I need to vent!

[Autocon]

Cant figure out how to download videos from youtube:o

[Megatron]

Cant figure out how to download videos from youtube:o

The best way I've found is to install a little add-on in Firefox called Video DownloadHelper (https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/video-downloadhelper/?src=search).

Once this is installed, you need to check you also have the Converter add-on. In Firefox, go to Tools, DownloadHelper-> right at the bottom, then click on Preferences. Check under the Conversion tab whether you have it or not. If not, follow the prompts to download and install that too.

To use, simply go to the Youtube vid you want, and next to the vid title to the left you will see a little blue, red and yellow balloon icon. If you click on it once, it downloads the vid automatically, but if you hover over it and click on the down arrow to the right instead, you can select various options first.

I've always used this add-on for any Youtube vid download and it's well worth the install process, which doesn't take very long. Hope this helps.

[griffin]

I had that on my old computer for several years. It was very useful, but when Firefox upgraded to version 15, it was incompatible with my operating system and Flash version 11, so wouldn't let me see FLV content from any site. The only way I could view FLVs was to downgrade to Flash version 10, but then I couldn't play them back, as it was now an outdated driver. :(
I might have to convert them to play them now, so that's probably where the converter comes in... which I never got because I never needed it.

But if you are using Firefox, just go to the "Add ons" tab in the menu, and search for add ons... type in FLV downloader or flash downloader, and it will actually give you about a dozen programs that it supports to record videos from sites like youtube.

[Megatron]

I had that on my old computer for several years. It was very useful, but when Firefox upgraded to version 15, it was incompatible with my operating system and Flash version 11, so wouldn't let me see FLV content from any site. The only way I could view FLVs was to downgrade to Flash version 10, but then I couldn't play them back, as it was now an outdated driver. :(
I might have to convert them to play them now, so that's probably where the converter comes in... which I never got because I never needed it.

What about VLC media player?

[SuspectimusPrime]

Cant figure out how to download videos from youtube:o

I like to use KeepVid - http://keepvid.com/

They're free, easy to use, just paste the link, and you can select several different file types. Usually use this for lengthy news segments or documentaries on Youtube that I want to load onto the iPhone.

[Yukitora]

mozilla has its own youtube download add-on
orbital/orbit also works well.

[Hursticon]

Region Coding on DVDs is so infuriatingly archaic, when the specific set/discs aren't even offered for sale in your country; I had to go through so much garbage last night just to be able to put a 200X He-Man DVD Disc in my PC & play it. :mad:

I guess it didn't help that the supposed 'Region-Free' DVD/Blu-Ray Player I have, isn't actually that at all. :rolleyes:

[Megatron]

Region Coding on DVDs is so infuriatingly archaic, when the specific set/discs aren't even offered for sale in your country; I had to go through so much garbage last night just to be able to put a 200X He-Man DVD Disc in my PC & play it. :mad:

I guess it didn't help that the supposed 'Region-Free' DVD/Blu-Ray Player I have, isn't actually that at all. :rolleyes:

We use VLC player for that, too. Apparently it can bypass the region coding on your PC's DVD player when WMP won't. Worth a try.

[Hursticon]

We use VLC player for that, too. Apparently it can bypass the region coding on your PC's DVD player when WMP won't. Worth a try.

You're dead right! ;) - If you're still using RPC-1 standard Drives... Sadly, I'm using a pair of RPC-2 Drives and had to obtain & use a 'Buffer' program, which presented its own set of issues. :rolleyes::o

Currently, I'm using:

VLC - Player
AnyDVD - Region Code Buffer
ASUS DVD-R/RW Drive - Reader


The disc/s are Region 1 & my Drive is Region 4; AnyDVD negates the need for me risking the limit of 5 Region Changes each PC Disc Drive's Firmware permits :cool:, NOW I can literally put the disc in & hit play. :p

[Megatron]

You're dead right! ;) - If you're still using RPC-1 standard Drives... Sadly, I'm using a pair of RPC-2 Drives and had to obtain & use a 'Buffer' program, which presented its own set of issues. :rolleyes::o

Currently, I'm using:

VLC - Player
AnyDVD - Region Code Buffer
ASUS DVD-R/RW Drive - Reader


The disc/s are Region 1 & my Drive is Region 4; AnyDVD negates the need for me risking the limit of 5 Region Changes each PC Disc Drive's Firmware permits :cool:, NOW I can literally put the disc in & hit play. :p

Ah, good to know! At least you got yours working in the end. :)
Stoopid unnecessary Region Coding... :confused:

[Hursticon]

Ah, good to know! At least you got yours working in the end. :)
Stoopid unnecessary Region Coding... :confused:

Indeed, cheers. ;):)
It's stupid if the set/disc isn't going to be produced in other markets, it's in these cases that the product should be made 'Region Free' like many Documentary DVDs are. :o
(At least my Skeleton Warriors Boxset had that foresight ;):D)

[Autocon]

Thought you could d/l youtube videos couple of years ago from the site itself??

Bloody region coding!!!!!!:mad::mad::mad:


My TomTom wont pick up a gps signal?!!! Its in the same spot as it was before and could recieve it then.

[Yukitora]

I can't find my Cybertron Jetfire....
Little sh-t.
I found Kup though... haven't seen that one in ages... And Hot-shot who's been missing for about 4 years... wtf. Just pop up when i don't want you.
My toys are going out on missions i reckon.
Found Unicron too! Don't know how i lost that one!
Danm it Jetfire, hey JETFIRE. HEY!
CALLING JETFIRE!!!

[Tetsuwan Convoy]

I can't find my Cybertron Jetfire....
Little sh-t.
I found Kup though... haven't seen that one in ages... And Hot-shot who's been missing for about 4 years... wtf. Just pop up when i don't want you.
My toys are going out on missions i reckon.
Found Unicron too! Don't know how i lost that one!
Danm it Jetfire, hey JETFIRE. HEY!
CALLING JETFIRE!!!

Maybe Unicron has something to do with the disappearance of Jetfire...

Remember though, Jetfire can reach space with his jetpack. He might be gone for a while, or stuck in ice! Better see if Starscream can find him!

[Autocon]

Well after all the postings Ive done over the years, the masking tape finally ran out yesturday. Bought some more today, good thing I didnt buy the rope I needed aswell lol:D tape and rope..???

[GoktimusPrime]

Hursticon: what model is your DVD player? (not your PC player, the one that's hooked up to your TV) Because you can find remote control codes to unlock or change the region code setting on your DVD player -- unless it's a Sony, because they're hardwired to Region 4.

If you can't find the region unlock code for your player, call the retailer where you purchased your DVD player for and ask them to give it to you. As I understand it, by law they must provide it if a customer asks. Years ago I bought a TEAC DVD player from Dick Smiths -- I couldn't find the region unlock code, so I went to the store and asked them, they printed it out for me. :) You can also contact the manufacturer (I contacted Soniq once and they provided me with the unlock code).

http://www.moneysavingexpert.com/shopping/dvd-unlock
http://www.videohelp.com/dvdhacks
http://www.dvddemystifiziert.de/codefree_en/codefree.html
http://gaurang.org/pub/dvd_player.pdf

Ironically you'll find that the cheap budget DVD players are easier to unlock than the more expensive ones. I guess maybe cos companies like Sony also own DVD labels that they want to protect, whereas no-name brands may not care about that. <shrug> I have a $25 DVD player in my TF room that I bought from Kmart. Found the unlock codes on Google and it plays all regions. I personally always get the unlock codes first _before_ I open the DVD player.

[Hursticon]

@Goki: What you say is exactly correct but trust me mate when I say that I've exhausted the internet, in searching for the unlock codes for my particular model of DVD/Blu-Ray Player - The only avenue I haven't actually tried is calling the manufacturer (LG) and I think I might give it a go on Monday, what can I lose eh? ;):)

[GoktimusPrime]

Open the DVD door and punch in 31415925359 until a menu pops up (it may pop up before you punch in all of those digits). Scroll down the region code and change it to 0. This works on most LG DVD models (but not all). Give that a go, and if it doesn't work call LG. Luck Good. :)

[Hursticon]

Open the DVD door and punch in 31415925359 until a menu pops up (it may pop up before you punch in all of those digits). Scroll down the region code and change it to 0. This works on most LG DVD models (but not all). Give that a go, and if it doesn't work call LG. Luck Good. :)

Cheers man, just gave it about 9-10 attempts and she's a no-goer :(; I'll give LG a buzz tomorrow afternoon & we'll see how we go - thanks for your help though Goki. ;):)

[Ultra Mackness]

Open the DVD door and punch in 31415925359 until a menu pops up (it may pop up before you punch in all of those digits). Scroll down the region code and change it to 0. This works on most LG DVD models (but not all). Give that a go, and if it doesn't work call LG. Luck Good. :)

But it should be as easy as Pi (Don't hit the Math teacher!). Sorry couldn't resist. I did notice that the number sequence Gok gave is missing a 6 - it should list 314159265359. Maybe give that a go Hursti?

[Hursticon]

But it should be as easy as Pi (Don't hit the Math teacher!). Sorry couldn't resist. I did notice that the number sequence Gok gave is missing a 6 - it should list 314159265359. Maybe give that a go Hursti?

Ooh! - Will do, still gotta call LG but now my friggin' Antivirus has gone on the blink purely because it applied an update to itself... which it's designed to do. :rolleyes:
I've uninstalled & reinstalled it twice and each time, as soon as it downloads and applies some update it just falls over :mad: - Looks like I've got 2 companies to call tomorrow. :(

[Tober]

Ooh! - Will do, still gotta call LG but now my friggin' Antivirus has gone on the blink purely because it applied an update to itself... which it's designed to do. :rolleyes:
I've uninstalled & reinstalled it twice and each time, as soon as it downloads and applies some update it just falls over :mad: - Looks like I've got 2 companies to call tomorrow. :(

What OS are you using?

If it's Win7 then you don't really need an anti-virus. Defender is pretty good by itself.

[Hursticon]

What OS are you using?

If it's Win7 then you don't really need an anti-virus. Defender is pretty good by itself.


Intel Core2Duo 2.3Ghz
4Gb RAM
XP Pro SP3
Trend Micro Titanium Maximum Security 2013


If it's not 1 thing with computers it's another huh? :o

[Tober]

Intel Core2Duo 2.3Ghz
4Gb RAM
XP Pro SP3
Trend Micro Titanium Maximum Security 2013


If it's not 1 thing with computers it's another huh? :o

Hmmm XP... You might already have Defender and not realise it. My XP-Fu is not strong.

Download is around here (http://www.microsoft.com/en-au/download/details.aspx?id=17) if you're interested.

[Hursticon]

Hmmm XP... You might already have Defender and not realise it. My XP-Fu is not strong.

Download is around here (http://www.microsoft.com/en-au/download/details.aspx?id=17) if you're interested.

Might have to in the mean time; I've got it running on an older machine that only gets used by my mother for her artwork, seems to do the trick so cheers for your advice and concern Tober. ;):)

[SuspectimusPrime]

Old news that I just found out: Stars Wars being bought out by Disney (http://www.iwatchstuff.com/2012/10/disney-buying-lucasfilm-and-making-star.php).. There will be more movies to come.. so, mixed feelings.

[5FDP]

Old news that I just found out: Stars Wars being bought out by Disney (http://www.iwatchstuff.com/2012/10/disney-buying-lucasfilm-and-making-star.php).. There will be more movies to come.. so, mixed feelings.

Join in the discussion here (http://www.otca.com.au/boards/showthread.php?t=14749) :)

[Yukitora]

Really tempted to say, MP SIDESWIPE FOR SALE. IS 10 MIN OLD AND ALREADY DO NOT WANT.

[jazzcomp]

Really tempted to say, MP SIDESWIPE FOR SALE. IS 10 MIN OLD AND ALREADY DO NOT WANT.
for how much? :) 1st dibs on it if you do sell

[LordCyrusOmega]

Blu ray lens burnt out beginning of the year on my ps3. Brought a new one. recently the video output died. Checked tv, cable and the input port. All fine. So decided to swap out the actual player between units. Not compatible. So I'll swap out the lens. Nice work. Put everything back together. Player won't take the disc. Can force it in but it won't play. Take it apart again. Loader gears all fall out. Didn't check how they went in. Now no playstation.
What prompted all of this? After waiting years for Doom3 to come out on playstation I finally brought it yesterday.
Now I have 2 dismantled ps3's.

[Autocon]

Really tempted to say, MP SIDESWIPE FOR SALE. IS 10 MIN OLD AND ALREADY DO NOT WANT.

Not good for the rep of the toy!:eek: I was tempted to buy but not now.

LCO - that stings dude

[Yukitora]

for the unfortunate $96 i paid...
there are 3 dif shades of red on the car mode. if it is a 500lps, the rim shapes are wrong. He has crab-claw hands, not what Starscream has. I hate his face, it looks retarded in certain directions. The side of car mode is ugly nd very 'chopped up' . paint is hit-n-miss in some areas....

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7128/8163697824_4edb306c1e.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/84552714@N03/8163697824/) DSC00863 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/84552714@N03/8163697824/) by TyranidKisses (http://www.flickr.com/people/84552714@N03/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7264/8163663317_789ecdb155.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/84552714@N03/8163663317/) DSC00862 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/84552714@N03/8163663317/) by TyranidKisses (http://www.flickr.com/people/84552714@N03/), on Flickr

i know there is a tf vent thread, but like yeah...

[Megatron]

Don't know where else to put this but animal cruelty esp hits home when it happens to innocent doggy in your local neighbourhood.. :mad::mad: r.i.p. Indie.

I NEVER want to read about something like this happening ever again. What is wrong with some humans?!

Anyone with pets reading this PLEASE make sure you know where they are at all times.

[jazzcomp]

Oops, a bit steep for me at the moment. Sorry, Yuki.

[GoktimusPrime]

for the unfortunate $96 i paid...
Did you pay $96 for the toy plus postage, or is that $96 including postage?!? :confused: Because MP Lambor's RRP is 6090JPY which equates to $73... and some retailers would've offered discounts for early preorders. I got the Amazon exclusive version which is currently selling for 8000JPY ($97; they jacked the price up for an extra pair of piledrivers :rolleyes:) -- but I booked it early, so I paid 4436JPY ($53). Considering the size of this toy, I really didn't want to pay full price for it. I was actually seriously going to skip this toy until I saw the discounted Amazon pre-order price.

If you paid $96 for the Amazon exclusive version, then I think that's okay - as that's the full RRP. But I hope you didn't pay $96 just for the toy when it's only the regular version (because if so, someone's charging the price of the limited exclusive for the common store release)

[Tober]

The QC on MP Lambor is crap. It's a good toy, but the finishing is bad and the head sculpt looks warped.

The pile drivers are included in both releases.

[Kazza]

The QC on MP Lambor is crap. It's a good toy, but the finishing is bad and the head sculpt looks warped.

The pile drivers are included in both releases.

The amazon silver/chrome exclusive is what Goki was referring to.

[Tober]

The amazon silver/chrome exclusive is what Goki was referring to.

I know... :)

[SkyWarp91]

Oops, a bit steep for me at the moment. Sorry, Yuki.

I'll sell you my photograph of MP Sideswipe for $10 ;)

[The_Damned]

Did you pay $96 for the toy plus postage, or is that $96 including postage?!? :confused: Because MP Lambor's RRP is 6090JPY which equates to $73... and some retailers would've offered discounts for early preorders. I got the Amazon exclusive version which is currently selling for 8000JPY ($97; they jacked the price up for an extra pair of piledrivers :rolleyes:) -- but I booked it early, so I paid 4436JPY ($53). Considering the size of this toy, I really didn't want to pay full price for it. I was actually seriously going to skip this toy until I saw the discounted Amazon pre-order price.

If you paid $96 for the Amazon exclusive version, then I think that's okay - as that's the full RRP. But I hope you didn't pay $96 just for the toy when it's only the regular version (because if so, someone's charging the price of the limited exclusive for the common store release)

cmon gok will you stop going on about then goddam recommended retail price for toys we get it you only pay the recommended retail price for toys not everyone know some one in japan or can afford to get a toy at a certain time when it is cheaper and and that is all it is a recommended retail price doesn't mean that is what it will be sold for.

[GoktimusPrime]

The QC on MP Lambor is crap. It's a good toy, but the finishing is bad and the head sculpt looks warped.
How much do you reckon the toy is worth? (i.e. what would've been a decent price to pay given its issues)


The pile drivers are included in both releases.
Really? I wonder what's so exclusive about the Amazon version then. :confused:


cmon gok will you stop going on about then goddam recommended retail price for toys we get it you only pay the recommended retail price for toys not everyone know some one in japan
If we're talking about a limited Japanese exclusive toy, then sure. But if we're talking about just regular store toys, then these are often available on Japan-based online dealers, like HLJ or AmiAmi etc. I usually use my Japanese contacts to get me exclusive stuff like MP Sunstorm, Amazon MP Lambor etc., but with non-exclusive Japanese toys I usually just order them through online dealers like everyone else. I currently have a pre-order for Encore Fortress Maximus through HLJ.

If Yukitora paid $96 for the Amazon exclusive, then that's understandable. I just don't know about paying the same price for the regular version though. :o


or can afford to get a toy at a certain time when it is cheaper and and that is all it is a recommended retail price doesn't mean that is what it will be sold for.
Sure, but we're talking about a toy that only came out about two weeks ago. It's still very much a new release.

[Yukitora]

I don't do amazon, so i don't know what you're on about.

I don't do BBTS either.

I might try the superion thing coming out, but no more MPs for me. I'll build my own tfs thanks. F-ckn ROADBOT had a better finish and car model, i should put a pic up side by side.
And 'pile drivers' my ass, needs a pirate hook jammed into it. most wasted accessory i've ever seen.

n postage was like $14 or something

[kup]

I don't do amazon, so i don't know what you're on about.

I don't do BBTS either.

I might try the superion thing coming out, but no more MPs for me. I'll build my own tfs thanks. Fuckn ROADBOT had a better finish and car model, i should put a pic up side by side.
And 'pile drivers' my ass, needs a pirate hook jammed into it. most wasted accessory i've ever seen.

n postage was like $14 or something

I remember a time when brand name meant quality. Nowadays, I am beginning to associate brands names such as Hasbro/Tomy and Mattel with poor quality and substandard service.

[GoktimusPrime]

I don't do amazon, so i don't know what you're on about.
Amazon Japan sold what they claimed to be an exclusive version of MP Lambor that comes with the chrome pointy piledrivers that look like this (http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v8ymmSf3VN4/T9rH26jL6MI/AAAAAAAADUA/-QkBbDmWkZE/s1600/TFMP_MP12Lambor08.jpg), and the regular version is meant to only come with the flat black piledrivers that look like this (http://www.tfw2005.com/transformers-news/attach/1/sideswipe-piledrivers_1340290299.jpg). The Amazon version is meant to be produced in limited numbers and is only available through their web site, so they charge a higher price (about $96, but $53 if you preordered), whereas the normal version of MP Lambor is supposed to sell for $73.

But now Tober's saying that the regular version of Lambor also comes with the extra chrome pile drivers too, so I really don't even know what the difference between the two versions are! Might as well just get the regular version if it's the same but cheaper!

Anyway, I'm sorry to hear that you're unhappy with your MP Lambor. Good luck with finding a buyer and recouping some of your costs in getting that toy. :o If you're not desperate for money right now, you might consider sitting on that toy for a year or so then later sell it for $96... that way you can break even and won't make a loss (or you can sell it for above that and make yourself a profit if you want -- depending on what the aftermarket price will be like). Good luck either way. :)

[Tetsuwan Convoy]

I got the Amazon exclusive version which is currently selling for 8000JPY ($97; they jacked the price up for an extra pair of piledrivers :rolleyes:)
Amazon didn't jack up the price for the pile drivers.

That 8000 yen price is from one of the 'marketplace' sellers. It often happens on amazon japan I have noticed, a preorder goes up and is soon sold out. Then on release date, you suddenly find that another place selling through amazon happens to have a lot of stock on hand of an 'amazon exclusive' but the price is almost double (or more) than the original.

I suspect the exact same thing has happend to amazon excl. Soundwave as well as a pre-order can't be placed on that.

It happend to US Excl. Unicron and is probably what happend to the G2 Combaticons as well.

Scalpers

[griffin]

I think the HK version may have come with the silver jackhammers, because I got mine from a HK source and it had the HK exclusive Coin (that comes with HK Hasbro's stock of JP toys) AND the silver jackhammers for $80. If you bought from Japan, you'd pay about the same amount for the toy with just the silver jackhammers.

[Yukitora]

my $130 Victory Leo has more class! And his missing bits! lol

[kurdt_the_goat]

If we're talking about a limited Japanese exclusive toy, then sure. But if we're talking about just regular store toys, then these are often available on Japan-based online dealers, like HLJ or AmiAmi etc. I usually use my Japanese contacts to get me exclusive stuff like MP Sunstorm, Amazon MP Lambor etc., but with non-exclusive Japanese toys I usually just order them through online dealers like everyone else. I currently have a pre-order for Encore Fortress Maximus through HLJ.

How much is your preorder through HLJ?
23,840 is what they appear to have had it for, before they stopped taking orders.
With dimensions of 400x600x225 (http://store.shopping.yahoo.co.jp/yousay-do/4904810476139.html) and weighing at least 5kg, postage from Japan is going to be at least 8200Y.
At today's exchange rate (which is ultimately irrelevant since you'll be paying March's exchange rate), that's gonna cost around $390 AU.

It's currently 21,457 at Amazon Japan so how come you're not getting your contact over there to post it? That'd work out around $360 AU.

Alternatively Robot Kingdom has it for $375 AU inc shipping which, since you pay up front is a price you can at least be certain of.

[GoktimusPrime]

Amazon didn't jack up the price for the pile drivers.

That 8000 yen price is from one of the 'marketplace' sellers. It often happens on amazon japan I have noticed, a preorder goes up and is soon sold out. Then on release date, you suddenly find that another place selling through amazon happens to have a lot of stock on hand of an 'amazon exclusive' but the price is almost double (or more) than the original.

I suspect the exact same thing has happend to amazon excl. Soundwave as well as a pre-order can't be placed on that.

It happend to US Excl. Unicron and is probably what happend to the G2 Combaticons as well.

Scalpers
:eek: Damn! That sucks! Although... I already pre-ordered my Amazon MP Soundwave ages ago. That cost me 12072JPY ($146).


I think the HK version may have come with the silver jackhammers, because I got mine from a HK source and it had the HK exclusive Coin (that comes with HK Hasbro's stock of JP toys) AND the silver jackhammers for $80. If you bought from Japan, you'd pay about the same amount for the toy with just the silver jackhammers.
Looks like HK MP Lambor's the best value for money. Oh well, considering the discount I got on my Amazon Lambor, I'm not fussed if it doesn't come with the standard piledrivers (I wasn't expecting them anyway).


How much is your preorder through HLJ?
23,840 is what they appear to have had it for, before they stopped taking orders.
Yeah, 23840JPY.


With dimensions of 400x600x225 (http://store.shopping.yahoo.co.jp/yousay-do/4904810476139.html) and weighing at least 5kg, postage from Japan is going to be at least 8200Y.
At today's exchange rate (which is ultimately irrelevant since you'll be paying March's exchange rate), that's gonna cost around $390 AU.
Yeah, I expect as much. I paid $300 for my MISB Brave Maximus and $100 for postage -- so I'm currently planning on saving $400 for Fort Max + shipping. So I am willing to spend within that range.


It's currently 21,457 at Amazon Japan so how come you're not getting your contact over there to post it? That'd work out around $360 AU.
Basically using a contact does in some way inconvenience them, because they have to:
+ Use his own free time to get the toys for me.
+ Use his own money to pay for the toys until I can convert my money to Yen and pay him back.
+ Use his own free time and money to go to the post office and send the toy to me.
+ Use up space in his home to store the toys for me until I've finished paying for them and when he's acquired enough for me to say, "Send now!"
...all of which he does for NO profit, just out of kindness as a friend. I do send gifts as tokens of gratitude, but yeah, it's not his job and I don't want to "abuse" the friendship by getting him to buy every single thing I want from Japan. That's why I'll usually ask him to get me stuff that is only available in Japan and I can't easily get through online retailers. Yes, online retailers do cost a lot more -- I'm fully aware of this, but I'm not personally inconveniencing any of those people's lives by doing so.

I used to buy and send Transformers toys for overseas Transfans when I was living in Japan. So I know what a hassle it can be to run around searching and finding toys for other people outside Japan. Gawd... CD ROM Convobat vs Megalligator and Shadow Panther were so freakin' hard to find (and they were in the most demand since they were exclusives)!! :rolleyes:

[Slag]

I remember a time when brand name meant quality. Nowadays, I am beginning to associate brands names such as Hasbro/Tomy and Mattel with poor quality and substandard service.

I'm starting to worry about MP Soundwave. A bit more testing wouldn't go astray. Hope he doesn't have some stupid issues like MP-09 or this latest one (by the sounds of it) (maybe that's why his release has been pushed back):confused:

[Tetsuwan Convoy]

Man, It's confusing with all this jack hammer shenanigens about the place...

I was walking through the local shops.

Sneezed.

Back went BUNG!


now at work and STILL changing chairs over

LIKE A BOSS!

Gonna work that crook back out dammit!!:mad::D

[morg176]

strap yourself in...

There was a 3D printer sale. ~$1000 off retail price brand new.
followed all their stupid rules. Got onto the system, secured a unit (i know that i secured a unit because my code was still valid) and then everything went screwy and when i was forced to log out and back in again the option to buy was gone.

that was 4 hours ago and im still the angriest ive been in a very long time

not happy jan:mad:

[SkyWarp91]

Don't bottle your emotions morg, punch a 2d printer, HARD!

[morg176]

just so f* angry
who ever wants to pay retail after a $1000 off sale

ffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffff ffffffffffffffffff.......:eek:

[Tober]

There's a decent 3D printer out there that isn't roughly real estate priced..?

[morg176]

the up 3d printer (oz distributors = 3dprintingsystems.com)
they had a sale. $1660 down to $699
webpage stuff up and i lost out

pissed

how often do you get a bargain like that

[Tober]

What do you want it for? If it's to make stuff like Dr. Wu or other 3rd party parts you might be really disappointed with the quality. Even the BEST 3D printers can't create detail less than 0.02mm in detail. Micron measurements are just BS marketing talk.

[Ploughmans Lunch]

Have faith!

[Bidoofdude]

They have 3D printers now?!?!! I have been in the dark lately then...:(:)
EDIT: Oh, plastic printing. Still pretty awesome though, even for ridiculous pricing. Sorry for ya.

[GoktimusPrime]

The technology's been around for a while. Mainframe Entertainment used 3D scanning of the Beast Wars toys when creating the cartoon models, and some other toy companies have long done 3D scans of celebrities to create toys (e.g. WWE). But yeah, now more recently it's become available commercially for private home use.

I was listening to a story about this on Triple J last week -- one thing they discussed was rather the possibility of supplying replacement parts to customers by selling the design for 3D printing. You purchase the download of that part, then 3D print it yourself. This could make 3rd party stuff a lot cheaper -- rather than paying say for some custom 3rd party head for a Transformer toy, you pay a fraction of that price to download the design then just 3D print it yourself at home.

HasTak could also take advantage of this too -- they could provide special accessories that would only appeal a limited market like collectors. And they could also service customers looking for replacement parts. Imagine if they reissued accessories available for download.

[Bidoofdude]

The technology's been around for a while. Mainframe Entertainment used 3D scanning of the Beast Wars toys when creating the cartoon models, and some other toy companies have long done 3D scans of celebrities to create toys (e.g. WWE). But yeah, now more recently it's become available commercially for private home use.

I was listening to a story about this on Triple J last week -- one thing they discussed was rather the possibility of supplying replacement parts to customers by selling the design for 3D printing. You purchase the download of that part, then 3D print it yourself. This could make 3rd party stuff a lot cheaper -- rather than paying say for some custom 3rd party head for a Transformer toy, you pay a fraction of that price to download the design then just 3D print it yourself at home.

HasTak could also take advantage of this too -- they could provide special accessories that would only appeal a limited market like collectors. And they could also service customers looking for replacement parts. Imagine if they reissued accessories available for download.
It would cost money, right?
That would be a good idea, but probably might backfire and create a huge black market for designs.
Are you able to share things you have downloaded? There would need to be a lot of enforcing to do. Wouldn't you also need a large amount of plastic though, or are we just talking new printing.($$$)
I could see this work with lego, selling blank minifigure parts for collectors to make what they choose.
And finally, is this basically a mold-making machine? Because the TJ guys might be onto something there.

[GoktimusPrime]

It would cost money, right?
Sure, but it'd be a lot cheaper than some of the prices they charge of third party accessories. For example, imagine if HasTak started up an online store with all kinds of weapons, missiles, etc. that you could download and 3D print yourself! Need a fist for that G1 Sunstreaker? Download it! At a more sophisticated level, HasTak could potentially finally get into making accessories for collectors that isn't possible by conventional means, like being able to download/print an alternative head for TF Prime Optimus Prime without the faceplate, or TF Prime's faceplateless head etc.


That would be a good idea, but probably might backfire and create a huge black market for designs.
Are you able to share things you have downloaded? There would need to be a lot of enforcing to do.
A similar argument could be made for the music/video market. If people want to obtain things illegally, they'll find a way. Transformers already suffers from intellectual property piracy issues with KOs and third party products, but I see what you mean by making it 'easier' for people to obtain them illegally through file sharing.

But I suppose Hasbro would need to do the right thing by the consumer and trust them, and consumers need to do the right thing by Hasbro and not share the downloaded files. If it can work for music and videos, then maybe it can work for toy accessories.


Wouldn't you also need a large amount of plastic though, or are we just talking new printing.($$$)
Well, I was thinking about printing accessories like guns, missiles, heads etc., not entire action figures. Possibly miniature figurines like all the humans from Transformers -- similar to the ones in Transformers Prime (they're just little PVC statuettes). Then we can have little figurines of Spike, Sparkplug, Buster, Carly, Jessie, Chip Chase, human Sari, Technorganic Sari etc etc etc.

[Bidoofdude]

Yes, that really sounds like a good idea. I for one would love some accesories. Is there some already out there?
So we're talking 3 dimensional digital files that are accessed by the machine and molded? Don't you need steel/rubber mold thingys or something?
I say that if we can get some support, we could start this as some sort of long-term initiative from hasbro.
I don't plan on getting a 3d printer anytime soon, but doing something for those who do have one would be good. (not trying to pick on you, dude who missed out on $1000 off:D)
The end is a new beginning.

[GoktimusPrime]

I honestly don't know all that much about how the technology works, but I was listening to the radio last week where someone was talking about how car manufacturers could send out certain engine parts (like a gasket) for customers to download and print. So if this is possible, then surely toy parts/accessories would be too.

[Trent]

I honestly don't know all that much about how the technology works, but I was listening to the radio last week where someone was talking about how car manufacturers could send out certain engine parts (like a gasket) for customers to download and print. So if this is possible, then surely toy parts/accessories would be too.

This (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u7h09dTVkdw&feature=youtube_gdata_player) is a good little video that shows gives you a good idea of how it works.

[Bidoofdude]

How about this bad boy?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1EWWt93Fxls&feature=related
Seems pretty good. Though expensive.
I really think we should see Hasbro about this.
If you go to 4 mins, I'm pretty sure this is what you mean Gok, with weapons and parts etc.
You could also get this one:
http://store.3dprintingsystems.com/index.php?route=product/product&path=62&product_id=101
Looks better than a regular one.

[morg176]

How about this bad boy?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1EWWt93Fxls&feature=related
Seems pretty good. Though expensive.
I really think we should see Hasbro about this.
If you go to 4 mins, I'm pretty sure this is what you mean Gok, with weapons and parts etc.
You could also get this one:
http://store.3dprintingsystems.com/index.php?route=product/product&path=62&product_id=101
Looks better than a regular one.

3d printing systems held the promotion that i missed out on. I have contacted them and although they were apologetic that i missed out ireally dont think they cared much. The promotion was an american 'black friday' style sale. 100's of people interested, only a couple [less than 10] units up for grabs.
Why you would go out of your way to aggravate, infuriate and alienate you potential customer base, defies logic...

that being said, The UP plus printer [available from 3d printing systems au/nz] is probably the best hobbyist 3D printer on the market, but it is still just a little expensive. The up plus has a metal chassis, and is very sturdy. The up mini has a smaller build envelope

And yes you could design a weapon/sword/mace in sketchup, and then convert that into an STL file, send that to the printer and [these machines are slow!] it will build it for you. Awesome yes.

I have been closely following this technology since early 2005. :D

[Tober]

The 3D Printing topic should now be continued in the 3D Printer/Printing thread (http://www.otca.com.au/boards/showthread.php?p=328922#post328922).

[i_amtrunks]

Undefeated all season, beat the team we played in the GF in the semi and final round for solid victories. They call in a ringer for the GF, the manager of the comp lets it go (He's a national level player) and he scores the winner. Gutted and peeved.

[James18]

For the 4th year in a row i will be spending xmas and new year at work...

[Megatron]

So now when I want to post something overseas, they ask for photo ID. I tell them sorry I don't have any (which is true as I don't have a passport, don't have any kind of licence, etc... yeah I'm anti societal :p), and they look at me like I have two heads. Twice now it's happened. They'll accept other ID though, but don't look too happy about it lol. Sigh.

[UltraMarginal]

What the Hell Big W, What the Hell?!

http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l541/UltraMarginal/UltraMarginals%20Transformers%20collection/Forum%20Photos/2012-11-22202353.jpg

This is at one of my local Big W stores, just down the isle from the Transformers section. It's 4 whole pegs full. all various mod/ripoffs of the same prime truck mold.

[Hursticon]

What the Hell Big W, What the Hell?!

*snip*

This is at one of my local Big W stores, just down the isle from the Transformers section. It's 4 whole pegs full. all various mod/ripoffs of the same prime truck mold.

Yep, same things have been at Big W Dapto (In the same place too) for a good number of years. :p

[5FDP]

I always laugh when I see those. Funny thing is my local has more stock of these than actual Transformers.

You know what would be awesome though, if they combined :cool: It would have a sticker saying "Build Giant Turd" :D

[UltraMarginal]

I always laugh when I see those. Funny thing is my local has more stock of these than actual Transformers.

You know what would be awesome though, if they combined :cool: It would have a sticker saying "Build Giant Turd" :D

no it would either be

"build turd Giant"
or
"Giant Build Turd"
or
"Giant Turd Build"
or even worse,
"Biant Gurd Tuild"

[Ploughmans Lunch]

"Biant Gurd Tuild"

I'll take 10.

[GoktimusPrime]

What the Hell Big W, What the Hell?!

http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l541/UltraMarginal/UltraMarginals%20Transformers%20collection/Forum%20Photos/th_2012-11-22202353.jpg

This is at one of my local Big W stores, just down the isle from the Transformers section. It's 4 whole pegs full. all various mod/ripoffs of the same prime truck mold.
You've only just noticed those?? They've been around for about 8-9 years now! :eek:


no it would either be

"build turd Giant"
or
"Giant Build Turd"
or
"Giant Turd Build"
or even worse,
"Biant Gurd Tuild"
Or Combiner Class Devastator. :p

[UltraMarginal]

You've only just noticed those?? They've been around for about 8-9 years now! :eek:



I've seen them before, I see others at $2 shops and IGA but that many at a Big W is a fair bit disappointing. they are supposed to be a legit Australian retailer.

And like other comments above, lately a couple of the big W's I regularly visit have had more of this rubbish than legit transformers from Hasbro. :eek::(

[GoktimusPrime]

I've only ever seen them at Big W, and I've been seeing them for years.

[The_Damned]

they just got a movie ratchet ko at woolworths

[SuspectimusPrime]

I've only ever seen them at Big W, and I've been seeing them for years.

I'm surprised Hasbro hasn't acted on these yet.

[Tetsuwan Convoy]

I'm surprised Hasbro hasn't acted on these yet.

I'm nor. Hasbro aust don't care about transformers when they are not on the shelves, so why should they care when fakes are on the shelves?

[GoktimusPrime]

Even if Hasbro were to act, they'd be better off focussing their resources on proper counterfeits that can fool people into thinking that they're the real deal. These kind of toys aren't really worth bothering over because nobody would ever mistake them for being legit Transformers unless they were completely brain dead. The fact that these toys have been shelfwarming for 8-9 years now proves that even at their cheap prices, people just aren't interested in this kind of crap anyway.

[5FDP]

they are supposed to be a legit Australian retailer.(

LOL... that's the funniest thing I've read all week. Thank you :D

[GoktimusPrime]

Target did sell those KO Constructicons (the black and yellow ones) back in the late nineties or early naughties.

[Tetsuwan Convoy]

Target also sold KO Protectorbots as well iirc

[Kazza]

Got sunburnt on my feet and hands and a bit on my back even though i used alot of sunscreen while I was surfing at Phillip Island.

[GoktimusPrime]

I found KO TFs at Woolies on Friday :rolleyes:

[kup]

I found KO TFs at Woolies on Friday :rolleyes:

Given how corporations these days are looking for quick cheap stock irregardless of quality, it wouldn't surprise me if KOs in large retail chains become more and more prominent.

Yeah, Hasbro could complain but would they really care to do so?

[The_Damned]

I found KO TFs at Woolies on Friday :rolleyes:

i already mentioned that way back in post #2580 :P

[gamblor916]

Someone tried to run me off the road today but failed.
Geez how hard is it to indicate and turn your head?

[UltraMarginal]

Someone tried to run me off the road today but failed.
Geez how hard is it to indicate and turn your head?

that depends if they are just a careless driver or if they were actually trying to run you off the road..

[SuspectimusPrime]

Geez how hard is it to indicate and turn your head?

It appears to be quite difficult for some Sydney drivers :p

[GoktimusPrime]

Someone tried to run me off the road today but failed.
Geez how hard is it to indicate and turn your head?
Damn near impossible if you're dressed like this guy (http://www.hipstercrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/michael-keaton-batman.jpg) :p

[morg176]

I had an experience last year when coming home from uni one day, a guy in a white ute with a metal tray actively tried to run me off the road at 130 km/h.
scared the sh*t out of me. when i got out of his way he totally tried to sideswipe me from 3 lanes away. Ended up on the side of the road, yet not a sratch :eek:

[Trent]

I had an experience last year when coming home from uni one day, a guy in a white ute with a metal tray actively tried to run me off the road at 130 km/h.
scared the sh*t out of me. when i got out of his way he totally tried to sideswipe me from 3 lanes away. Ended up on the side of the road, yet not a sratch :eek:

That reminds me, a bunch of Bellambi losers tried to roll me for my bike the other day. Good thing I'm a fast rider and they were on scooters but still. :mad:

[Bidoofdude]

I slipped over on the soccer pitch and smacked down on my tailbone today. It hurts a lot and I can barely walk. Ouch.:mad::(

[Autocon]

I slipped over on the soccer pitch and smacked down on my tailbone today. It hurts a lot and I can barely walk. Ouch.:mad::(

I smashed my tailbone on a cermaic foot rest hiding in a shower for hide and seek. Couldnt walk properly for months.

[Bidoofdude]

Sorry, but I laughed so hard at that (sorry again) and yeah, it's a little bit better and might heal.

[1AZRAEL1]

That reminds me, a bunch of Bellambi losers tried to roll me for my bike the other day. Good thing I'm a fast rider and they were on scooters but still. :mad:

My how Wollongong has gone downhill since I left. So many douche bags invaded the area.

[Trent]

My how Wollongong has gone downhill since I left. So many douche bags invaded the area.

Yeah but Bellambi's been like that for years. I just didn't think where I was going until I saw them.

[Tetsuwan Convoy]

Sonic Racing Transformed, I have 151 stars and I need 165 to unlock AGES (an awesomely retro.homage character) and I am now struggling to gather stars. I am having to do all the challenges on hard and expert levels now to get additional stars. Sadly the hard mode is VERY HARD and the expert FRUSTRATINGLY hard.:(

Only 14 more to go. So close, but so far...

[morg176]

cracked wisdom tooth kill me now!:eek:

the pain the f*ing pain

[UltraMarginal]

cracked wisdom tooth kill me now!:eek:

the pain the f*ing pain

owe, get that sucka outa there:eek:

[5FDP]

cracked wisdom tooth kill me now!:eek:

the pain the f*ing pain

I cracked mine a couple of years ago eating a hot-n-spicy KFC chicken wing so I understand your pain. I had mine removed. You'll want to get it out ASAP because if it breaks up further, that requires a hospital visit to dig out all the pieces. If they can rip that sucker out in one go, it's just a quick visit to the dentist. Good luck!

[jazzcomp]

Had a filling hit a nerve and I was doubling over years back. Went back to the dentist straight away when I got home coz all the pain medication wasn't doing enough. Almost had a root canal.

Get it removed ASAP. I removed mine when i had braces in high school. My head almost jerked as much as the tooth and the dentist was using plier-like things to be able to get it out. :eek:

It was a real struggle :mad:

[morg176]

i have an appointment this arvo at 2pm
I have a high threshold for pain but this is f* rediculous:D

THE BITCH IS OUT!
after 8 needles the lady dentist finally got the little f*cker out
YAY!

thanks for the awesome support:D

[UltraMarginal]

i have an appointment this arvo at 2pm
I have a high threshold for pain but this is f* rediculous:D

THE BITCH IS OUT!
after 8 needles the lady dentist finally got the little f*cker out
YAY!

thanks for the awesome support:D

Congrats!, that's got to be a relief

[morg176]

its still numb
ill tell you when i get the feeling back

[5FDP]

after 8 needles the lady dentist finally got the little f*cker out
YAY!


8 needles! :eek: I had 4 and I couldn't believe I needed that many. I'm not surprised you haven't got feeling back yet.

My turn on the 17th. One extraction and two fillings :(

[morg176]

you'll experience the most severe pain when you have to get your wallet out at the end.:eek:

[Kazza]

Went out today to pick up supposedly 570 pokemon cards from an ebay seller, brought it back home, and counted only 453 and 43 were fakes. Not to angry, just disappointed.:(

[Ultra Mackness]

We live on a block with quite a few trees on it (Belgrave for Melbournites) and I walk out this morning and one of the medium sized trees has fallen across the driveway. Me being more interested in TFs than a chain saw or axe, all I had was a small file saw. Too heavy to move by hand - don't think I didn't give it a red hot shot! We had to walk to the next suburb to get an axe. I hate trees. I hate dealing with them when they fall. I hate the way this one is preventing me from getting to Target to pick up Deadend. Aarrrghh:mad:!!:mad:

[SuspectimusPrime]

We live on a block with quite a few trees on it (Belgrave for Melbournites) and I walk out this morning and one of the medium sized trees has fallen across the driveway. Me being more interested in TFs than a chain saw or axe, all I had was a small file saw. Too heavy to move by hand - don't think I didn't give it a red hot shot! We had to walk to the next suburb to get an axe. I hate trees. I hate dealing with them when they fall. I hate the way this one is preventing me from getting to Target to pick up Deadend. Aarrrghh:mad:!!:mad:

I like trees, not all of them and not all the time, but since I've been a kid, we've had a view of a gigantic tree (unknown species) from our backyard. This thing was probably 6+ metres tall and likely to be hundreds of years old(?) -- it had a huge trunk that spread across two backyards, with roots penetrating our backyard and my next door neighbour's backyard.

Last night coming home from my girlfriend's place where I stayed over for a night, I drove into the backyard and found one missing-6+-metre-tall-tree shadow. WTH?!?!?! Turns out that the people with their backyards conjoining ours hired 3 guys to chainsaw it on Saturday. WTH?!?!?! :mad::mad: It doesn't look like they're developing that area for any good reason, and it sure as hell didn't look like the tree was sick or dying (lush green leaves every year). Who does that?!

[Trent]

I like trees, not all of them and not all the time, but since I've been a kid, we've had a view of a gigantic tree (unknown species) from our backyard. This thing was probably 6+ metres tall and likely to be hundreds of years old(?) -- it had a huge trunk that spread across two backyards, with roots penetrating our backyard and my next door neighbour's backyard.

Last night coming home from my girlfriend's place where I stayed over for a night, I drove into the backyard and found one missing-6+-metre-tall-tree shadow. WTH?!?!?! Turns out that the people with their backyards conjoining ours hired 3 guys to chainsaw it on Saturday. WTH?!?!?! :mad::mad: It doesn't look like they're developing that area for any good reason, and it sure as hell didn't look like the tree was sick or dying (lush green leaves every year). Who does that?!
If they didn't have council permission then that was a fairly illegal act. Might pay to make an enquiry.

[Ultra Mackness]

I probably should amend my post a bit. I do like trees, I just really hate it when they fall through natural causes over which I have no control (high winds where we are) and in such a way that requires a lot of cleaning up. I suppose it's good that it didn't fall on our house.

Suspectimus, it does bite that they removed that tree, particularly if there was nothing wrong with it. :(

[SuspectimusPrime]

If they didn't have council permission then that was a fairly illegal act. Might pay to make an enquiry.

I'll do that, since there's nothing else we can do about it now.

[Bidoofdude]

Still haven't got me an MP optimus yet. I really don't want to miss out.

[GoktimusPrime]

Call TRU Head Office, tell them that you've been searching for months and haven't found one locally and get them to source one for you from another store in Australia. Because MP10s are a lot more easier to find in some TRUs now (The_Scream_Man found what he described as "a wall" of them at Chatswood TRU and I found 3 sitting there at CH TRU) -- so Head Office can source one directly from one of their branches that has them in stock.

[Bidoofdude]

I was taking apart and playing with the light in a busted microscope today, as I was trying to take the bright light out to go on the ceiling of my shelf to light up my collection. As I was doing so, after about an hour of unscrewing like 100 screws and using pliers to yank off plastic, the red and black wires connected to the switch broke off from the battery pack. It no longer worked, so I tried to reattach them by hooking them around it.
While doing this, the red and red+black wires slipped of the wires connected to the bulb and I have no idea where they go.
I probably should have taken photos to see where everything went, but I didn't realise I had to do that much plastic removal, which also involved splitting a thick plastic part with a wire looped through it.
I guess it's my fault but I may be able to fix it, if I get help.
Does anyone know where everything goes and how to attach things?
Here are some pics:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/68801062@N05/8276069955/in/photostream

http://www.flickr.com/photos/68801062@N05/8277128350/in/photostream

http://www.flickr.com/photos/68801062@N05/8277127812/in/photostream

Please help as I don't want to buy an actual unit and want to light up my collection.

[GoktimusPrime]

I don't know what they're called exactly, but you can buy these little LED lights that operate with a single AA battery - they're about palm sized and they can be stuck to a flat surface, like on the bottom of a shelf (to illuminate toys below). I think you can find them at supermarkets or department stores. liegeprime should know more about these. ;)

[Kazza]

Damnit forgot to bid on energon galvatron leader class, it sold for a good price too and is so hard to come by on evil bay at a good price.:mad:

[Bidoofdude]

I really want that toy for a classics Galvatron, since face it, I'm not getting a henkei Galvatron any time soon and I am not buying the three pack.
My brother has one but it's all chewed up and is missing a horn and the two ESSENTIAL orange cannons.
I want one too dude.

[Kazza]

Yeah it's around $150 (postage included) if you buy overseas from evil bay.

[GoktimusPrime]

Wow... I remember this toy shelfwarming badly not surprising considering it was an expensive repaint of the original Energon Megatron (which also wasn't a great seller), made worse by the later release of the cheaper smaller scale (Deluxe by today's standards) Energon Megatron toy - which is really a much better figure than the big boxed mould. I remember getting the Super Link version of the smaller figure, then selling my original boxed Energon Megatron off for like $20. :/ I got Galvatron on sale at Target.

Maybe you guys should keep your eyes peeled at markets and collectable fairs? I often see old Armadaverse toys crop up there -- don't know if I saw Galvatron or not, as I'm not looking for these figures myself.

[Kazza]

Maybe you guys should keep your eyes peeled at markets and collectable fairs? I often see old Armadaverse toys crop up there -- don't know if I saw Galvatron or not, as I'm not looking for these figures myself.

I'm after MIB or MISB so i doubt i'll have any luck at fairs or op.shops considering it is a 2003 toy.

[UltraMarginal]

I was taking apart and playing with the light in a busted microscope today, as I was trying to take the bright light out to go on the ceiling of my shelf to light up my collection. As I was doing so, after about an hour of unscrewing like 100 screws and using pliers to yank off plastic, the red and black wires connected to the switch broke off from the battery pack. It no longer worked, so I tried to reattach them by hooking them around it.
While doing this, the red and red+black wires slipped of the wires connected to the bulb and I have no idea where they go.
I probably should have taken photos to see where everything went, but I didn't realise I had to do that much plastic removal, which also involved splitting a thick plastic part with a wire looped through it.
I guess it's my fault but I may be able to fix it, if I get help.
Does anyone know where everything goes and how to attach things?
Here are some pics:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/68801062@N05/8276069955/in/photostream

http://www.flickr.com/photos/68801062@N05/8277128350/in/photostream

http://www.flickr.com/photos/68801062@N05/8277127812/in/photostream

Please help as I don't want to buy an actual unit and want to light up my collection.


I don't know what they're called exactly, but you can buy these little LED lights that operate with a single AA battery - they're about palm sized and they can be stuck to a flat surface, like on the bottom of a shelf (to illuminate toys below). I think you can find them at supermarkets or department stores. liegeprime should know more about these. ;)


For the few bucks that those units cost, Goki's got a very good suggestion there.

While I'm not an electrician, if you're just dealing with a battery pack, I suggest you connect the red from the battery pack to the base or side of the light bulb, the other end of the red will then attach to the other of the side or base of the bulb and back to the switch. the black will go from the other side of the switch to the other terminal of the battery pack.

all your doing is completing a simple circuit so as long as you maintain the polarity direction around the circuit the overall direction doesnt matter.

The best way to make a positive connection is to tie the striped end of the wire through and loop it back on itself and solder it on. though depending on the connector of the bulb hopefully you only need to solder onto the connector. if you try to solder onto the bulb it will most likely be destroyed, and you'll have to re-do the work when it eventually blows anyway.

[UltraMarginal]

Actualy, I've just had another look at the pictures and I missed the diode. it looks like that will connect between the two terminals on the light holder.
I'd suggest you doa bit of research into diodes, as the direction of current flow is important when that is in the circuit. it should be fairly easy to figure out positive and negative ends of the battery pack either by looking at labels on it, or the battery terminals.

[5FDP]

Surfing eBay for vintage Transformers, something I haven't done in ages cause there really isn't anything I'm after, and I was shocked by the number of KO's listed. It seemed like 1 out of every 3 listings was a KO :eek: This was always going to be the case after KOToys shut down though...

[i_amtrunks]

Trying to arrange a large wedding in a rural coastal town is giving me the s****. The only venue truly large enough to accommodate the number of guests we are having is run by complete and utter incompetent tools. First they took 3 months to get us a simple menu change, then they went and double booked the weekend we had tentatively booked in months ago pending on the menu change.

Suffice to say we have told them we are now looking elsewhere as I doubt we can trust them (if we now choose to alter the date) to actually be ready and prepared for us.

So now it looks like a catered wedding in the local hall will be the way to go. I'm not fussed by fancy weddings and all that jazz, but I was hoping the missus could have had something better than the local hall and a spit roast... :(

If only we didn't have over 200 people with just family!

[Bidoofdude]

So where can I get these lights?:p

[Trent]

Trying to arrange a large wedding in a rural coastal town is giving me the s****. The only venue truly large enough to accommodate the number of guests we are having is run by complete and utter incompetent tools. First they took 3 months to get us a simple menu change, then they went and double booked the weekend we had tentatively booked in months ago pending on the menu change.

Suffice to say we have told them we are now looking elsewhere as I doubt we can trust them (if we now choose to alter the date) to actually be ready and prepared for us.

So now it looks like a catered wedding in the local hall will be the way to go. I'm not fussed by fancy weddings and all that jazz, but I was hoping the missus could have had something better than the local hall and a spit roast... :(

If only we didn't have over 200 people with just family!

Feel for you dude. We went though that, dealing with incompetent morons that fail to grasp how important this day is for you. Just keep looking till you find people that you are happy with. We found them relatively quickly so it was all good but we know of others that had nightmare weddings. Remember that while a hall may seem a bit shoddy, some time on google will show a whole raft of people that had fantastic weddings with a community hall and a BBQ. Your wedding day is after all about you and your about-to-be wife and when you are standing there looking at each other saying your vows, it doesn't matter where it is. ;)

200 with just family huh? Including me and the missus, there was 19 people ours :)

[UltraMarginal]

Trying to arrange a large wedding in a rural coastal town is giving me the s****. The only venue truly large enough to accommodate the number of guests we are having is run by complete and utter incompetent tools. First they took 3 months to get us a simple menu change, then they went and double booked the weekend we had tentatively booked in months ago pending on the menu change.

Suffice to say we have told them we are now looking elsewhere as I doubt we can trust them (if we now choose to alter the date) to actually be ready and prepared for us.

So now it looks like a catered wedding in the local hall will be the way to go. I'm not fussed by fancy weddings and all that jazz, but I was hoping the missus could have had something better than the local hall and a spit roast... :(

If only we didn't have over 200 people with just family!

200, and I thought I was bad with 27 first cousins..


Your wedding day is after all about you and your about-to-be wife and when you are standing there looking at each other saying your vows, it doesn't matter where it is. ;)



Truer words can't be said.
when you're standing there looking into her eyes, saying your vows, the rest of the world ceases to matter.

With a bit of cash you can polish up a hall pretty well.


We used the Camden Lakeside (http://www.camdenlakeside.com.au/functions--events.html) for our reception, they were very organised, had great food, the MC was great organizing for us to have a group photo with each table over the course of the night and we still had time to eat.


Not knowing what your family commitments are like, it's not uncommon these days to restrict family to aunts and uncles, or just adults. we were lucky though in that most of my family is from Victoria and many couldn't afford to make it. I think we had about 90 in attendance at final count. including mates and colleagues.

I hope it works out for you.

[GoktimusPrime]

...I personally think weddings are a WOFTAM... as far as I'm concern, just tell me where to sign. Don't really see the need for expensive ceremonies. We had a small ceremony because others wanted to have one. Meh.

Anyway, onto my ventage... today we went shopping and I spy a lady about to pull her car out of a spot. So I camp across the way with my indicators on to indicate that I wanted to park there. Simple, yes? As the lady pulls out, I start reversing in, but another guy in a big SUV suddenly cuts me off and drives into the spot that I was trying to park into! :eek: :mad: Even as I kept beeping him, he ignored me and continued parking, switching off his engine and getting out of his car with his mate. As they were walking toward the shops, I poked my head out of my window and said, "What are you doing, mate?" He tells me "Sorry, I didn't see you," but does NOT offer to move his car or even turn back toward his vehicle. I could see him trying to mince his way toward the shops -- i.e. he fully expected that his flimsy apology was enough to sate me, and that I should go off and find another parking spot! :eek: :mad: So I just said to him, "Alright then, go move your car then. Off you go." while making that "off you go" brushing away hand gesture. So the guy reluctantly went back to his car and moved it.

[UltraMarginal]

...I personally think weddings are a WOFTAM... as far as I'm concern, just tell me where to sign. Don't really see the need for expensive ceremonies. We had a small ceremony because others wanted to have one. Meh.

Anyway, onto my ventage... today we went shopping and I spy a lady about to pull her car out of a spot. So I camp across the way with my indicators on to indicate that I wanted to park there. Simple, yes? As the lady pulls out, I start reversing in, but another guy in a big SUV suddenly cuts me off and drives into the spot that I was trying to park into! :eek: :mad: Even as I kept beeping him, he ignored me and continued parking, switching off his engine and getting out of his car with his mate. As they were walking toward the shops, I poked my head out of my window and said, "What are you doing, mate?" He tells me "Sorry, I didn't see you," but does NOT offer to move his car or even turn back toward his vehicle. I could see him trying to mince his way toward the shops -- i.e. he fully expected that his flimsy apology was enough to sate me, and that I should go off and find another parking spot! :eek: :mad: So I just said to him, "Alright then, go move your car then. Off you go." while making that "off you go" brushing away hand gesture. So the guy reluctantly went back to his car and moved it.

nice work Gok!

[Tabias Prime]

...I personally think weddings are a WOFTAM... as far as I'm concern, just tell me where to sign. Don't really see the need for expensive ceremonies. We had a small ceremony because others wanted to have one. Meh.

Anyway, onto my ventage... today we went shopping and I spy a lady about to pull her car out of a spot. So I camp across the way with my indicators on to indicate that I wanted to park there. Simple, yes? As the lady pulls out, I start reversing in, but another guy in a big SUV suddenly cuts me off and drives into the spot that I was trying to park into! :eek: :mad: Even as I kept beeping him, he ignored me and continued parking, switching off his engine and getting out of his car with his mate. As they were walking toward the shops, I poked my head out of my window and said, "What are you doing, mate?" He tells me "Sorry, I didn't see you," but does NOT offer to move his car or even turn back toward his vehicle. I could see him trying to mince his way toward the shops -- i.e. he fully expected that his flimsy apology was enough to sate me, and that I should go off and find another parking spot! :eek: :mad: So I just said to him, "Alright then, go move your car then. Off you go." while making that "off you go" brushing away hand gesture. So the guy reluctantly went back to his car and moved it.


Now I would of like to of seen that:D:D:D

[snaketales]

hey Courier Australia, if your slogan is "anything anywhere fast", tell your drivers not to do 70kmh on a 100kmh highway.

[Hursticon]

Hey Australia, why the hell do you continue to receive everything months behind the rest of the world!?! - Having to wait 3 full months after Dredd 3D is released to the rest of the world on DVD & BD is an utter joke! :mad:

[Bidoofdude]

I found out today that my 2g ipod touch can no longer download apps. Stupid freaking evil Apple trolling me so hard.:mad: I know that's all it can stand but I'm really p*ssed off and I DO NOT WANT to spend 400 friggin inflated dollars for another stinking on that will be outdated in a year.:mad:
THAT IS JUST PURE EVIL.
If they had common sense, they would at least offer quite a large discount, considering I paid $200 for this thing.:mad:

[Paulbot]

Because it's broken? Or because you updated the Os? Have you download something new with iTunes and tried synching it. Try taking it to an iStore, they are pretty good at helping and I you have to pay something it's likely to be less than buying a new one.

[Bidoofdude]

It's a 2nd Gen ipod touch, so it can't update any further, due to hardware limitations. Quite a shame. The only app I really wanted to use was IDW Transformers- to get comics on my ipod, so I guess I'll be fine.:D:o

[snaketales]

AAAARRRRRRRR locked out of my bank account all day now - either got the password/code wrong or the password is cap sensitive (stoopid caps lock)

[Tetsuwan Convoy]

THAT IS JUST PURE EVIL.
Apple, in a nutshell:D:p

[snaketales]

Hey Australia, why the hell do you continue to receive everything months behind the rest of the world!?! - Having to wait 3 full months after Dredd 3D is released to the rest of the world on DVD & BD is an utter joke! :mad:

Tell me about it - we gotta wait two extra months before the Dark Knight Returns Part 2 comes to our shores.

[Waxpython]

Tell me about it - we gotta wait two extra months before the Dark Knight Returns Part 2 comes to our shores.

import it problem solved

[Waxpython]

It's a 2nd Gen ipod touch, so it can't update any further, due to hardware limitations. Quite a shame. The only app I really wanted to use was IDW Transformers- to get comics on my ipod, so I guess I'll be fine.:D:o

Comics on an ipod ?a tablet i can understand but don't you think an ipod might strain your eyes trying to read it.

[Bidoofdude]

No. You can zoom in and go to each little comic box thing one at a time if you want, IIRC.

[Bidoofdude]

import it problem solved

You can't import it, since in Australia we have a PAL format, which is carried across most electronic games and media, which seperates us from US things and the like.
For eg.
You can't play a US DVD in a PAL format (Aus basically) player and vice versa.
This can be quite troublesome, especially since we have to pay higher prices for them.:(;)

[Trent]

You can't import it, since in Australia we have a PAL format, which is carried across most electronic games and media, which seperates us from US things and the like.
For eg.
You can't play a US DVD in a PAL format (Aus basically) player and vice versa.
This can be quite troublesome, especially since we have to pay higher prices for them.:(;)

Many, many years ago, 2002 I think?? When I bought my DVD player, I made sure to get an all region one. Which back then, cost me ~$450:eek: (That was a MASSIVE amount of money for a 1st year apprentice. 2 weeks wage infact. It took me 2 months to save for it as I was living with, and supporting my GF through Uni at the time). However it enabled me to play anything form anywhere, which saved me a bit of cash over the years, and its still going strong, just a little big. (These days an all region DVD player costs like $20 from Aldi:rolleyes:)

I don't even really use it these days though. The PS3 serves most purposes, which is also region free, and it has the added bonus of a Blu Ray player, and blu rays aren't region coded.

[5FDP]

The PS3 serves most purposes, which is also region free, and it has the added bonus of a Blu Ray player, and blu rays aren't region coded.

^ This ;)

[Hursticon]

I don't even really use it these days though. The PS3 serves most purposes, which is also region free, and it has the added bonus of a Blu Ray player, and blu rays aren't region coded.

Sadly, this isn't exactly true (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blu-ray_Disc#Region_codes) - More so, annoyingly this isn't true. :(

[5FDP]

Sadly, this isn't exactly true (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blu-ray_Disc#Region_codes) - More so, annoyingly this isn't true. :(


Some current estimates suggest 70% of available [movie] Blu-ray Discs from the major studios are region-code-free and can therefore be played on any Blu-ray Disc player, in any region.

I must be one of the luckiest people around then because 100% of my imported movies are able to be played on my PS3 without issue. Don't know off the top of my head though how many of those are 20th Century Fox movies...

[Trent]

I must be one of the luckiest people around then because 100% of my imported movies are able to be played on my PS3 without issue. Don't know off the top of my head though how many of those are 20th Century Fox movies...

Same. Can't say I've had any problems either:confused:

[Hursticon]

I must be one of the luckiest people around then because 100% of my imported movies are able to be played on my PS3 without issue. Don't know off the top of my head though how many of those are 20th Century Fox movies...

See, I copped the raw end of the stick twice with imported copies of Predator & Total Recall :rolleyes: - That'd be my luck to be within the 30% non-working huh? :p:D

[5FDP]

See, I copped the raw end of the stick twice with imported copies of Predator & Total Recall :rolleyes: - That'd be my luck to be within the 30% non-working huh? :p:D

Damn... that's unlucky dude. I really dig your taste in movies if that's any consolation :)

[Hursticon]

Damn... that's unlucky dude. I really dig your taste in movies if that's any consolation :)

Why thank you sir. ;):D

[griffin]

Gotta love Australia Post.

I picked up 3 boxes from the post office this morning, after waiting 26 minutes in a long queue (the owner of my post office doesn't want to pay for staff on a Saturday, so there is only ever two there, leading to very long queues - longer than even during christmas).

One of the three boxes looked like this though....

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/blog/898.jpg

I could see that something was wrong, and after a few moments (while the lady was scanning it off), I recognised water damaged cardboard.
I asked what happened to it, and she said to take it home to inspect it and come back for a claim form if it is damaged. I told her that I could see that it was damaged, as it felt all squishy like a soggy newspaper.
She seemed to want me to leave, and refused to even acknowledge that it was even (water) damaged, so ended up just giving me the claim form (which ended up just being a complaint form... so won't end up doing much), and I went home - I didn't want to start crying in the post office if I opened it up there. :p

Cutting back the plastic, the entire box was soaked... and being encased in plastic meant that it hadn't had a chance to dry out.

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/blog/899.jpg

Smelling it though, it had not been wet long, as there was no smell at all. The box arrived at my post office on Thursday 31st, and was sent from BBTS on the 23rd. If it this had happened in America by the US Postal service, it wouldn't have stunk by now, and never made it to Australia. So it had arrived here, and in the past few days, it got soaked, and Australia Post wrapped it up with no note as to what happened.
I guess they don't want to admit to blame or liability, so leave it vague enough to be able to claim that it arrived like that to Australia.
(we had those storms and floods last week, so it could be assumed to be from that... but the main mail centre and my post office were not in any flood zones, so I think they don't want to admit to something that should have been preventable or was due to negligence of one of their people)

The entire box was wet, so something significant happened to it (like being left in the rain, because as you'll see below, the state of the contents suggest that it was not submerged in water - it was only wet enough to soak the box, but not long enough to get through the bubble-wrap layer).

So all this time, I'm assuming the worst... a mess of cardboard pulp, mixed through plastic toys in their plastic bubbles, and hoping that the toys hadn't been soaked with muddy water to at least salvage them.

But as I opened up the box, and peeled back the layer of bubble-wrap, I found that the toys inside were mostly untouched by the water. Two of the card backs and a box showed minor warping, but that was probably more from sitting in a sealed container (thanks to the plastic wrapping by Australia Post preventing the box from drying out) slowly absorbing the moisture.
Fortunately for me and the person these toys toys were for, are not sealed collectors.
(he probably wouldn't have even known something like this happened if I had kept it to myself)

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/blog/900.jpg

The plastic had fortunately been wrapped around the entire insides of the box, otherwise just one wet side of the box would have soaked into any toy it had direct contact with.

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/blog/901.jpg

See, nothing significantly damaged...

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/blog/902.jpg

...but you'd never guess it from looking at the box.

http://www.toycollectors.com.au/blog/903.jpg

It was lucky that BBTS had that layer of bubble-wrap, around all six sides, and have a good stacking of the toys in the carton (not just thrown in like Amazon)... otherwise it would have been worse - but not by much, as the toys wouldn't have been damaged (as it wasn't from a puddle of water), only the packaging.

[kaiden]

thats terrible D:

meanwhile, emailed RK about the address mixup on 30th January and have yet to hear anything back from them. Should I make a complaint thru paypal?

[KalEl]

Gotta love Australia Post.

I picked up 3 boxes from the post office this morning, after waiting 26 minutes in a long queue (the owner of my post office doesn't want to pay for staff on a Saturday, so there is only ever two there, leading to very long queues - longer than even during christmas).

One of the three boxes looked like this though....

*snip*

I could see that something was wrong, and after a few moments (while the lady was scanning it off), I recognised water damaged cardboard.
I asked what happened to it, and she said to take it home to inspect it and come back for a claim form if it is damaged. I told her that I could see that it was damaged, as it felt all squishy like a soggy newspaper.
She seemed to want me to leave, and refused to even acknowledge that it was even (water) damaged, so ended up just giving me the claim form (which ended up just being a complaint form... so won't end up doing much), and I went home - I didn't want to start crying in the post office if I opened it up there. :p

Cutting back the plastic, the entire box was soaked... and being encased in plastic meant that it hadn't had a chance to dry out.

*snip*

Smelling it though, it had not been wet long, as there was no smell at all. The box arrived at my post office on Thursday 31st, and was sent from BBTS on the 23rd. If it this had happened in America by the US Postal service, it wouldn't have stunk by now, and never made it to Australia. So it had arrived here, and in the past few days, it got soaked, and Australia Post wrapped it up with no note as to what happened.
I guess they don't want to admit to blame or liability, so leave it vague enough to be able to claim that it arrived like that to Australia.
(we had those storms and floods last week, so it could be assumed to be from that... but the main mail centre and my post office were not in any flood zones, so I think they don't want to admit to something that should have been preventable or was due to negligence of one of their people)

The entire box was wet, so something significant happened to it (like being left in the rain, because as you'll see below, the state of the contents suggest that it was not submerged in water - it was only wet enough to soak the box, but not long enough to get through the bubble-wrap layer).

So all this time, I'm assuming the worst... a mess of cardboard pulp, mixed through plastic toys in their plastic bubbles, and hoping that the toys hadn't been soaked with muddy water to at least salvage them.

But as I opened up the box, and peeled back the layer of bubble-wrap, I found that the toys inside were mostly untouched by the water. Two of the card backs and a box showed minor warping, but that was probably more from sitting in a sealed container (thanks to the plastic wrapping by Australia Post preventing the box from drying out) slowly absorbing the moisture.
Fortunately for me and the person these toys toys were for, are not sealed collectors.
(he probably wouldn't have even known something like this happened if I had kept it to myself)

*snip*

The plastic had fortunately been wrapped around the entire insides of the box, otherwise just one wet side of the box would have soaked into any toy it had direct contact with.

*snip*

See, nothing significantly damaged...

*snip*

...but you'd never guess it from looking at the box.

*snip*

It was lucky that BBTS had that layer of bubble-wrap, around all six sides, and have a good stacking of the toys in the carton (not just thrown in like Amazon)... otherwise it would have been worse - but not by much, as the toys wouldn't have been damaged (as it wasn't from a puddle of water), only the packaging.

man that sucks the big one :( so glad that bbts is good with packing

[Hursticon]

man that sucks the big one :( so glad that bbts is good with packing

Bloody oath! - Otherwise I think some very manly tears & a large number of obscenities would've been uttered; Glad you & the recipients had some luck on your side Griffin. :o:cool:

[1AZRAEL1]

man that sucks the big one :( so glad that bbts is good with packing

Too true. BBTS are great with their packaging. And AusPost are incompetent with alot of things lol. I have one driver who signs for our stuff and leaves it on our front porch. Busted him doing it one day. Mel answered the door and said just hold on a sec while I get the dogs away. Came back and he'd already left it on the front step. A package that had to be signed for. When we questioned our local Post Office, he said there is nothing we can do because they are contractors drivers. Load of effin bullshit.

[lancalot]

Too true. BBTS are great with their packaging. And AusPost are incompetent with alot of things lol. I have one driver who signs for our stuff and leaves it on our front porch. Busted him doing it one day. Mel answered the door and said just hold on a sec while I get the dogs away. Came back and he'd already left it on the front step. A package that had to be signed for. When we questioned our local Post Office, he said there is nothing we can do because they are contractors drivers. Load of effin bullshit.

you can directly put in a complaint thru their phone number and they should give you a reciept number , i had my packages open by the time it arrive on my door step and empty just foam!!! , don't really know if it was here or in china side , but made a complaint to auspost and around two days later the main contractor of the post run in my area came to check the package and ask if i want to make a claim but i did already thru ebay and the seller refunded me. Then the main office also check up on the case as well phoning me the next day. So you should make a complaint directly to auspost !

[1AZRAEL1]

you can directly put in a complaint thru their phone number and they should give you a reciept number , i had my packages open by the time it arrive on my door step and empty just foam!!! , don't really know if it was here or in china side , but made a complaint to auspost and around two days later the main contractor of the post run in my area came to check the package and ask if i want to make a claim but i did already thru ebay and the seller refunded me. Then the main office also check up on the case as well phoning me the next day. So you should make a complaint directly to auspost !

I will be next time. There are a few drivers around here, some are good, there is just this one who is a douche. Sometimes doesn't even knock, just leaves a slip in the letterbox.

[Trent]

I will be next time. There are a few drivers around here, some are good, there is just this one who is a douche. Sometimes doesn't even knock, just leaves a slip in the letterbox.

Next time he does it, just make a claim that it was never delivered. When Auspost says that someone signed for it, kindly ask who as no one was home on the day in question.;)

That'll fix him.

[KalEl]

Too true. BBTS are great with their packaging. And AusPost are incompetent with alot of things lol. I have one driver who signs for our stuff and leaves it on our front porch. Busted him doing it one day. Mel answered the door and said just hold on a sec while I get the dogs away. Came back and he'd already left it on the front step. A package that had to be signed for. When we questioned our local Post Office, he said there is nothing we can do because they are contractors drivers. Load of effin bullshit.

My driver is really good, but if i caught one doing that i'd F-5 that MOFO

[Hursticon]

My driver is really good, but if i caught one doing that i'd F-5 that MOFO

You must have either a wide doorway or a large veranda! :p:D
It'd be an awesome sight though & I recommend AZ that you do this post haste! :cool:

[SuspectimusPrime]

Too true. BBTS are great with their packaging. And AusPost are incompetent with alot of things lol. I have one driver who signs for our stuff and leaves it on our front porch. Busted him doing it one day. Mel answered the door and said just hold on a sec while I get the dogs away. Came back and he'd already left it on the front step. A package that had to be signed for. When we questioned our local Post Office, he said there is nothing we can do because they are contractors drivers. Load of effin bullshit.

If it all comes down to the contractor drivers, I'm glad we've got a pretty good one in our area. Since the majority of my purchases come through the mail and gets sent home to my parents place, my dad's had the chance to actually make friends with the lad that does deliveries and he's been looking after the handling of my buys.

[UltraMarginal]

Sydney Blue Sox just lost the Semi Final to the Perth Heat.:(
8-6, at least the last two innnings were exciting as they started to come back from 8-2, finished the game with 2 men on the the batter being the winning run, he hit straight into a double play.
the inning before they left loaded bases on too.

by the way this is a baseball rant. So close to the finals. next week Perth Heat play Canberra Cavelry at Canberra for the title.

[Bidoofdude]

School starts tomorrow.:(
I've loved spending my whole day here.:(;)

[Hursticon]

School starts tomorrow.:(
I've loved spending my whole day here.:(;)

Enjoy your time there whilst it lasts dude, it may seem crap now but in the time afterwards you'll miss it (The socialising that is, nobody misses home/school work). ;):cool:

[Trent]

Enjoy your time there whilst it lasts dude, it may seem crap now but in the time afterwards you'll miss it (The socialising that is, nobody misses home/school work). ;):cool:

It's funny, I don't miss school at all. Not even the social side. I had much more fun in the immediate years after school finished.

[Golden Phoenix]

It's funny, I don't miss school at all. Not even the social side. I had much more fun in the immediate years after school finished.

Yeah, I had the best time at TAFE.

[5FDP]

Enjoy your time there whilst it lasts dude, it may seem crap now but in the time afterwards you'll miss it (The socialising that is, nobody misses home/school work). ;):cool:

My 20th anniversary of finishing high school is this year... and I still don't miss it or the kids I went to school with.

Someone actually asked me the other week 'Are you planning on going to the reunion?', to which I replied 'I had no desire to hang with anyone then, why would I want to meet up with them now?'

School reunions are just a big wank-fest comparing jobs, partners, and cars. I'm prefectly content with what I have now.

[Hursticon]

My 20th anniversary of finishing high school is this year... and I still don't miss it or the kids I went to school with.

Someone actually asked me the other week 'Are you planning on going to the reunion?', to which I replied 'I had no desire to hang with anyone then, why would I want to meet up with them now?'

School reunions are just a big wank-fest comparing jobs, partners, and cars. I'm prefectly content with what I have now.

1AZRAEL1 & I actually have our 10th anniversary this year, to which I'd be lying if I didn't feel very similar to yourself dude. :o

My original post was more so a reflection on the feeling I used to have after about 5 years post Year 12 (A vein attempt to try & cheer Bidoof up :o); 5 years on from that though I really could not be arsed to attend, because I get judged enough as it is without people I've not seen in years reminding me how I've wasted a decade (The handful of people I still do see do that now :()...

Ignore my earlier post Bidoof, just take each day as it comes. ;)

[Kazza]

I'm into my 5th year out of year 12, couldn't give a rats arse about the people i went to highschool with, however i'm still friends with some of my closest mates from primary school and we didn't even go to the same highschool.

[Ultra Mackness]

I'm really crushed that so many people left their school with a negative or neutral feeling. It also makes me feel lucky about where I went to school. I enjoyed my secondary years so much that in the end I decided to become a teacher, and moreso I now teach at the same school I went to as a student.

I do totally get it about reunions though. Next year will be 20 years since I finished (:eek:Pauses to realise that time has caught up with me and is really in charge!) but at our 10 year reunion, while it was good to see some of my old friends, mostly people fell into their old social cliques so extending past your old immediate circle of friends was just as difficult 10 years on as it was back in the day.


Enjoy your time there whilst it lasts dude, it may seem crap now but in the time afterwards you'll miss it (The socialising that is, nobody misses home/school work). ;):cool:

@Bidoofdude - school days really are what you make of them. Life is 10% what happens to us and 90% how we react to that. You get out of school what you put into it. Too many cliches!! I've found the key to surviving school really does come down to developing a positive attitude towards whatever happens to you. It's so easy to hate things but it's often hard to see the bright side. While you're at school you won't have to deal with mortgage/rent, bills and other resposibilities. Relative freedom without responsibility is fantastic - enjoy it!

@Hursti - what do ya mean noone misses homework!:eek: if I find myself with some spare time, there is nothing better than grabbing a maths text and doing some problems. And then there's Saturday night Calculus parties... The fun never stops!

I know, seek help :)

[crankcase76]

I have been out of 21yrs as I left in yr 11 and I don't miss it at all. Have had the invites to the reunions, but hey why would I go as stated in another post it is just to see who is better off. Who cares as long as you are happy.:D But i still occasionally run into people from school, but that is not really a part of my life anymore.So i tend to say hi and how's things and then see you later. Plus I see school as a practice run for later on in life as it gives us the skills to engage in social circles that we create for ourselves.:cool:

[jazzcomp]

I guess I'm different to most here. I actually enjoyed school and have great friendships with people I grew up with. Happiest times of my life as a kid when I had no cares and no responsibilities. Some friendships are made for life. I'm godfather to some of my friends' kids. :)

Reunions for me are just times to catch up and see how they're all doing. I don't care about those comparing what others have in life. For those who knew me back then, I'm mostly still the same person. It's fun seeing the changes in everyone and catching up.

I was actually in charge of a few reunions. Guys are easier to invite than girls. The girls are afraid to show up because of how they look now or whatever excuses. Guys don't care so much how they have physically changed. :)

High school/primary friendships are stronger than those in Uni for me. That's because we only interacted in class mostly for uni. For those who knew me when we were younger, the interactions (playtime/funtimes :D) include before and after school, weekends and vacations almost all the time so some of them are like my brothers/family to me. I miss those guys cause we are all geographically apart.

[Bartrim]

It's funny, I don't miss school at all. Not even the social side. I had much more fun in the immediate years after school finished.

I agree with this. School sucked for me. The late teens/early twenties were the best. Don't get me wrong I love my wife and kids but there are days when I'm at home and think "If you guys weren't around I could be playing Playstation all day".

[GoktimusPrime]

I don't miss school. But I really miss uni. I keep in touch with a small handful of people I knew from school, but I have way more university friends than school friends. A lot of the guys at my school were really immature. But I loved university. I loved the academic culture and more adult social interactions. I found uni people to be WAY more open minded and accepting than high schoolers! There was no pressure to be "cool" and conform with social norms, if anything, I felt that personal individualism was much more greatly encouraged.

When Transformers first came out, even as a primary school kid in the 1980s, I had other kids who would look at me playing with my TFs at school and go, "You play with Transformers? That's for babies!" Sadly I went to school with kids who were pretending to be teenagers, then later at high school with teens pretending to be adults -- and they were quick to tease you for not conforming. It wasn't until I was in Year 9 that the teasing stopped and it become more acceptable to be a TF fan. But when I was at university, I was made to feel so comfortable with being myself -- that was when I started carrying Transformers toys around and playing with them in public. I used to bring a different TF toy to campus every day, and people (students & staff :D) would marvel at them and sometimes ask to try transforming them. :D

I found that being a nerd at my school was shunned upon, and even after Year 9 while it was more acceptable, it wasn't openly embraced and encouraged like at university. I remember when Douglas Adams (author of Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy) passed away, 2 weeks later on May 11 there would be Towel Day where everyone was asked to carry a towel. So I came to uni with a towel, walked into my tut, and all these girls sitting there gave me a weird look as to why I had a towel on my shoulder. I told them it was Towel Day and explained it -- the girls and the tutor thought I was being a bit funny/eccentric... then a few seconds later another student walks in with a towel on his shoulder -- we immediately high fived each other and had a good laugh. :D Later that evening I met up with a PhD student friend of mine, who also had a towel on him. :)

I really miss uni... some people shake their heads at "professional students," but I can totally understand why some people never want to leave university! If I won Lotto, I'd seriously contemplate becoming a professional student. :D Part of me still regrets not staying a bit longer and doing my Honours Thesis... but I left after completing my Graduate Diploma to start working. My family felt that I'd been in university for 'long enough'. :p

[Tetsuwan Convoy]

Gotta love Australia Post.

- but not by much, as the toys wouldn't have been damaged (as it wasn't from a puddle of water), only the packaging.
Interesting, I had the exact same thing happen to my reissue Devastato (http://tetstoys.blogspot.com.au/2012/01/evils-of-travel.html)r. How very curious. I was just glad that the boys inside were OK. Although I suspect a book wouldn't fare so well.


My 20th anniversary of finishing high school is this year... and I still don't miss it or the kids I went to school with.

Someone actually asked me the other week 'Are you planning on going to the reunion?', to which I replied 'I had no desire to hang with anyone then, why would I want to meet up with them now?'

School reunions are just a big wank-fest comparing jobs, partners, and cars. I'm prefectly content with what I have now.

I think I totally skipped my highschool reunion. NO great loss really. Hell, I meet up with a large amount of people I went to school with in my everyday travels most of the time anyway. Best part is they are usually the people I would most likely want to meet up with again.

[Trent]

I miss Italy. Had my first day back at work today after 5 weeks off and I wasn't a fan. It was made worse by everyone asking how my holiday was forcing me to relive the memories. :(

That coupled with the fact that I had it pointed out to me today that it will be quite a while before I have enough annual leave to do something like that again.

:(:(

[Bartrim]

I miss Italy. Had my first day back at work today after 5 weeks off and I wasn't a fan. It was made worse by everyone asking how my holiday was forcing me to relive the memories. :(

That coupled with the fact that I had it pointed out to me today that it will be quite a while before I have enough annual leave to do something like that again.

:(:(

I miss Italy too. Dad took me there when I was 17. Lovely part of the world.

What I dont miss about Italy is the constant lunches at relatives houses where they squeezed 40 of us into a room the size of a small office on a 45degree day.

[Kazza]

FUUUUUUUUUU.... Sony charged me $20 for a 90 day playstation plus subscription renerwal which i never even clicked to buy on psn, also got no email confirming psn purchase. And i know i had automatic renewal turned OFF before i used a code for a 30 day free trial.:mad:

[KalEl]

FUUUUUUUUUU.... Sony charged me $20 for a 90 day playstation plus subscription renerwal which i never even clicked to buy on psn, also got no email confirming psn purchase. And i know i had automatic renewal turned OFF before i used a code for a 30 day free trial.:mad:

That's total bs bro :(

[jazzcomp]

FUUUUUUUUUU.... Sony charged me $20 for a 90 day playstation plus subscription renerwal which i never even clicked to buy on psn, also got no email confirming psn purchase. And i know i had automatic renewal turned OFF before i used a code for a 30 day free trial.:mad:
hate automatic renewals. I'd prefer defaulting to no renewal than automatic.

[christalcase]

FUUUUUUUUUU.... Sony charged me $20 for a 90 day playstation plus subscription renerwal which i never even clicked to buy on psn, also got no email confirming psn purchase. And i know i had automatic renewal turned OFF before i used a code for a 30 day free trial.:mad:

What I did (since I was worried that this could happen to me too) was that I deleted my credit card information right after redeeming the code. I normally use PSN cards so it's not like I need the credit card information there.

[gamblor916]

I fell off my bike and broke my collarbone. Bloody hell that hurts.

[Hursticon]

I fell off my bike and broke my collarbone. Bloody hell that hurts.

Ooh dude! - I hope that's all you broke! :o, how's the bike & was then anyone around to assist? :eek:

[gamblor916]

The bike is scratched and damaged, unrideable. The people that stopped, ambos, hospital staff were all great. I need to send out a bunch of gift baskets I think.
I love riding but I don't like pain. I'll have to rethink my riding future.

[liegeprime]

I fell off my bike and broke my collarbone. Bloody hell that hurts.

ouch, be careful now, there is no other way to mend collarbones than by staying still that arm affected. DO you need to have a sling?:(

[gamblor916]

I'm wearing a sling now. And for the next month or so. It was all my fault, didn't watch where I was going and crashed into a kerb.

[Hursticon]

The bike is scratched and damaged, unrideable. The people that stopped, ambos, hospital staff were all great. I need to send out a bunch of gift baskets I think.
I love riding but I don't like pain. I'll have to rethink my riding future.

Glad to hear that you were swiftly attended to dude, sorry to hear about you & your bike though. :(

As a suggestion, if you would like to give said people any gifts - Make sure you give it to them in person otherwise the hierarchy takes it for themselves; my Father (A former Rescue Ambulance Officer of 20+ years service) knows from personal experience. :o

I hope your Clavicle mends swiftly dude, try to take it easy eh? ;)

[jazzcomp]

Hoping for a speedy recovery gamblor. Maybe you should've stayed longer at the fair. :D

[crankcase76]

OH NO, mate what a day for it to happen.:eek: main thing is that you are ok, even though you have broken your collar bone. Hope that you mend quickly.

[gamblor916]

Cheers all for the well wishes :)

[UltraMarginal]

That's terrible News Gamblor, Hopefully you mend up quickly.

[5FDP]

I fell off my bike and broke my collarbone. Bloody hell that hurts.

Holy sh!t... glad I picked up my stuff from you this morning ;) :p :D







I'm just joking of course. I hope you recover quickly :)

[Tober]

I fell off my bike and broke my collarbone. Bloody hell that hurts.

Well that sucks! :eek:

Hope you and the bike can get back on the road again soon. :cool:

[gamblor916]

Cheers guys :)

[GoktimusPrime]

:eek: Ouch dude! Hope for a speedy recovery and you'll be hoppin' around like crazy at the next Fair!

[kup]

I fell off my bike and broke my collarbone. Bloody hell that hurts.

Oh crap! Was that right after the fair? Sorry to hear that, I hope you recover soon.

[SuspectimusPrime]

I'm wearing a sling now. And for the next month or so. It was all my fault, didn't watch where I was going and crashed into a kerb.

Get well soon dude! Hope you recover in no time!

[1AZRAEL1]

Much dude, sorry to hear it. A broken collarbone is painful. I haven't broken mine but my brother broke both sides of his playing football, years apart.

Now my annoyance is not as bad as that, more ironic. First chance i have had in about a month to mow the lawn, and ya know what happens? It hails lol

[gamblor916]

Yeah it was right after the fair, I probably should have done more toy hunting :rolleyes:

That was a crazy storm that just rolled in. My dog went nuts.

[KalEl]

Hope you have a speedy recovery dude

[5FDP]

That was a crazy storm that just rolled in. My dog went nuts.

I saw it passing over the Hills District from where I work (Ryde) and it looked impressive. I reckon we'll get another one today.

[Tetsuwan Convoy]

Yeah it was right after the fair, I probably should have done more toy hunting :rolleyes:

That was a crazy storm that just rolled in. My dog went nuts.

That'll teach ya for forgoing the joys of plastic!

I thought we'd get a storm here, it's been unsettled all day and hot... It rained, but just enough to make that rain-smell, but not enough to really wet anything.


Now for my other vent.

I bought a game off of ebay, paid using paypal and after I pressed the final pay button noticed that the address had defaulted to my mum's old address.
1. Not too sure why it's there in the first place...
2. Haven't seen it before when I log in to paypal from their website. Yet loggin in through ebay and it's set as the default... WTF?

I must have set it up for some reason... My mum isn't net-savvy enough to do it herself... Can't for the life of me remember why.

I feel stupid now, because I had to email the seller asking them to send it to my real address... I just hope they read their emails and not just follow the paypal page.
Sigh:(

[Trent]

Insurance is one of the biggest scams going. Why does is cost so much to insure my cars????? My current insurer on the B4 is closing, probably due to offering decently priced premiums :rolleyes: so i'm looking for another. And comparitively they are all burgulars!! NRMA are the cheapest and that ain't saying much. 1 company wants $5400 to insure it!:eek: WTF???

Scammers!!!:mad:

[Ultra Mackness]

Absoluetely hear this Trent. The insurance component is the reason our car registration is so expensive. Ours is up to about $700 (had to pay recently), of which about $400 is the TAC insurance contribution.

C'mon, I'd rather drop that on a Fort Max reissue!

[jazzcomp]

i understand car insurance needs since an accident can happen at any time. but what about home insurance (bldg), how many times can your bldg require insurance to get fixed?

[griffin]

Cars are just so darn expensive to repair, especially on minor dents and scratches, due to replacing whole panels or parts. (which is why the Insurers then have to charge so much to cover themselves)
Like if the front or rear bumper is dented from a minor bump, they replace the entire bumper unit if the vehicle has air-bags, to make sure that the sensors weren't affected.
And when you have the more well-off people, who value the look of stuff, with full insurance, they don't hesitate bleeding their insurers for every little scratch.

Also, in case you end up bumping into one of these people (like I did), just make sure you at least have insurance to cover other people if it is your fault. Buy a cheap car for yourself to save insurance costs, but cover yourself for those who don't brush off a minor scratch or dent, like people used to do.


I actually hate the whole "excess" thing with Insurance. It's like, we'll charge you heaps of money, but you'll still pay for most of it.

[Tetsuwan Convoy]

I'd suggest comparing quotes between companies as well. I ued to be with the RAC, paying 1000 a year for fully comprehensive, but after haggling a bit with a couple of companies have managed to get it down to $400 with better options. Of course it helps being an older driver who doesn't smash his car too ... :p

But when renewal time comes and you get your letter quoting the amount, ring another insurance bunch and tell them, they might beat it. Then call the original guys back and say that such-and-such have offered a quote of this, what can you do to keep me?

You'd be surprised at how much you can save by introducing a bit of competition.

[jazzcomp]

I actually hate the whole "excess" thing with Insurance. It's like, we'll charge you heaps of money, but you'll still pay for most of it.
Yeah, that's what I don't get. It feels like you're paying the whole insurance with the excess again. Also your premium goes up because of the claim.

I hate health insurance too when you're younger. It feels like I'm throwing money away and not claiming anything back. :(

When you're older, health insurance definitely needed.

[griffin]

Don't get me started on Health Insurance...

I finally signed up a couple years ago, after several years of earning over the amount that has you paying extra Medicare in your tax (I figured that I was spending this much money anyway, why not use it for private health insurance).
The next tax/fiscal year, my hours at work dropped back, and I didn't earn enough to be charged the extra Medicare levy anyway. So now I'm still paying extra money, but wouldn't have needed anymore (I haven't earnt enough since then either).

But that's not the complaint.
The problem is that after 2-3 years of paying Health Insurance premiums without any claims, the one time I need to rely on it (appendix operation last April), they refused to cover it because of a technicality - their fine-print said that I had to be admitted BEFORE tests were done for those tests to be covered.... but the hospital wasn't going to admit until after the test results said I had to have surgery.
Surely if tests done as part of the process to have surgery (and a subsequent admittance to a Private Hospital), it all should be covered.
At least, that's what a normal person would think, who had "hospital cover" in their policy, without scrutinising every tiny detail of their policy.

And for the record, if an admitting Private Hospital Emergency Ward sees the words "optional exclusions" on your policy (which most people have, especially young people who are less likely to cover things that affect the elderly), they can't guarantee if you are covered for that Private Hospital stay when entering in your policy details, because they don't know what your optional exclusions are... leaving you with a choice of being transferred to a public hospital, or run the risk/fear of being charged thousands - if you don't have the time to check with your insurer (like, after hours) to see if you are going to be paying anything for that stay/surgery.
It's a rare situation, but one that obviously can happen if you are new to Private Health Insurance, and have to go to a Private Hospital Emergency Ward.
(obviously if it was something elective, you'd have the time to find out beforehand, and not have a problem... but if it is an emergency, go to a Public Emergency Ward first just in case, then everything is covered by Medicare)
Bunch o' scammers.

[jazzcomp]

There should be after hours/emergency support for that.

That's why some of my colleagues go for the highest plan so that they won't have to worry about what's covered and what's not with optional extras.

Different covers are always confusing.

[griffin]

NIB didn't have an after-hours number, so I didn't want to take the chance of a $5000 bill if I wasn't covered. The surgery all worked out, and I was able to go to BotCon 4 days later... but I got stuck with bills for the pre-surgery tests, totalling $1500. :(

[snaketales]

Power has been out since 8.30 last night because of poletop fires from the rain.... 10 more minutes and we can claim for compensation (you can claim $80 from Western Power is the power's out for 12 or more continuous hours).

Wasn't so bad last night because we could put the kids to bed, but at 7am today they were already saying they were bored with nothing to do. :rolleyes:

Glad I'm at work now.

[blackie]

so bored >_>

should have got off my ass and headed down to the rifle range this morning, too lazy to head down now and wait for a spot :(

[snaketales]

Power has been out since 8.30 last night because of poletop fires from the rain.... 10 more minutes and we can claim for compensation (you can claim $80 from Western Power is the power's out for 12 or more continuous hours).

Wasn't so bad last night because we could put the kids to bed, but at 7am today they were already saying they were bored with nothing to do. :rolleyes:

Glad I'm at work now.

Power's still off and wife's working tonight.... I'm dreading being at home with three kids and no power :eek:

[Trent]

Power's still off and wife's working tonight.... I'm dreading being at home with three kids and no power :eek:

Wow. That's a long time to be without power. Do you live near the ocean or another large body of salt water? That's the most common cause of pole top fires. Salt builds up on the high voltage crossarm then you get light/misty rain and the phases start tracking across the salt then POOF!

Do you live in a metropolitan area or fairly rural?

[valkyrie_76]

Wow. That's a long time to be without power. Do you live near the ocean or another large body of salt water? That's the most common cause of pole top fires. Salt builds up on the high voltage crossarm then you get light/misty rain and the phases start tracking across the salt then POOF!

Do you live in a metropolitan area or fairly rural?

The last power loss we had here was almost 40 hours long...........NO POWER FOR ANYTHING :eek::eek::eek:

[Trent]

The last power loss we had here was almost 40 hours long...........NO POWER FOR ANYTHING :eek::eek::eek:

What caused it? Was there bushfires or flood or severe storms? That only happens here for those things.

[Tetsuwan Convoy]

What caused it? Was there bushfires or flood or severe storms? That only happens here for those things.
lol, nope none of that, here in WA, a light shower will do it.:rolleyes:

Which is exactly what happened.

[valkyrie_76]

lol, nope none of that, here in WA, a light shower will do it.:rolleyes:

Which is exactly what happened.

Nah major storm came through not long ago.

[Tetsuwan Convoy]

Down your way perhaps.

Around me, light showers. Nothing even looking like a major storm:p

[valkyrie_76]

Down your way perhaps.

Around me, light showers. Nothing even looking like a major storm:p

Because things north of the river are WEAK!!!!

WEAK I TELLS YA!!!!

:D:D:D:D

[gamblor916]

So gamblor now has something in common with G1. We both contain metal and screws.

I have a plate over my collarbone now and all I can say is thank the gods for drugs.

[kup]

So gamblor now has something in common with G1. We both contain metal and screws.

I have a plate over my collarbone now and all I can say is thank the gods for drugs.

Welcome to the club! :)

I hope you recover soon and no longer feel any pain.

[M-bot]

So gamblor now has something in common with G1. We both contain metal and screws.

I have a plate over my collarbone now and all I can say is thank the gods for drugs.

In these kinds of things, the drugs are very much your friend. Hoping for a quick recovery for you.

[Tober]

So gamblor now has something in common with G1. We both contain metal and screws.

I have a plate over my collarbone now and all I can say is thank the gods for drugs.

What did the docs have to say? Are you going to be able to ride again soon?

[gamblor916]

My arm should be back to 99% of what it was and off the sling in about 2 weeks so good news there.

I'll probably save riding for controlled environments like track days from now on.

[Trent]

My arm should be back to 99% of what it was and off the sling in about 2 weeks so good news there.

I'll probably save riding for controlled environments like track days from now on.

Good idea. But remember shit can still happen (and badly) on the track. I speak from experience. :o

[Hursticon]

My arm should be back to 99% of what it was and off the sling in about 2 weeks so good news there.

I'll probably save riding for controlled environments like track days from now on.

Excellent news indeed dude, I hope your swift mending continues. ;):cool:

[gamblor916]

Cheers guys. The drugs make you feel like a million bucks :D


Good idea. But remember shit can still happen (and badly) on the track. I speak from experience. :o

Was it a bad off?

[blackie]

Cheers guys. The drugs make you feel like a million bucks :D


know that feeling all to well
the drugs were the best part of the ankle reco by far XD

[crankcase76]

So gamblor now has something in common with G1. We both contain metal and screws.

So now we can truly call you our cybertronian friend.:D:eek:


I have a plate over my collarbone now and all I can say is thank the gods for drugs.

Really hope you come good soon dude.:)

[gamblor916]

Cheers I'm feeling better already.

[Tetsuwan Convoy]

Dammit! Ordered a nice Chogokin off of mandarake and it's not available anymore... Luckily they had another listed as well. I wonder if they will let me combine my orders together.

Blast I was really pumped for it too...:(

[lancalot]

Man a package came today and it was half ripped open !! :mad: Lucky it wasnt anything of value , card holder only but was missing 2 screws only . I had alot of this lately where a package was open on the top but was made to look like it has been squashed from the handling ,so they can take a look what inside ....but usually its cheap stuff so they dont take anything , was missing a decorative dish once when the box came emptied!:eek:
And it happen again today a padded envelop rip open on the top ,half ways ! the person must of read collectible card on the envelop open it then just saw the holders and just passed it thru ... the F****
Sorry just had to get that out ..

[UltraMarginal]

Man a package came today and it was half ripped open !! :mad: Lucky it wasnt anything of value , card holder only but was missing 2 screws only . I had alot of this lately where a package was open on the top but was made to look like it has been squashed from the handling ,so they can take a look what inside ....but usually its cheap stuff so they dont take anything , was missing a decorative dish once when the box came emptied!:eek:
And it happen again today a padded envelop rip open on the top ,half ways ! the person must of read collectible card on the envelop open it then just saw the holders and just passed it thru ... the F****
Sorry just had to get that out ..

That sounds like a problem at your local post office or sorting centre, I've never had that, ever.
I highly recommend reporting directly to Australia post. if it's happening to you, it is probably also happening to others.

[5FDP]

My worst incident with a postie was a few years back when I bought a 20-year-old-extremely-rare-vintage-book (A3 size) which was folded in half to fit in the letterbox. I was mortified... still am :( Have never found another to replace it and had to sell mine off as I was sick in the stomach every time I looked at it. It happens.

[Ultra Mackness]

My wife collects vintage sewing books, and if the item is small enough and/or thin enough to be folded our regular postie will fold it and force it into our letterbox, even if it says fragile or do not bend. On one occasion there was corrugated cardboard in the envelope - still got folded! We have a steepish driveway and our package delivery guy is pretty good, he brings items up the driveway , but it's just sheer laziness on behalf of the regular postie.

[1AZRAEL1]

My wife collects vintage sewing books, and if the item is small enough and/or thin enough to be folded our regular postie will fold it and force it into our letterbox, even if it says fragile or do not bend. On one occasion there was corrugated cardboard in the envelope - still got folded! We have a steepish driveway and our package delivery guy is pretty good, he brings items up the driveway , but it's just sheer laziness on behalf of the regular postie.

Honestly, I'd report that. It says do not bend.

[Megatron]

While we're on this topic, it's not just the local postie or sorting center that don't know how to handle precious items... I recently bought a rare vintage Transformers artefact from the US, but the seller was using eBay's Global Shipping Program for his auctions. They charged me more on P&H for starters (an import fee really?) than if it'd just been posted via the regular USPS. But that I could deal with because I really wanted this item. Anyways... I received the item, opened the package and... part of it was broken.. :(. Now the seller and I both knew that it had left his hands intact, and the ONLY place it could have been mishandled was at eBay's actual sorting center.

It upset me to look at the item after that, even though I could have glued part of it back together it just wasn't good enough for me any more. So, I ended up selling it 'as is'.

As a side note, I did get a refund from Paypal, but ONLY for the actual item cost, NOT for the postage (which was half the actual price I paid for the item anyway). The seller will not use eBay's Global Shipping Program again, and based on my experience, I highly recommend that you avoid it if you can.

As far as local posties go, I've never had an issue... lucky, I guess. It's just not good enough, and if I found that my parcels were being opened and generally mishandled on a regular basis, I'd be very :mad:.

[GoktimusPrime]

*shudder* These stories make me feel even less inspired to try online shopping. :(
But even as a die-hard brick and mortar shopper, I've not been immune to having stuff damaged in transit... most of you have already heard this story, but for those who haven't, when I moved from Japan to Australia I had to ship all my stuff back here, including my toys -- and one box got intercepted by Customs who just really roughly chucked everything back in the box. A lot of my previously pristine TF packaging suffered minor damages like scratched corners etc., but the worst was my Machine Wars Megatron card which they BENT IN HALF to force it to fit! :mad: Man... that was 15 years ago and I'm still ticked off about it! Probably because to this day there's this permanent crease mark that still bisects the card. :(

[Ultra Mackness]

While we're on this topic, it's not just the local postie or sorting center that don't know how to handle precious items... I recently bought a rare vintage Transformers artefact from the US, but the seller was using eBay's Global Shipping Program for his auctions.

That item wouldn't happen to be a Megatron gumball machine would it?

[Megatron]

*shudder* These stories make me feel even less inspired to try online shopping. :(
But even as a die-hard brick and mortar shopper, I've not been immune to having stuff damaged in transit... most of you have already heard this story, but for those who haven't, when I moved from Japan to Australia I had to ship all my stuff back here, including my toys -- and one box got intercepted by Customs who just really roughly chucked everything back in the box. A lot of my previously pristine TF packaging suffered minor damages like scratched corners etc., but the worst was my Machine Wars Megatron card which they BENT IN HALF to force it to fit! :mad: Man... that was 15 years ago and I'm still ticked off about it! Probably because to this day there's this permanent crease mark that still bisects the card. :(

Online shopping really isn't that bad - there are many more benefits than there are drawbacks. It just sounds really bad when all the mishaps are pointed out all at once. Paypal does cover you most of the time anyway, on eBay at least.

Sorry to hear about your MW Megs card... they should have bought you a replacement one. I wonder if shipping insurance would cover things like this?


That item wouldn't happen to be a Megatron gumball machine would it?

Yes, it would.

[Ultra Mackness]

I have a feeling I may have bought mine from you then :) In keeping with the current topic though, it got delivered safely by the good postie!

[UltraMarginal]

I've very rarely ever had a problem with handling of items I've received in the post, from Canada, US, UK, Hong Kong, Japan...

the worst was the Drift Trade paperback, I bought it through the book depository and it was just in a bubble wrap envelope, which has no stiffness at all. The damage though, did look like someone had thrown the package against a wall. I got a full refund from the book depository, and they have drastically improved the envelope choice since then.

I shop online all the time, it's cheaper and often at least as reliable as a retail purchase.