One of the things you don't always plan for is your computer packing up when you least expect. Mine had a little virus infection earlier this week ad I had to take it in for repairs. But as it turned out, nothing, according to the repair guy, can be recovered as the virus has infected all the vital files and directories.
I don't normally leave my computer without anti-virus, but some reason, the anti-virus was not running when I discovered it. I'm not sure if it shut down itself or it was the virus the turned it off. It doesn't matter any more whichever happened, the damage has been done.
Luckily for me, I always back up my files for things like these - you never know when the bad guys will hit. This time, they hit badly. I'm not bothered about the computer because it can still be used after wiping the whole data. But what you can't get back it the data you will lose if there's no backup.
Although, most PC Repair shops promise to fix your computer and help remove virus infection, only a handful can actually fulfil that mission.
This is the computer, this time I have a new OS installation - Linux. Having heard so much about Ubuntu, I thought I would use this opportunity to install and try one of the most popular free and open source software out there. This is the second day and everything seems to be working smoothly. One thing though, I still don't know if I need any anti-virus.
If you know how to protect ones Linux system from viruses, please I would love to hear it in the comment.
Friday 24 December 2010
Saturday 11 December 2010
What Should Happen To WikiLeaks
If you have been following the news in the last week or so, you will have noticed how things - especially online communications and other people's private data can easily be put online. In an instant, this data is available for hundreds of millions of online users to access. What makes this very frightening is that the people behind this leaks do not separate national security data from what is of public interest.
In a way, some of the leaks showed what governments do behind closed doors - spying on each other, negotiating with our sworn enemies while publicly claiming that we don't negotiate with them, criticising their counterparts. Some even went to the extent of labelling their allies as weak. All these in a way makes you wonder if what we see is exactly how things are.
I mean, without these leaks, there was no way we could get a glimpse into the diplomatic wrangling that goes on on a daily basis between governments; and to some extent, between different departments of the same government. It is weird that these things happen. We used to think of them as something that only happened in fiction books and some countries in the old bloc.
As it turned out, it seemed as though no one country is spared - at least the ones that have something to do with world peace and security. At least that's what we're led to believe. We know that there are huge underground activities going on in almost all countries of the world, no matter how small that is. But these data is used by developed countries whose operatives and embassies report back to. What this means is that they have intelligence on that country and are able to work out how the people function and what makes them tick. So these intelligence in the wrong hands can be dangerous.
Going back to WikiLeaks. Disclosing cables and confidential communication data sent between government agencies is not only dangerous, but undermines the rule of law and violates the privacies of millions of innocent people.
What is it that they want to achieve by publishing the documents? They are not doing anybody any favours, instead, it's causing more damage than it is fixing. Does this publication make us better off? No. Does it help to protect us? No. Instead, what we have is a small online organisation for some reason wants to give our enemies the opportunity to see how we are being protected.
What do you think, should this guy be allowed to continue publishing these documents? Or should he be brought to face trial? I would love to hear your thoughts, please post them in the comment.
In a way, some of the leaks showed what governments do behind closed doors - spying on each other, negotiating with our sworn enemies while publicly claiming that we don't negotiate with them, criticising their counterparts. Some even went to the extent of labelling their allies as weak. All these in a way makes you wonder if what we see is exactly how things are.
I mean, without these leaks, there was no way we could get a glimpse into the diplomatic wrangling that goes on on a daily basis between governments; and to some extent, between different departments of the same government. It is weird that these things happen. We used to think of them as something that only happened in fiction books and some countries in the old bloc.
As it turned out, it seemed as though no one country is spared - at least the ones that have something to do with world peace and security. At least that's what we're led to believe. We know that there are huge underground activities going on in almost all countries of the world, no matter how small that is. But these data is used by developed countries whose operatives and embassies report back to. What this means is that they have intelligence on that country and are able to work out how the people function and what makes them tick. So these intelligence in the wrong hands can be dangerous.
Going back to WikiLeaks. Disclosing cables and confidential communication data sent between government agencies is not only dangerous, but undermines the rule of law and violates the privacies of millions of innocent people.
What is it that they want to achieve by publishing the documents? They are not doing anybody any favours, instead, it's causing more damage than it is fixing. Does this publication make us better off? No. Does it help to protect us? No. Instead, what we have is a small online organisation for some reason wants to give our enemies the opportunity to see how we are being protected.
What do you think, should this guy be allowed to continue publishing these documents? Or should he be brought to face trial? I would love to hear your thoughts, please post them in the comment.
Wednesday 24 November 2010
Practical Driving Test for beginners
This is a fairly random post. Although, I have been planning on writing a nice blog post, I have not really found the time to get around to doing it. For those few visitors to this blog, you will have noticed that it has not been updated in ages. Don't worry, I have not forgotten you. Things have been very tight. I now work most days; and the little free time I have is spent with the kids.
I have not forgotten you - instead, I will be back again soon to post a good and long over due post.
In the mean time, I just popped in for a quick post about my friends project. He's working on a few things lately including setting up a Driving test site. This is a site that contains information about how to plan, prepare and take your practical driving test.
For me, there's nothing better than looking and finding the information for something when you need it. That is why this new site is very useful. It is still an ongoing development, but the little information he has there is quite useful.
Be sure to check it out especially if you are still planning on taking your test, or know someone who is. There's nothing to lose - the information there includes videos and text content. I have just uploaded a few sample driving lesson video for those who learn more by watching examples.
Finally, if you need to replace your refrigerator's filter, see our review of MWF Water Filter for ideas on choosing and installing one.
I have not forgotten you - instead, I will be back again soon to post a good and long over due post.
In the mean time, I just popped in for a quick post about my friends project. He's working on a few things lately including setting up a Driving test site. This is a site that contains information about how to plan, prepare and take your practical driving test.
For me, there's nothing better than looking and finding the information for something when you need it. That is why this new site is very useful. It is still an ongoing development, but the little information he has there is quite useful.
Be sure to check it out especially if you are still planning on taking your test, or know someone who is. There's nothing to lose - the information there includes videos and text content. I have just uploaded a few sample driving lesson video for those who learn more by watching examples.
Finally, if you need to replace your refrigerator's filter, see our review of MWF Water Filter for ideas on choosing and installing one.
Tuesday 2 November 2010
Bose® IE2 audio headphones
I LOVE these headphones! I've always heard about the superior sound quality of Bose products, but these headphones are the first Bose product I've actually owned. Yes, they're more expensive than most headphones, but I think they are well worth the investment and light year above the basic headphones that come with iPods or other MP3 players.
I've tried non-Bose headphones in the $50 range before, and they were a disaster during exercise. The StayHere tips that come with the IE2 headphones are a wonder - you can run, do the eliptical, whatever you need with no issues. You get both StayHere tips in 3 sizes, and also the regular tips in 3 sizes as well - which to me goes above and beyond anything most headphones include. The IE2s also come with a protective case.
Of course, I must discuss the sound quality since these are Bose headphones after all. The sound is simply great - amazingly clear and beautiful. These also block the outside sounds very well - used them on a loud street and on the plane and was very pleased both times.
I'm a convert to Bose
I've tried non-Bose headphones in the $50 range before, and they were a disaster during exercise. The StayHere tips that come with the IE2 headphones are a wonder - you can run, do the eliptical, whatever you need with no issues. You get both StayHere tips in 3 sizes, and also the regular tips in 3 sizes as well - which to me goes above and beyond anything most headphones include. The IE2s also come with a protective case.
Of course, I must discuss the sound quality since these are Bose headphones after all. The sound is simply great - amazingly clear and beautiful. These also block the outside sounds very well - used them on a loud street and on the plane and was very pleased both times.
I'm a convert to Bose
Saturday 4 September 2010
Sennheiser PXC 450 NoiseGard Active Noise-Canceling Headphones
I originally bought these headphones for airplane rides about 6 months ago. However, I found it didn't cancel out all the airplane noise as well as my JBuds J2 did. I noticed I had to turn my ipod volume up higher with the Sennheiser than with the JBuds. However, I still really like these headphones. While they may not be the best noise cancelling for airplanes they are awesome at cancelling out background noise such as tv or people talking. I listened to them at my boyfriend's parents house when his parents (who listen to the tv louder than my grandparents do) watched tv. I was amazed at how much of the noise it cancelled out!
My favorite thing about the earphones is how you can use them without the noise cancelling feature. Sometimes I want to be able to tell when other people are trying to talk to me. That was one of the main selling points in buying these Sennheiser headphones compared with other noise cancelling headphones .
As for the sound, I am very happy with it. I am not an audiophile by any means but I absolutely love listening to music and these Sennheiser headphones sound amazing to me.
My only complaint about the headphones is that they tend to make my ears hot. I guess that's how it is with a lot of noise cancelling headphones though since they have to completely surround the ear. When I was living in Hawaii it was more of a bother, but now that I'm back in Washington where it's not so hot I don't find it as annoying.
Overall, I highly recommend these sennheiser earphones. I did a lot of research on noise cancelling headphones before I decided to buy these and I am still happy with my purchase. While they are expensive, but I think they are made well and if you take care of them they should last a while.
My favorite thing about the earphones is how you can use them without the noise cancelling feature. Sometimes I want to be able to tell when other people are trying to talk to me. That was one of the main selling points in buying these Sennheiser headphones compared with other noise cancelling headphones .
As for the sound, I am very happy with it. I am not an audiophile by any means but I absolutely love listening to music and these Sennheiser headphones sound amazing to me.
My only complaint about the headphones is that they tend to make my ears hot. I guess that's how it is with a lot of noise cancelling headphones though since they have to completely surround the ear. When I was living in Hawaii it was more of a bother, but now that I'm back in Washington where it's not so hot I don't find it as annoying.
Overall, I highly recommend these sennheiser earphones. I did a lot of research on noise cancelling headphones before I decided to buy these and I am still happy with my purchase. While they are expensive, but I think they are made well and if you take care of them they should last a while.
Tuesday 3 August 2010
My copy of Starcraft II Limited Edition Strategy Guide
I got the StarCraft 2 L.E . Strategy Guide today via FedEx, The shipping was amazing. I have read thru a few of the Missions in the guide and looked over the A-frame Multi-player map stand. The guide it self is well designed it is like most guides you buy, but the art work detail and information on each mission is above any other. From the first mission for the terrens to the Zerg you will know what to do and how to defend your land and rage a war that would make Alexander the great jealous.
The A-frame Multi-player map display is almost a cheat guide it is so detailed and beautiful, you get all 50 maps that are released with StarCraft 2 Wing's of Liberty. You will be able to strike like a laser through the fog and cut your enemy down. This is a must have if you are a StarCraft elite or a new recruit to the fight.
I just checked Amazon a few minutes ago and it looked like they have 2 copies left. So, if you are a fan and want to get your hands on one, hurry up now and place a quick order now - DO NOT WAIT.
The A-frame Multi-player map display is almost a cheat guide it is so detailed and beautiful, you get all 50 maps that are released with StarCraft 2 Wing's of Liberty. You will be able to strike like a laser through the fog and cut your enemy down. This is a must have if you are a StarCraft elite or a new recruit to the fight.
I just checked Amazon a few minutes ago and it looked like they have 2 copies left. So, if you are a fan and want to get your hands on one, hurry up now and place a quick order now - DO NOT WAIT.
Friday 30 July 2010
This is not Free - Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ38EB-K Digital Camera - Black
I wanted better than average digital camera but not DSLR. Also the HD-movie recording was one of my requirements. Read many reviews, tests and comparisons of different "bridge" cameras. Ratings for DMC-FZ38 were exceptional. So, I bought the DMC-FZ38 .
I'm very pleased so far (had it for a week and shot about 1000 pictures already). Automatic settings (intelligent-Auto or iA) are very good but so are the manual settings. Took the time to read fully the advanced options manual to understand all settings and possibilities. There is much to learn in photography for me :) I must also praise the Power O.I.S. that keeps the picture sharp even with 18x zoom.
I use the video recording (720p) instead of my old digital (HD) video camera. So far I have no complaints. The audio is very good and the HD picture is enough for me (1080p is too much and also it needs too much space for recording).
Only complaint is the high ISO noise on ISO800-1600, but this is due the small sensor (compared to DSLR). You can avoid this by setting the ISO limit in settings (only not for iA mode).
For the price this is the best-of-best.
I'm very pleased so far (had it for a week and shot about 1000 pictures already). Automatic settings (intelligent-Auto or iA) are very good but so are the manual settings. Took the time to read fully the advanced options manual to understand all settings and possibilities. There is much to learn in photography for me :) I must also praise the Power O.I.S. that keeps the picture sharp even with 18x zoom.
I use the video recording (720p) instead of my old digital (HD) video camera. So far I have no complaints. The audio is very good and the HD picture is enough for me (1080p is too much and also it needs too much space for recording).
Only complaint is the high ISO noise on ISO800-1600, but this is due the small sensor (compared to DSLR). You can avoid this by setting the ISO limit in settings (only not for iA mode).
For the price this is the best-of-best.
Wednesday 28 July 2010
The Best Yet: Sanyo VPC-HD2000EBK Full 1920x1080
This product is the best ! it has all the automatic point-and-click features to make this a great video and photo camera, plus the menu to change standard settings is real easy to use. You certainly stand out from the crowd at the school concert!
The grip style means you can easily hold the camera for long periods with straining your hand.
The size means you can carry it safely in your pocket and it has a real quick start up time when you are ready to use.
This is the second time I bought this camera ; my first survived being dropped on a stone floor, but it didn't make it past a burst-drinks-bottle my baby son stuffed into my rucksack! If adventure is your thing try the waterproof versions, I just bought my Brother-in-law one for his birthday.
Top product and a great price - bought in preference to a hard drive competitor as SD cards are so cheap! and it looks better than anything else in its category, plus photos as well as video.
Who needs anything else ?
The grip style means you can easily hold the camera for long periods with straining your hand.
The size means you can carry it safely in your pocket and it has a real quick start up time when you are ready to use.
This is the second time I bought this camera ; my first survived being dropped on a stone floor, but it didn't make it past a burst-drinks-bottle my baby son stuffed into my rucksack! If adventure is your thing try the waterproof versions, I just bought my Brother-in-law one for his birthday.
Top product and a great price - bought in preference to a hard drive competitor as SD cards are so cheap! and it looks better than anything else in its category, plus photos as well as video.
Who needs anything else ?
Sunday 25 July 2010
The Best Canon EOS Rebel Digital SLR on the Market Today
This is my first DSLR, and I am so happy with the purchase. I have wanted a nice camera for years, and I finally had some extra money to make the investment. At $900+ , it's a tad expensive for a casual photographer, but I looked at the purchase as an investment for several years. The image quality is wonderful, and the video is absolutely stunning. Everything in life looks significantly more interesting with this piece of hardware at your side.
I just purchased this camera 7-15 and its the best DSLR for the money! I looked at D70 Nikon's and they couldn't touch this. I bought mine on the spot because they had it for $899.00 which is a great deal, also bought the camera bag and the 8 gb of sandisk extreme sd card
. This camera takes some amazing photos.
I have a friend that has a Canon 7D and yes this thing is a beast, but this isnt about size. Its about pictures. As far as Im concerned and my friend as well, this camera takes just as good pictures as the 7D. And for half the price. Video takes a little getting used to, but WELL worth it. Im a prof. photog. and this was a big upgrade from my XSi. Well worth the price over the 7D.
I just purchased this camera 7-15 and its the best DSLR for the money! I looked at D70 Nikon's and they couldn't touch this. I bought mine on the spot because they had it for $899.00 which is a great deal, also bought the camera bag and the 8 gb of sandisk extreme sd card
. This camera takes some amazing photos.I have a friend that has a Canon 7D and yes this thing is a beast, but this isnt about size. Its about pictures. As far as Im concerned and my friend as well, this camera takes just as good pictures as the 7D. And for half the price. Video takes a little getting used to, but WELL worth it. Im a prof. photog. and this was a big upgrade from my XSi. Well worth the price over the 7D.
Saturday 24 July 2010
Searching for VOIP Headphones
Utilizing VOIP (voice over Internet protocol) telephone assistance is very cheap (if not totally free) and uncomplicated to utilize. We are all in requirement of a product including the VOIP wireless headset since it gives folks back their ability to talk to far off good friends and family without a large traditional or cell phone bill. No longer will someone have to interrupt what they were previously doing to answer the phone with a VOIP wireless headset within the picture. It is possible to continue to make use of your hands while talking to close friends and loved ones at the same time. To enjoy the VOIP headphones, or any PC VOIP headset, someone must initial sign up using a assistance, like Skype for example, connect to the Net and talk away!
This is merely a suggestion in light from the fact that an individual will feel at complete peace and ease when utilizing the VOIP wireless headset no matter how stressful life may well be at the moment. Hands are not essential with this sort of technology and no wires will be trailing behind with each and every single move which is made either.
Part of enjoying something is feeling as if you got a very good purchase for the money that was invested in it. There's no doubt that after experiencing the superb sound top quality and clarity of this device that all will seem to be justified and at ease.
Upon seeking at any electronics shop or department store, you'll come across a myriad of possibilities when searching for the VOIP wireless headset, since it comes in many diverse colors to suit most any buyer. Another facet is the design and craftsmanship of this item being that it have to also be lightweight and simple to utilize.
A final perk with wireless VOIP Headphones are that they come in plenty of adjustable size ranges so as to accommodate most any consumer interested in buying regardless of head size. There is no reason that form ought to follow function in regards to a high tech piece of equipment like a VOIP Headphones. Color, texture, weight, durability and flexibility are among just a few from the factors considered when selecting one for yourself. Obviously, depending upon the VOIP support provider or the form of equipment you have, your choices of styles and manufacturers may well be somewhat limited.
This is merely a suggestion in light from the fact that an individual will feel at complete peace and ease when utilizing the VOIP wireless headset no matter how stressful life may well be at the moment. Hands are not essential with this sort of technology and no wires will be trailing behind with each and every single move which is made either.
Part of enjoying something is feeling as if you got a very good purchase for the money that was invested in it. There's no doubt that after experiencing the superb sound top quality and clarity of this device that all will seem to be justified and at ease.
Upon seeking at any electronics shop or department store, you'll come across a myriad of possibilities when searching for the VOIP wireless headset, since it comes in many diverse colors to suit most any buyer. Another facet is the design and craftsmanship of this item being that it have to also be lightweight and simple to utilize.
A final perk with wireless VOIP Headphones are that they come in plenty of adjustable size ranges so as to accommodate most any consumer interested in buying regardless of head size. There is no reason that form ought to follow function in regards to a high tech piece of equipment like a VOIP Headphones. Color, texture, weight, durability and flexibility are among just a few from the factors considered when selecting one for yourself. Obviously, depending upon the VOIP support provider or the form of equipment you have, your choices of styles and manufacturers may well be somewhat limited.
Monday 19 July 2010
Canon PowerShot D10 12.1 MP Waterproof Digital Camera with 3x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom and 2.5-inch LCD
I bought this camera because I was going to the Carribean and I knew I was going to be doing some snorkeling. I have had a few Canon Powershots and I have always been very happy with them. I always recommend them when I know someone who is looking for a camera. I was not disappointed with this camera. The underwater pictures turned out great (after I changed the setting to underwater).
The only thing that seems different (unusual) about the camera is not having anything to cover the lens. The powershots normally have the lens covered when it is turned off. I'm guessing this is because of it being waterproof. I'm not sure yet how durable it will be. I just purchased the camera in early June 2010.
I would definitely recommend!!!
The only thing that seems different (unusual) about the camera is not having anything to cover the lens. The powershots normally have the lens covered when it is turned off. I'm guessing this is because of it being waterproof. I'm not sure yet how durable it will be. I just purchased the camera in early June 2010.
I would definitely recommend!!!
Friday 9 July 2010
Philips SHS8000/00 Earhook Headphones
Since I've used only crappy regular earphones for my VOIP Headphones (eg. Nokia 5600 Xpress Music default ones) before, can't really say much about sound quality compared to others. This much I can say though after a month of active use:
Pros:
-Perfect fit thanks to rubber earhook and earplugs that come in three different sizes from S to L. Secure fit was the reason why I went for these. Either these or maybe Sennheiser PMX80SPORT ECO Rugged, not sure if one can lean back with a neckband.
-Noise isolation works well, thus you don't have to pump up the volume so much.
-Neat and small outlook, doesn't attract too much attention.
Cons:
-None so far though the cable gets tangled every now and then. A reel would be nice.
Pros:
-Perfect fit thanks to rubber earhook and earplugs that come in three different sizes from S to L. Secure fit was the reason why I went for these. Either these or maybe Sennheiser PMX80SPORT ECO Rugged, not sure if one can lean back with a neckband.
-Noise isolation works well, thus you don't have to pump up the volume so much.
-Neat and small outlook, doesn't attract too much attention.
Cons:
-None so far though the cable gets tangled every now and then. A reel would be nice.
Friday 22 January 2010
GWT in Practice
This is an excellent book for learning GWT, but it does assume some background knowledge in other topics, so it is not the simplest book.
I personally found that this book mentions and uses many design patterns, but if you have never studied design patterns (as a fair amount of computer scientists have not), then this book could be pretty difficult to follow.
However, if you do understand design patterns, then you will know what the author is talking about and realize that all of the sample programs and apps that are designed are truly designed well. The author shows how to use and combine great coding techniques and patterns to develop a strong application that is flexible and extensible.
Because of some of these assumptions, the textbook can be confusing, but if you do have the knowledge that is assumed, then this is an EXCELLENT textbook.
(For design patterns, I recommend the book Head First Design Patterns - it is an excellent book that covers the major design patterns and is quite enjoyable to read. You will learn all the patterns needed in that book to be able to follow GWT In Practice).
If you are looking to just make some simple apps in GWT but are not aiming for flexible, commercial level software, then you might want to look elsewhere for other textbooks. GWT In Action is much easier to follow, although it is a little dated now. However, it covers the basics of GWT which (at the time of this review) have not changed.
I personally found that this book mentions and uses many design patterns, but if you have never studied design patterns (as a fair amount of computer scientists have not), then this book could be pretty difficult to follow.
However, if you do understand design patterns, then you will know what the author is talking about and realize that all of the sample programs and apps that are designed are truly designed well. The author shows how to use and combine great coding techniques and patterns to develop a strong application that is flexible and extensible.
Because of some of these assumptions, the textbook can be confusing, but if you do have the knowledge that is assumed, then this is an EXCELLENT textbook.
(For design patterns, I recommend the book Head First Design Patterns - it is an excellent book that covers the major design patterns and is quite enjoyable to read. You will learn all the patterns needed in that book to be able to follow GWT In Practice).
If you are looking to just make some simple apps in GWT but are not aiming for flexible, commercial level software, then you might want to look elsewhere for other textbooks. GWT In Action is much easier to follow, although it is a little dated now. However, it covers the basics of GWT which (at the time of this review) have not changed.
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