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  • Why I Wouldn't Recommend Using a CRT Monitor in 2024 for Most Users: Reflections from My 4-Month Experience

    When I first jumped on the CRT hype train and purchased the Mitsubishi Diamond Pro 2070sb monitor, I was excited to experience the renowned quality of this 4:3 CRT display. Over the course of 4 months, with a brief interruption due to travel, I used this monitor as my primary display. However, my overall experience did not live up to my expectations.

    For those unfamiliar with the Mitsubishi Diamond Pro 2070sb, it is considered one of the best 4:3 CRT monitors available, with only a few widescreen CRTs surpassing it in desirability and price. However, with prices reaching thousands of dollars for models like the Sony GDM FW900, I was hesitant to invest that into an over 20-year-old CRT monitor.
    One of the main drawbacks of the Mitsubishi Diamond Pro 2070sb is its resolution, format (4:3), and screen size (22" total, 20" viewable). While the monitor can achieve 2048x1536 @ 86hz, the lack of sharpness makes reading text difficult. Ultimately, I settled on running the monitor at 1600x1200 @ 85hz with 125% scaling in Windows settings, resulting in a total usable resolution of 1280x960.
    In terms of image sharpness, even a decade-old decent flat-screen display surpasses the Mitsubishi Diamond Pro 2070sb. Additionally, the contrast performance of the EIZO FlexScan EV2785-BK flat-screen monitor I currently use far exceeds that of the CRT monitor.
    While the Mitsubishi Diamond Pro 2070sb has advantages such as no backlight bleeding, consistent viewing angles, low input lag, and variable resolution - in my opinion - these benefits do not outweigh the drawbacks for everyday use unless one is a professional gamer or video editor. The monitor excels in dark environments but struggles in well-lit spaces.
    Overall, I would not recommend a CRT monitor to the majority of users. They are best suited for specific applications, such as pro gaming, where the benefits of CRT technology can be fully utilized. For general office use, flat-screen displays offer more advantages and fewer drawbacks.

    Conclusion
    In conclusion, my experience with the Mitsubishi Diamond Pro 2070sb highlighted the limitations of CRT technology in a modern computing environment. While I had hoped for improvements in eye strain and headaches, switching to a CRT monitor made no discernible difference in my overall comfort.
    Editor's note: To operate a monitor like the Mitsubishi Diamond Pro 2070sb with a modern computer, a converter like the Delock 87685 is required. Additionally, a graphics card with Display Port and a supported refresh rate higher than 60hz (you want at least 85hz) is necessary for optimal performance. A cost-effective choice for a graphics card would be the Nvidia GeForce GT 1030.
    Credits
    Ben Schumin from Montgomery Village, Maryland, USA, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
    DjordjeStojiljkovic, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
    Ms angie gray, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

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    How to Enable the 'Recent Files' Section in Dolphin: A Step-by-Step Guide

    Dolphin is a popular file manager for the KDE desktop environment, known for its user-friendly interface and advanced features. One of these features is the 'Recent Files' section, which allows you to quickly access the files and directories that you have recently used. However, some users may find that this section is missing from their Dolphin sidebar. If you're one of them, don't worry – in this blog post, we will show you how to enable the 'Recent Files' section in Dolphin with just a few simple steps.

    Step 1: Right-click on the Side-bar

    The first step is to right-click somewhere in the side-bar of Dolphin. If you don't see the side-bar, make sure it is enabled by going to View > Panels > Side-bar. This will open a context menu with various options.

    Step 2: Enable 'Show hidden Places'

    In the context menu, look for the option 'Show hidden Places' and make sure it is checked. This option is usually unchecked by default, which is why the 'Recent Files' section is not visible in the side-bar.

    Step 3: Get the 'Recent Files' Section Back

    Once you have enabled 'Show hidden Places', you should see the 'Recent Files' section in the side-bar. It will be listed under the 'Network' section, as shown in the image below. You can now right-click on the 'Recent Files' section and unselect 'hide section' to permanently keep it visible in the side-bar.

    Note: The names of the options may differ slightly depending on the language of your KDE desktop.


    Shortcut to Recently Used Files

    If you only want a shortcut to access recently used files, you can simply type 'recentlyused:/' in the address bar of Dolphin and press Enter. This will open a new tab with a list of your recently used files. You can also specify whether you want to see only files or only directories by typing 'recentlyused:/files' or 'recentlyused:/locations/' respectively.

    Drag and Drop the Shortcut to the Side-bar

    To make it even easier to access your recently used files, you can drag and drop the 'recentlyused:/' shortcut to the side-bar. This will create a new entry in the side-bar, allowing you to quickly access your recently used files with just one click.
    Conclusion
    In conclusion, the 'Recent Files' section in Dolphin file manager is a useful feature that allows you to quickly access your recently used files and directories. With the simple steps outlined in this blog post, you can easily enable this section in your Dolphin side-bar. You can also create a shortcut to access recently used files for even quicker access. We hope this guide has been helpful in making your file management experience with Dolphin more efficient and convenient.

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    Resolved: External HDD Sometimes Not Waking Up From Sleep (A Lesson in the Importance of Power Supply)

    I recently purchased a 20TB Seagate Exos X20 ST20000NM007D hard drive and a Fantec DB-ALU3-6G usb enclosure to use as my external storage solution. I was excited to have such a large capacity drive to store all my important files and documents. However, my excitement was short-lived when I encountered a problem with the drive.

    At first, everything seemed to be working fine. I transferred all my files onto the drive and was able to access them without any issues. But then, I noticed that sometimes when I tried to access the drive after it had been in sleep mode, I would get an error message or the files wouldn't open at all. This was frustrating and concerning, especially since this was a professional enterprise grade product.


    After some research, I came across a forum where someone suggested that the problem might be with the power supply. This caught my attention because I had not considered the power supply as a possible cause of the issue. I decided to dig deeper into this and found that the Seagate Exos X20 ST20000NM007D sometimes needs more power on turn on than the power supply from my enclosure was able to deliver.

    The fix was simple - I needed a more powerful power supply. After further research, I found a suitable option - an AC DC power supply with 12V 6A and 72W, with a 5.5x2.5mm connector, charging cable of 2.5m, and adapter plugs of 5.5x2.1mm/terminal block from the brand Poppstar (poppstar.de). I purchased this and connected it to my Fantec enclosure. And voila, the problem was solved!

    It turns out that the Fantec enclosure was able to deliver more power, but the included power supply was not powerful enough. This could be because the company may have opted for a cheaper power supply to keep the product price lower. This is a common practice in the tech industry, and it can be frustrating for consumers who are not aware of this.

    I am writing this blog post to help others who might encounter the same issue with their external HDD and to provide them with a working solution. I understand how frustrating it can be to invest in a product and then have it not work as expected. But, in this case, the solution was simple - a more powerful power supply.


    In conclusion, if you encounter similar issues with your external HDD, it is worth considering the power supply as a possible cause. Make sure to do your research and invest in a quality power supply that can provide enough power for your drive. I hope my experience and solution can help others who may face the same problem. Remember, sometimes the simplest solutions can solve the most complex problems.

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    Converting HEIC Images to JPG on Linux: A Step-by-Step Guide Using DigiKam or Command Line Tools

    If you're an iPhone user, you may have noticed that your camera captures images in the HEIC format instead of the traditional JPG. While this format offers better image quality and smaller file sizes, it can be a hassle when trying to view or share these images on devices that do not support HEIC. Fortunately, there are ways to convert HEIC images to JPG on Linux, and in this blog post, we'll show you how to do it using DigiKam or command line tools.

    What is HEIC?

    HEIC (High Efficiency Image Format) is a newer image format that was introduced by Apple in iOS 11. It uses advanced compression technology to produce high-quality images with smaller file sizes compared to the traditional JPG format. This means you can store more photos on your iPhone without taking up too much storage space.

    However, the downside to this format is that it is not widely supported by devices and software outside of the Apple ecosystem. This can be a problem when you want to share your photos with friends and family who do not have an iPhone or Mac.

    Converting HEIC to JPG using DigiKam

    DigiKam is a powerful open-source image management software that offers a wide range of features, including the ability to convert HEIC images to JPG.

    Step 1: Install DigiKam

    If you don't already have DigiKam installed on your Linux system, you can easily do so using your distribution's package manager. For example, on Ubuntu, you can use the command:
    sudo apt-get install digikam Step 2: Import HEIC Images

    Open DigiKam and import the HEIC images you want to convert by clicking on 'Import' in the top menu bar and selecting the desired folder or individual images.

    Step 3: Select Images to Convert

    Once the images are imported, select the ones you want to convert by clicking on them while holding down the Ctrl key.

    Step 4: Convert to JPG

    Right-click on the selected images and choose 'Convert > to JPEG' from the drop-down menu. A new window will appear, allowing you to choose the output quality and location of the converted images.

    Step 5: View Converted Images

    Once the conversion is complete, you can view your newly converted JPG images in the specified location. You can now easily share them with anyone, as they are now in a widely supported format.

    Converting HEIC to JPG using Command Line Tools

    If you prefer using command line tools, you can also convert HEIC images to JPG using the libheif library and the heif-convert command line tool.

    Step 1: Install libheif

    Install the libheif library using your distribution's package manager. For example, on Ubuntu, you can use the command:
    sudo apt-get install libheif-examples Step 2: Convert HEIC to JPG

    Navigate to the directory where your HEIC images are located and use the following command to convert them to JPG:
    heif-convert image.heic image.jpg You can also specify the output quality by adding the -q option followed by a value between 1 and 100. For example:
    heif-convert -q 90 image.heic image.jpg Step 3: View Converted Images

    Your converted JPG images will be saved in the same directory as the original HEIC images. You can now view and share them as you would any other JPG image.

    Conclusion

    Thanks to DigiKam and command line tools, converting HEIC images to JPG on Linux is a simple and straightforward process. Whether you prefer using a user-friendly interface or the command line, you can now easily view and share your iPhone photos on any device. So go ahead and give it a try, and enjoy your HEIC images in a more widely supported format.

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    These Linux Distributions still Support the Nvidia 340 Driver and How to Install it

    If you're an avid Linux user, chances are you have encountered the struggle of finding a distribution that supports older Nvidia GPUs. The proprietary Nvidia 340 driver is necessary for these GPUs to function properly on Linux, but many distributions have dropped support for it. However, fear not, as there are still some options available for those who are using older Nvidia GPUs.

    MX Linux and Ubuntu based distributions such as Linux Mint and Kubuntu are two popular choices that still support the 340 driver. This means that users with older Nvidia GPUs can still enjoy the benefits of using these distributions without having to upgrade to a newer GPU.

    But before we dive into the installation process, let's first understand why the 340 driver is necessary for older Nvidia GPUs on Linux. The 340 driver is the last version to support GPUs from the GeForce 8 series up to the GeForce 9 series. These GPUs are considered legacy hardware and are no longer supported by newer drivers. Therefore, if you have an older Nvidia GPU, the 340 driver is your only option for proper functionality on Linux.

    Now, let's talk about installation.
    Installation on Ubuntu
    For Ubuntu based distributions, the easiest way to install the 340 driver is by using the PPA (Personal Package Archive) maintained by user kelebek333. This PPA provides the latest version of the 340 driver and can be easily installed by following these steps:

    1. Open the terminal by pressing:
    Ctrl + Alt + T 2. Add the PPA by entering the following command:
    sudo add-apt-repository ppa:kelebek333/nvidia-legacy 3. Update your system's package list by running:
    sudo apt update 4. Install the necessary packages by typing:
    sudo apt install nvidia-340-updates nvidia-340-updates-dev xorg-modulepath-fix 5. Once the installation is complete, reboot your system and the 340 driver should be running smoothly on your older Nvidia GPU.
    Installation on MX Linux
    For MX Linux users, the process is even simpler thanks to the MX Tools Nvidia Driver installer. This tool allows users to easily install the 340 driver with just a few clicks. Here's how to do it:

    1. Open MX Tools from the application menu.
    2. Navigate to 'Hardware' and click on 'Nvidia Driver Installer'.
    3. Enter your password when prompted.
    4. Select the option to install the Nvidia 340 driver and follow the on-screen instructions.
    5. Once the installation is complete, restart your system to apply the changes.


    Congratulations, you now have the 340 driver installed and running on your older Nvidia GPU. You can now enjoy using your favorite Linux distribution without any issues.
    Conclusion

    In conclusion, while many distributions have dropped support for the 340 driver, there are still options available for those who are using older Nvidia GPUs. MX Linux and Ubuntu based distributions are still supporting this driver, and with the help of PPA or MX Tools, installation is a breeze. So, if you're still using an older Nvidia GPU on Linux, don't worry, you can still enjoy the full potential of your system with the 340 driver.
    Credits
    Fritzchens Fritz from Berlin, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

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    These are my Top 3 Linux Distributions for Desktop and Laptop Use

    Linux has become one of the most popular operating systems in recent years, thanks to its open-source nature and the wide range of options it offers to users. One of the biggest advantages of using Linux is the variety of distributions (commonly known as distros) available, each with its own set of features and benefits. If you're planning to switch to Linux on your desktop or laptop, you might be wondering which distro is the best for your needs. In this blog post, i will share my top three Linux distributions that are perfect for desktop and laptop use.

    1. Debian

    Debian is one of the oldest and most stable Linux distributions available. It is known for its reliability, security, and long-term support, making it a top choice for many users. Unlike other distros, Debian focuses on stability rather than constantly adding new features, making it a perfect choice for desktops and laptops that require a dependable operating system. It also has a huge software repository, giving users access to a wide range of applications. Another advantage of Debian is that it is highly customizable, allowing users to choose their preferred desktop environment.


    2. Q4OS

    Q4OS is a Linux distribution that is based on the popular Debian operating system. It offers users a choice between two different desktop environments, making it a versatile and customizable option for a wide range of users. The first option is Trinity Desktop, which is based on KDE 3. This desktop environment is known for being very resource-friendly, making it an excellent choice for older computers or those with lower specifications. Trinity Desktop provides a familiar and user-friendly interface, with a similar look and feel to the classic Windows operating system. This makes it a great choice for users who are new to Linux and want a more traditional desktop experience.


    On the other hand, Q4OS also offers the option of KDE Plasma as a desktop environment. This is based on the newer KDE 5 technology and is known for its modern and sleek design. KDE Plasma is highly customizable, allowing users to personalize their desktop experience with various themes, widgets, and extensions. It also offers a wide range of features and tools, making it a popular choice for power users and those who prefer a more advanced and feature-rich desktop environment. With Q4OS, users have the flexibility to choose the desktop environment that best suits their needs and preferences, making it a highly versatile and user-friendly Linux distribution.

    3. Linux Mint

    Linux Mint is another popular distribution that is based on Ubuntu. It is known for its user-friendly interface, making it a great choice for beginners. The layout of Linux Mint is similar to that of Windows, making the transition from Windows to Linux much smoother. It also comes with a variety of pre-installed applications, including a media player, office suite, and web browser, making it a complete package for everyday use. Linux Mint also has a large and active user community, making it easy to find support and help when needed.

    Conclusion
    In conclusion, choosing the best Linux distribution for your desktop or laptop depends on your personal preferences and requirements. However, Debian, Q4OS, and Linux Mint are undoubtedly some of the top choices for desktop and laptop use. They offer stability, reliability, speed, and a user-friendly interface, making them perfect for both beginners and advanced users. So, if you're planning to switch to Linux, give these distros a try and experience the power of open-source software.

    Have you tried any of these Linux distributions on your desktop or laptop? Which one is your favorite? Let me know in the comments below!
    Sources
    The Debian Project, GPL, via Wikimedia Commons
    linuxmint.com
    q4os.org

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    Phasing Out Windows: My Journey to Dual Booting Q4OS Plasma and Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2021

    As a long-time user of both Windows and Linux, I have always been intrigued by the idea of completely transitioning to a Linux-based system. However, for years, I found myself holding onto Windows due to its familiarity and the fact that some of my specialized hardware and software required it to be installed at the hardware level. But with the recent advancements and growing popularity of Linux, I finally made the decision to move towards a dual boot setup, using Q4OS Plasma and Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2021. In this blog post, I want to share my experience and encourage others to consider making the switch as well.

    I have been using both Windows and Linux for over 20 years now, and have seen the evolution of both operating systems. While Windows started off strong, with its user-friendly interface and wide range of software options, it has been on a downward spiral since Windows 8. With each new update, it seemed to become more bloated, slower, and filled with unnecessary features. As a hobby programmer and developer, I found myself constantly frustrated with Windows and its limitations. That's when I started looking for an alternative.

    I tried several different Linux distributions over the years, but it wasn't until the EOL of Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2019 that i became seriously interested in switching. I finally choose Q4OS Plasma which is a user-friendly, lightweight Linux distribution that is based on Debian. It comes with a sleek and customizable interface, and supports a wide range of software. I was impressed by its speed and stability, and found that it could easily handle all of my daily tasks.

    But as I mentioned earlier, I still had some specialized hardware and software that required Windows to be installed at the hardware level. So, I decided to set up a dual boot system, with Q4OS Plasma as my main operating system and Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2021 for those specific tasks. And I have to say, it has been a game-changer.

    I now use Linux 99% of the time and have had no major issues. I can still access all of my Windows-only software when needed, and I have the added benefit of increased security and privacy on my main system. I no longer have to deal with constant updates and bloatware, and my system runs much smoother and faster.

    Of course, I am not completely rid of Windows just yet. But I am optimistic that by the time I purchase my next system, I will be able to either completely get rid of Windows or only need it installed in a virtualbox VM. And with the rapid advancements in the Linux world, I am confident that I will have even more options and support for my specialized tasks in the future.

    I write this blog post to make others aware that there is a viable alternative to Windows, and to encourage them to consider making the switch. I know that change can be intimidating, especially when it comes to technology, but trust me when I say that Q4OS Plasma and Linux are worth it. As a hobby programmer and developer, I have found that Linux offers me more flexibility and control over my system, and I am sure others will benefit from it as well.

    In conclusion, my journey towards dual booting has been a positive one. I am now using Q4OS Plasma and Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2021 on my main system, and I couldn't be happier. I have found an alternative to Windows that meets all of my needs, and I am excited to see where my Linux journey will take me in the future. So, if you are considering making the switch, I highly encourage you to do so. Trust me, you won't regret it.

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    The Shocking Price Gap: Comparing the MSRP of a 1969 Dodge Charger with a new Dodge Charger

    When it comes to classic cars, many of us have a soft spot for the iconic 1969 Dodge Charger. Its sleek design, powerful engines, and impressive performance have made it a beloved vehicle among car enthusiasts. So it's no surprise that the new Dodge Charger, with all its modern upgrades and features, has garnered a lot of attention. But have you ever stopped to compare the prices of these two models? The results may leave you feeling like you've been ripped off.


    Let's take a closer look at the MSRP (manufacturer's suggested retail price) of a 1969 Dodge Charger and a 2021 Dodge Charger, specifically the R/T models. According to data from the National Automobile Dealers Association, the MSRP of a 1969 Dodge Charger R/T was around $3,500. Adjusting for inflation, that would be equivalent to approximately $24,500 in 2021. Now, let's compare that to the MSRP of a 2021 Dodge Charger R/T, which starts at $36,490. That's a staggering difference of over $11,000, even after adjusting for inflation.
    Furthermore, it is worth noting that in 1969, the R/T trim level was considered the top of the line, whereas today there are several more premium and expensive trim levels available for the Dodge Charger, intensifying the disparity in pricing between the two model years.


    Some may argue that the higher price of the new Dodge Charger is justified due to the advancements in technology and features. However, this argument falls flat when you consider the fact that they are also building these cars in larger quantities and at a much cheaper cost compared to 1969. So why are we paying significantly more for a car that is supposedly easier and cheaper to produce?

    It's understandable that car companies need to make a profit, but this price difference seems excessive. The new Dodge Charger may have more features and technology, but that doesn't mean it should come with such a hefty price tag. After all, these advancements are becoming increasingly common in modern cars and are no longer considered a luxury. As consumers, we should not accept this blatant overpricing and demand more reasonable prices for our beloved Dodge Chargers.


    In conclusion, the MSRP comparison of a 1969 Dodge Charger and a new Dodge Charger makes it clear that we are being charged too much for the new model. Despite technological enhancements and additional features in new models, the lower production costs contradict with the higher prices. It's time for car companies to reevaluate their pricing strategies and offer fairer prices to their customers. After all, we deserve to enjoy the thrill of driving a nice car without being taken advantage of.

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    Invision Community Marketplace Closes its Doors: The Rise of Invisioneer.org as the New Alternative

    Invision Community has closed their marketplace effective October 30, 2023. This news has left many loyal users disappointed and frustrated. However, amidst this disappointment, there is a new alternative emerging - Invisioneer.org - and it is gaining popularity amongst the community.

    The Invision Community marketplace was a hub for users to purchase and sell a variety of products such as skins, themes, plugins, and applications. It served as a one-stop-shop for all the customization needs of Invision Community users. With its closure, many users are now left wondering where they will go to find the same level of quality and variety.

    So why did Invision Community decide to close their marketplace? According to their announcement, they stated that 'the marketplace has become unsustainable in its current form.' This news has sparked a lot of discussion and speculation among the community, with many speculating that the decision was made due to financial reasons.

    But as they say, every cloud has a silver lining. Invisioneer.org, a new marketplace, has emerged as a beacon of hope for those who were left disappointed by the closure of Invision Community's marketplace. This new platform is already gaining traction and has received positive reviews from its users.

    Invisioneer.org offers a wide range of products and services for Invision Community users. Its marketplace is well-organized, making it easy for users to navigate and find what they are looking for. The products available on Invisioneer.org are of high quality and are regularly updated, ensuring that users get the best value for their money.

    One of the key features that set Invisioneer.org apart from Invision Community's marketplace is its focus on community involvement. Invisioneer.org strives to bring together developers, designers, and users to create a collaborative and supportive environment. This not only benefits the community as a whole but also fosters growth and innovation within the platform.

    In conclusion, while the closure of Invision Community's marketplace may have come as a disappointment to many, the emergence of Invisioneer.org as a new alternative is a ray of hope. With its user-friendly interface, high-quality products, and focus on community involvement, Invisioneer.org is poised to become the go-to platform for all Invision Community customization needs. So let's embrace this new alternative and continue to support and grow our community together.

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    Latest ESI Juli@ Driver Not Compatible with older Versions of Windows 10: What You Need to Know

    Recently, I decided to reinstall my operating system for a fresh start. Little did I know, this would lead me to discover an issue with the latest driver for my ESI Juli@ PCI Soundcard. When I installed the latest driver for Windows 10 and 11, I was surprised to find that it did not work with my Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2019. Instead, the only driver that worked was Version 1.3, which also supports older versions of Windows.

    After some digging, I came to the conclusion that the latest driver for the ESI Juli@ is not compatible with older versions of Windows 10, including the Enterprise LTSC 2019. But here's the good news – if you're using newer Windows 10 versions like Enterprise LTSC 2021, you can use the latest driver for your ESI Juli@ PCI Soundcard without any issues. It seems that the compatibility issue only arises with older versions of Windows 10.

    I was relieved to find that my soundcard was still functioning properly with the older driver. However, I couldn't help but feel the need to raise awareness about this issue. So, if you're using an older version of Windows 10, such as Enterprise LTSC 2019, and are experiencing issues with the latest driver for your ESI Juli@ PCI Soundcard, don't fret. You can still use the older driver, and it will work just fine.


    Below, you can find the download links for both the latest driver and the older version (Version 1.3) for the ESI Juli@ PCI Soundcard.Remember to regularly check for driver updates from the manufacturer's website for optimal performance. Additionally, I have also attached the user manual for your convenience.
    Juli@-x2v-v1_3.zip Juli@-x2v-v1_51.zip
    Juli@-English.pdf

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