About 6 years ago, someone told me that CAT5e was going to be replaced soon by CAT6. Now in 2008, I'm still seeing a lot of CAT5e sales. CAT6 is selling as well, but we just did a recent poll on our website, and about 70% of the cables being purchased are still CAT5e over CAT6. Why is this? Isn't CAT6 way faster?
Nobody sells CAT5 anymore. CAT5e replaced that technology in 2001-2002. My opinion? I think that there is no NOTICEABLE difference for the average user. In fact, I would say there is no difference, especially if you are just going from the wall to your desktop or laptop computer (say 7-14 feet). I think you might notice if you get above 50 feet. BUT, in order to have a truly CAT6 system, EVERYTHING must be CAT6 including the wires in the walls. Also, if you are connecting to wireless routers, the difference between CAT6 and CAT5e really doesn't matter. So, we still sell both. I don't know that CAT6 will every fully replace CAT5e because other technologies are becoming more cost effective.
The challenge with both CAT5e and CAT6 is that they are both using copper conductors. And copper is now so expensive, not to mention that there is a copper shortage, other technologies like Fiber Optics, is likely to become just as cost effective as the copper wires. Fiber is, well, the speed of light. How does copper compete with that?
I think that with the rising costs of copper, we'll see a move to affordable Fiber Networks even for the SOHO industries. You'll enjoy blazing speeds, and no copper wires. This also is great for EMI. Electrical interference is not an issue when data travels through light beams instead of electrical pulses. I love you CAT5e and CAT6, but the writing is on the wall... You'll be old technology as the world goes to fiber. You'll even see HDMI and USB replaced by Fiber. Toslink (fiber optic audio) is really making a move replacing the composite and component audio cables. It was stalled somewhat because HDMI combined audio and video, but there is a lot of copper in those HDMI cables. They are heavy, expensive, and the factories are strugling to get enough copper to fill orders.
Like all changes in industry standards, it will take awhile, but it will happen. Do you have any bulky SCSI or Parallel cables still in a box somewhere? Don't they look like old heavy technology compared to our slim USB and CAT6 cables? We'll look at USB and CAT6 cables the same way as we use light, thin fiber optic cables to connect our external storage device to our TV, home theater, and computer (which will all be one and the same eventually).
Until next time
The Cable Guy
http://www.professionalcable.com/
Friday, June 27, 2008
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Review - The Incredible Hulk
I know, I know, I've read the reviews, and I don't agree. I liked the Hulk. Edward Norton is one of my favorite actors, and without him, the movie couldn't have been as good. But, the fact is, he was great as Bruce Banner.
The movie starts off in some crazy town in Brazil. I've never been to Brazil, but it this town is really amazing. Bruce Banner (Edward Norton) is working a a day laborer in some factory. I thought the story was compelling as he was in hiding in Brazil trying to fight his demon and control his Hulk incidents. I loved the movie except for every time the Hulk opened his mouth. Is it just me, or did the original Hulk just grunt a lot? I don't ever remember him speaking. So when he would say things in the deep monster voice, it seemed cheesy. I think the Hulk is meant to lift cars up, throw bad guys around, and remain otherwise silent. OK, there is one other thing that bothered me. I don't care for the computerized animation of characters. But in this movie, it bugged me less than other movies.
I grew up watching the Hulk on TV. I never read the comic book or anything else, I was just in to the TV show. In fact, I remember one day putting on my white button-up Sunday shirt, going outside and pretending to turn into the Hulk, ripping the shirt off. I got a big lecture when I brought the shirt back inside and all the buttons were missing. Nobody understands the Hulk.
The original Hulk from the TV show actually has a cameo on the movie as a security guard. Also making a cameo appearance is Iron Man, another movie that I really liked.
I actually was not expecting a lot from this movie because the reviews have not been great. But it's a movie that I wouldn't mind seeing again. I had a good time watching it. Maybe it's just the kid in me, but I recommend this movie.
Until next time
The Cable Guy
www.professionalcable.com
The movie starts off in some crazy town in Brazil. I've never been to Brazil, but it this town is really amazing. Bruce Banner (Edward Norton) is working a a day laborer in some factory. I thought the story was compelling as he was in hiding in Brazil trying to fight his demon and control his Hulk incidents. I loved the movie except for every time the Hulk opened his mouth. Is it just me, or did the original Hulk just grunt a lot? I don't ever remember him speaking. So when he would say things in the deep monster voice, it seemed cheesy. I think the Hulk is meant to lift cars up, throw bad guys around, and remain otherwise silent. OK, there is one other thing that bothered me. I don't care for the computerized animation of characters. But in this movie, it bugged me less than other movies.
I grew up watching the Hulk on TV. I never read the comic book or anything else, I was just in to the TV show. In fact, I remember one day putting on my white button-up Sunday shirt, going outside and pretending to turn into the Hulk, ripping the shirt off. I got a big lecture when I brought the shirt back inside and all the buttons were missing. Nobody understands the Hulk.
The original Hulk from the TV show actually has a cameo on the movie as a security guard. Also making a cameo appearance is Iron Man, another movie that I really liked.
I actually was not expecting a lot from this movie because the reviews have not been great. But it's a movie that I wouldn't mind seeing again. I had a good time watching it. Maybe it's just the kid in me, but I recommend this movie.
Until next time
The Cable Guy
www.professionalcable.com
Saturday, June 21, 2008
Day 3 of InfoComm 08
The last day has come and gone at InfoComm 08. It was noticeably slower today. I thought that it would be. It's a Friday, and most people wanted to get home for the weekend. The others had partied hard last night (including Miss Karaoke Booth Hottie) and were sleeping off a hang-over. I was actually glad that booth hottie didn't show up. She just distracted people from the good stuff (my booth). I guess she called in sick. Riiiiiight.
Even though the traffic was much lighter today, I still managed to collect about 30 leads, a couple of which are real interesting.
So at the end of the show, with very sore feet, I think that this is a show that we'll do again next year. However, next year it's in Florida. I can't drive to that one! Cedia is the next big A/V show, and it's in Denver this September. I think that will be a good show.
I learned that Face plates and custom cables were a big hit at the show. I'm glad that I brought some of our HDMI and VGA faceplates to show. Also, our mini-HMDI male to regular HDMI female adapter was a hit.
I'm looking forward to getting in contact with all of these companies and turning them into loyal fans of Professional Cable. Most of my customers say that we are their favorite vendor because we are so easy to work with and because of our great service. (refer to the posting about my 10-step secret to a successful company from a couple days ago).
I'm heading to bed now to rest up for the long drive back home tomorrow. It's around 7 hours on the road. But I so prefer it to flying to Las Vegas.
Until Next Time
The Cable Guy
www.professionalcable.com
Even though the traffic was much lighter today, I still managed to collect about 30 leads, a couple of which are real interesting.
So at the end of the show, with very sore feet, I think that this is a show that we'll do again next year. However, next year it's in Florida. I can't drive to that one! Cedia is the next big A/V show, and it's in Denver this September. I think that will be a good show.
I learned that Face plates and custom cables were a big hit at the show. I'm glad that I brought some of our HDMI and VGA faceplates to show. Also, our mini-HMDI male to regular HDMI female adapter was a hit.
I'm looking forward to getting in contact with all of these companies and turning them into loyal fans of Professional Cable. Most of my customers say that we are their favorite vendor because we are so easy to work with and because of our great service. (refer to the posting about my 10-step secret to a successful company from a couple days ago).
I'm heading to bed now to rest up for the long drive back home tomorrow. It's around 7 hours on the road. But I so prefer it to flying to Las Vegas.
Until Next Time
The Cable Guy
www.professionalcable.com
Review: Get Smart 2008 - Well Done Steve Carell
I haven't read any reviews about Get Smart, and I don't care what others are saying. I saw it tonight with high expectations because I really think Steve Carell is hilarious, and this movie did not disappoint. I grew up watching the original Maxwell Smart (Don Adams) as agent 86 on the Get Smart TV show. I used to love that show! I'd always pretend to talk into my shoe.
In the modern-day Get Smart, Steve Carell plays the clumsy Maxwell Smart, and I was afraid that I'd walk out of the theater saying that he "Missed it by that much!" But he didn't. He nailed it. And I thought that Anne Hathaway did a great job as agent 99. They worked together well on screen, and the part where they were dancing was very funny. My favorite part, where I was laughing so hard I could hardly see, was when he was in the bathroom and accidentally fired the little crossbow pocket knife through his foot, then through his cheek, etc. (hope I'm not ruining it for you) I could watch that part alone 10 more times.
Overall I thought that they captured the old fun elements of the TV show, and modernized it very well. It was funny, interesting, and the characters were likable. I'm giving this one a thumbs up. I'll see this one again... and again. Of course, I really liked the last Pink Panther with Steve Martin. So, if you're not in to those types of slapstick comedies, then you may not enjoy it. For me, it was right up my alley.
Until next time
The Cable Guy
http://www.professionalcable.com/
In the modern-day Get Smart, Steve Carell plays the clumsy Maxwell Smart, and I was afraid that I'd walk out of the theater saying that he "Missed it by that much!" But he didn't. He nailed it. And I thought that Anne Hathaway did a great job as agent 99. They worked together well on screen, and the part where they were dancing was very funny. My favorite part, where I was laughing so hard I could hardly see, was when he was in the bathroom and accidentally fired the little crossbow pocket knife through his foot, then through his cheek, etc. (hope I'm not ruining it for you) I could watch that part alone 10 more times.
Overall I thought that they captured the old fun elements of the TV show, and modernized it very well. It was funny, interesting, and the characters were likable. I'm giving this one a thumbs up. I'll see this one again... and again. Of course, I really liked the last Pink Panther with Steve Martin. So, if you're not in to those types of slapstick comedies, then you may not enjoy it. For me, it was right up my alley.
Until next time
The Cable Guy
http://www.professionalcable.com/
Friday, June 20, 2008
InfoComm 08 - Las Vegas - Day 2
Day 2 was busy at the Professional Cable booth at the InfoComm show in Las Vegas. More international distributors and integrators visited the booth, which makes me ask myself, “Why didn’t I take more than one Spanish class at BYU?” I have actually used my French while here as well. (Oui, c’est vrai en plus!) Canadians are always impressed when I speak French. “Vous aimez les cables? Moi aussi!” Unless of course they are Canadians that don't speak French. Then I just give them the French shrug and say "Comment?". But trying to communicate with a guy from Columbia about HDMI cables in his broken English and my broken Spanish .”Me gusta mucho el burrito con queso! Donde esta el bano? Usted está caminando en mi dedo del pie.”
Many years ago, when I was with Offspring, we had a booth in the corner of the Camex show out where most people didn’t even bother to walk. I’m in a similar spot here at this show, though not quite that bad. What was even worse, was in the booth across from us, they had a hover craft. Not like a little remote control dealy, but a full-size, jump in, and we’ll go for a ride outside hover craft. WHOOOOSH, VROOOM, this thing would go. And all the heads would turn to watch it as they walked by our booth, as if we were not even there. I felt like Tom Hanks and Jon Lovitz on SNL as the Girl Watchers. “Hel-lo!... Good-bye… Not interested in me at all. No reaction whatsoever… Not even the time O’day!“
Well this is happening at the InfoComm show as well. (Is it just me? Do they hate me or do they hate cables?) Sorry, did I say that out-loud? I must be getting a complex or something. This time it is not a hover-craft, but a hovering-hottie at the booth directly across from me. There is a company that makes Karaoke equipment across from us, and they hired some “talent” for their booth. i.e. eye candy, Las Vegas hottie, etc. She’s a head-turner alright. It’s been an interesting study to watch literally hundreds of guys walk by my booth looking directly at her not even noticing that I’m there (or my booth). How do I compete? I could try to learn to juggle tonight at the hotel. I could try swallowing flaming swords. I could wear the same outfit that she is wearing… though I couldn’t really pull off the pony tails. That outfit on me might get some attention… but not likely to get anyone to come talk to me. Each day of the show she is wearing less and less. I’m glad it’s not a 6-day show! Wowza! I’d have no reason to come at all! I think that in some ways though it is hurting their business. She gets on the Karaoke machine and is actually a pretty good singer, and draws crowds, but I don’t think any of these guys are interested in the karaoke “products”. If they sell a Karaoke machine it will be a miracle. I think they might actually discourage real customers from going to the booth and getting information, especially if that person is a woman. That’s been my observation. Maybe I’m completely wrong, but I have a suspicion that I’m right. I have a feeling that Mrs. Cable Guy (The Cable Queen) would have an issue with me hiring “talent” to stand in my booth next to me.
Never-the-less, the show has been good. I’ve got lots of good leads, and a lot of interested people that have said I’ll hear from them. You never know until you see the orders, but my company is making a name for itself. Every show like this strengthens the brand, and yes, Professional Cable is now a brand, even in Canada, eh?
Many years ago, when I was with Offspring, we had a booth in the corner of the Camex show out where most people didn’t even bother to walk. I’m in a similar spot here at this show, though not quite that bad. What was even worse, was in the booth across from us, they had a hover craft. Not like a little remote control dealy, but a full-size, jump in, and we’ll go for a ride outside hover craft. WHOOOOSH, VROOOM, this thing would go. And all the heads would turn to watch it as they walked by our booth, as if we were not even there. I felt like Tom Hanks and Jon Lovitz on SNL as the Girl Watchers. “Hel-lo!... Good-bye… Not interested in me at all. No reaction whatsoever… Not even the time O’day!“
Well this is happening at the InfoComm show as well. (Is it just me? Do they hate me or do they hate cables?) Sorry, did I say that out-loud? I must be getting a complex or something. This time it is not a hover-craft, but a hovering-hottie at the booth directly across from me. There is a company that makes Karaoke equipment across from us, and they hired some “talent” for their booth. i.e. eye candy, Las Vegas hottie, etc. She’s a head-turner alright. It’s been an interesting study to watch literally hundreds of guys walk by my booth looking directly at her not even noticing that I’m there (or my booth). How do I compete? I could try to learn to juggle tonight at the hotel. I could try swallowing flaming swords. I could wear the same outfit that she is wearing… though I couldn’t really pull off the pony tails. That outfit on me might get some attention… but not likely to get anyone to come talk to me. Each day of the show she is wearing less and less. I’m glad it’s not a 6-day show! Wowza! I’d have no reason to come at all! I think that in some ways though it is hurting their business. She gets on the Karaoke machine and is actually a pretty good singer, and draws crowds, but I don’t think any of these guys are interested in the karaoke “products”. If they sell a Karaoke machine it will be a miracle. I think they might actually discourage real customers from going to the booth and getting information, especially if that person is a woman. That’s been my observation. Maybe I’m completely wrong, but I have a suspicion that I’m right. I have a feeling that Mrs. Cable Guy (The Cable Queen) would have an issue with me hiring “talent” to stand in my booth next to me.
Never-the-less, the show has been good. I’ve got lots of good leads, and a lot of interested people that have said I’ll hear from them. You never know until you see the orders, but my company is making a name for itself. Every show like this strengthens the brand, and yes, Professional Cable is now a brand, even in Canada, eh?
Until Next Time
The Cable Guy
www.professionalcable.com
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Forbidden Kingdom vs. Kingdom of the Crystal Skull
If you would have told me a few days ago that I would like The Forbidden Kingdom (Jackie Chan and Jet Li) more than Indiana Jones and The Kingdom of the Crystal Skull (Harrison Ford), I would have laughed in disbelief. I mean how can you screw up getting Harrison Ford back on the big screen as Indiana Jones? You even have a good name for the movie! But somehow, they did. They took Indiana Jones, and made an X-Files movie. Mixed in with a little Close Encounters. Then they threw in a little Caddyshack. (What on earth was the deal with the gophers?) I can’t believe it, but thumbs down for this little piece of…. work.
But, if you’re going to the movies this weekend, there is a movie that I do recommend, The Forbidden Kingdom with Jackie Chan. I thought that this would be a typical Kung Fu movie, but it actually has something The Kingdom of the Crystal Skull lacks, A PLOT! It starts in America, but moves to China. A young American kid finds himself in China on a quest to return a magical staff to the Monkey King who was turned to stone over 500 years ago when his magical staff was taken from him. It all comes together nicely, is full of action, and takes this young American kid through China as he learns Kung Fu a la Karate Kid. I really liked this movie and it was a nice surprise after the Indiana Jones Alien fiasco.
But, if you’re going to the movies this weekend, there is a movie that I do recommend, The Forbidden Kingdom with Jackie Chan. I thought that this would be a typical Kung Fu movie, but it actually has something The Kingdom of the Crystal Skull lacks, A PLOT! It starts in America, but moves to China. A young American kid finds himself in China on a quest to return a magical staff to the Monkey King who was turned to stone over 500 years ago when his magical staff was taken from him. It all comes together nicely, is full of action, and takes this young American kid through China as he learns Kung Fu a la Karate Kid. I really liked this movie and it was a nice surprise after the Indiana Jones Alien fiasco.
Until next time
The Cable Guy
http://www.professionalcable.com/
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
InfoComm 08 - Las Vegas
InfoComm 2008 - Las Vegas, Nevada.I've been to CES many times and several years ago I would go to Comdex in Las Vegas. These are both huge shows. With my former company Offspring, I have gone to many education shows such as Camex. But this was my first time exhibiting at the InfoComm show in Las Vegas, and boy am I impressed.
While not as big as CES, this is no little regional show. It attracts BIG name manufactures such as Panasonic, Sony, Samsung, Sanyo, etc. and attendees from all around the world. InfoComm has combined and co-located its show (A/V Industry - Audio Video Integrators and installers) with NSCA (Systems Integrators) and NXTComm (Network and Telecom Integrators) into one massive show at the Las Vegas convention center. It's indicative of how the industries lines are being blurred. AV installers are also installing fiber optic networks in homes. Systems Integrators are installing huge video servers. Network installers are installing projection systems in conference rooms and video conferencing systems. As an owner of a cable company, I love it! Each one of these industries uses... you got it! CABLES! So Professional Cable is very busy at this show. Many of you yawn at the sound of HDMI or SVGA, but for these guys, my products are a head-turner. Yes, I said it. My cables are turning heads. They are looking for high-quality cables without the "Monster" prices. I just hope my competitors don't figure out what we are doing, because from what I'm hearing it's revolutionary. Let's keep this secret just between us oK? Here is the 10-step master plan: 1. Good prices. 2. Friendly personal service and support. 3. Huge inventory. 4. Easy to work with. 5. Lifetime warranty on cables. 6. Free freight (contact me for details). 7. Big selection of high-quality professional-grade cables. 8. No frills packaging. 9. Knowledgeable staff. 10. Custom cable capabilities. There you have it. How did I come up with such an amazing 10-step program? Well, I listened to my customers. It's what they wanted. Why wouldn't I give it to them? Heck, it's what I would want to . I think too many companies when the get to be a "big company", decide that if you don't like what they have to offer in a neat little package, then well, you're out of luck. Not at Professional Cable. You need something custom like a wall plate with a VGA port and RCA connection? OK. We'll custom make that for you. You want a plenum SVGA cable in 40 feet lengths? OK, we'll custom build that for you. I guess my competitor's try to force their customers to just buy what they have and if they don't carry it, they do the French shrug and say, "Désolé!" "Why?" You might ask? Well, they don't care. Yep. They are too "big" to care. (refer to French shrug). I never want to lose the Professional Cable motto. "Small enough to care. Big enough to get the job done."
Today I made contacts in Australia, Columbia, Mexico, Argentina, Canada, integrators all over the USA (including Hawaii) and even a couple in Utah. There are something like 60,000 attendees and over 1,000 vendors just in the InfoComm show. One day down, two to go. The show ends Friday June 20, 2008.
One thing I've learned at the show is, it is not a one man show. I need more people here next year. Lot's of people lining up to ask the cable guy questions. I love it! My feet hurt though.
So there you have my report. Our booth is no Sanyo, but we have something that all of these resellers and integrators need in order to finish the job. The cables. (Try turning on your fancy plasma TV without the power cord. FAT CHANCE!)
Until next time
The Cable Guy
Saturday, June 14, 2008
88 Lines About 44 Women
After my latest car acquisition, my brother challenged me to do a blog about all the cars I've owned.... I admit it. I have a problem. I told him it would be something like the song by the Nails, "88 lines about 44 women". If I come across actual photos, I'll add them. For now, these are just pictures of the same year and make of car to give you an idea of how they looked, but they are not my actual car. Here goes.
2. 1976 Audi 100 LS. This was a LEMON... but oh I loved this car. I replaced the engine and painted the car white from its brown original color. The interior was tan and black. It was a sweet eye-catching machine. The license plate said "RAUID1". I stored this while on my mission and drove it after I came home for awhile. I now know that it is a horrible idea to try and store a car for two years while on a mission. Cars don't do well when they sit for two years. Problems persisted and I sold it.
4. 1976 Ford Courier Pickup. It was purchased for $300 or so from my mom's employer, Ivie Electric in Sandy. She drove it for awhile. I then drove the heck out of it, took it camping a lot, and then sold it for $500.
5. 1971 Cadillac Coupe DeVille. This was purchased from someone who I'm sure was a pimp visiting from out of state. This car floated down the road, guzzled gas, and was a sweet ride. I remember driving it to Provo a lot to go dancing at a club. I'd take it just because I thought it was "Pimpin'."
About this time I also got a 1999 Pontiac Grand Prix company car. I had it for like 2 months before I was laid off
from Curtis Computer products.
15. 1998 Pontiac Bonneville. The single worst car I've owned. I bought it and before the license plate had come (still had the new temp. tag on it), the transmission had gone out. I never really liked the car. It was a bad decision. I sold it within like 6 months.
16. 1987 Ford Taurus. Now car experts looking at the list might expect this one to be the lemon. But, for us, we had a great experience with this car. We had it several years and put over 40k miles on it. I know lots of others who had major problems with the Ford Taurus.
20. 1969 Chevy Pickup. We needed a truck as we were moving from Springville to Highland. I still loved the old Chevy pick ups like I had before my mission. *I still have this classic truck!* It's an automatic which is nice. The one that I had pre-mission was a stick. This one is a V8 and the one I had before my mission was a straight 6. This is also a 2WD.
23. 1995 Lexus LS300. Trying to stay out of debt while not bringing home any money, I went with a luxury car that was good on gas and reliable. This is a great car and I'm glad that my mom was able to buy this from me.
24. 2008 Honda Civic. This is probably the coolest and sportiest car that I've ever owned. I love this car. It is my newest edition and I think that I'll have this for a long time. It gets great gas mileage and it is brand new, so no repairs. I really like the look, the drive, and pretty much everything about this car. (except for the payment).
I'll add this one in, because my brother Nick mentioned it as a "vehicle" purchase. It was more of a toy, but a gas-saving toy that I did drive to work a lot. I recently sold it.
25. 2005 CF Moto 150cc Scooter. Great scooter. I just needed to shed some debt since I just picked up the new Honda.
1. 1975 Chevy Nova. My first car. I got it when I turned 16. It will always have a sweet spot in my heart. I spent a lot of time in this car delivering pizzas for my first job, going on my first date, driving to high school, etc.
2. 1976 Audi 100 LS. This was a LEMON... but oh I loved this car. I replaced the engine and painted the car white from its brown original color. The interior was tan and black. It was a sweet eye-catching machine. The license plate said "RAUID1". I stored this while on my mission and drove it after I came home for awhile. I now know that it is a horrible idea to try and store a car for two years while on a mission. Cars don't do well when they sit for two years. Problems persisted and I sold it.
3. 1970 Chevy Pickup. This was the third car that I purchased before my mission. I put a transmission in this (with the help from my friend Scott), put new chrome rims on it, and had it painted. I sold this before my mission and it helped fund my mission.
The next three are somewhat questionable, because they were purchased for my mom when she was tight on money. But I think that I paid for them and sold them, so they were legally all my cars.
4. 1976 Ford Courier Pickup. It was purchased for $300 or so from my mom's employer, Ivie Electric in Sandy. She drove it for awhile. I then drove the heck out of it, took it camping a lot, and then sold it for $500.
5. 1971 Cadillac Coupe DeVille. This was purchased from someone who I'm sure was a pimp visiting from out of state. This car floated down the road, guzzled gas, and was a sweet ride. I remember driving it to Provo a lot to go dancing at a club. I'd take it just because I thought it was "Pimpin'."
6. 1978 Subaru wagon. This car was a lemon, but mom drove it for a long time.
7. 1987 Honda Civic Hatchback. This car was light blue with blue interior. It was a 5-speed. I came home from my mission and got rid of the Audi. I wanted something that was dependable as I was commuting to Provo every day to go to BYU. This car holds a sweet spot in my heart, and it's probably why I love Honda's so much. It was a great car. On a trip from Lake Powell to Salt Lake I got 50 MPG. It lasted me all through BYU. After getting married, Jen drove this car until she couldn't take it any more in the heat. (no A/C).
8. 1985 Toyota pickup truck. The week before we got married, I bought this Toyota pickup for $200 from a customer (at Texaco). They had a courier business and this was one of the two original trucks. It had over 250k miles on it when I bought it. It ran like a champ and I later sold it for $750. It stressed Jen out, and it was a foreshadowing of all the cars that we'd see together.
9. 1987 GMC Jimmy 4x4. Not much to say here. It was a major gas guzzler. I liked going off road in this up Hobble Creek canyon back when we could afford to just go drive for fun.
10. 1993 Mazda Protege. This was our first car with A/C. Jen quickly claimed this car for herself and loved it to death. We sold this when we went to Holland to live for 2 years.
11. 1992 Oldsmobile. This was my first corporate car. I decided that since I had started a corporate job, I needed to drive a 4-door sedan that had A/C. We sold this to my Uncle Brent before going to Holland.
I had three different company cars in Holland and England. I won't put them in the blog.
12. 1987 Mazda 626. Upon returning to America from England and Holland, we purchased a Mazda for cheap. It was not the best car. We had this for less than a year.
13. 1999 Dodge Dakota 4x4. This was the first car ever that I bought brand new. It was shiny red with a dark grey interior. It was a beautiful truck. It was new, and while I had it dependable. I really enjoyed it. Gas was reasonable at the time. I took it off-road a lot and went camping, etc. I was also Elder's Quorum President while I had this truck and I moved half of the ward in and the other half out while living in Springville. I left my youth and my back with the truck.
About this time I also got a 1999 Pontiac Grand Prix company car. I had it for like 2 months before I was laid off
from Curtis Computer products.14. 1965 Ford Mustang. This will also hold a special place in my heart because this was my dream car. I love love loved this car. It was a head-turner. I sold it to help fund my start-up business Offspring Technologies (that I started in 2001 with my friend Shawn Rapier). I have a wonderful memory buying this car too. I bought it on ebay (and sold it on ebay). My buddy Scott and I flew to Sacramento, CA and drove it back home. It was a real fun experience.
15. 1998 Pontiac Bonneville. The single worst car I've owned. I bought it and before the license plate had come (still had the new temp. tag on it), the transmission had gone out. I never really liked the car. It was a bad decision. I sold it within like 6 months.
16. 1987 Ford Taurus. Now car experts looking at the list might expect this one to be the lemon. But, for us, we had a great experience with this car. We had it several years and put over 40k miles on it. I know lots of others who had major problems with the Ford Taurus.
17. 1999 Honda Accord. As I look through the list of cars I can see mistakes, regrets of buying, and regrets of selling. This is the latter. I loved this car. It was a super great dependable smooth car. I traded it in when we decided to get company Land Rovers.... looking back, that was a bad idea. I'd drive this car again any day. What was even better was I went from the horrible Pontiac Bonneville to this one.
18. 1998 Plymouth Voyager. We still have this one!!!!!!!!!!!! Whewhoooooo! Now you didn't expect to see that so soon. This has been such a great reliable family car, we haven't had any reason to change. Love it! Finally in the tally of cars that I've owned, an American-made car that has been stellar.
19. 2001 Land Rover Freelander. This car evokes mixed emotions. It's kind of like the Hindenburg for me. I was so proud in the beginning when I bought it. This was a company car purchased by MY company! (and Shawn's company). I loved it. It was amazing off road and in the snow. It was brand new. (My second brand new car purchased). However, when we sold the company, this car became a big old fat weight and burst into flames crashing down... figuratively of course. Then gas prices soared, and I wanted out.
20. 1969 Chevy Pickup. We needed a truck as we were moving from Springville to Highland. I still loved the old Chevy pick ups like I had before my mission. *I still have this classic truck!* It's an automatic which is nice. The one that I had pre-mission was a stick. This one is a V8 and the one I had before my mission was a straight 6. This is also a 2WD.
21. 2004 Toyota Camry. I bought this new. Got rid of the Land Rover. Again, looking back, this was a keeper.... but I didn't keep it. I really liked this car. It would have probably lasted me until I was 65. But, I was let go (forced out... agreed to resign at gun point, or at the point of a knife from an attorney, threat of lawsuit, etc.) from Advantus and decided to try real estate. I didn't want a car payment, so I sold the car.... Should have kept this one.
22. 2000 Mazda Protege. I am really neutral on this car. It was a decent car. I bought it, then started real estate and found out quickly that the car you drive is a big deal in real estate. This car was not sending the right message. (however my Camry would have been ideal.) I had this car for like 3 months.
23. 1995 Lexus LS300. Trying to stay out of debt while not bringing home any money, I went with a luxury car that was good on gas and reliable. This is a great car and I'm glad that my mom was able to buy this from me.
23. 2005 Dodge Dakota. After starting another cable company, I thought that I'd offer local deliveries, so a truck would be essential. This is almost right up there with the Pontiac Bonneville. Instead of a transmission going out, it was the engine. Luckily this was under warranty. Although I put a couple thousand into other repairs. At the same time, another massive spike in gas prices. They rose about $1 up to $4 a gallon. I had to ditch this big fat lemon. I felt the same way as I did when I ditched the Pontiac Bonneville. Yahoo!!!!
24. 2008 Honda Civic. This is probably the coolest and sportiest car that I've ever owned. I love this car. It is my newest edition and I think that I'll have this for a long time. It gets great gas mileage and it is brand new, so no repairs. I really like the look, the drive, and pretty much everything about this car. (except for the payment).
I'll add this one in, because my brother Nick mentioned it as a "vehicle" purchase. It was more of a toy, but a gas-saving toy that I did drive to work a lot. I recently sold it.
25. 2005 CF Moto 150cc Scooter. Great scooter. I just needed to shed some debt since I just picked up the new Honda.So there you have it. I may have got the year of a car wrong here or there, and heck, I may have even missed a few. But this is how I remember it. 88 lines about 25 cars.
Until next time
The Cable Guy
Friday, June 13, 2008
How I met my wifey
I've been asked to write down how I met Mrs. Cable Guy, so I thought that I'd share it with all. (if you get this story from Mrs. Cable Guy, it will be totally different I'm sure. But, this is how I remember it!)
OK, maybe that didn't happen. But I'm not not saying that it happened either.
I was a dashing young buck going to school at Brigham Young University. I had just recently returned from a 2-year LDS mission in Bordeaux, France. I was living down in Provo, Utah at the "Tanner Apartments, Lucky # 7". My mom had been bugging me to go visit my cousin who was also going to BYU. My cousin was from out of state (Washington state) and my mom was worried that she (my cousin) would be home sick and that she'd appreciate a visit from her cousin. So one day I decided to go over and visit. My cousin was roommates with a friend of hers from Port Angeles, WA. She introduced me to her roommate, who was to be the future Mrs. Cable Guy. I was so impressed that I kneeled down on one knee, took her hand, kissed it, and said in an English accent, "Hello My Lady". She fainted on the spot. The rest is history. (Did I mention my version was a little different than my wife's?)
OK, maybe that didn't happen. But I'm not not saying that it happened either.So it turns out they (the girls in the apartment) were going to go see a movie at the dollar theater that afternoon. They were going to see Cool Runnings. My cousin and another girl already had their tickets, but they invited me to come along. I might add, that once I decided to go to the movie, Future Mrs. Cable Guy... let's call her the Cable Queen, decided that she wanted to go to the movie as well. (She had recovered from her fainting spell.) But when we got there, the movie was sold out, so the future Cable Queen and I ended up separating from the others.
So what did we do? We got tickets to Sleepless in Seattle. Disclaimer... I knew nothing about either movie, so I really didn't care. But, as it turns out, seeing a romance movie with a girl is a good idea.
So, I was liking how things had turned out. Our movie didn't start for another 20 minutes so we had some time to kill. We played some video games in the lobby...
. I paid for the video games, so this technically was our first date. We enjoyed the movie. From then on, magically, I was all-of-a-sudden really excited about visiting my cousin as much as possible. (and her room mate).
. I paid for the video games, so this technically was our first date. We enjoyed the movie. From then on, magically, I was all-of-a-sudden really excited about visiting my cousin as much as possible. (and her room mate). Eventually I asked the future Cable Queen out on a group date, then later we went out with just the two of us. I think she really liked me because of my cool car. Well, actually, she liked me simply because I had a car and she didn't. So I found myself taking her shopping for groceries, etc. We spent most of that semester together, studying, doing wash, and going on very cheap dates. Working at the Sinclair gas station on Center Street in Provo at $5 an hour didn't pay for much.
She went home for the summer (to Port Angeles, WA). I went home for the summer (to Midvale, UT). We kept writing (no e-mail back then you see and definitely no blogs).
When Fall semester came around, the Cable Queen called me (she may not admit to this) and let me know that she had rented an apartment VERY close to mine. Now I'm sure that she would roll her eyes and say it was merely a coincidence.... and she's kept that story for 14 years or so... but we know the truth... (refer back to fainting spell). And again we started dating and hanging out for the next two semesters. Then May 6th, 1995, between Winter and Spring semester, we were married in the Salt Lake Temple.
Now you know the real story.
Until next time
The Cable Guy
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Heroine for Cars
Tonight as I was pulling into a gas station (for an ice cold Diet Coke), I saw a line of SUVs all with the fuel nozzles sticking out of their sides filling up. It was like a bunch of heroine addicts getting their hit with needles poked into their arms. These big vehicles can't go very long without another hit. I know. I recently traded my gas guzzling Dodge truck for a new Honda Civic. I will save $130 a month at current prices ($4 a gallon). I put about 1,000 miles a month on my car. If it goes up to $5 a gallon like some experts say we'll see this year, I'll save $160 a month. That's like another car payment. Monday I leave for Vegas. For this trip (to and from Vegas) I will save $135 in the Civic. My Dodge was addicted to gas like a heroine addict. It loved to stop at gas stations, and for a meer $70+, it would be good for a week... sometimes... OK. Sometimes it was getting its fix twice a week. All the while my bank account was being siphoned... kind of like you would siphon gas... but it was my hard-earned money flowing out of my checking account through the matrix of wires and computers into the credit card machine on the gas pump. I would exchange that hard-earned money, for my Dodge's fix. It would go into the tank. I would start my truck, drive to work, and most of it would be gone. Vanished into thin air. (much to the chagrin of Al Gore). I guess on this, I'm with Al Gore... something I've never said before and am not likely to ever repeat. It was killing me. I hate to waste money. It burns me. I felt that I was just throwing money away.
So now I'm dri
ving a fancy dependable Honda. They are extremely dependable cars. Dependability is a whole other issue with the Dodge. My Dodge was in the shop more than on the road. I thought the check engine light was going to burn out it was on so often. At 63k miles the engine was replaced (at no charge since there was a whole 7k left on the factory warranty). It was riddled with reliability issues and repairs the whole time I owned it. Consumer reports (which I failed to read before buying this gem) rips it apart also. Apparently I was not the only one with troubles. However, my new Civic is highly recommended as a very reliable car with virtually no problems and very high consumer satisfaction.... So why can't America build cars like this?
ving a fancy dependable Honda. They are extremely dependable cars. Dependability is a whole other issue with the Dodge. My Dodge was in the shop more than on the road. I thought the check engine light was going to burn out it was on so often. At 63k miles the engine was replaced (at no charge since there was a whole 7k left on the factory warranty). It was riddled with reliability issues and repairs the whole time I owned it. Consumer reports (which I failed to read before buying this gem) rips it apart also. Apparently I was not the only one with troubles. However, my new Civic is highly recommended as a very reliable car with virtually no problems and very high consumer satisfaction.... So why can't America build cars like this? 
In other high-fuel costs news, I've decided to keep my gas guzzling 1969 Chevy pickup, although it only gets 12 MPG. I don't drive it much, but it is convenient for yard work. But, every mile I drive is like throwing $0.34 out the window. It's crazy. So there you have it. I'm happy with the new car. I have faith in America and think that the high fuel costs will just inspire entrepreneurs to come up with alternatives to gas. Why there aren't natural gas stations popping up like popcorn on the apricot tree, I don't know. I think that is a gold mine waiting to happen. Albeit, a gassy, natural, gold mine. Also, quick-n-easy (and cheap) conversions so your regular car can run on either natural gas or the regular unleaded. The bio-fuel cars exist, but the conversion is spendy. The answer is out there, and I can't wait to see how many ways we can stick it to the Middle East as they try to hold us hostage to their heroine supply.
Until next time
The Cable Guy
P.S. Don't forget that you can order cables online at http://www.whatacable.com/
Sunday, June 1, 2008
Summer is here
Do you remember how cool it was the last day of school each year? I fondly remember the last day of school. During elementary school, it meant spending a lot of time at my grandmother's house during the summers while my mom worked. She had a big sand pile and I pretty much spent most of the day playing with trucks and cars in the sand or on the grass. When I wasn't playing cars, I was riding my bike pretending to be "John" from the TV show CHIPS, or I was packing a gun around playing like I was a cowboy. Occasionally I would get some money and go to Harmon's grocery store and buy some ammo. (caps) I would shoot Indians and cougars from the trees. I'm guessing neither one of those things is politically correct for our kids to do today. If the polar bears are close to extinction, cougars are right behind them I'm sure....
Then came middle school. By this time I was old enough to stay home by myself in the summer. I'd sleep until 11 a.m. get up, do my chores (a gazillion a day) eat lunch, and then call my friends. We'd meet at someones house, and then head down to Dan's grocery store and buy a 25 cents ice cream cone. If I had money left over, I'd go buy a big gulp at the 7-11. Neither Dan's nor 7-11 was close by. It would take us 30 minutes to walk there and 30 minutes to walk back. We might spend some time at the arcade (inside Dan's) or we might head up to Flat Iron Mesa afterwards and play baseball, tennis, or just hang out and try to meet girls. Summers were a ton of fun.
Once high school came along, I worked during the summers. My schedule when I first turned sixteen was not great for socializing because I was delivering pizzas at night. I didn't date a lot because every night I was cruising in my 75 Nova, listening to cool New Wave music on the radio or on cassette tapes. I actually really liked that job. This is probably where my real addiction to Diet Coke started. I had to buy my first cup each night, but then the rest of the night was free refills. Man I drank a lot of Diet Coke. Driving all night hyped-up on Diet Coke, listening to Oingo Boingo... it really was a good gig. It combined my three most favorite things (Cars, Music, and Food)... OK so I had five favorite things. Diet Coke which it included, and girls.... No girls really, except the other pizza delivery girls....and there was little time to sit around and chat. Pony Express Pizza was busy every night. The next year I had got a job at a Texaco gas station, where I would work for the next 4 years. (Again, all the Diet Coke this guy could drink)... No wonder they never made a profit! But those were fun summer nights. We would get so many teenagers in getting gas and hanging out every night was a blast. We'd close at 10 PM and then it was usually off to someones house or we'd just sit and talk. Those were good times.
Fast forward now 20 years and last Friday was my kid's last day of school. They had a big party at our house with water balloons, slip-n-slide, trampoline, sprinklers, etc. Lot's of fun in the sun. As the old guy who's the bread-winner, I was at work busy selling cables. The magic of summer is mostly gone. I have little to look forward to during the summer. But I do love summertime. It's still my favorite time of the year. I love the smells, especially in the morning and at night. It brings floods of memories back to me of being a boy, and having nothing but a lot of playing to get done during the day. Now even my Saturdays seem to be filled with yard work, errands, etc. Life is busy.
One thing that is nice this year is we suspended our satellite TV for the summer. Our kids are bummed that they don't get to watch Sponge Bob 24/7, but it's a good thing. We find ourselves outdoors more, reading more, and talking more. I love our TV, and I really love the convenience of turning on the TV and watching TiVo'd programs. But I'll survive, and so will my kids.
We don't have any real family vacations planned this summer, which is a downer. But, I hope to get out and do a little camping, and at least one night I'll sleep out in the back yard with my kids (they love that). I love tall glasses of ice water after mowing the lawn or doing some activity outside in the sun. I love walks in the evening, and the smells of flowers, the sounds of sprinklers or running water in the canyons. I love sitting in the hot tub and seeing the millions of stars in the sky. Summer is here and I love it!
Whatever we do this summer, I will enjoy the warmth, the sun, the long days, Barbecues, hanging out with family, and yes, the cold Diet Coke.
Until next time
The Cable Guy
www.professionalcable.com
Then came middle school. By this time I was old enough to stay home by myself in the summer. I'd sleep until 11 a.m. get up, do my chores (a gazillion a day) eat lunch, and then call my friends. We'd meet at someones house, and then head down to Dan's grocery store and buy a 25 cents ice cream cone. If I had money left over, I'd go buy a big gulp at the 7-11. Neither Dan's nor 7-11 was close by. It would take us 30 minutes to walk there and 30 minutes to walk back. We might spend some time at the arcade (inside Dan's) or we might head up to Flat Iron Mesa afterwards and play baseball, tennis, or just hang out and try to meet girls. Summers were a ton of fun.
Once high school came along, I worked during the summers. My schedule when I first turned sixteen was not great for socializing because I was delivering pizzas at night. I didn't date a lot because every night I was cruising in my 75 Nova, listening to cool New Wave music on the radio or on cassette tapes. I actually really liked that job. This is probably where my real addiction to Diet Coke started. I had to buy my first cup each night, but then the rest of the night was free refills. Man I drank a lot of Diet Coke. Driving all night hyped-up on Diet Coke, listening to Oingo Boingo... it really was a good gig. It combined my three most favorite things (Cars, Music, and Food)... OK so I had five favorite things. Diet Coke which it included, and girls.... No girls really, except the other pizza delivery girls....and there was little time to sit around and chat. Pony Express Pizza was busy every night. The next year I had got a job at a Texaco gas station, where I would work for the next 4 years. (Again, all the Diet Coke this guy could drink)... No wonder they never made a profit! But those were fun summer nights. We would get so many teenagers in getting gas and hanging out every night was a blast. We'd close at 10 PM and then it was usually off to someones house or we'd just sit and talk. Those were good times.
Fast forward now 20 years and last Friday was my kid's last day of school. They had a big party at our house with water balloons, slip-n-slide, trampoline, sprinklers, etc. Lot's of fun in the sun. As the old guy who's the bread-winner, I was at work busy selling cables. The magic of summer is mostly gone. I have little to look forward to during the summer. But I do love summertime. It's still my favorite time of the year. I love the smells, especially in the morning and at night. It brings floods of memories back to me of being a boy, and having nothing but a lot of playing to get done during the day. Now even my Saturdays seem to be filled with yard work, errands, etc. Life is busy.
One thing that is nice this year is we suspended our satellite TV for the summer. Our kids are bummed that they don't get to watch Sponge Bob 24/7, but it's a good thing. We find ourselves outdoors more, reading more, and talking more. I love our TV, and I really love the convenience of turning on the TV and watching TiVo'd programs. But I'll survive, and so will my kids.
We don't have any real family vacations planned this summer, which is a downer. But, I hope to get out and do a little camping, and at least one night I'll sleep out in the back yard with my kids (they love that). I love tall glasses of ice water after mowing the lawn or doing some activity outside in the sun. I love walks in the evening, and the smells of flowers, the sounds of sprinklers or running water in the canyons. I love sitting in the hot tub and seeing the millions of stars in the sky. Summer is here and I love it!
Whatever we do this summer, I will enjoy the warmth, the sun, the long days, Barbecues, hanging out with family, and yes, the cold Diet Coke.
Until next time
The Cable Guy
www.professionalcable.com
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