Which Mask?

I've been looking for a mask that's at least as good as N95. When I searched for N95 on Amazon, they kept defaulting to cycling masks like this one. That gives the impression those are N95 equivalent. They have carbon filters. They look safe. I did some research. According to this article, cycling masks do NOT filter viruses. "And if you’re worried about infectious viruses and bugs, a bike mask won’t help; instead, you’ll need to look for something with a European PPE or US MDC classification."

That's what I needed to know. Sometimes, I see KN95 masks. It has N95 in the name. Is it the same? This article that includes a short video and a chart from 3M explaining the differences says they're basically the same. They both filter 95%. The KN95 has a standard regarding how the mask fits that the N95 doesn't. N95 may be slightly easier to breathe in, but the difference is slight. I ordered a 30-pack of KN95 from Amazon. Including shipping, it comes out to just under $30. At about a dollar a mask it's the best price I've found. I do have a concern about how the fit looks in the pictures. I hope the actual product is flexible enough to fit properly.

This page has a chart about 2/3 of the way down that compares various masks, mostly 3M.

The best mask is still a respirator that uses filters of this variety. 95% is just okay. It's not great. Since 3M filters are being withheld from sale, I may get a Honeywell mask to replace my 3M and wear that to the store when I finally go back again.

Internet problem sneak preview.

I've been looking at Sprint and Visible to solve the 1.5Mbps internet speed problem I have with Windstream. I've ordered a phone from Visible that can be used as a 5Mbps hotspot. They have one-day shipping. I ordered it yesterday, but it was after six. Still no tracking number. I've been doing speed tests with my current phone. I can get over 4Mbps near my computer with some tests around 6Mbps and spikes up to 10Mbps. Weather affects speed. It's been raining a lot. Sometimes I get 2 or 3Mpbs. The phone that's coming has more 4G spectrum bands than mine. I'm hoping for at least a solid 5Mbps for the hotspot limit and higher with the phone alone. Time will tell. Next week I plan to have a post about my experience and whether using a cell phone hotspot for internet works in the real world.

It turns out I can get Visible unlimited for $25/month.

Rabbits are having a virus problem of their own.

The government is sending out pre-paid debit cards. Since it involves two cities, this may be a test run for future "stimulus" payments.

The other day I quoted a permanent job loss figure of 42%. YouTube recommended a video that explains that figure. It's based on surveys of businesses combined with historical data. The explanation is within the first minute.

Have a great weekend.