11/13/2025

Tech Skills for Travelers

 Online Booking & e-Tickets

✈️ What Is Online Flight Booking?

Online flight booking allows you to purchase airline tickets through official airline websites or trusted booking platforms — without visiting a travel agency.

After completing your purchase, the airline sends a digital confirmation and an e-ticket, which has fully replaced the old paper tickets.


✅ How to Book Flights Online Safely

1. Use trusted websites

Stick to:

  • official airline websites (Lufthansa, AirSerbia, Turkish Airlines…)

  • reputable platforms (Skyscanner, Expedia, Kayak)

Avoid links received through random emails, messages, or social media ads.


2. Look for HTTPS and security indicators

Before entering any payment information, check:

  • the website URL starts with https://

  • a padlock icon is visible in the browser address bar

If not — stop immediately.


3. Use safe payment methods

Recommended:

  • credit/debit card

  • virtual (one-time) bank card

  • PayPal (if available)

Security tips:

  • avoid public Wi-Fi when paying

  • enable transaction notifications

  • use a card with a controlled online spending limit


4. Booking confirmation and your e-ticket

After payment, you will receive:

  • a PNR / booking reference code

  • full itinerary details

  • a PDF e-ticket

  • a link for online check-in (usually 24 hours before departure)

Always:

  • save the PDF offline

  • take a screenshot of the ticket

  • store a spare copy in cloud storage (Google Drive, OneDrive…)


๐Ÿง  Required Tech Skills

  • recognizing secure websites

  • online payment basics

  • working with PDF files & QR codes

  • using airline mobile apps


 Online Check-In & Mobile Boarding Pass

✈️ What Is Online Check-In?

Online check-in is a digital process that allows you to confirm your flight, choose your seat, and receive a mobile boarding pass — usually 24–48 hours before departure.
It saves time at the airport and prevents long check-in lines.


✅ How to Complete Online Check-In

1. Open the airline’s app or website

Simply enter:

  • your last name

  • your booking code (PNR)

Your reservation will appear instantly.


2. Choose your seat

Depending on your fare, you can:

  • select or change your seat

  • upgrade to extra legroom

  • add hand or checked baggage

All digitally, before arriving at the airport.


3. Download your mobile boarding pass

The system will generate a QR code, which you will use at:

  • security screening

  • passport control

  • boarding gate

Save it as:

  • Apple Wallet / Google Wallet pass

  • PDF file

  • screenshot (highly recommended)


4. Offline access (critical)

Your boarding pass must work even if:

  • your internet connection drops

  • the app crashes

  • your battery is low

Keep:

  • the PDF downloaded

  • a screenshot stored offline


5. At the airport

Simply show your QR code.
If the scanner can’t read it:

  • increase screen brightness

  • zoom in a little

  • clean the screen

These simple steps usually solve all issues.


๐Ÿง  Required Tech Skills

  • using airline apps confidently

  • saving files offline

  • understanding QR codes

  • basic phone settings (brightness, screen rotation, battery mode)


๐Ÿ›ฐ️ Airport Navigation & Smart Travel Apps

Airport navigation app

Navigating a large international airport is much easier today thanks to smart apps and real-time digital displays. Airports now offer interactive maps, live gate updates, and notifications about delays or boarding changes.

๐Ÿ”ง How to use airport smart apps:

  • Download the official airport app (e.g., Heathrow, Frankfurt, Dubai).
  • Enable notifications for gate changes and delays.
  • Use interactive maps to navigate terminals more efficiently.
  • Locate restaurants, lounges, shops, bathrooms, or charging stations.


๐Ÿ“ก Airport Wi-Fi & Connectivity

Most major airports offer free Wi-Fi. For safety, use a VPN when accessing personal accounts, booking details, or anything involving payment information.

๐Ÿง  Required Tech Skills:

  • Using map-based apps (Google Maps, Apple Maps, airport maps)
  • Connecting safely to public Wi-Fi
  • Understanding push notifications and live updates

๐Ÿ›‚ Security Screening & Passport Control – eGates, Biometrics & AI



Modern airports rely on automated scanners, biometric systems, and AI-driven analysis to improve safety and speed. Travelers now typically pass through two digital checkpoints: security screening and automated passport control (eGate).

๐Ÿ” 1. Automated Security Screening

Next-generation scanners can detect electronics, liquid containers, and batteries without removing items from bags. AI analysis identifies potential threats using 3D imaging.

  • Present your mobile boarding pass (QR code)
  • Remove metal items and place them in the tray
  • Keep your phone ready for scanning

๐Ÿค– 2. eGate – Automated Passport Control


The Automated Passport Control area of the Atlanta International Airport(ATL) (source)


eGate systems use facial biometrics to match your face with the passport chip and photo stored digitally.

Steps:

  • Insert your passport into the scanner
  • Look directly at the camera (no hat, no sunglasses)
  • Wait for the green light and proceed

๐Ÿง  Required Tech Skills:

  • Using QR codes on smartphones
  • Understanding biometric verification
  • Basic camera adjustments (brightness, no filters)

๐Ÿ’บ In-Flight Technology — Wi-Fi, Seatback Screens & USB Power

In-flight movie screen

Modern aircraft cabins are equipped with advanced digital systems: seatback entertainment screens, USB/AC charging ports, on-board Wi-Fi, and touchscreen controls.

๐Ÿ“บ 1. In-Flight Entertainment (IFE)

Most long-haul flights provide personal screens with movies, shows, games, flight data, and sometimes food ordering features.

  • Use standard 3.5 mm headphones
  • Bring an adapter if your airline uses dual-pin audio jacks
  • Download your own content before departure — Wi-Fi may be slow

๐Ÿ“ก 2. On-board Wi-Fi

Many airlines offer Wi-Fi (free or paid). Speeds vary, but are usually suitable for messaging and light browsing.

Important rules:

  • Always enable Airplane Mode, then turn on Wi-Fi
  • Avoid sensitive apps (banking, payments) on unsecured networks
  • Expect lower speeds than on the ground

๐Ÿ”Œ 3. USB charging

Most modern aircraft provide USB power ports, and some include full AC outlets.

  • Bring a reliable charging cable
  • Don't expect fast charging — ports are low-power
  • Carry a small power bank as a backup

๐Ÿง  Required Tech Skills:

  • Managing Airplane Mode and Wi-Fi settings
  • Using offline apps and content
  • Understanding basic network limitations

๐Ÿ” Connecting Flights — Staying Informed & Keeping Your Luggage Safe

Airport connections

Connecting through busy airports can be stressful, especially with tight layovers. Modern apps and automated baggage-transfer systems make connections easier and more predictable.

๐Ÿ“ฑ 1. Real-time gate updates & notifications

Airline and airport apps send instant updates when:

  • your gate changes
  • your flight is delayed or departs earlier
  • boarding begins
  • your luggage is delayed in transfer

Always enable push notifications — they can save your connection.

๐Ÿ—บ️ 2. Navigating transit zones

Airport indoor navigation

Large international airports offer digital tools with:

  • walking-time estimates
  • interactive 3D terminal maps
  • terminal-to-terminal shuttle info

๐Ÿ›„ 3. Automatic baggage transfer (RFID tracking)

RFID-enabled baggage tags ensure your luggage is automatically routed to the next flight. Most airline apps will show if your bag has successfully reached the connecting aircraft.

๐Ÿง  Required Tech Skills:

  • Using airline apps
  • Understanding notifications and alerts
  • Reading digital maps and navigation tools

11/11/2025

A step-by-step guide on your first international flight

 

✈️ A Step-by-Step Guide: How Technology Shapes Your Journey Through an International Airport

1️⃣ Booking the Flight – Online Reservations

Booking flight online

Modern flight booking happens entirely online. From airline websites to apps like Expedia or Skyscanner, travelers can compare prices, choose seats, and pay digitally. Once booked, your e-ticket and confirmation code are emailed instantly—no paper required.

2️⃣ Online Check-In and Mobile Boarding Pass

Mobile boarding pass

Most airlines allow check-in 24 hours before departure. Use the airline’s app to choose a seat, confirm baggage, and download your mobile boarding pass—usually displayed as a QR code or saved in your phone’s wallet.

Tech skills: Airline app navigation, mobile wallets, PDF saving for offline access.

3️⃣ Baggage Drop and Smart Tags

Self-service baggage kiosk

Airports now feature self-service baggage kiosks. You scan your passport or boarding pass, print your bag tag, attach it, and place your luggage on the belt. Many airports use RFID-enabled tags for real-time tracking.

Tech skills: Kiosk interface use, scanning documents, understanding RFID technology basics.

4️⃣ Security Screening – Automated Control


Security now integrates automation and AI. Present your digital boarding pass at the scanner, and facial recognition confirms your identity. Smart scanners detect electronics and liquids automatically, reducing manual checks.

Tech skills: Device handling, data privacy awareness, following automated instructions.

5️⃣ Passport Control – E-Gates and AI Verification


Instead of long queues, travelers can use eGates. Insert your passport, look into the camera, and the system verifies your identity with biometric data. The process is fast and secure thanks to AI verification systems.

Tech skills: Biometric understanding, digital ID management, compliance with privacy policies.

6️⃣ Airport Navigation and Smart Apps

Airport navigation app

Large international airports provide smart navigation apps and digital signage. These show live updates for gates, restaurants, and lounges. Many airports offer Wi-Fi hotspots and charging stations for your devices.

Tech skills: Mobile app navigation, Wi-Fi connections, battery management.

7️⃣ In-Flight Technology


Modern aircrafts feature in-flight entertainment systems with touchscreens, Wi-Fi, and USB ports. Passengers can stream content, send messages, or work in the air. Remember to enable Airplane Mode and connect to the onboard network if available.

Tech skills: Wireless connections, file downloads, app usage in offline mode.

8️⃣ Arrival and Border Control

Baggage claim screen

Upon landing, automated systems assist with passport control and customs declarations. You can track luggage through the airline app and receive push notifications when your bag is on the carousel.

Tech skills: Mobile tracking apps, e-customs form filling, notification settings.

9️⃣ Connecting Flights


Smart display boards and airline apps update gate numbers automatically. RFID and IT systems transfer your checked luggage seamlessly between flights. In some airports, augmented reality (AR) navigation assists travelers in real time.

Tech skills: Time management, digital notifications, AR navigation awareness.

๐Ÿ”Ÿ Smart Travel Tips

Travel tech tools
  • Always save your boarding pass as a PDF backup.
  • Use a VPN when connecting to public Wi-Fi.
  • Track flights in real-time with apps like FlightRadar24.
  • Store important travel documents in the cloud for quick access.
Tech skills: Cloud backups, VPN setup, flight-tracking apps.

๐Ÿงพ Printable Pre-Travel Checklist

  • ✔️ Flight booked and payment confirmed
  • ✔️ Mobile boarding pass saved (PDF + app)
  • ✔️ Devices charged and power bank ready
  • ✔️ VPN and travel apps installed
  • ✔️ Cloud copies of ID and documents

If you want to repeat the material in more detail, please see:

Tch Skills for Travalers

10/31/2025

How to make a network cable - Crimping a network (LAN) cable.

 You don't have to be a computer network administrator to get into a situation where you have to attach a connector (RJ 45 or RJ 46) on the spot;


Simply, you bought a TV that also has LAN available, in order to be connected to the Internet wired, you need a network cable to your router. If the connection goes through the ceiling and you have to drill holes, it is difficult to run the cable with the connectors already installed.

The procedure itself is called "Crimping" and it is nothing complicated, the only thing that requires a suitable tool, and a suitable arrangement of wires considering the purpose of the cable.

So let's go;

You need a network cable of suitable length (every IT shop has it) and a pair of LAN connectors, and you can borrow a crimping tool:


First of all, the insulation should be removed from the mains cable, either with a tool or with a scalpel. What length of bare wires (pairs) should be left, you will understand on the spot when you try to push them into the connector, because fixing with pliers goes first over the insulation (physical contact) while at the same time establishing contact with the contacts (electrical contact), by breaking through their thin plastic sheath with sharp tin contacts (which are integrated into the connector).


How you will arrange your personal wires depends first of all on what type of cable you want to make: 

T568A or T568B

After that, the wires should be arranged according to the TIA/EIA 568 standard A or B. In case of making a crossover cable, one connector is made according to the A standard and the other according to B. For non-crossover cables, both connectors have the same arrangement and it does not matter whether A or B is used. For normal connection, a non-crossover cable is used.


The combination of these two standards (on one side one type of connection (T568A) and on the other another (T568B) is needed, for example, when you network two computers directly with a network cable...
That is, you connect their network cards directly, with a crossed network cable. (one standard to another)

When you have chosen the combinavia, insert your personal one into the connector, then into the pliers and, like any other good thing, just squeeze :)...

So step 1.





step 2.



Result: your cable is ready, connect it! In case it doesn't work, there are also testers to test the LAN cable....



Top 10 Most Stable Companies for Long-Term Investing

  Top 10 Most Stable Companies for Long-Term Investing (2025 Overview) Introduction Long-term investing focuses on companies that show: ✔...