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Able-One Blog

Able-One's 20th Annual Customer Appreciation Golf Tournament

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Golf Classic

A couple weeks ago, Able-One Systems held our 20th Annual Customer Appreciation Golf Tournament. This day has become a highlight and something our team looks forward to each year, and we're glad to say that this year was once again a resounding success. 

We'd like to thank everyone who came out and enjoyed a beautiful day of learning, dining and golfing. To start the day, our attendees enjoyed a breakfast seminar with presentations focused on optimized IT from Todd Cox, our CTO, and our partners: IBM, Lenovo & Eaton. If you would like to receive a copy of the presentations or get further information on any of the topics please contact us here.

Presentations

  • Able-One Systems
  • IBM
  • Lenovo
  • Eaton

New Beginnings 

Able-One Systems also announced our latest partnership with Tekmonks. A few of our attendeestekmonks.png have already asked about how they can get more information. Look out for a webinar seriers in the next couple of months and if you would like to take advantage of the API economy now let us know.

Mackenzie Hughes

Just before heading out on to the course, Mackenzie Hughes, our long-time friend, gave us all some pointers to optimize our swings out on the links. 

Below is a video where you can see of Mackenzie giving us those pointers after having recently won his first Web.com Tour title - a victory at the Price Cutter Charity Championship - Hughes secured his spot on the PGA Tour next season!

 

Community

Every year a charity or non-profit is selected to benefit from our Charity Hole Challenge. We are proud to have selected Big Brothers Big Sisters of Waterloo Region as this year’s beneficiary. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Waterloo RegionAgencyLogos_OneWebHeader_wrongPurple_117.jpg is a volunteer-driven community leader in creating opportunities for children and youth to maximize potential through adult and youth based mentoring services and programs that foster caring, self-esteem, life skills and friendship. 

This year, we we're happy to end the day off knowing everyone helped raise $1870 for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Waterloo Region of which Able-One Systems matched, for a grand total of $3740!

Last year BBBSW volunteer mentors provided 35,000 hours of support to 1,100 kids in our region. With community support BBBSW can continue to provide a variety of mentoring programs that contribute to the healthy development of children.

Partners

We'd like t13217119_1701481310069566_1622734332288201368_o.jpgo extend a big thank you to the team at Conestoga Country Club for the hospitality and for all of our partners & friends who attended to make this year's golf tournament another great one! 

A special thanks also goes out to E1 Transit for sponsoring the Tesla ride for the day. Recently, they have launched their corporate partnerships program. You can find out more information about how you and your company can participate in their corporate plan here.

Information

If you have any questions about the golf tournament, would like a copy of the presentations or want information on any other topic, please contact us here

Topics: Able-One News

24 Holiday Gift Ideas for the Tech Person in Your Life

The holiday season is upon us and gift-giving can be stressful if you don't know what to get for the people in your life. To help, we've curated a list of 24 unique gift ideas for the tech savvy person in your life; best of all, many of these can be purchased online so you can avoid the crowds at the store.

1. Navdy Mounted Windshield Projector

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Say goodbye to fumbling around with a smartphone with the Navdy ($319, preorder). It's a portable device that includes a mounted projector that keeps you distraction-free and still headed to the correct destination. You can control different aspects of your phone with both hand gestures and voice control. It works with both iOS and Android. 

2. iHome Flask-Shaped Speaker

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While you can't actually put alcohol into the iBT12 iHome speaker ($50), it's a flask-like product anybody would enjoy. It's Bluetooth-enabled and includes a leather-style case for on-the-go use.  

3. Surface Pro 4

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Never hear them complain about a tablet again with the Surface Pro 4 ($899 and up). The latest Surface has a fingerprint reader, a new pen, and more capabilities that could make it suitable for replacing a laptop. 

4. Amazon Echo

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Get some hands-free help around the house with the Amazon Echo ($180). You can ask Alexa to do almost anything, like play a song or update a list on a smartphone.

5. SuperStar BackFloat Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker

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Yes, the SuperStar BackFloat Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker ($150) floats — perfect for when you’re lounging in the pool. The incredible sound can be connected via Bluetooth, so you won't miss any calls while sitting back on vacation. Not planning to be by a pool anytime soon? It's also great for the shower or bath.

6. Skylock, the Keyless U-lock

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Skylock ($159 to preorder, ships 2016) is a Bluetooth-enabled, solar-powered lock that automatically unlocks when you approach, and it locks automatically when you snap the shackle into the lockbar. If your phone dies, just enter in the numeric code you chose during initial setup manually. If someone attempts to steal the bike, Skylock will send an alert. 

7. Mophie Juice Pack H2PRO

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Whether they’re an adventurer or just slightly clumsy, the Juice Pack H2PRO ($130) for the iPhone 6s and 6 is a perfect gift. It doubles as both a waterproof case and an extra battery.

8. Truffol Station 5 USB Charger

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This portable USB charger ($39) is both stylish and functional. Whether he or she is heading to a music festival or going backpacking for the weekend, this universal battery pack can keep phones, tablets, speakers, and cameras charged. It has five outgoing outlets and a built-in surge protector. 

9. MonoRover R2

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If you’ve always wanted a product like a hoverboard, the MonoRover R2 ($599) is what you need. It moves based on ankle and feet gestures and almost looks like something from Back to the Future II.

10. Marshall Stanmore Speaker

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Feeling like splurging on your audiophile? This Marshall Stanmore Speaker ($400) is the ultimate gift for any music junkie. It's vintage-inspired but updated for the 21st century. The speaker connects via Bluetooth or the included coil cord that can plug into any standard headphone jack.

11. Smartwatches

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There's no doubt that smartwatches are the new It gadgets to have. While most people would want an Apple Watch ($350-$10,000), there are other alternatives. The Pebble Steel watch ($150) offers similar features, as does the Moto 360 ($300 and up).

12. Fitbit Charge HR

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The Fitbit Charge HR ($150) is a great activity tracker for the anyone who wants to keep an eye on their health. It has a battery life of up to five days, tracks sleep, and, most importantly, can effectively monitor your heart rate. 

13. GoPro Hero4 Silver

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The Hero4 Silver ($400) is the first GoPro with a convenient touchscreen display, which means that filmmakers no longer need GoPro's mobile app to see what they're shooting. It weighs only 2.9 ounces but can capture incredible 4K video at 15 frames per second and 1080p at 60 frames per second. The action camera, released earlier this year, will also be available in a surf edition (with board mount) and music edition (with mic stand and instrument mounts).

14. R2-D2 Car Charger

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R2 units are the ultimate helpers, and this R2-D2 car charger ($32, originally $40) is no exception. The charger sits in a cup holder and plugs into a cigarette lighter. It can charge up to two USB devices at once, and R2's dome even rotates and lights up. When power is connected, the bot will whistle and beep.

15. Chromecast Audio

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Chromecast Audio is a small device that plugs into your speaker for streaming music through Wifi. At $35, Chromecast Audio is an affordable way to enjoy the music you love on your existing speakers. Chromecast Audio uses Wifi to stream lossless high-resolution audio to your sound equipment. 

16. NFL Otterbox Cover

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Hardcore NFL fan? Show your pride and protect your phone with the hardcore NFL Defender Series case. Built gridiron tough, the NFL Defender Series case protects your device from drops, scrapes, fumbles and tailgating penalties. The OtterBox roster features all 32 NFL teams – $45 sale price, $60 regular.

17. Bluesmart Smart Carry-On Luggage

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Bluesmart is a high-quality carry-on suitcase that you can control from your phone, like a boss. From the app you can lock and unlock it, weigh it, track its location, be notified if you are leaving it behind and find out more about your travel habits. You can also charge your phone 6 times over with a built-in battery. Price ranges from $150 - $500. 

18. KOHLER Moxie 1-Spray Showerhead

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Moxie lets you stream your favorite music, news or talk radio right in the shower with you. The Moxie showerhead holds a portable wireless speaker that pairs wirelessly with Bluetooth-enabled devices to deliver high-quality audio to your shower. On sale on Amazon for $100.

19. Walnut Laptop Stand

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Upgrading the workspace is easy with the Walnut Laptop Stand ($129). Constructed at an angle, the stand is perfect for anyone who regularly uses his or her computer at home.

20. Nest Protect


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Nest Protect reliably detects and alerts you to the presence of smoke or carbon monoxide in your home for a one-time purchase of $228. The alarm speaks to you in a calm, clear, human voice, telling you the location of the danger. It also provides smartphone alerts and battery status updates to help protect your home while you're away.

21. Ringly Ring

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Ringly creates beautiful smart jewelry and accessories that keep you effortlessly connected to the things that matter most. Ringly connects to your phone so you can receive subtle notifications about what’s important. Through the Ringly app, you can set custom color and vibration patterns for different types of notifications. The accompanying ring box also acts as a charging station; simply place your Ringly in the box to recharge when the battery is low. At $195, Ringly is a great gift for the tech and jewelry-loving person in your life. 

22. Tranquil Moments Pro Sleep System

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Backed by more than 25 years of clinical research, Tranquil Moments sound programs are based on the DELTA, ALPHA and THETA brainwave patterns associated with deep states of sleep, relaxation and renewal. Tranquil Moments Pro Sleep System ($199) has gentler ways to wake you and help you feel more refreshed in the morning: gradual-on wake-up light, blue-enriched white energy light, wake to any combination of chimes, sounds and soothing light. 

23. Fitbit Aria Wi-Fi Smart Scale

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Fitbit Aria Scale is the only smart scale that wirelessly talks to your computer. The scale measures weight, percent body fat and wirelessly transmits the information to your online profile at Fitbit.com (no subscription fee required) where your body mass index is automatically calculated for $129.95. You can keep these results private on your profile. Track your weight, body mass index (BMI) and percent body fat over time with the online graphs and mobile tools to help you reach your goals.  

24. BB-8 App-Enabled Droid by Sphero

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Bringing a new part of Star Wars: The Force Awakens into your home, BB-8 is the app-enabled Droid whose authentic movements are at your control with iPhone or iPad.

BB-8 relates to your interactions, showing a range of expressions and actually perking up at the sound of your voice commands. Set it to patrol and watch your Droid explore autonomously. Rather than using the Force, BB-8 is powered by induction charging and connects via Bluetooth Smart BLE with your iPhone, iPad, or other device. Its tough polycarbonate shell keeps it safe from water and the dark side. This gift is extremely popular and just in time for the new Star Wars movie; get it for $149.95 before it sells out.

What other must-have tech gifts would you add to this list? Let us know in the comments below!

Topics: Able-One News

Vote for Able-One Systems in the Veeam Video Contest!

veeam_contest.pngAble-One Systems is a proud reseller of Veeam, a provider of backup, disaster recovery and virtualization management software for VMware and Hyper-V virtual environments.

The Veeam video contest asked their reseller community why they recommend Veeam over legacy backup to their customers.

In Able-One’s video, Todd Cox, our Chief Technology Officer, explains how easy Veeam is to use. Todd manages a large group of technicians and technicians love it for customers because of how reliably the service is.

Vote for our video entry in the Veeam Video Contest here: http://go.veeam.com/video-contest-voting-canada.html

Vote today for your chance to win:

  • 2 NHL prime seat tickets for a Toronto Maple Leafs vs Chicago BlackHawks game on Friday Jan. 15th at 7:00 pm; plus a $200 Visa gift card to enjoy!
  • 2 NHL prime seat tickets for a Calgary Flames vs the Boston Bruins game on Friday Dec. 4th at 7:00 pm; plus a $200 Visa gift card to enjoy!

2 lucky voters will win one package!

The last day to vote is Wednesday Dec 2, 2015, so vote now at http://go.veeam.com/video-contest-voting-canada.html!

Topics: Able-One News

Able-One's 19th Annual Customer Appreciation Golf Tournament (Recap)

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Last week, Able-One Systems held our 19th Annual Customer Appreciation Golf Tournament. Despite guaranteed thunderstorms in the forecast, the weatherman was wrong (yet again!) and it turned out to be a beautiful day and another successful event. Many thanks to the team at Conestoga Country Club for the hospitality!

Prior to teeing off, the attendees enjoyed a breakfast seminar including four presentations with the theme of energy efficiency. The speakers and some of the highlights are summarized below. If you would like to receive a copy of the presentations or get further information on any of the topics please contact us here.

Lenovo

  • Configuration and usage tips to extend the battery life and improve the performance of your laptop
  • The costs savings that result from these minor changes can be significant
  • Maintaining old, non-virtualized servers in your environment is costing you and the environment more than you think

Exact Energy

  • The Ontario Power Authority is offering 100% funded engineering studies and providing implementation incentives that lead to payback periods of months not years.
  • Other saveONenergy programs to assist with:
    • audits
    • retrofits
    • processes & systems 
    • metering
  • Several attendees of the presentation took advantage of the offer of a free site walk through with Exact Energy sponsored by Able-One. If you would like to learn more please click here.

Able-One Systems

  • Our CTO discussed many of today’s green data center initiatives worth understanding:
    • Software Define Storage
    • Cloud Computing & Shared Infrastructure
    • VDI (Virtual Desktop Infrastructure)

Swing Master – Mackenzie Hughes 

The final presentation of the morning was a real treat for the golf enthusiasts in the room. Mackenzie Hughes, the 2013 PGA Tour Canada Order of Merit winner, provided the group with tips & tricks on achieving an energy efficient swing. If you would like to follow along with his golf journey you can visit his website: http://mackenziehughesofficial.com.

Here's the video of golf tips from Mackenzie Hughes:

Unfortunately the golf season is nearing its end; however these tips are certain to help me down the final stretch!

The War Amps of Canada

able-one-golf-tournamentEvery year a charity or non-profit is selected to benefit from our Charity Hole Challenge. We are proud to have selected The War Amps of Canada Child Amputee Program (CHAMP) as this year’s beneficiary. Since the beginning of CHAMP, generations of child amputees have benefited from financial assistance for artificial limbs, regional seminars and peer support.

This organization touches close to home as described by one of our very own Senior Engineers, Gary Evans, “if it weren’t for the technical training that the War Amps helped me achieve after my accident I would not have been able to join the Able-One team 15 years ago”. We would like to thank Kelly Campbell, Manager of the War Amps PLAYSAFE/DRIVESAFE Program for attending and speaking on The War Amps' behalf.

Fundraising Goals

This year we raised an impressive $1,800 on the charity hole, which Able-One Systems has once again matched, bringing the total donation to $3,600! If you would like to support the War Amps yourself please check out their Twitter account @TheWarAmps or their Facebook page. 

Topics: Able-One News

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