sprainedankles

While I'm able, I'd like to start converting some savings into tangible tools and things that have near and/or long term benefits. Things like power tools, a small solar backup power system, a 3D printer, and a greenhouse are things I've been thinking about, but I'd love to hear what others are choosing to invest in and why (for enjoyment? to prep for a disaster/economic downturn? because it's on sale right now??)

For additional context, I'm relatively new to homeownership and enjoy building/making things!

I need to vet existing USB-C hubs for the following application:

USB-C Smartphone <- [ USB Hub ] ...

[ USB Hub ] USB-A -> USB-C Storage medium (2x)

I need the (android) phone to be able to mount these two USB-C devices (which, unfortunately, require USB-A -> USB-C connections) at the same time. The current solution is _slow_ to mount and sometimes fails completely.

I can't control the USB hardware of the phone and the connected devices, but I can control the hub selection. I'm looking for tips re: USB hardware/software testing procedures.

In the short term, I need to choose a commercial hub, but in the long term, will design and build a custom hub. Recommended resources + techniques in the vast world of USB would be greatly appreciated!

The world is quite stressful these days. There are a lot of problems to solve, people to help, and bills to pay. I feel like I'm in college again, wondering how in the heck I'll graduate. Except now, replace graduate with "live a full life."

So. How do you manage to fall (back) asleep?

Any suggestions will be greatly appreciated :)

I've got a lot of digital stuff. Photos/videos/etc.

I'm currently trying to work on my network administration skills at my full-time job.

Looking to purchase a Synology NAS or something similar to start creating a repository for all of my personal projects/data.

Thoughts on where to start? Considerations for organizing files and documenting what I have?

Curious to see how others have handled archiving years of data. Thanks HN!

Context:

Recent grad working full-time for an engineering firm that tackles just about any project related to electrical/systems engineering in the industrial world.

Problem: we still use time tracking/invoicing software from the mid-90s.

Attempted solution: develop an in-house replacement.

They've been working on and off for over a year now, I was asked to contribute when I joined due to my (limited) background in software development.

After a few months I realized that I don't think it's worth the time or energy to make an in-house solution that will need to be maintained forever.

How do I discuss this with my coworkers - particularly the one who has dedicated a great deal of time to developing this project? Especially as the newest and most inexperienced employee.