 2000, electric vehicles still have a marked edge by producing close to no running emissions. Additionally, as EVs become more common and manufacturing becomes more widespread, battery recycling will be more efficient and reduce the need to extract new materials, therefore lessening the reliance on mining and production of new batteries.
The total impact of electric vehicles is more pronounced when looking at their complete lifetime, where combustion engine vehicles are unable to compete. .
Electricity Sources
Anewstudy by the Center for Economic Studies (CES) in Munich proclaimed: “Germany’s current energy mix and the amount of energy used in battery production, the CO2emissions of battery-electric vehicles are, in the best case, slightly higher than those of a diesel engine, and are otherwise much higher.”
Although it may seem like a damning indictment on electric vehicle performance, the paper was quickly debunked by industry experts, who found a long list ofinaccuracieswith the CES’s findings. Apart from laying out previously discredited information such as electric car batteries becoming “hazardous waste” after 150,000 km, or misrepresenting government data to fit their research, the study also painted ICEV emissions as lower than the reality.
Dr. Markus Lienkamp, head of the Department of Automotive Engineering at the Technical University of Munich denounced the report as an “unscientific conspiracy theory”. Other pundits pointed towards previousstudiesthat showed that an electric vehicle charged on an exclusively coal-powered grid would reach similar carbon emissions performance as an ICEV - making EVs more effective over their respective lifetimes.
A report by Carbon Brief shows that across Europe and the United States, electric vehicles... [+]contribute less to climate change than conventional vehicles.
Carbon Brief
The Future Of Transport
Current electrical grids are mostly moving towards reducing their reliance on fossil fuels and increasing their renewable energy production. With electrical vehicles already producing fewer emissions through their lifetime regardless of the energy source, it shows that EVs are indeed the vehicle of the future. Car manufacturers are alsoacceptingthe fact that electric cars are less polluting and producing more EVs will help reduce total carbon emissions.
Electric vehicles as they currently stand are far less polluting than their combustion engine counterparts. As the technology becomes more mainstream, it is likely to become even more efficient and sustainable. Economies of scale will benefit EV manufacturing by providing better infrastructure, more efficient manufacturing techniques, recycling options and reduce the need for the mining of new materials. Electric vehicles are not a panacea but combined with greater deployment of renewables and the decarbonization of the electricity grid they offer a pathway to greatly reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Sun, 19 May 2019 17:58:00 -0500James Ellsmoorentext/htmlhttps://www.forbes.com/sites/jamesellsmoor/2019/05/20/are-electric-vehicles-really-better-for-the-environment/The Best Electric Stoves Of January 2024
Size
The size of the electric stove you’re interested in should be one of the most important factors when making a purchase. You likely don’t want to rearrange your whole kitchen to fit a new stove, so it’s important to have accurate measurements of the space where the new stove will sit.
In addition to the dimensions, buyers need to consider the size of the stove in terms of how many burners and ovens it will have. Stoves can have more than four burners and one oven. Plus, buyers need to consider the size of the oven to know how much it can fit.
Style
There’s the style of stove you want, like a four-burner vs. a six-burner, a coil range or a smoothtop range, but there’s also the style your stove can bring to your kitchen. Stoves can come in a variety of colors outside of the usual black, white and stainless steel models. Stoves are nearly available in every color.
Power
As the name implies, electric ranges are powered by corded electricity, drawing around 2,000 to 5,000 watts. Electric ranges are available in six to nine-burner configurations, and each element on the range will have a different wattage, with the largest typically using the most power. The burners can be set at different heat levels for small and large pots.
The more powerful your element is, the quicker it can cook food. But don’t be fooled into thinking that power means bigger is better—these high-power elements use more electricity and require more maintenance. Lower wattage elements are better for slow cooking, warming food and bringing water to a slower boil.
If you are shopping for an electric range, you will want to ensure that your new range’s wattage is no higher than what you currently have in your home. Using a range with too much power can damage some cookware and cause damage to your home wiring.
Cooking Capability
These days, stoves come with all sorts of bells and whistles. Want an air fryer? Your stove can do that. You can also choose induction cooking ranges that will help cook food more evenly.
Be sure to take a look at the cubic foot capacity so you know how much you can fit into the oven at one time. Ovens can also have two or three racks, which could be an important factor, depending upon how much you cook in the oven.
Features
Some of the more advanced and new electric stoves have an array of settings available, so it’s best to consider what you will use your range for.
For instance, electric ranges offer unparalleled cooking flexibility with features like convection cooking, a broiler, an induction cooktop and even Wi-Fi compatibility, allowing you to operate and monitor your range remotely via an app on your phone or tablet. Not to mention, some electric stoves come equipped with self-cleaning functionality so that you can knock another chore off your to-do list.
Remember, a more expensive range with more features will cost an extra amount in repairs should they ever need it. So buying one with only the settings you need is a better option as they are less expensive and will last longer.
Tue, 05 Dec 2023 13:58:00 -0600Nick Gerhardten-UStext/htmlhttps://www.forbes.com/home-improvement/kitchen/best-electric-stove/The best electric scooters in 2024
When it's too far to walk but too short to drive, then maybe one of the best electric scooters is the answer. Electric scooters have exploded in popularity because they're easy to use and zip you around quickly. And, because they're more compact than bikes, they're easier to store in apartments and smaller spaces.
Choosing the best electric scooter for your needs comes down to price and purpose: What are you willing to spend, and what are you using it for? We've tested dozens of scooters, ranging from less than $200 to more than $1,500 to find the best electric scooter for everyone and anyone. As part of our evaluations, we've taken them up and down hills, on subways and trains, through cities and suburbs, to see how well they perform in a variety of conditions.
Regardless of the electric scooter you choose, we suggest plenty of practice before you hit the road. If you're looking for something for your child, be sure to check out the best electric scooters for kids, as well as our guide to the best bike helmets. You'll also want to pick up one of the best bike locks to make sure that your scooter doesn't get stolen.
Read on for all of our favorite picks for the best electric scooters.
This scooter has everything: Looks, power, and range. It got us up the steepest of hills, it has a great design, and it's packed with all sorts of features.
This scooter costs less than $400, but will get you where you need to go. While not the most powerful, it's light and compact, and has large tires to smooth out the road.
The Unagi Model One Voyager is incredibly light and its dual motors gives it more power than most electric scooters its size. However, it's backordered until March 2024.
With an estimated 40-mile range, this scooter will get you where you need to go — wherever it is. It's comfortable and has a number of safety and security features.
With a large basket in the rear, the Balto is great for a trip to the grocery store. And, it folds up into a very compact space, making it great for apartments.
This fun and cheap scooter will give your kids plenty of thrills — safely — as they learn to ride. It doesn't go too fast or too far, but comes in plenty of fun colors.
The Niu Kqi3 Max is an electric scooter that has it all: A powerful motor, great range, stylish looks, and much more. We had a lot of fun riding it around, and were especially impressed at how it handled hills. The Kqi3 Max's front ring headlight cuts a real profile, and the red mechanical disc brakes on the front and rear wheels give it a sports car feel.
To be sure, its actual range is a good deal less than its advertised range of 40 miles, especially when you're cruising up hills, but was plenty long enough to get us around for a week without recharging. You can also use the Niu app to customize the Kqi3 Max's ride, and even lock it. However, at 46 pounds, this is one heavy scooter. If you have to carry this up and down stairs, we recommend the Unagi Model One instead. But if weight is not a concern, this is a pretty awesome electric scooter.
The Hiboy S2 has several features you don't typically find on a budget electric scooter. These include such things as dual brakes — both regenerative and a mechanical disk — and lights, not just in the front and back, but around the sides of the scooter, too. Not only does it make you more visible, but it's also a really cool effect.
I also liked the very clean design of the Hiboy S2; there aren't a lot of dangling wires and such. The one caveat is its rear latching mechanism, which was a bit finicky. The S2's 350-Watt motor proved up to the task for most situations, but like most budget scooters, I found it had trouble on hills. Its battery life is good for a scooter in this price range, but expect to charge it every few days if you plan on doing a lot of riding.
If you can get the Hiboy S2 for $399 or less, it's a great value, as it delivers more than most other scooters at that price.
The best electric scooter when weight is a premium
Specifications
Size (folded):37.8 x 16.5 x 15 inches
Size (unfolded):43.3 x 37.8 x 16.5 inches
Weight:26.5 pounds
Motor:Dual 250-watt
Wheel size:7.5-inch, rubber
Max speed:20 mph
Range:20 miles
Max rider weight:275 pounds
Battery:360Wh
Reasons to buy
+
Sleek design
+
Dual motors good for hills
+
Clear display
+
Very light
Reasons to avoid
-
Rougher ride than other scooters
-
Expensive
Thanks to its dual 250-watt motors, the Unagi Model One Voyager powers up hills with aplomb, zipping along twice as fast as other scooters with just a single motor. Using both motors (you can opt to use just one) causes the battery life to drop significantly lower than the scooter's advertised 20-mile range.
The Unagi also has a great display that's bright enough to easily see even in daylight; we also liked its intuitive controls and loud, electric-sounding horn. It has both head and taillights, the latter of which blinks rapidly when you hit the brakes.
We were also enamored with the Unagi's sleek design; its carbon-fiber front post changes in geometry from a circle to a triangular shape, making for an intriguing look.
All of this comes at a price: The Model One Voyager costs $1,490 — and it's backordered until March 2024. However, Unagi's scooter rental program lets you rent the Voyager for $69/month, or the Unagi Model One Classic for $39/month with an annual subscription.
The best electric scooter for those who want to go far
Specifications
Size (unfolded):49.8 x 47.6 x 22.4 inches
Size (folded):45.9 x 18.6 x 21.0 inches
Weight:53.5 pounds
Motor:1,000-watt, rear-wheel drive
Wheel size:9.5 x 2.5-inch, pneumatic
Max speed:23 mph
Range (estimated):43 miles
Max rider weight:265 pounds
Battery:36V/15.3 Ah
Reasons to buy
+
Excellent range
+
Powerful motor
+
Turn signals on handlebars
+
Apple Find My built in
Reasons to avoid
-
Heavy compared to other scooters
The Segway Ninebot Kickscooter Max G2 is an excellent upgrade to the original, featuring a longer range, more powerful motor, and some excellent new safety and security features.
For starters, the Max G2 has turn signals built into the handlebars that we found to be plenty bright — at least to oncoming traffic (my body tended to block the signals from those behind me). You can also set an unlock code to help deter thieves, and Apple Find My is built in, should the scooter ever go missing. You should still get one of the best bike locks to be safe.
The G2's 1000-Watt motor was more than powerful enough to get me up steep hills, and a capacious battery was able to deliver about 22 miles of range. That's shorter than Segway's advertised 43 miles, but still longer than most other scooters. And, thanks to dual suspension and thick 9 x 2.5-inch inflatable tires, I was able to ride around in comfort, too.
The one tradeoff: This scooter weighs a heavy 53.5 pounds, so it's not something you'll want to carry around.
This fun and fast electric scooter has turn signals
Specifications
Weight:57 pounds
Wheel size:10-inch, inflatable
Max Speed:32 mph
Range:43 miles
Max Rider Weight:265 pounds
Motor:500W, rear-wheel drive
Battery:48V 20Ah
Reasons to buy
+
Very powerful
+
Great range
+
Fast top speed
+
Turn signals on handlebars and chassis
Reasons to avoid
-
Headlight could be brighter
-
Turn signal buttons should be on the left handlebar
The Apollo City has something most other electric scooters lack: Turn signals. It's a lot easier to let other drivers know you want to go left or right if you can switch on a light, rather than holding your arm out — even better, they're on both the deck of the scooter as well as the ends of each handlebar, so it's even easier for cars to spot you.
Yet, the Apollo City is also a great scooter on its own; its 500-Watt motor let us roar up and down even the steepest of hills with ease, and its top speed of 32 miles per hour let us keep pace with most local traffic. We also liked its full suspension and puncture-proof tires.
Apollo's app even lets you customize the scooter's performance, and has a remote-locking function, which engages the scooter's brakes, so that others can't ride it.
Still, at 57 pounds, this is a pretty heavy electric scooter — it's not our first choice if you have to carry it up a flight of stairs — and its latching mechanism is more finicky than you'll find on many other electric scooters. But, otherwise, this is a fun and fast electric scooter with a good safety feature built in.
The Razor E100 is the best electric scooter for parents who want to get a scooter for their kids to safely ride around town. It comes in a variety of colors and features twist-grip acceleration controls, as well as a hand-operated front brake. The E100 tops out at 10 mph but offers enough torque for heading uphill or over steep bumps. And with 40 minutes of drive time, that's plenty to get to school and back with a pit stop in between.
The Razor E100 is available in a variety of colors and styles, so you should be able to find a model that best fits your child's personality. Just remember to get them a helmet. One caveat of the E100 is that it uses a chain-drive motor, which can be noisier than hub motors, and could require some maintenance over time. Also, the E100 lacks a bell or reflectors of any kind, so you'll want to purchase some at a bike shop to help make your child more visible on the road.
The Glion Balto is the best electric scooter for those who want something they can use to pick up groceries or carry things to and from the store. It's just as powerful as the Razor EcoSmart Metro HD, yet the Balto is more portable, as it can fold up on itself, making it much easier to store.
We also really like that the Balto comes with a side-view mirror, lights, and turn signals, which made us feel safer in traffic. And, the Balto's battery is removable, so you don't have to park the scooter near an outlet. As a bonus, you can also use the battery to charge your phone — but you'll need to buy an adapter first.
This zippy ride can carry a second person or your groceries
Specifications
Max speed:19.9 MPH
Max distance:16.6 miles
Motor:1000W, chain drive
Carrying capacity:300 pounds
Battery:46.8
Size:62.6 x 41.3 x x 25.4 inches
Weight:75 pounds
Reasons to buy
+
Good pickup
+
Smooth ride
+
Basket attachment in back
Reasons to avoid
-
Loud chain drive
-
Doesn’t come with a bell
The Razor EcoSmart Cargo has a neat trick: It can either haul your groceries or a second person — one of the few electric scooters that can do so. That's because its basket can be swapped out for a rear seat. Granted, the max weight is 300 pounds, so you'll both have to be pretty light, but it's a nice option to have.
Thanks to its 1,000-Watt motor, the Cargo has some real getup — it was real fun cruising around our neighborhood — but the chain drive was a bit noisy compared to direct-drive motors. And, its size and weight — 75 pounds — makes it best suited for those who have a garage where they can store it.
How are you going to use the scooter? How you plan to use your scooter will go a long way to determining the best electric scooter for your needs. If you're using it as a "last-mile" vehicle — getting you from your home to the bus or train, and then from the bus or train to your office — you'll want to prioritize an electric scooter that's small and light. Look for a scooter that weighs between 20 and 30 pounds.
You'll also want an electric scooter that folds quickly and easily. There's nothing worse than having to fumble with a latch when you're rushing to catch a train — and your fellow passengers will appreciate it, too.
Are you riding on hilly terrain? Where you plan to ride your scooter should also help determine your purchase. If you live in a flatter area, a scooter with a 300W to 350W motor should give you all the power you need. If, however, you live in, say, San Francisco, you'll want a scooter with a stronger motor to get you around. Larger individuals should also consider electric scooters with more powerful motors.
Price: For many, the price of an electric scooter will be the starting point for any buying decision. Here's a quick rundown of what to expect at each price tier.
$100 to $300: These scooters tend to be of the budget variety and come with smaller motors, low-capacity batteries and simple braking mechanisms, though they don't require maintenance and are great for getting the feel of the electric scooter. This is where you'll also find most electric scooters for kids.
$300 to $600: These scooters can be considered as either midrange or entry-level commuters, and they tend to include bigger wheels, slightly longer ranges, fast-charging batteries and the ability to scale hills.
$600 and up: These scooters are in the premium range. You can expect a longer, more comfortable ride, along with larger tires, faster speeds, disc brakes and better suspension.
Battery life/range: After price, this will be the next deciding factor for many. It's a bit difficult to provide an accurate estimate of battery life and range, because it's dependent on a variety of factors, including the rider's weight, the temperature, and the terrain — if you're riding on flat surfaces, you'll be able to go much farther than if you're riding up and down hills. Battery life is typically measured in Amp Hours (aH); the higher the number, the longer you'll be able to ride.
Speed: Most electric scooters will top out at around 15 to 18 miles per hour on a flat road. That's plenty fast for most uses, but there are scooters that will zip along at speeds in excess of 25 MPH.
Motors: The majority of electric scooters will have a single hub-mounted motor (meaning the motor is built into the wheel itself), and will typically have a power rating of 250 to 350 Watts. If you live in a particularly hilly area (or want to go fast) you'll want a motor with higher wattage.
Tires/suspension: There's nothing worse than a jarring ride as you bump over potholes and cracks in the road. To mitigate this, most electric scooters are now outfitted with air-filled (pneumatic) tires, which help cushion things. Others will have front or rear suspension (or both), which makes for an even more comfortable ride. Bigger tires also mean a more stable ride, too.
Lights: If you plan on riding your electric scooter in the early morning, at dusk, or among city traffic, it's worth getting a model with lights so you can see and be seen. Look for electric scooters with headlights and taillights — the better ones will have taillights that flash when you apply the brakes. Unfortunately, turn signals are rare, so you'll have to look out when changing lanes.
The vast majority of electric scooters are designed to travel at speeds of 15 miles per hour. More expensive models can reach speeds of up to 20 MPH. Others can go even faster — we've seen (and rode) models that exceed 30 MPH — but here, you're getting into a gray area when it comes to state motor vehicle laws and regulations.
What is the best wattage for an electric scooter?
A typical electric scooter will have a 250-350 Watt motor, which should be more than enough power for most city riding on level terrain. As you go up in price, you'll find scooters with 500 Watt and higher motors, which are helpful if you need to get up steeper hills. At the top end, you'll find 800 to 1,000-Watt motors, which not only make getting up hills a cinch, but can also scoot you at much faster speeds.
What are the safety features for electric scooters?
Most, if not all electric scooters will have some sort of reflective surface so that you'll be more visible when a car's lights shine on you. As you go up in price, electric scooters will have headlights and tail lights — some tail lights will even blink when you apply the brakes.
Speaking of brakes, almost all scooters have some sort of handbrake; some will have a secondary brake that can be activated by pressing down on a scooter's rear fender.
Almost all electric scooters will also come with a bell or horn so you can warn others that you're approaching — but this doesn't mean you should ride recklessly. And, it's important to always wear a helmet when riding an electric scooter.
There are dozens of varieties of electric scooters on the market, but only a few are worth bringing home to ride.
To test electric scooters, we ride them around a New Jersey suburb and, if the scooter is light and small enough, we take it on a train and into New York City. As increasing numbers of people are bringing scooters on public transportation, we like to see how easy it is to lug a scooter up stairs, and to see how well it can be stowed under a seat.
Once in New York, we ride the scooter some more to see how well it handles potholes and other road obstacles. We also take each scooter up a street with a 6-percent grade, to see how well its motor performs under strain. More powerful scooters will be able to maintain a somewhat consistent speed, while lesser models will slow to a crawl.
In addition, we evaluate each scooter to see if it can reach its advertised top speed, and how close its range comes to the company's estimates. Spoiler alert: Most electric scooters will get around 60% of their advertised range.
As part of the testing process, we also evaluate a scooter's brakes, lighting, and design, as well as its price.
For entry-level and commuter scooters, we primarily consider things such as portability — how easy it is to fold up to bring on the bus or other types of public transportation, or how light it is to cart up a long stretch of stairs — along with range and top speed.
Commuter scooters don't need to be the fastest things around, but it helps if they can manage at least 15 MPH for a sustained time so that you're not holding up anyone in the bike lane. We also looked at braking mechanisms, including hydraulic disc brakes, which are the best for stopping quickly and safely at top speeds, and mechanical disc brakes, which are considered the second best for their reliability. Extra features like headlights, reflectors and available speedometer also factored into our commuter picks.
For the performance-based, higher-end rides, we consider range, speed and braking mechanisms, but we also looked at suspension. If you're paying upward of $1,000 for an electric scooter, it should be comfortable to ride and able to scale curbs, hills and bumpy roads.
For our picks for kids, electric scooters in this category don't offer the same bells and whistles as commuter models. For instance, many of the child and preteen picks don't fold up for portability, so we considered overall weight and size for kids with longer rides to school. We also stuck with scooters that topped out at 15 mph for utmost safety. And like our commuter and high-performance picks, we pored over reviews from parents where accessible.
For more information, check out our how we test page for Tom's Guide.
Tue, 02 Jan 2024 12:58:00 -0600entext/htmlhttps://www.tomsguide.com/best-picks/best-electric-scootersThe best electric bikes of 2024
It's a new year, and if you're looking to get more active, then one of the best electric bikes could be the answer. Rather than driving your car or calling an Uber, an electric bike can get you where you want to go, and give you a little bit of exercise in the process.
Electric power-assisted bikes have exploded in popularity, because they make it easier to travel, as it doesn't require as much effort on your part to pedal. And, they're now available in all shapes and sizes — from folding models that you can carry in one hand, to large cargo bikes that can haul all your groceries and kids around town.
Because electric bikes are so hot, there are thousands of models available — but that also means that there are a lot of duds out there, too. That's why we've tested a number of the top models across all types of electric bikes to give you the best recommendations for your needs.
We test the bikes by riding them around, to see how responsive their electric motors are when going up hills and getting started from a dead stop. We also gauge the comfort of the bikes over long miles, and note the ease with which we can use their various features, such as an accompanying smartphone app. And, we also test the bikes' battery life; while endurance is affected by many factors, such as terrain and temperature, we try to the best of our ability to see how the bikes live up to the company's estimates.
While many of the best electric bikes are expensive — upwards of $2,000 — they're coming down in price; in fact, we also have a list of the best budget electric bikes under $1,500. And before you do any riding, be sure to pick up one of the best bike helmets to keep your head safe, and one of the best bike locks to keep your ride secure.
It's not the flashiest, but the RadCity 5 Plus will more than fit the needs of most riders. It's comfortable, offers plenty of power, and can be outfitted with lots of accessories.
This affordable ebike has a neat feature: Its handlebars can turn sideways, so it'll take up less room when you have to store it in a hallway or some other cramped space.
A truly versatile ebike that can be configured with dozens of accessories. It's also compact, powerful, very comfortable to ride, and one of the most affordable cargo bikes around.
If you're looking for an ebike that can go anywhere, look no further. This bike is responsive, stable in all conditions, including snow, has both lights and turn signals, and even comes with fenders.
This futuristic-looking ebike is made from carbon fiber, which keeps its weight to just 36 pounds. It has a speedy electronic shifter, responsive and powerful motor, and a great range for something this small. It ain't cheap, though.
This bike sports an ultra-light carbon fiber frame, a fingerprint sensor to lock it, Apple Find My, turn signals that light up the road, and voice-control. It's also lots of fun to ride.
For the vast majority of riders, the Rad Power RadCity 5 Plus will be the best electric bike. It has a comfortable design, plenty of power, and a multitude of mounting points for things such as baskets and child seats. Plus, it comes with a rear rack and mudguards. Its 7-speed shifter, combined with three levels of pedal assistance and a twist throttle is more than enough to get you up even the steepest of hills.
Rad Power says that the RadCity5 should get upwards of 50+ miles on a charge; in our testing, it came fairly close — about 40 miles.
We really enjoyed pedaling around on this bike, which is offered in both step-through and step-over models. Its battery, while not fully integrated into the downtube, provides plenty of range, and can also be used to charge your phone (with the right adapter). At a starting price of $1,999, it's reasonably affordable, but you should check out our Rad Power Bikes promo codes for the latest discounts.
Max estimated range:46 miles, depending on assist setting
Max assisted speed:20 mph
Motor:36V, 350W brushless rear hub motor with torque sensor
Gearing:7-speed Shimano
Weight:41 pounds
Reasons to buy
+
Great price
+
Impressive comfort
+
Easy to read head unit
+
Turn signals
Reasons to avoid
-
Motor feels underpowered
The Aventon Soltera.2 is the successor to our previous top pick among the best budget electric bikes. This modestly priced model costs less than $1,500, yet sacrifices very little in the name of economy. In our tests, we found it very comfortable to ride, and it looks great, too. We also liked that it has features you won't find on other budget electric bikes — namely, the built-in turn signals, which are a real help when riding in traffic.
Aventon says that the Soltera.2's battery should get up to 46 miles per charge, a claim we found to be fairly accurate in our testing. However, the Soltera's rear hub motor does feel a little underpowered, especially on hills, but thanks to a torque sensor, it's a lot more responsive than the original Aventon Soltera. If you're looking for a low-cost electric bike to get you around town, this is definitely the model to pick up. Be sure to check out the best budget electric bikes for more picks.
If you plan on commuting to work, Charge Bikes City may well be the best ebike for you. Not only does it come with features like full-fenders to keep the mud off and a rear rack for a pack or bag, but it does everything well for a very reasonable price. The Charge City has a five level power assist, as well as a full-power throttle button, should the need or hill arise.
The biggest reason why we think this bike is best for commuters is that its handle bars fold flat, so you can more easily store it in an apartment or a cubicle at work. It comes with all the necessary bells and whistles a commuter is going to want, including the bell (actually a superior and very loud electronic horn). The bike is available in both step-over and step through, and in a few color options, too.
The City's electric assist is so smooth you'll think you're doing all the work yourself. At night, the bike's lights sufficiently lit up the road and the throttle helped us zip around potential trouble when we felt out of gas. Its advertised range of 50 miles held up, too; we found we only had to recharge the bike every three days using it on our regular commute.
Founded by folks from biking icon Cannondale, Charge's sui generis feature is that even newbies can assemble the bike right out of the box in 10 minutes or less. All you basically have to do is put the front wheel on.
Throttle adds assist over your pedaling assist when needed
Reasons to avoid
-
Could use a center stand rather than kickstand
How's this for an endorsement? Our reviewer loved this bike so much that he decided to buy one for himself.
While it can't haul as heavy loads as some other larger (and much more expensive) cargo bikes, the RadPower RadRunner 3 Plus is more than capable of carrying you, your kids, and plenty of groceries wherever you need to go. We loved its responsive 750W motor, its comfortable ride, and its low center of gravity, thanks to its 3.3-inch thick, 20-inch tires.
However, we found it to be fairly heavy, tipping the scales at 75 pounds, so you're not going to want to try pedal it without any power assist. But we found its advertised 45-mile range to be pretty accurate, so long as we didn't go too heavy on the throttle.
Aside from its performance, what made the RadRunner 3 Plus stand out so much to us was its versatility: You can outfit the bike with any number of combinations of racks, seats, bags, and other accessories to truly customize it for your needs. And, its relatively low price for a cargo bike makes it a real bargain for those looking to replace their car with an electric bike.
This fat tire ebike will get you anywhere you need to go
Specifications
Battery:48V, 15Ah (removable)
Max estimated range:60 miles
Max assisted speed:28 mph
Motor:750 watts, 48V, rear hub motor
Gearing:Shimano Acera 8-speed rear derailleur
Wheel diameter:26 inches
Weight:77 pounds
Reasons to buy
+
Very fun ride with excellent pedaling assist response
+
Stable and capable in all conditions, including snow
+
Has both lights and turn signals
Reasons to avoid
-
Very heavy bike
-
Suspension fork is unnecessary
If you're looking for a fat-tire electric bike that's less than $2,000, the Aventon Aventure.2 is hard to beat. It's as good off-road as it is on pavement, has a beefy battery and a clear color display, as well as fenders that'll save your clothes from getting too muddy. Other niceties include a brake-activated rear light and turn signals.
The Aventure.2 has both pedal-assist and throttle modes, and the battery and wires are neatly integrated into the frame. What's more, the battery can be removed for charging. The battery lasted nearly the advertised 60 miles on a charge, but, as with other ebikes, we drained it much faster when we relied on the throttle.
While not as capable as a dedicated mountain bike, the Aventure.2 was able to get us up and over hilly terrain, and its torque sensor was quick to translate our pedaling into power.
Our only real critiques were the bike's 77-pound weight and its front suspension fork, which felt unnecessary. Otherwise, it's an excellent bike for the price.
The Gocycle G4i+ looks like something a supercar designer would build, which isn't surprising given that it was conceived by former McLaren sports car engineer Richard Thorpe. Not only is this bike's unique wheels-on-one-side and tapered body eye-catching, but we were able to fold it up in less than a minute into a size small enough to get us on and off a train, and past our security and into our office elevator. At 36 pounds, it's one of the lightest folding electric bikes out there, too.
Despite that, this bike was a real pleasure to ride. Its electric shifter responded near instantly, as did the pedal assist and throttle. However, while the G4i+ has daytime running lights, you'll have to pay extra for a legit headlight, as well as mudguards. Also, the G4i+ has a great smartphone app, but one of the flimsiest methods of holding your phone on the bike itself — a cheap solution for a bike that costs $7,000.
If you're looking for something slightly more affordable, GoCycle also sells the G4i ($5,999) and the G4 ($4,799). A 2022 version of the G4 has an injection molded composite mid-frame. Still too much for your wallet? Then you should check out the Brompton Electric C-Line Explore, which starts around $3,000.
The Yuba Supercargo CL can haul an astounding 500 pounds, making it one of the heftiest electric cargo bikes in its class. Yet, it offers a surprisingly stable ride, thanks to its low center of gravity. Its cargo area is very customizable, letting you convert it from a place to carry groceries to a space to tote your tots to soccer practice.
Magna hydraulic brakes and a Bosch mid-drive motor were very responsive, though the relatively small 20-inch tires and lack of suspension did make bumps feel a bit jarring. The Supercargo CL starts at around $6,000, but is incredibly customizable; you can select from a range of accessories to adapt the cargo area to suit your needs.
If you're looking for a cargo bike that can haul more than the Rad Power RadRunner 3 Plus, this is the model to consider.
Motor:1300W (Peak) 750W (Sustained), Rear Hub Motor
Gearing:Single speed
Weight:66 pounds
Max advertised range:55 miles
Max advertised assist speed:28 mph
Reasons to buy
+
Powerful pedal assist with a full-throttle mode
+
Maneuverable
+
Competitively priced
Reasons to avoid
-
No shocks
-
Single speed
The Juiced Ripracer is a lot more fun than it should be, for a lot less than you might think. It's one of the more affordable offroad ebikes we've tested, and it can go just about anywhere. This fat-tire ride has a 40.3-inch wheelbase and 20-inch wheels designed for trails and other unpaved surfaces, though its lack of shock absorbers means a rougher ride than with so-equipped e-bikes.
This bike has some serious pep, and it flew just about everywhere we wanted it to go. We really liked its low-end torque, which made it great for getting up hills. However, it has a cadence, rather than a torque sensor, so it takes a rotation or two of the pedals for the assist to kick in. As it's a BMX-style bike, the Ripracer is a lot smaller than other mountain e-bikes, which also makes it easier to maneuver around tight spaces.
If you're going to ride the next generation of transportation, why not make it as high-tech as possible? That's what the folks at Urtopia did with the Carbon 1S. First, it has a carbon fiber frame, which makes it extremely light — just 33 pounds. Some of the best electric scooters we've tested weigh more.
But it doesn't stop there: The bike also has a fingerprint sensor, voice control, turn signals, an anti-theft alarm and GPS tracking — no one wants to lose their $2,000 ride. The fingerprint sensor was handy - we just pressed our thumb to a small pad on the right handlebar, and the bike turned on. Try someone else's fingerprint, and you get a nasty-looking face on the bike's display. If someone tries to make off with the bike, a really loud and obnoxious siren goes off, and if that still doesn't deter them, you can track the bike using its built in GPS tracking and 4G eSIM. (After the first year, this feature will set you back $39).
The bike even has its own voice control, which lets you change its assist levels, activate the turn signals, and more. However, it felt a bit like a gimmick, and was more distracting than helpful.
On the go, the Carbon S1 was a delight to ride. While its 350W motor isn't the most powerful among the other electric bikes we've tested, it was more than enough to get us around town and up some pretty steep roads. Urtopia says that you should get between 25 to 60 miles on a charge from its battery, which was accurate. Using the max assist setting, we came pretty close to hitting the 25-mile mark.
There are more practical electric bikes on the market (and on this list), but what sets the Carbon S1 apart is its light weight and neat safety features. It's also a lot of fun to ride.
Deep step-through design is great for riders of varying heights
Reasons to avoid
-
Could use more gears in the drivetrain
-
Heavy for a bike in this category
One compromise you have to make with many electric bikes — budget or not — is their range. The more pedal assist you use, the quicker you're going to drain its battery. The NIU BQi-C3 Pro is the best budget electric bike for those who have range anxiety, as it packs two batteries that can provide you as much as 90 miles before they run out of juice. And, in our testing, that claim looks pretty accurate, too.
Aside from its endurance, there are a lot of other niceties we found on this bike for the price. For starters, it has a carbon belt drive, which is not only quieter, but lasts longer and is easier to maintain. Then there's the mechanical disc brakes, front and rear lights, and a built-in rear rack. The bike's step-through design made it easy for both a 5' 11" rider and a 5' 3" rider to hop on and off.
The biggest knock against the bike is its weight — 70.5 pounds — most likely owing to its two batteries. Fortunately, we found the pedal assist from its 500W motor to be more than up to the task of getting us going wherever we wanted.
Pedal-assist or throttle? All electric bikes have what's called pedal-assist; you start pedaling, and the bike's motor kicks in to make your ride a little easier. But you need to put in at least some work: you won't go anywhere unless you pedal. Most electric bikes will also let you set the level of assistance, so you can decide how hard you want to pedal.
However, some electric bikes will also have a throttle. Press a button or push a lever, and the bike will do all the work for you — no pedaling needed! Using a throttle will quickly eat up the battery life on the bike, so you'll get far less of a range if you don't want to pedal at all.
Motor type Less expensive electric bikes traditionally use a rear hub motor. Mid-drive motors located in the center pedal crank shaft tend to be more expensive but offer better overall balance and smoother shifting.
Motors are also rated based on their power, measured in Watts. Typically, the least powerful motor will be 250 Watts, but unless you're a very large person or planning to go up really steep hills, the motor size shouldn’t be a major determining factor for your purchase. More important, there is no industry standard for measuring Watts (is it continuous or peak and if peak, for how long?). So in general, a motor’s Watt rating isn’t a reliable indication of power.
Battery size Consider where you live. If you're in San Francisco you're going to want more help than if you're cruising around Austin. Watt hours (Wh) is the most important figure for comparison—it takes into account battery output and battery life to give you a better sense of available power. Higher Wh translates into more range.
Many electric bike makers will also include an estimated range (usually about 40 miles) that you can get off a single charge. You should take this figure with a large grain of salt, as that number is usually determined under ideal circumstances: A fairly lightweight person riding on flat terrain with no wind, and at the perfect ambient temperature for the battery. Range is also dependent on the level of power assist being used, whether full-throttle has been applied and for how long, and your average speed. As they say, your mileage may vary.
Removable or built-in battery? Most bike batteries will handle rides of about 40 miles and need to be plugged in for at least a couple of hours to get to 80 percent of capacity. So if you have a more demanding commute, consider a model that lets you swap out the battery rather than a bike with an integrated battery.
Also, if you live in a place where you can't bring your bike inside or get close to a wall outlet (such as if you live in a walk-up apartment), definitely look for a bike with a removable battery. It will make your life a lot easier.
Step-over or Step-through? Many electric bike makers will offer their bikes in two configurations: Step-over (which has a top bar that runs parallel to the ground) and Step-through (the bar is angled downwards). Once upon a time, step-through models were traditionally thought of as women's bikes, but that perception is changing. It's generally easier to get on and off a step-through bike, as you don't have to lift your leg over a bar.
Safety features If you're planning to ride your electric bike in traffic or in low-light conditions (such as dawn and dusk), it's worth looking for an electric bike with built-in head and taillights. While increasingly common, it's not a standard feature on all models.
Electric bike FAQ
What are the different types of electric bike?
Generally speaking, electric bikes fall into the same categories as non-electric bikes. Here's a quick summary of some of the kinds of electric bikes you'll find.
Road bike: These are meant solely for riding on roads, and are designed for speed. They will have thinner tires and curved handlebars, so that the rider will be crouched forward. Higher-end models may also be made out of carbon fiber, so as to make the bike as light as possible.
Mountain bike: Designed for off-road use, mountain bikes will have thick, knobby tires, full suspension, and a burlier frame to better absorb bumps and jumps.
Fat tire bikes: Similar to mountain bikes, fat tire bikes are meant to be ridden off-road, usually on very soft ground, such as mud, sand, and snow. As their name suggests, these bikes have very wide tires — as much as four inches — which helps keep a grip on unsteadier terrain.
City/Commuter bike: Made for urban dwellers who need to get around town, a commuter bike will have tires that are somewhere in between a road and a mountain bike. Generally, the bikes will be configured so that the rider's back is vertical when seated, which gives them a better view of their surroundings.
Cargo bike: These bikes are made for carrying heavy loads, and will have a cargo area either in the front or rear of the bike. Because of the payload area, these bikes often tend to me much longer and heavier — and more expensive — than a typical bike.
What is a good speed for an electric bike?
In the U.S., electric bikes are limited to 20 miles per hour; that is, they can only provide you with power — either through pedal-assist or with a throttle — until the bike hits 20 MPH. While you can easily go faster than 20 MPH on an electric bike, the rest of that power will have to be provided by you — or gravity.
How much does an electric bike cost?
Electric bikes range widely in price. Some of the best cheap electric bikes start at around $1,000; you can certainly find models for less, but quality will be less.
The bulk of electric bikes cost anywhere from $1,500 to around $2,500, and there are hundreds of models in this price range.
Higher-end and specialized electric bikes — such as cargo bikes — will cost upwards of $3,000, and can easily reach $6,000 to $8,000, which is a sizable investment.
rules and regulations
There has been a lot of confusion about ebikes (pedal assist versus throttle bikes) and where you can legally ride them. Some municipalities have banned ebikes from bicycle paths, for example. Many places classify ebikes depending on whether they can go full throttle and have a maximum speed of 20 or 28 mph. There are three official classifications:
Class 1: Ebikes that only assist while you pedal, with a top speed of 20 mph.
Class 2: Ebikes with a throttle that don't require you to pedal but have a top speed of 20 mph.
Class 3: Ebikes that only assist while you pedal, with a top speed of 28 mph.
So check your local regulations before you buy. And always wear a helmet.
Meet our testers
Dan Cavallari is the former technical editor for VeloNews Magazine, who currently reviews electric bikes, the best bike lights, best bike locks, and other bike accessories for Tom's Guide. In addition to VeloNews, his work has appeared in Triathlete Magazine, Rouleur Magazine, CyclingTips.com, Road Bike Action, Mountain Bike Action, CycleVolta.com, Tomsguide.com, and much more.
Dan also hosts two podcasts on his site, Slow Guy on the Fast Ride: One is about cycling and other outdoor activities, while the other looks at mental health issues. Most recently, Dan also covered the 2022 Tour de France. Dan lives outside of Denver, Colorado with his family.
John R. Quain has been reviewing and testing video and audio equipment for more than 20 years. For Tom's Guide, he has reviewed televisions, HDTV antennas, electric bikes, electric cars, as well as other outdoor equipment. He is currently a contributor to The New York Times and the CBS News television program. John has also written our guide to the best bike helmets.
how we test
All the bicycles in this feature were road (and in some cases, off-road) tested by Tom’s Guide reviewers and staff.
The testing process begins when we first receive the bike; as most come only partly assembled, we assess the difficulty with which we have to put the final pieces together. Typically, this involves attaching the front wheel, handlebars, and pedals, but some bikes are easier to put together than others.
Next, we take the bikes for a ride, evaluating their comfort, handling, responsiveness of their motors — some will be faster to apply power than others — as well as how they perform over a variety of terrain and conditions. For example, if we're testing a fat-tire bike, we'll take it off-roading; if we're testing a cargo bike, we'll load it with kids and grocery bags.
If a bike has headlights and/or taillights, we'll also check to see how bright they are in dimmer conditions. After all, you're not going to only ride it during the day. We'll also try out any other safety features, such as bells and horns.
We also evaluate the advertised battery range of an electric bike. Many companies will offer, shall we say, optimistic range estimates based on ideal riding conditions: A light rider using the lowest level of power assist, and traveling on a level road in 70-degree conditions.
But, that's not reflective of real-world use. While it's impossible to replicate the exact same conditions from one bike review to the next, we do our best to provide as much detail in our reviews as to how we rode the bike (terrain, pedal assist levels) to determine how close to accurate the companies' claims are.
Finally, if an electric bike comes with an app — as is becoming increasingly common— we'll test it out too, to see how easy it is to use, and how well it works with the bike itself.
Wed, 03 Jan 2024 12:34:00 -0600John R. Quainentext/htmlhttps://www.tomsguide.com/best-picks/best-electric-bikes