tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12185421803463072612024-03-13T08:20:59.360-04:00My PC Crashed!Ramblings and Musings from an I.T. TechForresthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07603216871394676241noreply@blogger.comBlogger70125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1218542180346307261.post-28583651335940434722013-11-27T12:26:00.002-05:002013-11-27T12:26:10.970-05:00Windows 8<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
SLACKER!<br /> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_wKbOE_hbVs/UpYht1BdFOI/AAAAAAAAAYc/cptt5mLEM9Y/s1600/images.jpg" /> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>Does this count as Facebook?</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Wow, has it seriously been over two years since I updated? Can I blame the economy? Tough I.T. market? Price of tea in China? Nope, it was me. Totally forgot about updating it. I did forget. And I would have gotten away with it too, if it wasn't for you meddling kids and your stupid dog.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Anyway it is time to look at Windows 8. Windows 8 is loved by many and hated by just as many. The problem with Windows 8 is that it was designed to run on tablets, which it does perfectly. But when they moved the exact same OS over to the desktop, they left in the table functionality, and that is where the problems lie.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Let me explain. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
On a touchpad, cursor movement is based on where your finger is placed on the screen at the time. On a mouse based system, cursor movement is based on where the pointer is in relation to your movement.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Since they left both in, users of the traditional desktop are confused as to why windows open and close, other applications launch when they weren't selected and do on.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Example:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
You are happily typing away in a word document and you go to move the mouse.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ywdu_INPLdE/UpYkKUodRBI/AAAAAAAAAYo/Ehv2ZQXGLOA/s1600/6a00e0098982228833017c3708dc89970b-pi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9GbRRr00yu0/UpYkKfmNozI/AAAAAAAAAYw/PwB-I_4XhMY/s1600/shot-kutools-705-316-kte.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="118" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9GbRRr00yu0/UpYkKfmNozI/AAAAAAAAAYw/PwB-I_4XhMY/s320/shot-kutools-705-316-kte.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>And who doesn't happily type documents?</i></div>
<br />
Poof! Your document disappears and now the weather is showing. Wait weather?!?! I was typing a document! Let me close this.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-y6YpyNSJPQI/UpYkLP-3z5I/AAAAAAAAAY4/GyUoKThDcZw/s1600/windows8app-5179591.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="175" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-y6YpyNSJPQI/UpYkLP-3z5I/AAAAAAAAAY4/GyUoKThDcZw/s320/windows8app-5179591.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>Your work is replaced with a shower of tears.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Well let me close this out. Wait, where is the start button?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tTCATj7L1XM/UpYkKVeL5eI/AAAAAAAAAZA/TJuBdpSFBUo/s1600/t0iDD1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="234" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tTCATj7L1XM/UpYkKVeL5eI/AAAAAAAAAZA/TJuBdpSFBUo/s320/t0iDD1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>"I'll just call my 8 year old grandchild. They can fix this."</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
What is up with the new icons? What happened to them all being the same size on the desktop? Who designed this thing? Oh wait, I remember now.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ywdu_INPLdE/UpYkKUodRBI/AAAAAAAAAY0/cOpSsZ-Bg5E/s1600/6a00e0098982228833017c3708dc89970b-pi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ywdu_INPLdE/UpYkKUodRBI/AAAAAAAAAY0/cOpSsZ-Bg5E/s320/6a00e0098982228833017c3708dc89970b-pi.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
Windows XP which officially retires next year was a great operating system. Windows Vista was horrible. Windows 7, another great system. Windows 8... (Are you seeing a pattern form yet?)<br />
<br />
Bottom line, Windows 8 is great on a tablet.. On the desktop.. You are left playing the strangest version of Uno ever. Wait do I click the red card looking icon or the blue one?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U4IGaFyhl48/UpYmm14bVLI/AAAAAAAAAZU/UTfMTeD4mUA/s1600/knight_poorly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U4IGaFyhl48/UpYmm14bVLI/AAAAAAAAAZU/UTfMTeD4mUA/s1600/knight_poorly.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fV8Omnjjq3g/UpYmMBVM5zI/AAAAAAAAAZM/chYTCJOnt2g/s1600/RedPillBluePill_full.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><i> "Chose wisely"</i></div>
<br />
<br />Forresthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07603216871394676241noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1218542180346307261.post-63950059894566224222011-03-10T16:35:00.002-05:002011-03-10T16:41:33.779-05:00Get ready for some spring cleaning!Yep, I've been a slacker, I know I haven't posted on here in some time. But you know what? Now is a good time for you to look at some spring cleaning on your pc!<br /><br />Little checklist<br /><br />- Update your Antivirus program(s)<br />- Update your Microsoft Windows<br />- Update hardware and software with the vendors<br />- Run defrag on your system<br />- Save your important docs, pictures, etc to a USB flashdrive *(if you don't have one, then get to the store. Seriously, they are about $10 for a 4 gig version now)*<br /><br />If you feel really brave, you can take the side (or top) off of the computer and spray it out with a can of compressed air (you can find those at Radio Shack, Staples, Best Buy, etc)<br /><br />Oh, most important of all. Run your antivirus program again. If you can't remember the last time you did, then you really should get to it! For some machines this may take an hour or so. (Or one episode of your favorite Prime Time show).<br /><br />There, now don't you feel better for having cleaned out your system?Forresthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07603216871394676241noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1218542180346307261.post-75596674383056801822010-09-25T08:38:00.003-04:002010-09-25T08:53:22.878-04:00The joys of IT workOne of the most annoying facts about being an I.T. person is when you are in the office is the fact that you feel like you have to sneak around. People see you as a free service to them to fix computers for them, their friends and family, 2nd cousins roommate from college. Need to run to the bathroom? Suddenly you feel like a downed pilot behind enemy lines trying to sneak past enemy patrols. And then it comes. The ambush. Someone stops to ask a question about something they saw on so-and-so's computer once on this tv show last year.<br />You stand there nodding endlessly, thinking to yourself, "Hurry up Speedy, I'm not hopping around like this because I plan on trying out for Dancing With the Stars."<br />If there is one thing I have learned is, don't fix the computers for these people at work, or you will find your spare time eaten up with a bench full of computers from them and everyone they know wanting free tech support. And the phone calls. Once someone gets word that you are an IT person, expect the phone calls to start. "Look I dropped my pc accidentally. Can you tell me over the phone how to fix this?"<br />My professor told us the other night he repairs computers. But he charges $400 for the repair. I asked him why. He said, "Once they know you fix them, they will constantly be bringing them over. You gotta train them. They want it fixed, make the 8-10 hours you spend on it profitable. Video card out? Pop in a $200 video card for them. Once they learn that it will cost them, they will stop bringing all but the most severe cases to you. And you get your life back."<br /><br />I will have to make note of that.Forresthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07603216871394676241noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1218542180346307261.post-6867998741689693982010-09-25T08:37:00.003-04:002010-09-25T08:38:23.835-04:00Slacker!Man has it really been that long since I kept up with this site? I am a total slacker! Maybe I should look at connecting it to my Facebook page, then it would update hourly. Anyway I promise to update this more often with tech tips!Forresthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07603216871394676241noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1218542180346307261.post-32447698209024681742010-03-25T13:41:00.002-04:002010-03-25T14:06:34.022-04:00Has it been that long?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_JW5xNGT7UVw/S6uhMZrPuhI/AAAAAAAAAVo/2e4-y56oGOg/s1600/Broken-Clock.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 198px; height: 214px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_JW5xNGT7UVw/S6uhMZrPuhI/AAAAAAAAAVo/2e4-y56oGOg/s400/Broken-Clock.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452629008284891666" border="0" /></a><br />Oops! Been a while since I posted on here. Well, time flies like an arrow. Fruit flies like a banana.<br />Anyway, have you updated your antivirus program lately? Or your AntiSpyware? No? Let's get to it then!<br /><br />Spring Cleanup time!<br /><br />1) Buy milk and eggs at the store<br /><br />Wrong list, let's try that again.<br /><br />1) Open your antivirus program, and check to make sure the database is updated. If not, run an update. The location of the updater will vary from program to program.<br />2) Update your Anti-Spyware application. Same as above, the location will vary.<br />3) Defrag your hard drive. In Windows, this will be located in Accessories\System Tools.<br /><br />Once you have done that, I would recommend going to the applications and setting a time once a week for a virus scan. (like say, running at 2am on Friday morning). Do the same for your anti-spyware also, but set it for a different time.Forresthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07603216871394676241noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1218542180346307261.post-31127610140065615862009-11-20T16:03:00.001-05:002009-11-20T16:13:27.642-05:00A few funny pics for your entertainment<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_JW5xNGT7UVw/SwcF7nF-7XI/AAAAAAAAAVg/pUlD07XlJ5Y/s1600/globalwarmingunderwear.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 224px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5406296399346068850" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_JW5xNGT7UVw/SwcF7nF-7XI/AAAAAAAAAVg/pUlD07XlJ5Y/s400/globalwarmingunderwear.jpg" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_JW5xNGT7UVw/SwcF7Z_3alI/AAAAAAAAAVY/OkA46IxTr7Y/s1600/mt-rushmore-backside.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 325px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5406296395830749778" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_JW5xNGT7UVw/SwcF7Z_3alI/AAAAAAAAAVY/OkA46IxTr7Y/s400/mt-rushmore-backside.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_JW5xNGT7UVw/SwcF6r_-rcI/AAAAAAAAAVQ/WxauiA3JSas/s1600/funny-pictures-bird-walks-behind-elephant.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5406296383483194818" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_JW5xNGT7UVw/SwcF6r_-rcI/AAAAAAAAAVQ/WxauiA3JSas/s400/funny-pictures-bird-walks-behind-elephant.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_JW5xNGT7UVw/SwcF6iXtgKI/AAAAAAAAAVI/MaTCuKC-XQc/s1600/selection_86_61.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5406296380898377890" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_JW5xNGT7UVw/SwcF6iXtgKI/AAAAAAAAAVI/MaTCuKC-XQc/s400/selection_86_61.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div>Forresthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07603216871394676241noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1218542180346307261.post-46550166860288922222009-09-14T17:13:00.002-04:002009-09-14T17:28:31.755-04:00Wow, what a differenceOk, here I am, almost a week after the Gastric bypass surgery, and I am still adjusting to everything. Normally I could sit down to a great big meal three times a day, and put away enough food for three.<br /><br />Now, the thought of food doesn't enter my mind. I find myself having to eat because I have to, not because I am hungry. It's all I can do to hold down 2-3 oz of food before I am full.<br /><br />Right now, I can only have liquids. Granted, it has moved up to soups, and sugar free puddings, and protein shakes, but it is a start.<br /><br />Well, here's to my new life!Forresthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07603216871394676241noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1218542180346307261.post-67856148561067387052009-05-14T15:45:00.004-04:002009-05-14T16:45:58.870-04:00Spring Cleaning!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_JW5xNGT7UVw/SgyA3veW44I/AAAAAAAAAUo/bl5Bz76py4M/s1600-h/Computer-cleanup.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 225px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_JW5xNGT7UVw/SgyA3veW44I/AAAAAAAAAUo/bl5Bz76py4M/s400/Computer-cleanup.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5335781353652151170" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Updated your antivirus and antispyware software lately? It's time again. Plus, it wouldn't hurt to run a defrag on the hard drive as well also. Have you wiped the monitor and keyboard clean too?<br />Did you know the <a href="http://abcnews.go.com/Health/Germs/Story?id=4774746&page=1">average computer keyboard is 100 times dirtier than a toliet</a>? AGH! Time to clean that thing up. But how often should I do this?<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_JW5xNGT7UVw/SgyA3w-VECI/AAAAAAAAAUw/g0EXnhDTBaQ/s1600-h/dirty+computer+.preview.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 268px; height: 179px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_JW5xNGT7UVw/SgyA3w-VECI/AAAAAAAAAUw/g0EXnhDTBaQ/s400/dirty+computer+.preview.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5335781354054684706" border="0" /></a>Inside of a typical home pc.<br /></div><br />So, here is a rough idea of how often to clean your computer.<br /><br /> * User who does not smoke and has no pets - Clean the computer every five months.<br /> * User who does not smoke and has pets - Clean the computer every four months.<br /> * User who smokes but has no pets - Clean the computer every three months.<br /> * User who smokes and has pets - Clean the computer every two months.<br /> * Business with clean office environment - Clean the computers every five months.<br /> * Business with clean office environment; however, multiple users use each computer - Clean the computer every three months.<br /> * Business that is a factory environment or allows smoking - Clean the computer every two months.<br /> * School computers with young adult users - Clean the computer every three months.<br /> * School computers with pre-teen users - Clean the computer every month. In some cases, this may need to be weekly or daily.”<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_JW5xNGT7UVw/SgyCM7fT6vI/AAAAAAAAAVA/Axmcjc-Qrbw/s1600-h/bubbles.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 232px; height: 232px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_JW5xNGT7UVw/SgyCM7fT6vI/AAAAAAAAAVA/Axmcjc-Qrbw/s400/bubbles.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5335782817166256882" border="0" /></a><br />To clean computer component by component follow next tips:<br /><br /> 1. First - put power off – turn the cable from the outlet for safety reasons.<br /><br /> 2. Monitor can be cleaned with moist (not wet), soft rag or you can buy a tool for cleaning the monitor (cleaner) and clean it with soft duster (do not add the tool for cleaning directly on the monitor).<br /><br /> 3. The keypad is very hard to clean because there are plenty of places where dirt can be located. First, turn it upside down and shake it. After that blow up the dust between the keys with hair dryer (put it in the cold) or compressed air in cans (cost- $5 - $10). If you use a compressor be careful because the pressure is very large and can damage the keyboard. At the end - with moisten rag with alcohol pass between the keys. If you have a laptop be very careful, or you will break a key off.<br /><br /> 4. Clean the mouse - the upper and lower sides clean with paper or cloth moisten with alcohol.<br /><br /> 5. Clean the computer case in the yard or balcony because it has a larger quantity of dust. Disconnect all cables from the case. With screwdriver unscrew the screws and open the case (Only if you know what you are doing!). First (don’t forget) blow out the power supply with compressed air in cans, or some electric dust cleaner. Use the brush used for housing to clean non electronic parts of the case (valves on processor and graphic card, passive refrigerators etc.). Be aware – do not touch electronic components. If your computer case has a lot of dust blow it with compressor or absorb it with electronic dust cleaner.<br /><br />More tips: Clean the computer case every 3-6 months, depending on where your computer is located. If your computer is on floor you'll need to clean more often than the one that is placed on a higher position (ex. on the table). To preserve keyboard clean, do not eat and drink on it and don’t work with dusty and dirty hands. Clean the keyboard as often as possible because when dirt once goes between the keys, you will not be able to remove the dust without a full segmentation.<br /><br />The average life of a pc is 3-5 years. Doing this, you can extend the life of the computer well beyond that.Forresthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07603216871394676241noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1218542180346307261.post-65083851815849414252009-04-20T21:51:00.001-04:002009-04-20T21:51:11.595-04:00Twitter has a problem buildingTwitter, while a great application, is about to have a big problem on its hands. Spam has invaded the Twitterverse, and it looks like it is about to become a big issue.
<br />Several people have reported issues already about this, and have been pushing Twitter to adopt new methods.
<br />
<br />Normally it starts when you start to see a lot of people that you dont know showing up as followers.
<br />
<br />The spammer has a program called Twitterhawk, that scans for keywords from everyone it follows.
<br />
<br />Now, lets say you are at the store, and you 'tweet' that you are having trouble finding shoes. Twitterhawk kicks into gear, and messages you via Twitter, sending you a website of their choosing, saying something along the lines of "I notice you are interested in shoes. There is a great website that you would be interested in here..http://blahblah.."
<br />
<br />For more information on how Twitter is being abused by spammers, check out this link...
<br />
<br />http://www.stoptwitterspam.com
<br />
<br />To scan your account, go to TwerpScan here:
<br />http://twerpscan.com/Forresthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07603216871394676241noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1218542180346307261.post-80334344843452499402009-04-03T07:29:00.001-04:002009-04-03T07:29:06.611-04:00Conflicker VirusOk, so, Conflicker wasn't as big of an impact as everyone thought. Still, it should have been a wakeup call to let you know it is time to update your antivirus program, if you haven't already.
<br />
<br />Most antivirus programs already do some form of automatic update. Some the older versions don't. If yours is one of these, it may be time to upgrade.
<br />
<br />If you do not want to pay for a new program, there are several free alternatives out there.
<br />
<br />Avast! Antivirus for home
<br />http://www.avast.com
<br />
<br />AVG Antivirus
<br />http://free.avg.com
<br />
<br />Remember, an ounce of prevention.........Forresthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07603216871394676241noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1218542180346307261.post-12040310486336821022009-03-17T19:45:00.005-04:002009-03-17T19:57:15.346-04:00Where oh where has my facebook gone?<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_JW5xNGT7UVw/ScA2piOGlyI/AAAAAAAAAUY/lbTxabrN5ZA/s1600-h/FaceBook_256x256.png"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5314307647485679394" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 139px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 128px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_JW5xNGT7UVw/ScA2piOGlyI/AAAAAAAAAUY/lbTxabrN5ZA/s400/FaceBook_256x256.png" border="0" /></a> So, first facebook gets into a lot of hot water by updating their <a href="http://www.cbc.ca/technology/story/2009/02/18/facebook-terms.html?ref=rss">terms of service.</a> And now, they have changed the layout completely. Some are happy with these changes, but other purists, do not.<br /><br />If you are a purist, and want facebook to look the way it did beforehand, there is hope. (KINDA)<br />The only thing is that it requires addons to Firefox. So if you have no problem with that, then continue onward.<br /><br />First off, you will need Firefox, which, if you don't have, you can get here: <a href="http://www.mozilla.com/en-US/firefox/">http://www.mozilla.com/en-US/firefox/</a><br /><br />Now, you will need an addon for firefox called GreaseMonkey, which is here:<br /><a href="https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/748">https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/748</a><br /><br />Restart the Firefox browser, and go here to get a script for greasemonkey:<br /><a href="http://userscripts.org/scripts/show/44271">http://userscripts.org/scripts/show/44271</a><br /><br />Click on the install button, and then wait for it to install. Once that is done, restart the Firefox browser again, and try out Facebook.<br /><br />The changes aren't massive, but it should bring back some of the look of the old Facebook that a lot of us are used to.Forresthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07603216871394676241noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1218542180346307261.post-48412048673262724962009-02-11T14:31:00.002-05:002009-02-11T14:36:22.504-05:00Classic TV, part 2<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_JW5xNGT7UVw/SZMnyU2S2hI/AAAAAAAAAUQ/lbt9827btxU/s1600-h/images.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 101px; height: 126px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_JW5xNGT7UVw/SZMnyU2S2hI/AAAAAAAAAUQ/lbt9827btxU/s400/images.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5301624931888585234" border="0" /></a>Well, it seems CBS has jumped into the notion that people are interested in older tv shows, and launched their channel to suit.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.cbs.com/classics/">CBS Classics</a><br /><br />You can find a variety of shows, such as the original Star Trek, Love Boat, Have Gun Will Travel, Twilight Zone, Perry Mason, and more.<br /><br />Me? I'm loving the original episodes of Star Trek are now online.<br /><br />Give it a try. Relive your childhood again with these older shows.Forresthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07603216871394676241noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1218542180346307261.post-25910276833613664162009-02-10T21:44:00.000-05:002009-02-10T21:52:35.770-05:00FrankenbrowserEver feel like tweaking some of the inner workings of Firefox? Now you too can play Dr. Frankenstein with these simple steps.<br /><br />Step one: Type about:config in the address bar and hit enter<br /><br />Step two: Make the following modifications to the file by typing in the values on the respective fields to get the desired result (feel free to experiment)<br /><br />1. To enable/disable Single Click Select URL of address bar browser.urlbar.clickSelectsAll = True browser.urlbar.clickSelectsAll = False<br /><br />2. To auto Complete URL while typing in the address Bar browser.urlbar.autoFill=True<br /><br />3. To set the number of auto complete URL in the address bar browser.urlbar.maxRichResults = #<br />(# indicates the number of auto complete URLs shown. The default is 12)<br /><br />4. To disabler Browser Toolbar Tipbrowser.chrome.toolbar_tips = False<br /><br />5. To paste copied content by clicking the center button on the mousemiddlemouse.paste = True<br /><br />6. To disable blinking textbrowser.blink_allowed = False<br /><br />7. To create a single close button to for all Firefox Opened Tabs.browser.tabs.closeButtons = 3<br /><br />8. To increase number of recently closed tabs.browser.sessionstore.max_tabs_undo=15<br /><br />9. Right click view source in your editorview_source.editor.external=Trueview_source.editor.path= Path of Editor<br /><br />10. To enable fast scrolling across tabstoolkit.scrollbox.scrollIncrement =75<br /><br />11. To stop displaying website icon in address bar and on the tabsbrowser.chrome.site_icons = False<br /><br />12. To enable spell check in text fieldslayout.spellcheckDefault = 2<br /><br />13. To speed up the browser<br /><br />network.http.max-connections 30 to 96<br />network.http.max-connections-per-server 15 to 32<br />network.http.max-persistent-connections-per-server 6 to 8<br />network.http.pipelining false to true<br />network.http.proxy.pipelining false to true<br />network.http.pipelining.maxrequests 30 to 8<br />network.http.pipelining.ssl false to true<br />network.http.proxy.pipelining false to true<br /><br />14. To disable annoying browser behavior<br />Change the followowing values to 'false'dom.disable_window_open_feature.titlebar dom.disable_window_open_feature.menubar dom.disable_window_move_resizedom.disable_window_open_feature.toolbar<br /><br />15. To show more tabs on single windowbrowser.tabs.tabMinWidth = 75<br /><br />16. To display search results in new tabbrowser.search.openintab=True.Forresthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07603216871394676241noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1218542180346307261.post-91171735624831078342009-02-03T08:37:00.001-05:002009-02-03T08:48:06.744-05:00<p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_JW5xNGT7UVw/SYhIvrOMqxI/AAAAAAAAAUI/kJ2DPHSoP74/s1600-h/images.jpeg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 137px; height: 103px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_JW5xNGT7UVw/SYhIvrOMqxI/AAAAAAAAAUI/kJ2DPHSoP74/s400/images.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5298564945494715154" /></a><br /></p><p>When you hear the word 'Galleon', images of pirates, and swordfights, and parrots on your shoulder pop into your head. Visions of sailing the caribbean and sacking merchant ships swirl around.</p><p>But there is another type of Galleon, and this one makes your TiVo its home port.</p><p><a href="http://galleon.sourceforge.net/">Galleon HME </a></p><p>This application sits on one of the computers in your home network. Download the program, and run it, and you have access to all kinds of features via your TiVo. Features such as:</p><ul><li>Play MP3 files using the builtin player or with your favorite Winamp skins.</li><li>View your photo collection using many slideshow effects and background music.</li><li>Listen to online streaming radio stations including Shoutcast stations.</li><li>View local weather forecasts and alerts.</li><li>View internet webcams.</li><li>Read your email.</li><li>Read your favorite RSS feeds.</li><li>Automatically download recordings from your TiVo using keywords.</li><li>Automatically download your favorite podcasts.</li><li>View local movie listings.</li><li>Copy video files from your PC to your TiVo using GoBack.</li><li>View Internet Slideshows.</li><li>View online Videocasts.</li><li>View upcoming events in your area.</li><li>View traffic conditions in your area.</li><li>Send instant messages with Jabber.<br /><br /></li></ul><p>Now, there is some slight configuration you will need to do to some of these apps, such as pointing audio/video folders to shared folders on your home network. But with a little adjusting here and there, you have a great interactive TV.</p><p>Show off your home movies, and family pictures on your TV, or listen to streaming music in the background while you work around the house. Wanna see a movie, look for what is playign and in some cases, buy the tickets via the TiVo!</p><p>Try it out today, matey....and soon you will be swashing your buckle across the internet too..</p>Forresthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07603216871394676241noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1218542180346307261.post-25200981574714608402009-01-23T22:34:00.002-05:002009-01-23T22:49:20.289-05:00BIOS CODES<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_JW5xNGT7UVw/SXqM48LpY3I/AAAAAAAAAUA/wRUXMWcYWm0/s1600-h/scorched-atx-power-3.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5294699221782979442" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 225px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 119px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_JW5xNGT7UVw/SXqM48LpY3I/AAAAAAAAAUA/wRUXMWcYWm0/s400/scorched-atx-power-3.jpg" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_JW5xNGT7UVw/SXqM43ARsfI/AAAAAAAAAT4/06HkJ6wYJLw/s1600-h/fried+motherboard.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5294699220393112050" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 227px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 133px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_JW5xNGT7UVw/SXqM43ARsfI/AAAAAAAAAT4/06HkJ6wYJLw/s400/fried+motherboard.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />There are no words that come to mind when you sit down to your pc, and get nothing. No screen, no desktop, nothing at all. Well, except that beeping noise you now hear when the pc is powered back up.<br /><br />Did you know that the noise you are hearing is actually a message from your computer telling you what is wrong? If you ever hear it, listen carefully. There is often a series of short and long beeps, sort of like computer morse code.<br /><br />That is what is known as a BIOS BEEP CODE. Normally, when you power up your machine, you will hear one quick beep, or two quick beeps depending on who made the thing.<br /><br />If you are curious as to what the full codes are, here is a website for you.<br /><a href="http://bioscentral.com/">BIOSCENTRAL</a><br /><br />You will need to know the BIOS maker of your machine. Normally this is shown on the initial bootup screen when you turn the pc on. Look at the screen again, somewhere on there is the identification.<br /><br />Knowing what the bios beeps mean, can often arm you with vital forehand knowledge and let you repair the problem yourself. Or if you take it somewhere you can inform them and fill secure with your inner geek.Forresthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07603216871394676241noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1218542180346307261.post-81420781186821626532009-01-18T12:41:00.002-05:002009-01-18T13:03:25.464-05:00New Broadband Plan<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_JW5xNGT7UVw/SXNpxLKoFYI/AAAAAAAAATo/5Xd_OCUU2EA/s1600-h/colonists_map.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 378px; height: 306px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_JW5xNGT7UVw/SXNpxLKoFYI/AAAAAAAAATo/5Xd_OCUU2EA/s400/colonists_map.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5292690280622331266" border="0" /></a><br />Part of President Elect Obama's $825 billion dollar infrastructure plan is a $6 billion dollar national broadband plan for the U.S. Part of that money will be used to set standards as to what constitutes broadband, to create a map of what areas have high speed, and to set open access areas.<br /><br />I love this idea. It is about time someone has stepped forward to make a move for our country as far as our technology is concerned. But, there is a problem with this.<br /><br />As far as our country is concerned, we are far behind the rest of the world in our internet speed and availability. Corruption. Lobbyists. Failure to innovate until forced. As long as this old school of politics is in place, nothing will change.<br /><br />The major providers currently list high speed internet as a point just slightly faster than dialup. Why? Because anything that would map out the true speeds would show that they 'cherry pick' areas to allow access, and don't truly offer services everywhere. And do you think they will allow a bill to pass that sets forth 'open access' areas that offer free service?<br /><br />Let me give you an example. Internet phone service. When this technology started to take off, and people were leaving the older POTS line (Plain Old TRelephone Service), the phone companies complained. A competitor came up offering unlimited phone service for next to nothing, and they were losing users. So they lobbyed and got extra fees and taxes, and other restrictions added to the Internet phone service providers. Some areas purposly degraded the internet phone data. Then they began to offer internet phone service to win people back.<br /><br />Another example is this... Look at the bigger cities. For years, high speed internet service has been available and at a variety of speeds. Now, compare that to a rural area. I know of some people just outside of town that can only get dialup access, because the local providers don't want to spend money to run lines there. And here's the kicker. With most providers dropping dialup access, they've been informed internet won't be available much longer. Welcome to the 21st century.<br /><br />Anyway, back to my point. I love this new initiative for broadband. But, as long as you have people in washington who are bought out by lobbyists, news jouralists who don't seem to care about the corruption, and people who have no clue what the 'series of tubes' are, i'm afraid any plan to move our technology infrastructure forward isn't going to be much more than a 'tupperware' party that gives a great show.Forresthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07603216871394676241noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1218542180346307261.post-51454287372667619592009-01-13T21:13:00.002-05:002009-01-13T21:19:16.238-05:00So I tried to install the Windows 7 BetaI started the update about 11am this morning. And now...10 hours later... it fails.<br /><br /><em><strong>The upgrade was not successful. Your previous version of Windows is being restored.</strong></em><br /><br />So, the lesson here is....Beta software is like buying something at the flea market. Sometimes you find a Monet, and other times it's the picture of the Dogs Playing Poker.Forresthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07603216871394676241noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1218542180346307261.post-13964340824180382462009-01-13T09:43:00.003-05:002009-01-13T10:14:17.730-05:00Wireless Security<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_JW5xNGT7UVw/SWyoquBTEoI/AAAAAAAAATY/TZP2cFVfRCQ/s1600-h/Hacker_d70focus_1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 361px; height: 241px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_JW5xNGT7UVw/SWyoquBTEoI/AAAAAAAAATY/TZP2cFVfRCQ/s400/Hacker_d70focus_1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5290789114114937474" border="0" /></a><br />So, you have a high speed modem in your house, and you finally made the decision to get a wireless router, and share your connection in your home. But, is your network secure?<br /><br />One of the first rules of wireless security is to understand there is no such thing as true security. For instance, if someone wants to break into your house bad enough, they are going to get in.<br /><br />So, what does that mean for you? It means that you need to set something in place to discourage hackers. If they come down your street, and scan for wireless networks and they see yours has security features enabled, but the other networks on the street aren't, they will go for the easier target.<br /><br />So what can you do? Well, Wireless routers come with two basic wireless features built in. WEP, and WPA.<br /><br />WEP is Wireless Equivalent Privacy. This is the very basic encryption security. Basically you generate a wireless key, and then enter it on whatever machine will access your network.<br /><br />WPA is WiFi Protected Access. This is an enhanced wireless key security, and considered to be better than WEP.<br /><br />There are other advanced security features out there to keep your wireless network safe, and I am aware that these can be easily hacked if needed. This post is just a starter guide to point you in the direction of wireless security.<br /><br />If you interested in learning more, check these out:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:85%;" ><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Wireless-Security-End-Brian-Carter/dp/0764548867/ref=sr_1_30?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1231859177&sr=1-30">Wireless Security End to End</a><br /></span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:85%;" ><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Wi-Foo-II-Secrets-Wireless-Hacking/dp/0321393716/ref=sr_1_18?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1231859137&sr=1-18">WiFoo II - The Secrets of Wireless Hacking</a><br /><br /><br /></span><span style="font-size:85%;">Want to understand how hacking happens, and the basics of the hacker culture?</span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:85%;" ><br /></span><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /><a href="http://www.amazon.com/No-Tech-Hacking-Engineering-Dumpster/dp/1597492159/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1231858895&sr=8-3">No Tech Hacking: A Guide to Social Engineering, Dumpster Diving, and Shoulder Surfing</a><br /><br /></span></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_JW5xNGT7UVw/SWyu3sMDaEI/AAAAAAAAATg/V5BCwJxnlUk/s1600-h/the_more_you_know2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 332px; height: 219px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_JW5xNGT7UVw/SWyu3sMDaEI/AAAAAAAAATg/V5BCwJxnlUk/s400/the_more_you_know2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5290795934031243330" border="0" /></a>Forresthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07603216871394676241noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1218542180346307261.post-30098202335327690632009-01-07T09:54:00.007-05:002009-01-07T10:29:19.220-05:00Whatcha listening to?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_JW5xNGT7UVw/SWTDdgxvqLI/AAAAAAAAATA/AFoGfCCkNs0/s1600-h/sirius-xm-merger.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 210px; height: 210px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_JW5xNGT7UVw/SWTDdgxvqLI/AAAAAAAAATA/AFoGfCCkNs0/s400/sirius-xm-merger.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5288566774222006450" border="0" /></a><br />Anyone with a satellite radio knows how nice it is to listen to commercial-free radio in your car, or at home. But what if you want to listen at work or home, and you don't have an adapter?<br /><br />Well, there is a new program for your computer which can let you listen online to either Sirius or XM, depending on which you have. And it is by far better than the online players they offer.<br /><br /><a href="http://starplayrwin.geekstoolbox.com/publish.htm">Stayplayr for Windows</a>, by Geeks Toolbox is that program.<br /><br />It is still an Alpha version (which means they are working out the bugs, and the interface isn't complete).<br /><br />It is a great program, and I highly recommend it. All you need is a valid Sirius or XM account. Just enter the login information, and you are set.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_JW5xNGT7UVw/SWTESn3dP0I/AAAAAAAAATI/JRgIiUO_x8M/s1600-h/Image1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 388px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_JW5xNGT7UVw/SWTESn3dP0I/AAAAAAAAATI/JRgIiUO_x8M/s400/Image1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5288567686658080578" border="0" /></a><br />Here is a screenshot. As you can see, you can have 20 presets stored. It also shows you the album art of the song you are listening to, as well as a link to iTunes store to purchase the song you want.<br /><br />If you just use Sirius, and want a more 'stylish' look to your player, I recommend the <a href="http://blog.pengoworks.com/index.cfm/2008/9/29/Yahoo-Sirius-Radio-Widget-mod">Sirius Player for Yahoo Widgets.</a> You must first have <a href="http://widgets.yahoo.com/">Yahoo Widgets</a> installed to use this application.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_JW5xNGT7UVw/SWTHhwGMQRI/AAAAAAAAATQ/NuuLSN6-l_A/s1600-h/Image4.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 269px; height: 125px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_JW5xNGT7UVw/SWTHhwGMQRI/AAAAAAAAATQ/NuuLSN6-l_A/s400/Image4.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5288571245100286226" border="0" /></a><br />As you can see, this has a cleaner look than Starplayr. It has more of a standard Sirius player than Starplayr does. This one also allows for up to 30 channels to be stored, as well as skin support (which means you can download other files which will slightly change the color and appearance of the playerto your taste.)<br /><br /> I hope Starplayr can work on thier interface soon, as I really prefer it over this one.Forresthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07603216871394676241noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1218542180346307261.post-84129797095446815992009-01-05T18:42:00.000-05:002009-01-05T19:09:13.713-05:00Pick a card....Any Card...I saw that my sister posted on her facebook site about downloading the Google Chrome Browser and trying it out, just to have a different internet browser to try.<br /><br />So, I thought I would post about the many different browsers that actually are available for Windows.<br /><br />There are three main engines with the code that drives the web browser. Trident (for Explorer style), Gecko (for Firefox style) and Presto (for Opera style). Now I know that if you search there are many other styles out there, but I am focusing on the ones that mainly run on Windows.<br /><br />Everyone is familiar with Internet Explorer...But were you aware that there is a newer version out there? Version 8 Beta <a href="http://www.microsoft.com/windows/Internet-explorer/beta/default.aspx">*Click Here*</a><br /><br />Another popular browser is Mozilla Firefox. <a href="http://www.mozilla.com/en-US/firefox/">*Click Here*</a><br />Did you know there are other versions based off of Mozillas code?<br />Seamonkey is one of them. <a href="http://www.seamonkey-project.org/">*Click Here*</a><br /><br />There is also Opera <a href="http://www.opera.com/">*Click Here*</a><br /><br />And Safari <a href="http://www.apple.com/safari/">*Click Here*</a><br /><br />On the Linux side, they have the Konqueror browser, which is now available for Windows <a href="http://windows.kde.org/">*Click Here*</a><br /><br />And the new kid on the block, Google Chrome <a href="http://www.google.com/chrome">*Click Here*</a><br /><br />I left off a wide variety of other browsers, such as K-melon, Lunascape, Maxthon, Songbird, I-Rider, and many others.<br /><br />So give a different browser a try. You might find a new one you like.Forresthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07603216871394676241noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1218542180346307261.post-46071960241855383302008-12-31T15:57:00.003-05:002008-12-31T16:20:16.938-05:00Firefox Plugins - round 2<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_JW5xNGT7UVw/SVvc-dniITI/AAAAAAAAASw/y_n_dOYZ0do/s1600-h/FirefoxWallpaper.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_JW5xNGT7UVw/SVvc-dniITI/AAAAAAAAASw/y_n_dOYZ0do/s400/FirefoxWallpaper.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286061553309851954" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.getgspace.com/"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">GSpace</span></a> - Turns the 2 gigs of storage on your <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">GMail</span> account into a file server.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.hyperwords.net/firefox-beta3.html"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Hyperwords</span> </a>- neat little program. When you highlight something on a <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">web page</span>, this <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">addon</span> will give it functionality. (<span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Highlight</span> the word North Carolina and you can then search in the news, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">flickr</span>, google, and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">wikipedia</span>) <span style="font-style: italic;">Also has a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Babelfish</span> translation *</span><br /><br /><a href="http://www.customizegoogle.com/">Customize Google</a> - added functionality to google searches, such as mini pics of each link before you visit, removal of ads, and other customizable features.<br /><br /><a href="https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/139"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Imagezoom</span></a> - like it says. Right click on pictures and zoom in and out on them.<br /><br /><a href="https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/5203"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Minimap</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">addon</span></a> - this is a nice feature as it keeps listing of your current address <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">onhand</span>, and if you find an address online, you can highlight it, and choose <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">minimap</span>, and it will give you <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">directions</span> from your house.<br /><br /><a href="https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/1172"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">Searchbar</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">autosizer</span></a> - This keeps the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">searchbar</span> in the upper right hand corner to a minimal size, and only expands as you begin to type in it. Nice for keeping extra 'real estate' open on your browser window.<br /><br /><a href="https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/search?q=whats+the+tide&cat=all">Whats the tide</a> - Places a tide level indicator in the bottom right hand of <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">your</span> browser. Just <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">plugin</span> your closest location, and it will give you the tide readings in your area. Updates every five minutes.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.blogger.com/gears.google.com">Google gears</a> - Not a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20">firefox</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_21">addon</span>, but an addition to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_22">firefox</span> that speeds up web <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_23">activities</span>, such as <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_24">Wordpress</span>, and other blogs.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_JW5xNGT7UVw/SVvhJojzLyI/AAAAAAAAAS4/5JdlRG2BvVs/s1600-h/babelfish.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 225px; height: 126px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_JW5xNGT7UVw/SVvhJojzLyI/AAAAAAAAAS4/5JdlRG2BvVs/s400/babelfish.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286066143272054562" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-style: italic;">The '<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_25">BabelFish</span>' is a fish that translates speech</i><br /><i style="font-style: italic;">from one l</i><i style="font-style: italic;">an</i><i style="font-style: italic;"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_26">guage</span> to another</i><span style="font-style: italic;">. Taken from the </span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_27">Hitchhiker's</span> Guide to the Galaxy</span> </span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">series of books by Douglas Adams</span>.<br /><br />It's a fish you stick in your ear and it<br />translates for you. Obviously not real<br />plus sticking a live fish in your ear is<br />just plain <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_28">weird</span>. But funny.<br /></div>Forresthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07603216871394676241noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1218542180346307261.post-74302569148116706762008-12-16T09:21:00.005-05:002008-12-16T10:31:12.140-05:00Time for your medicine<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_JW5xNGT7UVw/SUe57yChbGI/AAAAAAAAARs/5JUWArBh1Gg/s1600-h/spybot_icon_png.png"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 173px; height: 173px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_JW5xNGT7UVw/SUe57yChbGI/AAAAAAAAARs/5JUWArBh1Gg/s320/spybot_icon_png.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5280393524810968162" border="0" /></a><br />Have you updated your antivirus, spywareblockers, and firewall lately? If not, it's time to do so.....<br /><br />While you are at it, why not defragment your hard drive? You do know what that means, don't you?<br /><br />Ok, then... Here's the Layman's Terms of it..<br /><br />When you write files to your hard drive, the data is put down on the drive in a continuous strip. Think of putting down a strip of tape on a blackboard. When another file is written, it goes down behind the first one. If the first file is removed, there is a 'gap' left. Any new files are written into these 'gaps' and often the files have to be broken into smaller parts in order to save them on the drive...<br /><br />Look here..<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_JW5xNGT7UVw/SUfJX4aQJKI/AAAAAAAAASM/N5E0i3VsjuY/s1600-h/fr1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 256px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_JW5xNGT7UVw/SUfJX4aQJKI/AAAAAAAAASM/N5E0i3VsjuY/s320/fr1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5280410500231865506" border="0" /></a><br />See how the data is on the drive? Defragmenting means that the hard drive rebuilds the broken pieces back into one file, and saves them back to the hard drive.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_JW5xNGT7UVw/SUfJjf0hYjI/AAAAAAAAASU/mRlABW-yJQk/s1600-h/fr2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 256px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_JW5xNGT7UVw/SUfJjf0hYjI/AAAAAAAAASU/mRlABW-yJQk/s320/fr2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5280410699789591090" border="0" /></a><br />This is a good thing, as an unfragmented drive will often lead to data loss, or even hard drive failure (see the hard drive has to read the data and all that bouncing around can eventually wear the drive out).<br /><br />If you are using windows XP and Vista, it is under the START MENU, ACCESORIES, SYSTEM TOOLS.Forresthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07603216871394676241noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1218542180346307261.post-31473496572348773442008-12-06T21:45:00.003-05:002008-12-06T21:58:48.308-05:00For December 7.....<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_JW5xNGT7UVw/STs5CiJUQ7I/AAAAAAAAARk/0HJHcvvuI8s/s1600-h/1941+pearl+harbor_jpg.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 186px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_JW5xNGT7UVw/STs5CiJUQ7I/AAAAAAAAARk/0HJHcvvuI8s/s320/1941+pearl+harbor_jpg.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5276874104083071922" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Those who cannot learn from history are doomed to repeat it </span>- George Santayana<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">The attack consisted of two aerial attack waves totaling 353 aircraft, launched from six Japanese aircraft carriers.</span></span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">The attack sank four U.S. Navy battleships and damaged four more. The Japanese also sank or damaged three cruisers, three destroyers, and one minelayer, destroyed 188 aircraft, and caused personnel losses of 2,402 killed and 1,282 wounded. The power station, shipyard, maintenance, and fuel and torpedo storage facilities, as well as the submarine piers and headquarters building were not hit. Japanese losses were minimal, at 29 aircraft and five midget submarines, with 65 servicemen killed or wounded.</span></span></div><h2 style="font-weight: normal;"> </h2><h2 style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size:100%;">FRANKLIN D. ROOSEVELT to Congress<br /></span></h2><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">December 8th, 1941</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><a href="http://www.usswestvirginia.org/audio/fdr-pearlharbor.mp3">Audio Link Here</a></span><br /></span><br /></div>Mr. Vice President, Mr. Speaker, Members of the Senate, and of the House of Representatives:<br /><br />Yesterday, December 7th, 1941 -- a date which will live in infamy -- the United States of America was suddenly and deliberately attacked by naval and air forces of the Empire of Japan.<br /><br />The United States was at peace with that nation and, at the solicitation of Japan, was still in conversation with its government and its emperor looking toward the maintenance of peace in the Pacific.<br /><br />Indeed, one hour after Japanese air squadrons had commenced bombing in the American island of Oahu, the Japanese ambassador to the United States and his colleague delivered to our Secretary of State a formal reply to a recent American message. And while this reply stated that it seemed useless to continue the existing diplomatic negotiations, it contained no threat or hint of war or of armed attack.<br /><br />It will be recorded that the distance of Hawaii from Japan makes it obvious that the attack was deliberately planned many days or even weeks ago. During the intervening time, the Japanese government has deliberately sought to deceive the United States by false statements and expressions of hope for continued peace.<br /><br />The attack yesterday on the Hawaiian islands has caused severe damage to American naval and military forces. I regret to tell you that very many American lives have been lost. In addition, American ships have been reported torpedoed on the high seas between San Francisco and Honolulu.<br /><br />Yesterday, the Japanese government also launched an attack against Malaya.<br /><br />Last night, Japanese forces attacked Hong Kong.<br /><br />Last night, Japanese forces attacked Guam.<br /><br />Last night, Japanese forces attacked the Philippine Islands.<br /><br />Last night, the Japanese attacked Wake Island.<br /><br />And this morning, the Japanese attacked Midway Island.<br /><br />Japan has, therefore, undertaken a surprise offensive extending throughout the Pacific area. The facts of yesterday and today speak for themselves. The people of the United States have already formed their opinions and well understand the implications to the very life and safety of our nation.<br /><br />As commander in chief of the Army and Navy, I have directed that all measures be taken for our defense. But always will our whole nation remember the character of the onslaught against us.<br /><br />No matter how long it may take us to overcome this premeditated invasion, the American people in their righteous might will win through to absolute victory.<br /><br />I believe that I interpret the will of the Congress and of the people when I assert that we will not only defend ourselves to the uttermost, but will make it very certain that this form of treachery shall never again endanger us.<br /><br />Hostilities exist. There is no blinking at the fact that our people, our territory, and our interests are in grave danger.<br /><br />With confidence in our armed forces, with the unbounding determination of our people, we will gain the inevitable triumph -- so help us God.<br /><br />I ask that the Congress declare that since the unprovoked and dastardly attack by Japan on Sunday, December 7th, 1941, a state of war has existed between the United States and the Japanese empire.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;"></span>Forresthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07603216871394676241noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1218542180346307261.post-77550036093698446012008-12-03T23:24:00.002-05:002008-12-03T23:47:55.473-05:00Whats on the tube tonight???<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_JW5xNGT7UVw/STdcTF7LdjI/AAAAAAAAARc/KYHkAkUO1lc/s1600-h/tvviejo.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 199px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_JW5xNGT7UVw/STdcTF7LdjI/AAAAAAAAARc/KYHkAkUO1lc/s320/tvviejo.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5275786971565487666" border="0" /></a><br />Man, there was nothing like <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">TV</span> in the old days. Four channels (if you had the rabbit ears just right) and we liked it that way. And remember the shows? They were awesome back then. Ever wish you could see those old shows again?<br /><br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">HULU</span> is a joint service with several major networks. It is an online video service with limited <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">commercial</span> interruptions. One of the great things about <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">HULU</span> is the major studios have been moving the older shows there. Full episodes for your viewing pleasure.<br /><br />Here is just a short list....<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.hulu.com/emergency">Emergency!</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.hulu.com/alf?c=Comedy/Sitcoms">Alf</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.hulu.com/bewitched?c=Comedy/Sitcoms">Bewitched</a><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.hulu.com/doogie-howser-md?c=Comedy/Sitcoms"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Doogie</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Howser</span> MD</a><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.hulu.com/mchales-navy?c=Comedy/Sitcoms"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">McHales</span> Navy</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.hulu.com/the-dick-van-dyke-show?c=Comedy/Sitcoms">The Dick Van Dyke Show</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.hulu.com/wkrp-in-cincinnati?c=Comedy/Sitcoms"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">WKRP</span> in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Cinncinati</span></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.hulu.com/barney-miller?c=Comedy/Sitcoms">Barney Miller</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.hulu.com/airwolf?c=Action-and-Adventure"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Airwolf</span></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.hulu.com/miami-vice?c=Action-and-Adventure">Miami Vice</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.hulu.com/simon-and-simon?c=Action-and-Adventure">Simon and Simon</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.hulu.com/hart-to-hart?c=Action-and-Adventure">Hart to Hart</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.hulu.com/starsky-and-hutch?c=Action-and-Adventure"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Starsky</span> and Hutch</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.hulu.com/adam-12?c=Drama">Adam 12</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.hulu.com/the-rockford-files?c=Drama">The Rockford Files</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.hulu.com/dragnet?c=Drama">Dragnet</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.hulu.com/kojak?c=Drama">Kojak</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.hulu.com/hill-street-blues?c=Drama">Hill Street Blues</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.hulu.com/swat?c=Action-and-Adventure">SWAT</a><br /></div><br />Oh, did I mention they have <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">full</span> movies too? Come on... Here's a few. Don't worry, it's all legal. The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">commerical</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">interruptions</span> pay for this..<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.hulu.com/the-return-of-a-man-called-horse?c=Action-and-Adventure">The Return Of A Man Called Horse</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.hulu.com/ghostbusters?c=Action-and-Adventure"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">Ghostbusters</span></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.hulu.com/three-amigos?c=Action-and-Adventure">Three Amigos</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.hulu.com/the-longest-day?c=Action-and-Adventure">The Longest Day</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.hulu.com/the-desert-rats?c=Action-and-Adventure">The Desert Rats</a><br /></div><br />And this is but a sample of all that is <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">available</span> too. Plus some of them are in 480p format. (That means, they play in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">HD</span> resolution, but you have to have a bit of a beefy PC to view it in that format).<br /><br />Tell me they don't bring back some memories. You know, my father kept something on top of the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">TV</span> that changed the channel.. We called it pliers. My sister and me were the original remote controls.. "Change that channel, Forrest...No, no. wait...try adjusting the antenna again...See if your mother has any tin foil..."<br /><br />With technology changing as fast as it does nowadays, I find it hard to remember <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">TV</span> when it was just a few channels. Currently we have I think 400 gazillion channels <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">available</span>. And you still can't find a good show. "What? Another Billy Maze infomercial? And what the heck is a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20">ShamWow</span>?"<br /><br />But there is hope.. One day, I will be able to tell my children.."We used to get up to change the channel. And we liked it that way..."Forresthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07603216871394676241noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1218542180346307261.post-2814871351939077982008-11-26T10:12:00.001-05:002008-11-26T10:22:50.327-05:00Extend the life of your laptop battery<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_JW5xNGT7UVw/SS1pnE0quvI/AAAAAAAAARU/8NnJezQlvSY/s1600-h/broken_laptop.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_JW5xNGT7UVw/SS1pnE0quvI/AAAAAAAAARU/8NnJezQlvSY/s320/broken_laptop.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5272986858751179506" border="0" /></a><br />Ever use your laptop and find the battery seems to die quickly? Well, here is a few tips on how to stretch out your battery life. Now remember, this isn't for everyday use when you are plugged into a wall. This is for those times when you are running on the battery.<br /><br /> 1. Brightness: The fastest way to suck the life out of a battery is leaving your brightness high. Turn it down as low as you possibly can without needing to up your glasses prescription. On most latops, using the function key and F9-F10 will set the brightness.<br /><br /> 2. Don’t use any external devices. USB and PC-Cards(aka PC-MCIA) use your battery to function, even when you aren’t using them. Have an EVDO card or maybe a USB mouse? Remove them if you can. Even a memory card reader in your PC-MCIA slot uses power just by being in there. The effect varies based on the type of device, but even a few minutes here and there (as you’ll see) add up significantly.<br /> 3. Single-task, not multi-task. The more you are doing at the same time with your PC, the more memory and CPU usage increases. Both of which directly use up battery. Close any applications you aren’t using, even the small ones. While your hard drive uses the battery too, if you are doing anything ‘productive’ you are probably hitting the drive on a regular (even if infrequent) basis anyway.<br /><br /> 4. Keep it cool. You can take a page out of the extreme gamer’s handbooks, and have your system perform more optimally by keeping it cool. Make sure your air vents (inflow and outflow) aren’t blocked by anything, which often occurs by poorly positioning your notebook on your lap (which is believed to have some other side-effects on men too, by the way). Heavy CPU and memory use all contribute to heat as well, hence my comment on multi-tasking above.<br /><br /> 5. Shut down unused services. MSN Messenger, Google Desktop Search, QuickTime, wireless managers, etc. They’ve all gotta go. You probably aren’t going to use them, and they all eat up valuable resources. If you really want to get this one right, a little bit of research is in order. While online, launch the task manager (control-shift-escape) and for each service that has your User Name, google it. There are a few good web sites out there which chronicle what all these mysterious services do, and you should be able to figure out which you need, and which you don’t. Important warning: if you aren’t comfortable with this lingo, you should skip this step, or get some techie friend to help you out. Less important warning: you may end up in a situation where you need to do a reboot after you get to your destination.<br /><br /> 6. Hibernate options Do Hibernate, Do Not Suspend. Laptops tend to use way too much battery when in suspend mode. Not sure why, but the ‘instant-on’ effect isn’t worth the extra 30-60 seconds it takes to get out of hibernation. Furthermore, the minor hit to the hard drive is unlikely to have a significant impact to your overall battery time. Also, if you weren’t aware, going in and out of hibernate is much better than a full startup/shutdown sequence.<br /><br /> 7. Darker wallpaper. Did you know that by using a darker wallpaper on your desktop, you use less power? Try to find a nice darker colored theme, and use it. This goes hand-in-hand with #1.<br /><br /> 8. Choose Wisely. Good: Word, Excel, Outlook, Text Editors. Bad: anything by Adobe (you think Microsoft has bloatware, have you noticed how long even Acrobat takes to launch these days???), all Google plugins, many ‘Widgets’, ‘Gadgets’, etc. All I can say is pick your battles wisely.<br /><br /> 9. Watch That Hard Drive. The more it spins, the more power it takes. Make sure you’ve set your basic power option to turn off your drive relatively fast, but not necessarily too fast. Some drives use more power getting started than staying running for short periods of time. At the end of the day, if you are doing anything that prevents the hard drive from spinning down ever, you are draining your battery more than needed.<br /><br /> 10. Power alarms Like a Boy Scout, Be Prepared. Make a point of configuring your ‘low power mode’ prior to using it. It may only take 5-10 minutes to get your system setup properly, but that just eats into your battery life if you do it unplugged. Once done with all the settings, the last thing you want to do before unplugging your power supply is hibernating the PC.<br /><br />By following these steps, you should be able to get another 45 minutes to an hour of life out of your battery. I can stretch my battery from 2 1/2 hours to 3:30.Forresthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07603216871394676241noreply@blogger.com1