Kobo Libra 2 Review

I bought a Kobo Libra 2 last week for $180. Here is my review of it.

Libra 2 has these upgrades over Libra H2O

1. USB-C port
2. More even front light (at least compared with my Libra H2O)
3. Slightly sharper display
   
4. 4x larger internal storage
   
5. Support for audio books via Bluetooth
   
6. More ergonomic edge and buttons

However, Libra 2 is about 20 grams heavier than Libra H2O. I think it is possibly due to the extra hardware for Bluetooth. In addition, Libra 2 still does not have Dropbox integration. You have to buy a Forma or Elipsa for Dropbox.

Thinkpad X13 Gen 2 AMD review

I purchased a Thinkpad X13 Gen 2 laptop with AMD Ryzen 5 Pro 5650U CPU and 16 GB RAM. The part number is 20XH002MUS. Here is a short review.

Good

• 16:10 screen
• 6 core CPU provides decent power
  
• user replaceable SSD
• user replaceable WiFi card
• Fingerprint sensor has Linux driver
• Preloaded with Windows 10 Pro (not home). Although I would immediately install Linux.
  

Bad

• The screen is dim (300 nit brightness) 
• Key travel is even shorter than X1 carbon 8th gen.
  
• The two USB-C ports do not support Thunderbolt.
• RT8852AE WiFi card has no mainline Linux support. Fortunately it is not soldered. So I replaced it with a AX210.
• The heat sink exhaust is on the right side, which is inconvenient for right handed people.
  

Using a regular battery in Tecsun PL-330

Tecsun PL-330 radio uses a Nokia BL-5C battery, which is no longer produced by Nokia. I modified my PL-330 to use a 523450 battery which is almost the same size as a BL-5C. The only tool needed is a screwdriver. No soldering is required. Here are the steps.

1) Remove the four screws and the front and back covers.

2) Remove the screws on the back PCB and pull it off slowly. You will disconnect the 14 pin connectors between the two PCBs. But be careful not to damage the wires connecting the two PCB or antennas.

3) You will see two connectors. Detach the KP1 connector (circled in red below).

4) Remove the tiny battery daughter board from the middle plastic frame. It has no screws, just use some force.

 

5) Put the new battery in the bay and pull its connector through the opening.

6) Connect the new battery to the KP1 connector on the back PCB. Thank Tecsun for using a standard JST-PH connector.

7) Reinstall the back PCB and the screws.

8) Replace the front and back covers and the four long screws. 

This is how it looks like when done. Enjoy!