Fast Charger for Android Smartphones

I have noticed that not all chargers are made the same. Some charge phones quickly; some do not. There was even one time when my friend's battery drained while charging (funny, huh). So I was wondering, what makes a charger good and reliable? I asked around and have learned that there are two parts to this matter.

First is the adapter. I was told that an adapter with an output of 2A charges faster than one with 1A (or 1000mA). I have found this to be true, based on experience. Here are some photos of adapters with 2A output:

Second is the cable, cord or connector. A thicker cord charges faster due to bigger gauge/size of the wire inside. Typical size is 28 gauge, but a better choice would be 24 gauge (the smaller the gauge, the bigger the size). A lot of cords do not usually indicate the size, but there are some that do, like this:

The combination of 2A adapter and 24 gauge cable for me charges a gadget at the rate of 1% per minute.

You can also just buy a ready-made fast charger set if you don't have the time/energy to create your own. Samsung is the brand that I commonly see being sold. You can get this online from OLX or Lazada at around P600-P800.

On a side note, take care of your battery by avoiding overcharging/overdraining. I have read that it is better to keep your battery at the 20%-80% range. Charge once it reaches 20%; stop charging once it reaches 80%. This would prolong battery life (unless you plan to change phones every two years, in which case, go ahead and do whatever you want with your battery).

Hope this info helps. Feel free to share your experience.

What to Check When Buying a Laptop

Since the laptop that I am using has been performing poorly (laggy processes and poor battery life), I have been dying to get a new one. I had to some research as to what type of computer I wanted to buy since there are too many models available out in the market. I would like to share what I have learned.

These are the things that I would consider:

1) Budget
This is probably the most significant consideration of them all. After all, if the sky's the limit, then why don't you just buy the model with the latest specs, right? Ha. I was honestly surprised to learn that there are actually laptops that cost more than P100,000! So, set your budget range. Then, from there, consider what specs are truly important to you, and what specs you are willing to compromise. Obviously, the better the specs, the higher the price.

2) Purpose
What do you need the laptop for? Is it for basic web browsing and document creation? Or do you plan to do use it for gaming? How about some heavy video editing?

2A) Processor
For me, this determines the kind of processor that your computer would need. For just basic computer functions, then perhaps AMD or Celeron would be sufficient. Though I honestly think that Core i3 should be the minimum standard for this. For gaming or heavy usage, perhaps Core i5 or i7 would be the processor of choice. I imagine that the more advanced the processor, the faster it can complete tasks.

2B) RAM
The higher the RAM, the better a computer's multitasking functions can be (alongside the processor). 2-4 GB is pretty decent already.

2C) Mobility
If you need to be able to bring the computer anywhere you go, then a laptop would be more suitable than a desktop. If you don't, then try considering a desktop instead. (But most of what I would be referring to in this post would be about a laptop.)

3) Screen size and weight
A bigger screen size usually equates to a heavier weight, but a more pleasant/readable visual. Look for the perfect balance for your needs. For me, a laptop weighing more than 2.1 kg is already too heavy since I have a small upper body. 13"-14" is the perfect screen size that is not too straining to the eyes, but with an equivalent weight that is not too heavy for the body to carry. On a side note, it seems like anything smaller than 14" contains AMD or Celeron processor. Core i3 typically begins at 14".

4) Graphics card
Intel's integrated graphics would usually suffice for the typical user. But for gamers, a dedicated graphics card (like NVIDIA GeForce and AMD Radeon) would make for smoother gameplay.

5) Battery life
The higher the mAh, the longer the battery life. You may also want to consider if you want a battery that can be removed (easily replaceable) or one that is internal (less bulky).

6) Others

6A) Hard disk memory
Typically ranging from 500 GB - 1 TB, this is honestly not as a big deal as the other specs. You can easily buy an external hard disk for additional memory. A bigger factor might be if you want to get an solid-state drive (SSD) type, which costs more but functions faster than the typical hard disk drive (HDD).

6B) Optical disk drive (ODD)
Similar to the hard disk, this is not that big of a deal. If you get a laptop without an ODD, you can easily buy an external one. Besides, I honestly think that CDs are no longer a necessity in today's technology. Usually, flash disks are more convenient to use.

6C) Extras
If the laptop is just for the average Joe's use, then I would consider things like a good camera, USB 3.0 ports and multi-card reader as mere bonuses.

So far, that makes up most of my list to consider when buying a laptop. Of course, there's no such thing as the ultimate perfect laptop for all. Each person has a unique need, which is probably why there's a gazillion models out there, just waiting to be bought and used.

As to where to buy, there are plenty of sellers (both legit and not-so-legit) everywhere. The safest bet would be to buy in stores (like Silicon Valley, Octagon, Asianic, Electroworld, etc.) at the malls. (Sadly, I've noticed that these shops only display the laptops, but they do not allow customers to turn on and get a feel of how fast the laptop would run.) Most of these stores offer installment plans for credit card payments, or a P1,000-P2,000 discount for outright cash payments.

There are also shops in Gilmore that offer the same models for a slightly cheaper price. Just make sure that the shop is not too shady. Otherwise, you might be getting a refurbished/reconditioned laptop (without knowing it) instead of a brand new one. Perhaps, a clue would be the warranty included in the deal. Make sure that it is manufacturer's warranty, not just the shop's.

Or if the prices are still too high for your budget, you might want to consider getting a second-hand laptop on sites like OLX. But make sure to transact in a safe place and test the unit before paying for it.

Disclaimer: I am no computer expert. Just wanted to share what I have researched.

Hope my info helps. Feel free to share you experience.

Renewing Driver's License (5-year Validity) at SM Manila

I would like to share my experience about renewing driver's license at SM Manila's DLRC (Driver's License Renewal Center), which is located at the 5th floor, last October 17, 2016. Sorry, no photos, though.

I arrived at SM Manila at around 9:45am since I wanted to get ahead of the long line and finish early. Unfortunately, the mall opens at exactly 10am and by the time I got to the entrance, there was already a long line outside the building. There is a separate line for males and females, while there is a special line for senior citizens.

After the mall opened, I immediately went to the DLRC. Since it was still early, the number of other applicants was tolerable (there were probably around 10-20 people already ahead of me). The office is not so big and the number of chairs were limited, so a lot of the applicants had to remain standing. Make sure to bring a pen since you will be filling out some forms. These are the steps that I undertook in order to renew my non-professional license: (Note that these steps may vary, depending on the branch.)

1) Surrender the old license to the front/receiving desk and get a copy of the ADL (Application for Driver's License) form.
2) Fill out the ADL form or you can also download and print from LTO's website) and submit to Evaluator Window.
3) Wait for your name to be called for the medical exam (vision test) in one corner of the office. You would just be required to read a bunch of letters from a certain distance. This cost P200.
4) Wait for your name to be called again for your photo and signature to be taken.
5) Wait for your name to be called again to pay at the Cashier. Since the day of my renewal was the start of the 5-year validity period, the cost was P652 (P585 license fee + P67 computer fee) instead of the usual P417 (3-year validity). I didn't mind the additional payment in exchange for the extra two years.
6) Wait for your name to be called again. Since there were no available ID cards, I only got my official receipt, which would serve as my proof of license. It would also be what I would present to claim my ID card when they become available.

In total, I spent around an hour to finish the process. The later you arrive, the longer the line ahead of you, and the more time it would take to complete your renewal, so my advice would be to go there early (unless you're a senior citizen, in which case you might get special treatment, hehe).

For inquiries, you may contact SM Manila's DLRC at (02) 525-2646.

Hope my info helps. Feel free to share your experience.

Using the new LRT/MRT Card System

I'm writing this to amend my previous post about maximizing LRT's Stored Value card since the system has been totally revamped, making the contents of that post pretty much useless *sigh*.

Note (for clarity's sake):
Stored Value - SV
Single Journey - SJ

The new card system was finally implemented in 2016 after months of painful waiting (SV cards could not be used during the waiting period, so everybody HAD to wait in line to get a ticket). The change also brought about replacement of the old turnstiles. The new ones can read cards in two ways: 1) by tapping (for SV cards), and 2) by inserting (for SJ cards).

Cards can be bought from the staff inside the ticket booth or a self-service machine. Take note that self-service machines are located in selected stations only, which means that not all stations have them. On a side note, I personally feel that these are NOT user-friendly because they lack instructions on how to be used. There was one time when I had merely wanted to reload my SV card but had ended up paying for a new SV card (which costs an extra P20). Yup, so now I have two SV cards. What the heck am I supposed to do with two cards? (-__-)

Anyway, there are three types of cards that can be bought:
1) SV card - This costs an initial P20, on top of the amount you want to load in it, but is valid for around 4 years.

 This is what the front of the new SV card looks like.

This is what the back of the new SV card looks like. Notice the validity date at the top right corner.

2) Senior citizen's SV card - This discounted card is for the use of senior citizens only. All contents can be bought with 20% discount. This looks similar to the SV card, except it is color white (instead of blue).

3) SJ card - This costs the amount of the journey and is valid for 1 day. Please note that, unlike the old system, where you can buy round-trip tickets in one station, you can only use the ticket at the station from where you bought it. Confused? Example: Going from Pedro Gil to Bambang station costs P15. The trip back from Bambang to Pedro Gil also costs P15. In the past, you could just buy two tickets at Pedro Gil station (to save time) and use the second ticket on the way home. In the new system, this is not allowed. If you buy the ticket at Pedro Gil, you can only use it in this station (entry point). This card has a white body and a colored top part (green for LRT1, blue for LRT2, and yellow for MRT).

Just like before, using the SV card gives the rider more value for their money compared to the SJ card. Here are the adjusted fare matrices for the train lines (taken from LRT/MRT websites):

LRT1 SJ Fare Matrix.

LRT1 SV Fare Matrix.

LRT2 SJ Fare Matrix.

 LRT2 SV Fare Matrix.

 MRT Fare Matrix. (I'm not sure if SJ and SV have the same cost since I don't ride this line often.)

The best thing about the new SV card system is that you only need one card to ride any of the three trains (as long as you have adequate load). The bad thing is that they no longer allow you to skip the long entry line during rush hour, even if you already have a card (-__-).

So far, I have been satisfied with the new card system.

Hope my info helps. Feel free to share you experience.

How to Maximize the Value in Your Stored Value Card

Edit (2/27/2017): Since the LRT/MRT card system has been totally revamped, some of the contents of this post might not be valid anymore. I will be creating a new post regarding the new card system.

Due to the recent fare hike from LRT1 and LRT2, the cost of the Stored Value card has also been increased from P100 to P150. If you are a regular commuter, then buying a Stored Value card is a must. Not only do you not have to fall in the long line of people buying cards, you also get a discount for each ride you make (see fare matrix below).

LRT1 New Stored Value Fare Matrix (from LRT website).

LRT2 New Stored Value Fare Matrix (from LRT website).

Here is a neat little trick (well, it's not really a trick) for people to be able to make the most of what they pay for. Always check the amount of money left in your card. As much as possible, try to leave only P1-P5 so that your last ride will be as good as free.

If you are a regular LRT commuter, doing this feat will depend on your route. For example, I usually ride the LRT1 spanning 5 stations, which would cost me P15 per ride. In a typical P150 card, I only get 10 rides. But, I can get 11 rides out of the card if I leave the last P15 in the card and wait for a chance to ride the LRT wherein I will be charged only P12-P14 (spanning 1-4 stations); thus, leaving me with P1-P3 so that I can use the card one last time for my 11th ride. Imagine riding the LRT from end to end with just P1 in your card --- such a happy feeling~!

Take note that a Stored Value card is valid for 6 months from the time it is bought.

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Hope this helped somehow. Feel free to share your LRT experience. :)

How to Renew Your Driver's License (Philippines)

I would like to share my experience with driver's license renewal at LTO Manila South District Office. It's a very simple process and, depending on the number of people at LTO during your visit, you can finish in as short as one hour. If you want to know about how to renew your car registration, you can check my other post: How to Renew Your Car Registration.

LTO Manila South District Office

WHAT YOU NEED

-expiring driver's license
-application form (can be taken from LTO)
-money (P518 total)

THE PROCESS

First, get an application form from the Public Assistance and Complaints Desk. After filling out the form, you will be instructed to get a medical exam. This service is available inside the LTO compound for P100. Weight, height and blood pressure will be measured. Eye test will also be done. This can be completed in just 5-10 minutes.

Area for medical exam within LTO compound.

Afterwards, submit the forms along with your expiring driver's license to the Public Assistance and Complaints Desk and wait for your name to be called. At around 11am on a Monday morning, I was #44. Waiting took about 15 minutes.

Once your name is called, proceed to Window 1 for your photo and signature to be taken. Then, wait another 15 minutes for your name to be called. Once your name is called, proceed to Window 9 to pay for the renewal fee which costs P418. (If you had changed your address, you would be called by the evaluator to Window 2 for clarifications, which could prolong the process by a few more minutes.)

Wait another 15-20 minutes and your name will be called again. This time, proceed to Window 4 for the release of your new driver's license, which is valid for another three years. Yehey! The entire process took less than one hour, which was good enough for me considering that there were a lot of people at LTO.

EXTRA NOTES

Pay attention to the names being called because they only repeat the names once or twice. Also, pay attention to the window number that you're being called to go to.

No noon break.

LTO follows the No Noon Break policy, which was fortunate for us since we arrived a bit past 11am.

LTO Manila South District Office also offers other services aside from driver's license renewal, including:

-student permit issuance (for Filipino citizens only)

-duplicate license / student permit

-MV registration (renewal), excluding tax-exempt, imported, diplomatic and for-hire

-transfer of ownership

-mortgage annotation

-duplicate plate / certificate of registration

For more information, you can contact their office at (02)528-4682.

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Hope my post helped somehow. Feel free to share your LTO experience. :)

How to Renew Your Car Registration at LTO (Philippines)

I just wanted to share my experience on our car registration renewal. If you're interested to know about driver's license renewal, you can check out this post: How to Renew Your Driver's License.

Earlier today, my brother had his car registration renewed at LTO. I tagged along since this is the first time that we were having the renewal. Typically, a brand new car is registered for the first three years (so you don't have to worry about registration renewal during this period), after which renewal is due every year.

THE SCHEDULE

The most important thing to find out if you're due for renewal is the schedule. I asked the staff at LTO and they said that your plate's last digit is the basis for the month of your renewal:

1 January

2 February

3 March

4 April

5 May

6 June

7 July

8 August

9 September

0 October

As for the week that you're due to renew, it would depend on the plate's middle digit:

1-3 1st week

4-6 2nd week

7,8 3rd week

9,0 4th week

For example, your car plate is ABC 123. The last digit is 3, which means that the month is March. The second digit is 2, which means the week is 1st. Hence, the deadline for renewal is 1st week of March.

Take note that if your renewal is late, you need to pay P200 extra for each week that you are late. If you are late by a month, then you will have to pay 50% extra of the total amount.

WHAT YOU NEED

-photocopy of OR-CR (wouldn't hurt if you can also bring the original)

-your car

-money

-smoke emission test result (can be taken at LTO)

-CTPL insurance (can be taken at LTO)

-stencil (will be taken at LTO)

THE PROCESS

We went to LTO Manila South District Office near PureGold San Andres since that is where we originally had the car registered.

LTO Manila South District Office

First off is the car's smoke emission test. There are two privately-owned emission test centers available inside the LTO compound. One is Pearl Orient Private Emission Testing. The other is Protection Emission Testing Center. We went with the latter just because it was nearer the entrance. We were asked to present a copy of the OR-CR (original or photocopy is fine). We were charged P400 for their service. We had to wait around 10-15 minutes for this.

Smoke Emission Test receipt

Afterwards, we went to get Compulsory Third-Party Liability (CTPL) insurance, also available within the LTO compound. We were also asked to show a photocopy of the OR-CR. We had to wait around 30 minutes (because there were a lot of people in LTO earlier today). We paid P1,060 for this.

CTPL Insurance from LTO

Next, we took a stencil application form from the Public Assistance and Complaints Desk. An LTO staff assisted us with the filling out of this form (for free). This took about 5-10 minutes.

There were really lots of people at LTO today.

No noon break.

Finally, we submitted everything to Window 8 for processing. Since there were lots of people today at LTO, we had to wait almost an hour just to be called to Window 9 to pay. The total amount was P2980 (inclusive of P450 for the new plates which were out of stock at the time). I think the amount would also depend on the car type. Ours was an SUV. By the way, if you transferred to a different LTO branch than the one where you initially registered, you would have to pay extra P100.

We had to wait about 10 minutes, then our new OR was released at Window 10. The new plates were still out of stock and we were given a landline number to call after 45 days to check for plate availability.

So, after paying P4,440 and spending almost two hours at LTO, we were able to renew our car registration at last. It wasn't really too difficult.

EXTRA NOTES

I have also heard about what they call "three-fourth" or "3/4", wherein you don't have to renew your car's registration. Instead, you can have your 3-year car registration extended. Kind of weird, but yes, it is possible, because I personally know someone who has had this done. Of course, this is only applicable to cars in their THIRD year of registration, but have not yet reached their 36th month.

For example, your car (with plate ABC 123) was bought and registered on July 2012. Since you are due to renew on the 1st week of March, but have not yet reached your 36th month (you are currently on the 33rd month), you can have registration extended, and you only have to pay 3/4 of the total amount. Plus, you don't have to undergo the smoke emission test.

Instantly, you save around P1,000! Your next renewal would be due the following year (just as if you had your car's registration renewed). I'm not sure if this is applicable to those who are transferring to a different LTO branch though, because the staff have to manually locate your files.

For more information, you can contact LTO Manila South District Office at (02)528-4682.

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Hope my post helped somehow. Feel free to share your LTO experience. :)