Saving My Garmin Data

Posted on July 24, 2020 by way0utwest

With the Garmin outage, I was a little worried about my data. As a result, I wanted to ensure I could get information off of my device and at least save files. I posted a note on Twitter, and got a link to the DC RainMaker, with a procedure to get your files from a device. Since I have a watch that connects to a mobile, I wasn’t sure which device to connect, so here’s the experience of getting my data.

First, what’s the extent of the issue. I started a walk workout on my watch when I took the dogs out. This was a short one, and I was able to complete and save the workout.

When I got back to my desk, I opened the app on the old mobile. I saw the data for my heart and steps, which matched the watch, but no workout.

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I then went to my watch and clicked “sync”. I got this for awhile, and while it said that things were being transferred, I don’t have any way of knowing this is working.

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My understanding is that this data goes to Garmin Connect and then that syncs with my phone, rather than going through my phone and then to Garmin Connect. Since there are people that might not use the app on their phone, this makes sense.

I know I can’t get data at Garmin Connect.

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I also don’t see any updates on their blog.

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OK, I know what I can’t do. What can I do?

Connecting My Watch

I’ve never connected the watch to this computer. I’m not likely to get the Garmin app to work if I install it, so let’s get the cable that came with my watch. I connect it to my computer and …

Nothing. Nothing detected as a device. No new USB devices. No notifications.

This was with a USB hub, so let’s take that out of the equation. I do connect some data devices through here, but why not try something. I get up, walk around, and plug the watch into the motherboard USB slot.

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That’s interesting. Glad I tried that. Next I browse and find two storage areas.

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I tried media first, since that’s the first one. Nope, no activities under Garmin.

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Let’s try the primary storage. This looks more promising.

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I don’t see Activities, as in the DC Rainmaker post, but I do see “Activity”. In there, I find the fit files.

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These are binary files, so there goes any quick SSIS/ADF upload of data somewhere else.

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I suspect there’s a way of doing this and a few searches show some libraries that might help, but those are for another day.

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Something Old Something New

Posted on July 24, 2020 by way0utwest

My neighbor had a 1978 Ford Bronco when I was growing up. He drove his kids and I around to various events, and I loved that car. The look, the removable back, the spacious interior. It was a car I’ve always wanted to own. As I’ve gotten older, however, the rough ride and lack of modern amenities have made me rethink buying an older version. I’ve become spoiled in my older age

Ford just announced a modern version of the Bronco, bringing back the iconic truck after over two decades. What is interesting to me is that they appear to be trying to take a page from software design and customized websites by allowing lots of custom options. It appears in this look at the truck that much of the truck body can be removed and replaced with custom sections. I’m sure plenty of third party companies will offer new colors, shapes, lights, and even accessories that might truly make this car your own.

Of course, car manufacturers want to make money, too. There are some mechanical differences with engines, transmissions, and suspension, but also a variety of settings for the drivetrain. However, different trim levels have different numbers of drivetrain settings. I wonder if there is a difference in the models or this is a software limitation (with a different physical switch). I wouldn’t be surprised if this were the case.

I had hoped years ago that we would start seeing more customization in cars with manufacturers building a flat chassis and custom bodies, having features into software, providing interfaces, allowing for more plugins from their own and partner suppliers. Instead, it seems like we’ve gotten more and more proprietary designs, trying to lock in users rather than selling the flexibility of design. I guess that’s the way of capitalism, doing what’s best for the company rather than creating an ecosystem that might excite the consumer.

While I know modern vehicles are built for efficiency and airflow, I think many of them start to look alike. I would hate to see every car look the same, as they have in some movies. I miss the different designs and details from the past. I would like to think that at some point we’ll see modern electric engines, controls, and features available in customized, 3D printed bodies and better software interfaces that allow us to bring back the look of the past with the best of today.

Steve Jones

Listen to the podcast at Libsyn, Stitcher or iTunes.

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Daily Coping 24 Jul 2020

Posted on July 24, 2020 by way0utwest

I’ve started to add a daily coping tip to the SQLServerCentral newsletter and to the Community Circle, which is helping me deal with the issues in the world. I’m adding my responses for each day here.

Today’s tip is to ask yourself: What’s the best thing that can happen?

That’s a good question. I can take this lots of ways. The best thing for the world? We get a very effective vaccine this year.

The best thing for me? My family stays healthy and can enjoy life.

The best thing today? I get to practice yoga, no part of my body aches, I eat some good food and spend a nice evening with my wife.

Keep things in perspective. I’m aiming for the last one today and focusing on that.

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Giving Back to Speakers

Posted on July 24, 2020 by way0utwest

It might be hard to think back to 2007, but at that time, there were only a few SQL Server events taking place in the world. SQL Bits held its inaugural event, and we had the annual PASS Summit, DevConnections, and Visual Studio Live conferences. Microsoft had a few large events, but outside of user groups, that was it.

In 2007, Andy Warren and I were talking and planning for SQL Saturday #1. That year we thought there were plenty of speakers in that area, with a number of MVPs. However, after the event, as other events sprung up in 2008, we worried if we’d have enough speakers.

He did, and we continue to find new speakers every year. I’ve seen some really good ones, and some that need help. GroupBy is trying to do something in this area. They only choose a few speakers, but they’ve started a mentorship program that is geared to helping new speakers grow.

You can apply to help today, and I’d encourage you to do so. I did.

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