Water & Air – Filter Systems News

Many people love the warmth of the sun. The sun’s rays  on our skin make us feel good and can make us look good in the short term. However, there is a hidden danger. By now, you may be aware of the SPF controversy. Some SPFs will protect you from UVB rays, which cause skin cancer and burning, and some will protect you against UVA which cause skin cancer and wrinkling. The danger is that many sunscreen ingredients break down in the sun in a matter of hours or even minutes. After this breakdown occurs, UV radiation passes through the skin which can cause a host of problems. Many times, you will see claims such as “all day protection” and “blocks all harmful rays” on bottles, but quite often this is not true.

Fortunately, the FDA has taken action to ensure that consumers are clearer about the protection we are actually getting from a sunscreen product. Beginning in the summer of 2012, new guidelines were put in place for SPF ratings that more accurately reflect the guaranteed protection level. This is great news to be sure, but with all this talk about SPF sunscreens and protecting our skin, we can often overlook one basic way of protecting our skin: water. While there may be no clear evidence on how water effects skin health, the importance of water still can’t be overlooked in any area of your life. Your skin is an organ and just like every other part of your body, your skin is made of cells. Skin cells, like every cell found in the body, are made of water. Without water, the organs won’t function at their best. Your skin will be much better equipped to handle harmful UV rays if properly hydrated and taken care of.

What’s the best way to stay properly hydrated?

Having water on hand at all times is essential. However, having access to filtered water that does not contain harmful contaminants will be best for your skin and overall health. One of the best ways for easy access to filtered water is through the use of a filtered water pitcher. For example, the PUR Filtered Water Pitcher holds up to 7 eight ounce glasses of water and removes 99.9% of microbiological cysts and 98% of lead. It also comes with a built-in electronic LED indicator filter change light and includes the PUR CRF-950Z water filter cartridge that should be changed every 40 gallons.

What is another way to stay properly hydrated? Having a good filter in place is necessary for ensuring that you have pure, clean water in your home. For example, the Pentek Water Filter Cartridge Replacement. This is a 10 inch carbon block water filter replacement for use in many water filter systems, especially undersink filter systems. This Pentek filter replacement cartridge uses advanced Fibredyne carbon block technology to remove or reduce sediment, dirt, rust, and other impurities. Never neglecting to replace your refrigerator water filter is also important to stay properly hydrated the right way.

In conclusion

Remember to always read labels carefully before choosing the sunscreen that may work best for you. Staying up-to-date about the latest information regarding sunscreens is valuable to skin health. Water can go a long way to protecting your overall health, which includes your skin. When filtered from harmful pollutants, you should never underestimate the value that this natural resource can add to your life. Check out this blog for another benefit of this precious resource: water improves kidney health.

IMAGE CREDIT: http://www.aubrey-organics.com

For the last few months, I have been embarking on an exercise routine. This routine is nothing rigorous, but it is enough to stay healthy and physically active. Want to know what I’ve noticed during this process? Nothing is more pleasant than a big breath of fresh air. Water of course is essential, and so is stretching beforehand, but a big breath of fresh air on a sunny, spring day? Yes, please! You see, each one of our cells needs a constant supply of oxygen in order to live. So what are some of the benefits of fresh air?

It’s good for your digestive system

Have you heard anyone say that you should take a brisk walk after you eat? Fresh air helps you digest food more effectively. This is one of the best kept secrets when it comes to losing weight.

It improves your heart rate and blood pressure

If you are experiencing problems with blood pressure, try your best to avoid polluted environments by staying in surroundings that have a steady supply of fresh air. A dirty environment forces your body to work harder to get the amount of oxygen it requires.

It cleans your lungs

Fresh air improves the cleansing action of your lungs and helps your airways to dilate more fully. Every time you exhale through your lungs, you release airborne toxins from your body. Conversely, dirty air clogs your lungs with harmful airborne toxins which can lead to respiratory illnesses over time.

Fresh Air makes you happy

Serotonin can lighten your mood and promote a feeling of well-being and happiness. Few people know that the amount of serotonin is affected by the amount of oxygen you breathe in through your lungs. Fresh air leaves you feeling more relaxed and refreshed. Who couldn’t use that?

My whole point in writing this blog is to say that everyone needs to breathe in more fresh air. Unfortunately, many live in areas where air pollution chokes the “freshness” out of what you’re breathing. Before you know it, your lungs are covered in filth. That’s not a pleasant image, but fresh air can be a reality in our lives, and it all starts in the home.

Regularly changing your home air filters is perhaps most important for greater home air quality. Furnace filters improve indoor air quality by removing the airborne contaminants that lessens air quality (such as pollen and dust mites). An air filter is a simple (yet undervalued) home appliance that can provide benefits to your respiratory health that you wouldn’t believe. I’ll put it to you this way: your health will be a lot better off with an air filter than without one. Browse through our complete collection of furnace filters, find your size and place your order. This is one of the most important steps for fresh indoor air.

What are some other ways for fresh air? An air purifier is a smart option, along with improving the ventilation in your home (open your windows regularly and avoid stuffy rooms). When you’re outside, try to avoid car exhaust and high polluted areas. Fresh air is just what the doctor ordered.

What if we told you that you could have relief from asthma and allergies? We’re not talking about over-the-counter medication; we’re talking about the Lysol® Unscented Air Filter with Triple Protection®. Built with the asthma and allergy sufferer in mind, this is the first air filter ever CERTIFIED asthma and allergy friendly™ by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America.

The Lysol® Unscented Air Filter is designed to trap pollutants, allergens and neutralize odors. It also features a built-in antimicrobial to inhibit the growth of some bacteria on the filter. The Lysol® Unscented Air Filter reduces the following contaminants from your air:

The Lysol® Air Filters carry a MERV 12 rating, meaning that they trap a high level of micro fine particles that cause respiratory irritation. The Lysol® Air Filter Triple Protection® have been tested to the most rigorous standards known, resulting in a top-of-the-line, first-of-its-kind air filter. By trapping at least 95% of pollen, 92% of dust mite allergens and 85% of pet dander, this Unscented Air Filter is a great solution to cleaning up the air in your home from asthma and allergy triggers.

Even if you don’t suffer from asthma and allergies, you can still enjoy the benefits of cleaner air inside of your home.  The Lysol® Unscented Air Filter with Triple Protection® is made in the USA and lasts 3-12 months, depending on usage. Order your Lysol® Unscented Air Filter today for optimum protection against asthma and allergies. Relief is just an order away.

Lysol is a registered trademark of the Reckitt Benckiser Group. Air filter triple protection is a registered trademark of Quality Filters, Inc. Asthma & allergy friendly and the asthma & allergy friendly logo are Certification Marks and Trademarks of Allergy Standards Limited.

Recently, an odd shipment came in to the office. Initially I thought it was a filter of some kind (we sell those things you know). We opened the box and saw…toys. Not a humidifier filter or an orifice….toys. However, these were different. They were the Melissa and Doug Sunny Patch Pool and Sand Toys. There is little doubt that you have heard of Melissa and Doug before. After all, they are the makers of educational and classic children toys. They played a role in the childhood of many people around the world (personally, I loved their puzzles).

After being told that we would now be carrying Melissa and Doug’s line of pool toys for kids, I was ecstatic. We already offer a large array of spa and pool filters, so why not offer the next essential piece to your home swimming pool? These pool and sand toys for kids make having a swimming pool more enjoyable and takes your next beach adventure to another level. Many of the Sunny Patch Toys can be used in a variety of activities that are aimed to stimulate the child’s mind through sequencing, sorting games and more. The Melissa and Doug Sunny Patch Pool and Sand Toys includes, but is not limited to:

The Sand Funnel Sandbox and Beach Toy will provide plenty of excitement at the sandbox or the beach. Pour sand or water through the tower of sea creatures and watch as the different layers funnel, sift, spin and tip. This is ideal for children ages 2+ and features bright, fade-resistant colors.

The Turtle Catch and Hatch Pool Toy is both easy to use and fun, which makes for a great combination. Each plastic egg in this pool toy set fits one baby turtle inside. Toss them in the swimming pool, gather them and watch them “hatch” for a stimulating variety of sequencing, swimming and sorting games. This is perfect for children ages 6+ and adult supervision is required.

The Melissa and Doug Kids Crab Beach Tote Bag is bright, colorful and (you guessed it) adorable! It has a roomy interior and features exterior pockets that allow you to pack everything you need for your next day at the beach. This beach bag also features mesh panels in the bottom so you can “sift” the sand out. Priced at under $15, you get great quality while spending little.

For a limited time, when you purchase one of the Sunny Patch Pool and Sand Toys, you will receive a FREE Soak and Seek Kids Pool Toy in your order! Soak, squeeze and toss these plush toys when playing in the pool. The Soak and Seek Kids Pool Toys make for even more fun in the swimming pool for children ages 3+. Place your order today for any of our Melissa and Doug Sunny Patch toys and get one of these plush toys for free! This is a limited time offer, so don’t wait!

At FiltersFast.com, we love the Melissa and Doug Pool Toys, but don’t take our word for it; see what kids think about the Sunny Patch Pool and Sand Toys.

Spring is in its early stages, school is almost out and summer is right around the corner. The perfect time for the Melissa and Doug Pool Toys, wouldn’t you say? If you have any questions about this new line of pool and beach toys, don’t hesitate to ask in the comments below. Remember, for a limited time only, you will receive a free Soak and Seek Kids Pool Toy when you purchase any of our Melissa and Doug Sunny Patch Pool Toys. Hurry and place your order today before they’re sold out!

You may soon begin work on a home improvement to-do list. This can include no shortage of priority items such as making general upgrades around your home. In fact, we all have undergone some sort of home upgrades at some time in the past. Of all the items you can add to your to-do list, there is one critical improvement that is often overlooked. If you’ve read previous blogs on The Filtered Files then you may have guessed that I’m talking about furnace filters.

At the risk of sounding redundant, installing a more efficient and effective furnace filter can drastically improve the indoor air quality in your home. Consider the two main reasons you should upgrade your furnace filter.

1. Remove more contaminants from the air: This is big especially if you deal with seasonal allergies and/or asthma. While all furnace filters will (to some degree, at least) reduce contaminants from your air, it may not remove them to the extent that you need. Removing the common asthma and allergy triggers is critical for relief and for protecting yourself from respiratory ailments associated with poor indoor air quality.

2. Prevent contaminants from building in your HVAC unit: Over time, contaminants will begin to build in your HVAC unit and reduce its efficiency. Upgrading your filter will lessen the chances of this occurring so that contaminants are trapped in the filter pleats and not in your system.

While upgrading your furnace filter, be sure to pay careful attention to the Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) of your filter. When it comes to knowing what MERV ratings mean, keep in mind that the higher the rating, the more efficient the filter will be. For example, a MERV 13 will be more efficient than a MERV 11. Read Three Questions to Ask before Choosing Your Next Air Filter for more information.

Recently, all of our customers were asked to upgrade their furnace filter to the Filtrete Ultra Allergen Home Air Filters. The reason was for the numerous health benefits that the Ultra Allergen Air Filter provides.  Pollen, bacteria, dust mites and pet dander are just some of the contaminants that this filter will remove from your indoor air. With better air flow provided than its competitors, this filter is not only efficient in your system (by allowing less air flow resistance) but is also more beneficial to your health.

If you’re going to upgrade your furnace filter, be sure that you are getting maximum protection from harmful pollutants. If the Ultra Allergen doesn’t sound like a good fit for you, simply type in your air filter size and search furnace filters for all available models for your home.

Out of the Home Improvement items you can add to your to-do list, I believe that upgrades are chief among them. In addition to furnace filter upgrades, consider switching to more water efficient models. Toilets, faucets and showerheads have all become more water efficient over the years and will provide a nice touch (as well as savings) to your home and wallet.  What’s on your to-do list around the home?

Many of us don’t spend time thinking about the quality of our pool water until the swimming pool becomes cloudy. When that happens, we look for a solution to the problem that can often be avoided with the proper maintenance of your swimming pool, spa or hot tub.

Before I dive in any further, you need to know what water clarity is. Water clarification is defined as the removal of suspended particulate matter from swimming pools, spas and hot tubs. There are three reasons why water clarity is important.

1. Disease prevention: Cloudy water often contains viruses and bacteria which causes pinkeye, earaches and flu-like symptoms. Giardia and E. Coli (two of the most common bacteria) can cause diarrhea and even death in some cases.

2. Appearance: Cloudy, discolored and unsightly water makes swimming objectionable for many reasons. Would you want to swim in murky water?

3. Swimming safety: Accidents are likely to occur when swimmers entering the pool cannot see those already swimming. Worse yet, if someone is in trouble underwater and he or she can’t be seen due to cloudy water, the risk of drowning increases.

As a pool or spa owner, you are probably no stranger to water clarity issues. After all, it’s only natural that the pool/spa water will eventually become cloudy. Oftentimes, this cloudiness is caused by a lack of water sanitizers, such as chlorine. If chlorine isn’t the problem, then the issue could be suspended particulate matter such as:

• Contamination from swimmers or bathers
• Silt
• Dirt
• Algae
• Organic matter
• Bacteria and protozoa
• Minerals and metals
• Lotions and suntan oils

Water clarity issues are handled through a combination of filtration and chemical treatment. Filters clarify water by removing particulate matter (such as dirt particles, skin flakes and algae) suspended in the water. Most particulate matters vary in micron size, and when it builds up, the pool water becomes cloudy. The type of pool or spa filter you will need depends solely on the type of pool you currently own. You also need to take a few other things into consideration as well, such as the type of problems you will need the filter to fix.

Does your pool suffer from high levels of bacteria? Then the Watersafe Rapid Bacteria Pool Water Test will be best for you. Are you unsure about the water quality in your pool, spa, or hot tub? Then the Pool Water Check Meter (pictured above) is the perfect choice. This water testing meter checks the water quality in your pool and spa and includes a scanner and one bottle of test trips for your convenience.

Regardless of the type of filter you use, the filter must be in proper working condition to ensure sparkling and clean water. If the filter wears out, the filter will lose its ability to properly grab the small particles. To maximize your filters effectiveness, regularly clean and replace the filter according to manufacturer’s specifications.

If you are planning on going for a swim at a public swimming pool, keep in mind that most state health departments require that the main drain be visible from the pool deck at all times. If it is not clearly visible, do not get in.

Enjoy the spring and summer months, you’ve earned it. Keeping a watchful eye on maintenance and the water quality in your pool, spa, or hot tub will benefit you in the long term. We’re always here to help and assist in any of your pool/spa filter needs. If you have any questions, concerns, or are in need of friendly advice, leave a comment and our in-house filter experts will be glad to help you out.

IMAGE CREDIT: oliveventures.com

On April 22, 2013 the world will celebrate Earth Day, an annual day in which various events are held around the world to show support for environmental protection. One of the best ways you can protect the environment is by going reusable. Many have switched to using reusable bags and more, but what about making the switch to reusable water bottles? I may be preaching to the choir, but there are serious disadvantages to drinking bottled water. Reusable water bottles are more environmentally friendly and save you the long-term cost of paying extra money for plastic water bottles. There are three main reasons for you to start (or continue) using reusable water bottles.

Reduce waste: Did you know that the materials used to package bottled water takes hundreds of years to bio-degrade? It is believed that more than 80% of all plastic water bottles are simply thrown away and becomes litter. An estimated 2 million tons of discarded water bottles clog our nation’s landfills.

Save Money: The above graphic says it all when it comes to saving money. We pay much more for bottled water than we do for tap water. You are paying around 5 cents an ounce (when you consider the price per ounces in the average plastic water bottle) versus about a cent per gallon for tap water. Regardless of claims, the regulations surrounding plastic water bottles are less stringent than the regulations surrounding your local water supplier. The US public water system is monitored by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) which requires numerous daily tests for toxins and bacteria.

Be Healthier: Many plastic water bottles contain BPA (Bisphenol A) which studies have shown to be harmful to your health. It has been connected to cancer and hormonal issues. By switching to a reusable BPA-free water bottle, such as the Klean Kanteen water bottle, you are keeping your body protected from the harmful effects of BPA.

Many do not drink tap water because they question its safety or don’t like its taste. While these are concerns are understandable, there are solutions to this problem.

If you are weary about the taste or smell of tap water, carbon filters are the way to go. By reducing harmful bacteria and odors, you are left with filtered water that is free of smells, bad taste and chlorine. By installing a carbon filter inside your home (or even replacing your refrigerator water filter) you are reducing the amount of possible contaminates in your water supply and reducing bad taste and odor as well.

Reliable construction. Great fit for your house!

So are you ready to make the switch? If so, we suggest the Klean Kanteen Stainless Steel water bottle. Made from BPA free, food-grade stainless steel, this is an ideal alternative to bottled water. One of the best features of the Klean Kanteen bottles is found in its construction. These stainless water bottles will not impart or retain any odors or flavors. Unlike many plastic water bottles, the Klean Kanteen will not leech harmful chemicals into your drink. This water bottle is 100% recyclable, dishwasher safe, and is available in many sizes such as a 27 oz. capacity (pictured).

If you have already made the switch to reusable water bottles, congratulations! Urge your friends to do the same and drop the bottle! We offer a wide selection of reusable water bottles such as Vapur water bottles, and Brita water bottles. Browse through and choose which you prefer. In honor of Earth Day, let’s make an effort to go reusable! What is your favorite reusable water bottle? Don’t be shy and let us know in the comments below.

Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need a green thumb to be good at gardening. Patience may be your best friend when it comes to starting a successful garden, but there are additional tips you should at least be aware of.

Research before you start. Grow vegetables and fruits that are native to your area. Many experience failure in gardening because they are growing plants, fruits and vegetables that do not naturally grow in the area. Before starting your garden, do some research to find out which plants are native to your area before planting them. Also, research what each individual plant needs to thrive. Some will require more work and effort than others.

Give your plants and vegetables space. Broccoli, squash and cabbage require plenty of room for them to grow. Cramming your plants too closely together will stunt growth, so be sure to leave adequate space in your garden. Keep this in mind as well, corn takes up little ground space but the stalks will grow tall and potentially block sunlight from its neighbors. Account for this before planting any seeds.

Use fertilizer. Plants need nutrients to live and thrive just like humans do, so we need to feed them. Failure to do so will result in your garden failing to produce. Once you select a fertilizer to use, follow manufacturer instructions for how often you need to fertilize (which is often once a week), but be sure to stick to a regular schedule and never neglect fertilizing your lawn and garden.

Water frequently. All life needs water to exist, this includes your plants. Water draws nutrients from the soil and transports them throughout the plant. Without enough water in the plant cells the plants will begin to droop, this is one of the tell-tale signs that your plant is not getting enough water. The environment in which plants grow is rich with bacteria and microorganisms. Chlorinated water disrupts this environment by disturbing healthy bacterial growth and harming beneficial microorganisms. It also prevents nutrient uptake essential to the growth of the plant, as well as altering pH levels. To reduce this risk, use the Rainshow’r Gard’n Gro Filter System.

This Garden filter system is a non-toxic de-chlorinator that promotes healthy plant growth and plant nutrition. By reducing the effects of chlorinated water in your garden, you are also reducing the risk of disrupting healthy bacterial growth in your garden.

“Excellent construction. Easy to use and does wonders for your garden!!”- Dave (taken from FiltersFast.com product reviews)

This Rainshow’r Garden Filter System is certified by the Water Quality Association (WQA). By using this garden filter you are reducing the risk of stunting the growth of your garden. The eventual success of your garden can ultimately depend on the quality of water you are using. The Rainshow’r Filter is not designed as a drinking water filter, but is designed to give you the best possible water quality for your garden.

Use caution. Be sure to apply a proper balance of water to your plant. If a plant’s soil has too much water, the roots will begin to rot and the plant will not get enough oxygen from the soil. If a plants soil has too little water, the nutrients it needs cannot travel throughout the plant. A plant cannot grow if it doesn’t have healthy roots, so take care to not over or under water your plants.

This is by no means a list of all the best gardening tips that you can use for a better garden this year. If you have experience in planting gardens or would like to share your gardening experiences, we would love to hear from you. What advice do you have?

If you don’t properly manage something, you could lose control of it. The same could be said for asthma. Failure to manage this obstructive lung disease can lead to the feeling that asthma is controlling you, dictating the way you live your life. It doesn’t have to be that way. The management of asthma triggers is a daily part of life for the millions of Americans who suffer from it. There are a few ways you can proactively and successfully manage asthma.

Consult your doctor: This is perhaps the most important when it comes to successfully managing asthma. Your doctor can offer keen insight into the severity of your asthma (whether it’s mild or severe) and will be able to offer tips to control it. Your doctor will also commonly prescribe medicine (such as an asthma inhaler) to help manage common asthma triggers.

Identify Your Common Triggers: Think back for a minute. Any time you have had an asthma episode, where were you and what were you doing? Were you running or exercising? Vacuuming your carpet? Were you near cigarette smoke? Identifying the triggers that set off an asthma attack is crucial in avoiding asthma triggers. After you identify these triggers, think about which ones can be avoided and how best to avoid them. As an example, dust mites and other airborne allergens (such as pollen) are common asthma triggers. One of the best ways to avoid them is with an effective air cleaning system.

Perfect for allergy sufferers, the Germ Guardian Air Cleaning System helps to improve the indoor air quality in your home. By utilizing multiple levels of cleaning to capture airborne allergens, this air cleaning system succeeds in capturing 99.9% of dust and allergens. But that isn’t the only reason you should consider this unit for your home. It’s effectiveness in killing germs is enhanced by UV-C light technology which helps in fighting off molds, bacteria, and odors. You cannot properly avoid the asthma triggers in your house without removing them from the environment. This air cleaning system succeeds in removing common asthma triggers and includes a three year limited warranty for added protection.

Reduce Stress: Did you know that there is a link between stress and asthma? Stress can sometimes cause you to feel short of breath and may cause your asthma symptoms to become worse. Studies have also shown that stress causes physiological changes, by triggering the release of chemicals (such as leukotrienes and histamine) which can cause the narrowing of your airway. Just like identifying common asthma triggers, identify your most common stressors and try to avoid them.

Take the prescribed medications: The most commonly prescribed asthma medication is an inhaler. It is important to discuss the prescribed medication(s) with your doctor to learn more about their possible effects. Also, ensure that you are taking your prescribed medications correctly and in the right dosage. If you have any concerns, contact your doctor for verification. These medications were prescribed for a reason, so do not neglect using them.

Closely Monitor: Asthma episodes rarely arise without warning. Some feel early symptoms such as coughing, tightness in the chest, and tiredness. It is important to take your prescribed asthma medication at the earliest sign of worsening symptoms. By closely monitoring changes in breathing, you will stand a better chance at stopping the risk of an asthma attack before it starts.

Even if you don’t suffer from asthma these same steps can be applied to allergy sufferers. If you or someone you know suffers from asthma or allergies be sure to inform them of the steps they can take to manage their symptoms. View here for a list of air purifiers that we sell. Along with the proper furnace filter, air purifiers are a big step toward removing asthma (and allergy) triggers from the air inside of your home.

IMAGE CREDIT: http://techland.time.com

The high humidity level of Lima, Peru (which is around 83%) was always seen as a fact, but never a blessing. Better yet, it was never viewed as a potential solution to the water shortage that Lima is currently dealing with. As the second largest desert in the world, Lima sees very little annual rainfall and, according to a 2011 article in The Independent, 1.2 million of its residents lack running water. The humid conditions of Lima are now being put to good use, in the most unlikely of forms—a billboard.

Looking to create a splash to kick off its 2013 application period, The University of Engineering and Technology of Peru (UTEC) teamed up with ad agency Mayo DraftFCB to create a billboard that would convert the H2O-saturated air of Lima into potable water. What is the most amazing part of this invention? They actually succeeded.

With nothing more than a basic filtration system, humidity and ingenuity, this billboard produces around 26 gallons per day of potable water from the air. View the diagram below to get a feel for how this invention works.

IMAGE CREDIT: http://techland.time.com

This amazing billboard is located in the middle of the Peruvian desert, where clean drinking water is especially difficult to come by. According to Mayo DraftFCB, this modern marvel has produced around 2,500 gallons of water since the billboard was first erected in December of 2012. This invention requires an undisclosed amount of electricity to work, but many believe that if future models become self-sufficient using solar energy, then it could become both a viable and eco-friendly alternative.

As cool as this invention is, this is a sobering reminder of the harsh realities that many of the world’s population face from day to day. The need for fresh drinking water is a basic human necessity that is often left unmet. Whether your source of water is coming from a filtered water pitcher, or from a billboard, you need this precious resource to survive and to function properly in this Earth.

Only time will tell how feasible this invention can be at a larger scale and what adjustments (if any) would be needed. Do you see this becoming a viable solution down the road? Would you mind seeing one of these in your neighborhood? Don’t be shy. Let us know your opinion in the comments below.

Both images used in this blog are courtesy of techland.time.com.