Sunday, July 10, 2011

Fix the DVD Drive! Finally.

Since I installed Win 7 64 bit on my laptop in January, my DVD drive has worked only intermittently for reading and NEVER for writing. This method of finding the firmware and actually installing an update seems to work. Microsoft provides firmware from 2006. My computer model is from 2009. Makes no sense.


And the link to get the firmware:

My Review of Therm-a-Rest Z-Lite - Regular

Originally submitted at REI

For sleep-anywhere comfort, Z Lite is the lightest, most compact, full-length closed-cell foam pad Therm-a-Rest® makes.


Side sleepers, keep looking

By Marvin B from Horseshoe Bend, ID on 7/10/2011

 

4out of 5

Pros: Packs Easily, Lightweight, Non Slip, Warm, Durable

Cons: Uncomfortable

Best Uses: 3 Season Camping, Backpacking

Describe Yourself: Avid Adventurer

What Is Your Gear Style: Comfort Driven

Was this a gift?: No

This pad basically delivered what it promised to. However, in my inexperience in sleeping on the ground (I have explored plenty but backpacked very little) I was unsure of my own needs.
While I was at no point cold on this pad on a 30 degree night in my Radiant Down +20, I was not really ever comfortable. I am a thin 130 and 5'11". I am so thin that the pack hip belt was pinching the skin on top of my hips. (Yes, I disappear when I turn sideways.) I have never had any weight on me to know the difference but I suspect people with more padding can fare better with this "pad". I would really call it a mat.
I am a side sleeper, as is my wife. We both got this pad for a 2 night trip in the Sawtooth Wilderness. It was great for changing clothes, for taking a nap on TOP of the bag and hiding small stones or lumps.
But at 2, 3, 4, 5, dawn, etc having to turn continually to keep from breaking at the hips and shoulders makes for a groggy camper come breakfast.

To sum it up. If you are thin and can afford to spend more money, it will be worth it. As another reviewer said, 'for the cost of one night at Marriott' you can get a much more comfortable pad.

I will be returning mine asap for my trip to the Weminuche Wilderness next week.

I would only recommend this to minimalists or 'padded' persons.

(legalese)