Earl's Cyber Steals and Deals

TWO Mygica Indoor HDTV Antennas w/ 2 HDMI Cables for $11 + free shipping Meritline.com offers two Mygica Indoor HDTV Antennas, model no. A20, together with two 6-Foot HDMI Cables for $10.99. (It's the second option.) With free shipping, that's $5.50 per pair, easily the best deal we've seen for an OTA HDTV antenna.

3 SanDisk Ultra II Plus 16GB Class 4 SDHC for $35 after rebate + free shipping
Abe's of Maine offers the SanDisk Ultra II Plus 16GB Secure Digital High Capacity Class 4 Card, model no. SDSDPH008GA11, for $44.95. Buy three and apply coupon code "DEALNEWS10" to drop it to $124.85. Send in this $90 mail-in rebate and it falls to $34.85. With free shipping, . Rebate expires September 26.


New: 2-Port USB 2.0 Hub and Media Card Reader Combo for $7 + free shipping CDRDVDRMedia.com offers this 2-Port USB 2.0 Hub and Media Card Reader Combo for $6.99. With free shipping, that's $6 off and the lowest total price we could find by $6. This 2-port USB 2.0 hub ships in Blue and reads 43 kinds of media cards.

Dell Vostro 220 Intel Dual Core 2.6GHz Desktop PC w/ 24" HDTV for $429 + $35 s&h Dell Small Business offers the Dell Vostro 220 Pentium Dual-Core 2.6GHz Mini Tower Desktop PC (pictured) bundled with the Viewsonic 24" 1080p Widescreen LCD HD Television, model no. VT2430, for $429 plus $35 Intel Pentium Dual-Core E5300 2.6GHz processor, 1GB RAM, 250GB Serial ATA hard drive, DVD burner, Gigabit Ethernet, and Windows Vista Home Basic. The TV features a 1920x1080 (1080p) resolution, 1,000:1 contrast ratio, 5ms response time, 300 cd/m² brightness, built-in speakers, one HDMI input, and VGA, component, and other video inputs. Deal ends September 7.

Belkin F5D9050 Wireless-G Network Adapter - $15 w/ Free Shipping Newegg has the Belkin F5D9050 Wireless-G Network Adapter for $15 after $10 instant discount and $25 off coupon code (expires 9/7/09), which is 70% off the $50 original price. Shipping is free.
Click here to see the deal!


Intel Core2 Quad Q9400 2.66GHz 6MB L2 Cache LGA 775 95W Quad-Core Processor Your Price: $179.99
With Promo Code EMCLXLP47

AMD Phenom II X4 3.2GHz Quad-Core Socket AM3 Processor for $174 + free shipping SuperBiiz.com offers the retail-boxed AMD Phenom II X4 955 Black Edition Deneb 3.2GHz Quad-Core Socket AM3 Processor, model no. HDZ955FBGIBOX, for $189 with free shipping. Coupon code "LABORDAY15" chops it to $174. retail-boxed CPU includes a heatsink and a fan and features four 128KB L1 cashes, four 512KB L2 caches, and a 6MB L3 cache. Coupon expires September 8.

THIS TUESDAY IS PATCH TUESDAY

SimpleTech Turbo 1TB USB 2.0 External Hard Drive for $77 + free shipping Dell Home offers the SimpleTech SimpleDrive Turbo 1TB USB 2.0 External Hard Drive, model no. S1000U, for $95.99. Apply coupon code "7M367FHXB46H1C" to cut the price to $76.79 ($0.07/GB). With free shipping,

Western Digital Elements 1TB 3.5" Black External Hard Drive - Retail USB 2.0 1-year Manufacturer Warr...
Western Digital Elements 1TB 3.5" Black External Hard Drive - Retail [50422-136-321] $107.99

Gail bought:

Western Digital Elements 1.5TB External Hard Drive WDE1UBK15000N - Retail
Interface: USB 2.0 $130

. Garrity Aluminum Precision Machined Flashlight for $5 + free shipping
TigerDirect.com via eBay Daily Deal offers the Garrity Aluminum Precision Machined Flashlight with holster, model no. A300G, in Silver / Black for $5. With free shipping, it's the lowest total price we've seen for this flashlight by $3. This shock- and water-resistant flashlight features a Xenon bulb and uses two AA batteries (included). Deal ends September 14 at 3:23 pm ET

Microsoft Readies 5 Critical Windows Updates for Patch Tuesday

"Microsoft is preparing to release five critical security bulletins Sept. 8 for Patch Tuesday. The five bulletins target vulnerabilities in Microsoft Windows, and do not include a fix for a bug affecting Internet Information Services the company has warned about."

Remember this coming Tuesday is Windows update Tuesday.

Remember to do your updates!

AlaskaJoe

Private school abandons books in its library

I'm all for technology, its advances, etc. But, this has gone one step too far....

Using Email Clients To Get To Gmail When Gmail Goes Down

"Personally, I use Outlook 2007 to download my email from a Google Apps account. This allows me to have full, dependable offline access. It allows me to periodically backup and archive my mail, protection against the rare case where Google might somehow delete my mail on their servers. It allows me to have easy access to search mail back for half a decade."

Gmail's web access was down for a couple of hours the other day. A lot of domains are now having Google host their email. I'm thinking of moving one of my domains there to see how I like it. Aaron already has 2 of his domains there.

By accessing your gmail using an email program like Thunderbird, or Outlook you can always read your mail even if Google's mail is down. (The POP still worked, the last time Gmail went down.)

AlaskaJoe

Symantec: Posted code enables VoIP spying | Safe and Secure - CNET News

"Along with keyloggers that track what you type, now we have to worry about malicious software that listens in on our voice over Internet Protocol conversations."

The best way to avoid being infected with this or any other malware is to use good up-to-date security software and to be sure that your operating system and browser are updated. It's also a good idea to avoid clicking on e-mail attachments and consider using security software that warns you when you're about to visit a potentially malicious Web site.

AlaskaJoe

OnComputers Radio show Podcast 08-30-09

This is the On Computers Radio show podcast for 08-30-09. You can listen live every Sunday from 10AM to 1PM Pacific that's 1PM to 4PM Eastern. Join us for the live show and chat. If you prefer, you can download the same MP3 file here via ftp.

Links from the Gregg Zone

1) I am starting off with another of those rather gloomy global warming links. But, in my mind the subject needs to stay in the public mind so I am just doing my little bit, hoping it will cause others to do theirs. Anyway this is an interesting article about the “Canary in the Mine” glacial meltdown; the rate seems to be greater than assumed as late as two years ago. http://www.cnn.com
2) This is one of those Gregg Zone links that cross barriers. The subject is intuitive archeology, or using remote viewing for advancing the field. This has been going on for a while I have seen or heard several stories on it, but never used it here. This is about The Lost Colony of Roanoke Island, a very interesting article. With a short video by one of the more famous intuitive archeology workers in the field. http://www.emediawire.com
3) I ran across a new term today at least for me, some of you I am sure are tech savvy and it is most likely not new for you, but I will be spending some time getting used to it. I am referring to augmented reality, when they manage to install this as a chip in to your frontal cortex, you will be able to do those cool overlays in your vision like in the terminator movies, till then you will just have to use your phone, PDA, or whatever, article here http://www.howstuffworks.com
4) I have to admit this is one I have not read trough yet, but due to time restraints I have decided to use it, post my blog, and read it during the show leading up to my segment, so it is posted on the title only, "The Joy of Linux Debunking" http://www.technewsworld.com
5) For my geek link offer, another that misses my pay grade due to altitude, but sounded like it might interest the audience here, the universal micro-kernel http://www.newscientist.com

Earl's Cyber Steals and Deals

Dell PowerEdge SC1425 Dual Xeon 3.6GHz, 160GB CD 1U
Server - No Operating System - Refurbished FREE BUDGET SHIPPING Buy.com price: $319.99

Dell Small Business offers the Dell Vostro 220 Pentium Dual-Core 2.6GHz Mini Tower Desktop PC bundled with the Samsung 2243SWX 21.5" Widescreen LCD Monitor for $359. (The monitor is added to your cart automatically.) With $35 for shipping, Intel Pentium Dual-Core E5300 2.6GHz dual-core processor, 1GB RAM, 250GB hard drive, DVD burner, and Windows Vista Home Basic. Fir Win7 choose Windows Vista Premium, a $29 option.

Western Digital Green 1TB SATA 3Gbps Hard Drive for $70 after rebate + free shipping
ZipZoomfly.com offers the OEM Western Digital Caviar GP 1TB Serial ATA 3Gb/s Internal Hard Drive, model no. WD10EADS, for $89.99 with free shipping. This $15 mail-in rebate and coupon code "ZZF8810" chop it to $69.99 ($0.07/GB ends September 20

Officejet J4580 All-in-One Inkjet Printer for $55 + free shipping
The HP Home & Home Office Store offers the HP Officejet J4580 All-in-One Inkjet Printer, model no. CB780A, which also scans, copies, and faxes, for $69.99. Apply coupon code "SVN9846" to drop it to $54.99. With free shipping, e 22ppm color, 28ppm black, auto document feeder, and more. Coupon ends October 31.
oShare This
oI Want!
oI Bought!


Nero 8 Essentials Suite 1 for PC for $3 + free shipping
PC Micro Store still has Nero 8 Essentials Suite 1 OEM for Windows for $5.99. Add coupon code "Clearance50%" to your cart to cut it to $2.99. With free shipping, Nero Express 8, Nero Scout, Nero CoverDesigner 3
Essentials, and more. this is a CD only
New: Celestron 8-24x25mm Traveler Zoom Porro Prism Binoculars for $15 + free shipping
BuyDig.com offers the Celestron 8-24x25mm Traveler Zoom Porro Prism Binoculars, model no. CT71579, for $14.95 with free shipping. That's $5

Staples OmniTech 6-Sheet Cross Cut Shredder $20 at Staples
Click Here

Staples has the Staples OmniTech 6-Sheet Cross Cut Shredder for $35 - $15 rebate = $20 with free shipping. Features 8-sheet, light-duty, up to 25 uses/day and runs 2 min on and 4 min off, 3.8 gallon bin and shreds credit cards, staples & small paper clips.

Newegg Deals
· ZOTAC ATX AMD Motherboard w/ AMD Athlon II X2 2.9GHz for $91 AR shipped
· A-DATA USB 2.0 500GB Portable Hard Drive for $80 AR shipped
· 100 Pack RiData 4.7GB 16x DVD+R Discs for $18 shipped

Intel Pentium E5200 Wolfdale 2.5GHz LGA 775 65W Dual-Core Processor Your Price: $62.99
------------------------------ Both CPUs are FREE SHIPPING

AMD Athlon II X2 250 Regor 3.0GHz Socket AM3 65W Dual-Core Processor
$94.00
Your Price: $77.00



HP Pavilion p6110f Desktop Computer $430 at Office Depot
Click Here

Discuss (0) : History : Tell : Posted 8:07 AM PDT 08/29/09 by Ben
Office Depot has the HP Pavilion p6110f Desktop Computer for $500 - $70 rebate = $430 with free shipping. Features Intel Pentium Processor E5300, 640GB hard drive, 6GB memory, Windows Vista Home, 10/100/1000 Ethernet and includes keyboard; optical mouse. [Compare]

IRS Finding Tax Dodgers via Facebook, MySpace - Tom's Guide

IRS Finding Tax Dodgers via Facebook, MySpace According to the Wall Street Journal, state revenue agents are mining websites such as Facebook and MySpace for information leading to tax evaders

Google: Download a Million Books for Free - Tom's Guide

Google: Download a Million Books for Free "Google yesterday announced that the company has released more than one million out of copyright, public domain books in the EPUB format."

As open source surges, Microsoft admits Linux threat

As open source surges, Microsoft admits Linux threat: "An IDC study predicts that open source software will grow at a 22.4 percent rate to reach $8.1 billion by 2013, says eWEEK. Meanwhile, in an SEC filing, Microsoft has added Linux vendors Canonical and Red Hat to its list of as rivals,"

18 cool things Windows 7 does that Vista doesn't | News | TechRadar UK

"From Windows 3.1 to Windows Vista, the Windows operating system has taken many giant leaps. And while Vista received a lukewarm reception from some users, Windows 7 is likely to be remembered for addressing those criticisms."

Some of these FEATHERS I have found on my own, but others are very cool. I think once people play with Windows 7 they are going to like it very much! I do

AlaskaJoe

Porn collection put people off upgrading to Firefox 3 | PC Pro blog

"Mozilla’s Security team has disclosed a very interesting piece of research which suggests people refused to upgrade to the latest version of Firefox because they were afraid the browser would expose their, ahem, private collection of websites."

So this was part of what whet into version 3.5

AlaskaJoe

Pirate Bay Taken Down for Just Three Hours

Hack In The Box :: Keeping Knowledge Free: "A mere three hours after it went offline the site reappeared from a different location, but because of technical issues at the new ISP a full comeback took almost a day. The site is back online and the tracker is expected to follow soon."

Cybercrooks increasingly target small business accounts

"In an alert to its members earlier this month, NACHA -- the Electronics Payments Association said that attackers are increasingly stealing onine banking credentials, such as user names and paswords, from small businesses by using keystroke logging tools and other malware. The cybercriminals are using the stolen credentials to 'raid' and 'take over' corporate accounts and initiate the unauthorized transfer of funds over electronic payment networks."

This article talks about what the bad guys can do with the information they get when a Trojan gets on your computer.

Last week Earl talked about the 2 stage security he had to go through to log into his Bank of America account. This article is talks about why a lot of financial businesses are changing their security.

AlaskaJoe

The Bumper List of Windows 7 Secrets

This is a blog entry from a gentleman named Tim Sneath. If you've been looking for a list of Windows 7 Secrets, this looks quite good to me.

OnComputers Radio show Podcast 08-23-09

This is the On Computers Radio show podcast for 08-23-09. You can listen live every Sunday from 10AM to 1PM Pacific that's 1PM to 4PM Eastern. Join us for the live show and chat. If you prefer, you can download the same MP3 file here via ftp.

Earl's Cyber Steals and Deals

New: Dell PowerEdge T105 AMD Dual-Core 2.3GHz Server for $299 + $25 s&h
Dell Small Business has the Dell PowerEdge T105 Athlon 64 X2 2.3GHz Server for $299 plus $25 for shipping. features an AMD Athlon 64 X2 4450B 2.3GHz dual-core processor, 2GB RAM, two 250GB hard drives (500GB total), Serial ATA DVD-ROM drive, and Gigabit Ethernet. An operating system is not included.

New: Dell Inspiron 546 AMD Quad Core 2.4GHz Desktop PC for $429 + free shipping in Piano Black (no monitor) for $429 with free shipping. Features include an AMD Phenom X4 9750 2.4GHz quad-core processor, 4GB RAM, 500GB 7200 rpm Serial ATA hard drive, DVD burner, and Windows Vista Home Premium 64-bit.

: Refurbished Acer Aspire AMD Dual Core 2.6GHz Desktop PC from $280 + $2 s&h
TigerDirect.com offers the factory-refurbished Acer Aspire X1200-U1510A Athlon X2 2.6GHz Desktop PC, model no. PT.SAR0X.002, for $299.97. Pay via PayPal for $20 cash back, dropping it to $279.99 (You'll get the $20 back in your PayPal account within 6 to 8 weeks.) With $1.99 for shipping, Athlon X2 5000+ 2.6GHz dual-core processor, 4GB RAM, 320GB Serial ATA hard drive, dual layer DVD burner with DVD-RAM support, memory card reader, HDMI port, and Windows Vista Home Premium 64-bit. A 90-day Acer warranty applies.


Asus ASUS EEE PC 900-BK039XAsus Eee PC 900 16G 8.9inch C-M 900MHz/ 512MB/1GB/ 16GB/ No ODD/ XP Home Notebook Computer (Black) Refurbished item 90 days ASUS direct warranty Read More
Price $159.00Shipping - free ground-1pc only

Links from the Gregg Zone

1) Starting off with my usual environmental link, I decided to use this one, but it comes with a warning. I was looking through my descriptive word list trying to find a way to introduce this without turning everyone off. Depressing, alarming, scary, came to mind I settled on referring to it as a reality check. A reasonable explanation of how and why we as a species, at least as we know ourselves, will most likely die out in the next 30-50 years, I am being optimistic they say 2025. They are in my opinion exactly right, to quote Pogo we have met the enemy, and he is us. http://www.newscientist.com
2) Trying to lighten things up a little, I ran across this and was very impressed as it would solve one of my lifelong frustrations. Have you ever noticed when you pour a cup of coffee you are lucky to get two maybe three sips at the perfect temperature. When you first pour it is to hot, if you are lucky after two or three to hot sips, come those two or three perfect ones. That is providing what ever you are doing does not distract you for say 10 min. and now it is to cold, so you add some more of the to hot trying to guess the correct amount to add, then start all over again. This disruption to your sanity has been solved check out what I would like to get for Christmas, hint, hint. http://gizmodo.com
3) Here is another new item hitting the market soon, or at least I hope it does as I would like one, well at least that adventurous side of me would like one. The practical side might win out in the end, but I would sure like to try one. Anyway think unicycle, Segway, blender. I think you get the idea, very cool link here complete with video. http://gizmodo.com
4) I have to admit it when it comes to sitting at the computer surfing the net it is always the videos that catch my eye, and since I like science and tech this link is a natural the best science visualization videos of the year. The link says categories energy and tech, I as yet have not had time to investigate to see if there are more categories at the site, but I will be back http://www.wired.com

5) For my geek offering this week a story I ran across about the advancement of roll-up displays. This was not a new idea to me I had seen speculation about the concept quite awhile ago, but then I also saw articles about the space elevator. Looks like there may have been a breakthrough on this one. http://news.cnet.com

High-Tech Mug Keeps Coffee Just Right

German scientists have developed a coffee mug that gets your cuppa joe to the right temperature and keeps it there

Microsoft, Amazon Unite Against Google Book Deal

Microsoft, Amazon, and Yahoo are ganging up against Google Books, trying to quash its settlement that will allow Google to offer works scanned off library shelves online for free.

IM client library bug plagues Pidgin • The Register

"Pidgin, Finch, Adium, Meebo, and Gaim are all vulnerable to a flaw that stems from a bug in Libpurple, library software for multi-protocol support that's used by many IM clients. The vulnerability stems from bugs in the software function that handles instant messages from the MSN network. The flaw was discovered by CORE Security whose advisory can be found here."
This article says Pidgin is 2.5.9 I looked and the new version I downloaded is 2.6.1

Always update your software when there are security updates.

AlaskaJoe

Secure Online Banking Discovered at BofA

I have just discovered a way to do online banking very securely. I am sure some of you have this already but my current bank did not do this type of secure banking online that I "discovered" at Bank of America. Not only do they have an ID and password login as WaMu does but they also issue a SiteKey that you set up and use to verify you are "really" at a BofA website. The SiteKey has a custom word and symbol picture that you set up to verify you are at the correct site. But that's only half of it. You can also set up SafePass for your online session. SafePass sends you a 10 minute valid (only) passcode for free via text messaging (or a card). You use it during your login session to make it super secure. And I have a PayAsYouGo (cheap) cellphone without text messaging! You can also set up about 20 different alerts on your account to be sent to email or cellphone. It works great. I will talk more about this on the show. - Earl

Windows 7 can be used for 120 days for free - The Inquirer

"The Vole generally allows punters only 30 days to activate their copies of the company's operating systems, though a little-known command designed for corporate administrators can be used by anyone to reset the countdown up to three times."

Windows Secrets has published step-by-step instructions for using a single command to add an additional 90 days to the stock 30-day grace period.

Now you can try Windows 7 for 120 days before you have to activate, by then you will love it. I can see why Microsoft is giving Windows 7 to people to try.

AlaskaJoe

Should You Be Looking For A Hard Drive Upgrade? : A Hard Drive Upgrade: Is Now The Time? - Review Tom's Hardware

"Most desktop PCs
bought or built in the past five years are probably using hard drives in the capacity range of 80 GB to 250 GB. Recent price drops in the hard drive market mean that most current drive generation is more attractive than ever before. You can get 1 TB hard drives for less than $100 now."

I have always had a problem using used drives. I think nothing of pulling a drive from a computer with a dead motherboard and installing it into one of my machines. I can't tell you how many times I got a computer all configured the way I want it and the drive I used died on me in a short time.

I never though of system performance when it came to hard drives, Maybe I should get a new 1TB drive for my new computer to see it really fly! The only problem I have with large drives for the OS is the amount of time it takes to scan then. (like in chkdsk0

Maybe it's just time!

AlaskaJoe

XP, Vista, or Windows 7: Which OS is more secure? | Ed Bott’s Microsoft Report | ZDNet.com

"Over the past couple years, I’ve been regularly checking in to measure whether Windows Vista is living up to its promise of being more secure than its predecessor, Windows XP."

As a computer tech I make a living fixing XP. Vista doesn't need anyone to fix it. (Other than hardware failures) I can see as Windows 7 get to more users I will be working less and less. (That is OK with me, Retirement sounds good to me.)

AlaskaJoe

7 Good Reasons to Switch to Windows 7 | Gadget Lab | Wired.com

"When scanning our list, we politely encourage you to ask yourself, “Do I really want to continue using an eight-year-old operating system?” Followed by “Don’t I deserve better?” Because no matter how comfortable you are with XP, you do deserve an OS that’s both newer and better, and Windows 7 will deliver. Not convinced? Then read on."

I like Windows 7 better than any other OS Microsoft has built.
AlaskaJoe

Linux Corner

Intro :

Commentators are Greg Jetter (aktrapper) and William Raymon (Buzz).

Please  take a moment  to  let Joe and the  gang know where your interest in Linux  lies. As  Linux is a Very large topic and we  want to focus in on issues that  you listeners  would like more information about. I and Buzz both could talk about  Linux all day long if allowed.


The state of Desktop Linux :

some links :

1.  http://www.desktoplinux.com/index.html

2. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cloud_computing

The Linux desktop has evolved , it's getting better and better each day , that  is what happens when you got thousand of  programmers working on a  program .

E-mail ., web browsing ,  writing a  document or  creating a spreadsheet, you cant beat Linux ,  Linux provides the basic services most people want.


Is there too much choice in Linux and is that a bad thing or a good thing?


Some Desk top  Linux distro  that specialise in user friendly/windows type of desk tops

Freespire , freespire.org
Freespire 1.0 is Linspire's free Linux distribution. It was originally a Debian-based desktop Linux operating system

A good starting point is the website : desktoplinux.com
http://www.desktoplinux.com/articles/AT7386380154.html , contains a list of popular distros that  strive to  present a  easy to use  desktop.


Computing Stuff:

What is Cloud Computing ?

this is what wikapeida says
Some successful cloud architectures have little or no centralized infrastructure or billing systems whatsoever, including peer-to-peer networks such as BitTorrent and Skype, and volunteer computing such as SETI@home.


So  Cloud computing basically is  a peer to peer   type of service.
"
Because cloud computing does not allow users to physically possess the storage of their data (the exception being the possibility that data can be backed up to a user-owned storage device, such as a USB flash drive or hard disk) it does leave responsibility of data storage and control in the hands of the provider.
"

O/S :

Good OS , based on google applications

http://www.theregister.co.uk/2008/08/25/gos_review/

Last chance to get free Windows 7 test copy | Beyond Binary - CNET News

"Well, at least a free test copy of Windows 7, anyway. Users have until Thursday to download the 'release candidate' version of the software--the final test version of the operating system. It's a good option for those who have a spare machine to try out the software or for Mac users looking to experiment with running Windows either in virtualization software or via Boot Camp."
You can still get a free copy of Windows 7 RC1 It is good until about March of next year.
you need to get a copy by Thursday or you can't play with Windows 7.

AlaskaJoe

OnComputers Radio show Podcast 08-16-09

This is the On Computers Radio show podcast for 08-16-09. You can listen live every Sunday from 10AM to 1PM Pacific that's 1PM to 4PM Eastern. Join us for the live show and chat. If you prefer, you can download the same MP3 file here via ftp.

Earl's Cyber Steals and Deals

Microsoft Doubles Cashback Incentives for Bing Search http://www.pcworld.com/article/169963/geekbargain_microsoft_doubles_cashback_incentives_for_bing_search.html

Samsung 22" 1080p Widescreen LCD Display for $126 + free shipping Dell Small Business offers the Samsung 21.5" Widescreen LCD Monitor in Piano Black, model no. 2243SWX, for $189.99. Coupon code "WKF35JP9FR9BLQ" drops it to $125.99. With free shipping, This pivoting monitor features a 1920x1080 (1080p) resolution, 1,000:1 contrast, 5ms response time, and DVI-D and VGA video inputs. Coupon ends August 20.

Dell S2309W 23" 1080p Widescreen LCD Display for $159 + free shipping , model no. F906G, for $239. Apply coupon code "M18WBZ?FND$BV$" to drop it to $159. 1920x1080 (1080p), 1,000:1 contrast ratio, 5 ms response time, 300 cd/m² brightness, and both DVI-D (with HDCP) and VGA inputs. Coupon expires August 20.

Hitachi 0A38016 1TB SATA Hard Drive $55 at Newegg
Click Here Newegg has the Hitachi 0A38016 1TB 7200 RPM 16MB Cache SATA 3.0Gb/s Hard Drive for $75 - 15% off with coupon code HDDSALE15 [Exp 8/16] - $10 rebate [Exp 8/16] = $55 with free shipping. Features up to 43% idle power savings.

HP Pavilion A6847C Desktop, Pentium Dual-Core E5300 2.6GHz, 6144MB, 500GB/7200RPM, DVD +/- RW, Memory Card Reader, Keyboard and Mouse, Vista Home Premium - Factory Refurbished FREE BUDGET SHIPPING Buy.com price: $419.00


Samsung EcoGreen F2 1TB SATA HDD + Rosewill Dock $70 at Newegg Click Here 1TB 5400 RPM 32MB Cache SATA 3.0Gb/s Hard Drive and 3.5" SATA to USB 2.0 Hard Drive Docking Station for $80 - $10 off with coupon code HDDSALE15 [Exp 8/16] = $70 with free shipping.

newegg.com offers the Western Digital Elements 1TB USB 2.0 External Hard Drive, model no. WDE1UBK10000N, for $99.99. Coupon code "HDDSALE15" knocks to price to $89.99. With free shipping ($0.09/GB), . Coupon ends August 16.

Dell Home offers the Dell Inspiron 15 Pentium Dual-Core 2GHz 15.6" Widescreen Notebook in Jet Black for $449 with free shipping. That ties our mention from earlier in the week, although this one includes a better battery. Sales tax is added where applicable. It features an Intel Pentium T4200 2GHz dual-core processor, 15.6" 1366x768 widescreen, 3GB RAM, 250GB 5400 rpm Serial ATA hard drive, dual-layer DVD burner, 802.11g wireless, 6-cell battery, and Windows Vista Home Basic. Deal ends August 20. Of note, to get a free Windows 7 upgrade (when it becomes available), choose Windows Vista Home Premium, a $30 option.

Links from the Gregg Zone

1) Starting off this week I am going to give in to something I have kind of avoided for a while, because in the beginning Joe asked me to stay away from politics. I do not see this as political, but have talked to some people who do, but then I know people who consider it a religious topic to discuss which came first the chicken or the egg. Anyway I have been a member of the Pickens Army for quite a while now. There was a clean air national summit here in Las Vegas last Monday. The most interesting point to me was about the 18 wheelers, there are currently six and a half million of them on our roads today. They cannot be powered by electricity, at least not with today’s technology, but if we were to convert them to natural gas; that change alone would reduce our dependency on foreign oil by 50%. That is in my mind a very big deal and something we could do easily, with a minimum of expenditure compared to most proposals. I like videos so the link goes to the video section of the site, but you can always click the home button, if you have not checked this out please do. http://www.pickensplan.com
2) Okay I realize this borders on the frivolous especially for some one who just had their 63rd birthday, by the way is there something about 63 that causes your friends to go over the edge, an electronic birthday card via email is one thing, you can choose to ignore them. But, to pollute a persons answering machine is quite another, sorry for the rant but I just had to comment, lets just move on. This site will give you 15 illustrated ways to lace your shoes. I told you it was frivolous, well maybe not for the young, at my age it just illustrates how complicated simple things can get. http://www.maildumper.com
3) This is one that Troll sent me that caught my eye, thanks Troll always enjoy stuff you send me even if I don’t use it here it’s always a good read. It amazes me how people as a whole ignore the possibilities until they see the proof. There was a time when the prevailing paradigm was the Earth is flat, the Sun revolves around us, more recently we are the only planet with water, ergo intelligent life. In the not to distant past, like months ago, I would still hear how unique our solar situation is, distance from the Sun, size of our moon, position of Jupiter to protect us, and all the rest. Then it seems over and over advancements in our technologies seem to prove we are not quite as unique as we think we are. This is just one more of those examples, we have witnessed the collision of near by planets, much like the one that created, and placed our moon in its current orbit. When you consider time on a universal scale as in billions of years, the odds of us observing such an event in our little corner of the cosmos must indicate it is not rare at all. Story link here http://news.bbc.co.uk
4) This is for me one of those sites that just attract me, during the times when there is nothing on T.V., nothing very interesting going on, chores are all caught up, just looking to sit in my chair and give in to distraction. A very nice radio site, offering a variety of shows covering the paranormal, conspiracies, metaphysical, science, ghosts, and the like. He has 39 radio shows, 1227 episodes, totaling 1994 hours of free online radio. If you like radio on the edge this might be right up your alley. http://www.blackvaultradio.com/
5) Last week I used a link about tactile holograms, new technology coming out to allow a person to feel by touch, or tactile sensation an interaction with a hologram, like feeling the rain on your hand. Well this is another along that same line; this new technology will allow you to feel the tactile interaction of your avatar. The gaming world, and porno people are very interested, but it would also be a major advancement for people who are paralyzed, or use prosthetics. A very interesting article, the implications are endless http://www.newscientist.com

DailyTech - Texas Judge Bans Microsoft From Selling Word in the U.S.

"Microsoft's Office 2003 and 2007 wove XML into Word, with the introduction of .docx, otherwise known as Office Open XML, as the format of choice."

You should notice no more Microsoft Office will be sold until this is worked out. That could be a real boost to Open Office and it's free for the download and most people can't tell the difference between Microsoft Word and Open Office writing program.

AlaskaJoe

First Wi-Fi pacemaker in U.S

Aug 11 - After relying on a pacemaker for 20 years, Carol Kasyjanski has become the first American recipient of a wireless pacemaker that allows her doctor to monitor her health from afar -- over the Internet. VIDEO Article

Panasonic, NEC unveil 9 Linux phones

HELSINKI (Reuters) - Panasonic Corp and NEC Corp unveiled nine new cellphone models on Tuesday that run the open-source LiMo operating system, wireless Linux group LiMo said.

Microsoft Internet Explorer 8 Is Updated with New Default Options

"Microsoft is offering users the upfront option of making Internet Explorer 8 their default browser, or else staying with a rival browser, as part of a Patch Tuesday update. The new version of IE 8 comes as Microsoft finds itself losing browser market share to Firefox and other rivals, and negotiating with European antitrust officials over the inclusion of IE 8 in the upcoming Windows 7."

Didn't we always have the option of what is our default browser? What is so special about this update? I think we are all getting Internet Explorer 8 weather you want it or not.

Remember to do your Windows updates today!

AlaskaJoe

You Deleted Your Cookies? Think Again

I've known about this for a while, but if you didn't, or if you just want more information about "Flash" cookies, read this.

As to Flash itself, I wish it would go away forever. It has constant security holes, and needs constant updating for security reason. Sadly, half of the web doesn't work without it.

Patch Tuesday Will Soon Be Here - Computing News - Digital Trends

"Five of the patches are deemed critical, three of them affecting Windows Vista, Windows XP and Server 2008 users. Windows 2000 and Server 2003 are vulnerable to four of the flaws, while the last of the critical vulnerabilities affects Office XP, 2003 and the Client for Mac component."
Tomorrow is Patch Tuesday, don't forget to do your Windows updates.

AlaskaJoe

OnComputers Radio show Podcast 08-09-09

This is the On Computers Radio show podcast for 08-09-09. You can listen live every Sunday from 10AM to 1PM Pacific that's 1PM to 4PM Eastern. Join us for the live show and chat. If you prefer, you can download the same MP3 file here via ftp.

Links from the Gregg Zone

1) This is a green site that I hope will be a trend setter, I very much like the whole concept of goofing around with stuff in the backyard, I very much like green stuff, I like saving money by doing things cheap using DYI. This guy wraps it all up, and he is even using EBay to support his hobby, this guy could be a hero in my book. The whole thing just fits my style, makes me long to give up my condo for a backyard. http://greenpowerscience.com/
2) This is one that I consider a ray of hope, sent to me by Earl I was very happy to read that there is serious movement going on by the administration regarding changing over to electric cars. The new administration is releasing 2.4 billion in stimulus monies to promote this new industry, news article here http://www.msnbc.msn.com Earl also sent me this from San Diego California, they are testing an answer to one of the major stumbling blocks to setting up an electric car recharging grid, this is a very promising idea http://news.cnet.com
3) A few years back there was a big deal about the “Taos Hum”, a generic term for one of those unsolved mysteries; it was heard in various locations around the country. Well it seems scientists have found what they consider the answer; I like it when they find the answers for these anomalies. Kind of like the traveling rocks in Death Valley, the Nazca Lines in Peru, even if I choose to harbor some doubt, well that’s just me. Story here http://www.wired.com
4) This is one close to the edge, but that is where I like to hang out. Right out of Kubrick’s 2001: A Space Odyssey seems a photo of a monolith on Mars has shown up. The site here has a CNN interview with Buzz Aldrin referring to another monolith on Phobos a small moon of Mars. Sometimes the movies seem to predict our future, makes you wonder where the writers get their material. http://www.thesun.co.uk
5) This is another of those geeky, techie items that just sort of blew my mind. Not to sure how many applications this will have, but the implications seem endless when it comes to possibilities. We are talking about a tactile hologram, the demonstration video and article shows being able to feel holographic rain drops on your hand. Sort of adds thoughts of magic motion rides at amusement parks, game writers should have a field day, remote surgery, maybe pet the dog while you are away, I will leave the thoughts of porn sites to your imagination. Anyway a very interesting new technology coming soon, check it out here http://www.itvt.com

Earl's Cyber Steals and Deals

newegg.com offers the Hitachi Deskstar 7K1000.B 1TB Serial ATA 3Gb/s Internal Hard Drive, model no. HDT721010SLA360, to $74.99 with free shipping. This $10 mail-in rebate chops it to $64.99 ($0.07/GB). . It features a 16MB cache, runs at 7200 rpm

SuperBiiz.com offers the Samsung Spinpoint F1 1TB Serial ATA 3Gb/s Internal Hard Drive, model no. HD103UJ, for $83.99 with free shipping. Coupon code "SUPERSTEAL10" drops it to $73.99 ($0.07/GB). That's tied with our mention from July and the lowest total price we've ever seen for this hard drive. This 3.5" drive features a 32MB cache and runs at 7200 rpm

HP Pavilion a6724c Desktop, Phenom-8550 2.2GHz, 6GB, 640GB, DVD+/-R/RW, GeForce 9100, HD audio, Keyboard and Mouse, Vista Home Premium - Factory Refurbished FREE SHIPPING Buy.com price: $379

FREEware DriveImage XML 2.10
Images are stored in XML files, allowing you to process them with 3rd party tools. Never again be stuck with a useless backup! Restore images to drives without having to reboot. DriveImage XML runs under Windows XP Home, XP Professional and Windows Server 2003 only. The program will backup, image and restore drives formatted with FAT 12, 16, 32 and NTFS


SuperBiiz.com (eWiz.com) has the Thermaltake BlacX Hard Drive SATA Enclosure Docking Station w/ eSATA for a low $19.99 Free Shipping after rebate. This is the higher-end model, which connects any 2.5" or 3.5" internal SATA hard drive to a USB 2.0 or eSATA port. $15 rebate Exp 8/14/09

Intel Core 2 Quad Q8400 Yorkfield 2.66GHz 4MB L2 Cache LGA 775 95W Quad-Core Processor Your Price: $159.99
With Promo Code EMCLWLT22

newegg.com trimmed its price on the Auria 23.6" 1080p Widescreen LCD Monitor, model no. EQ236, to $159.99 with free shipping. native resolution of 1920x1080 (1080p), integrated speakers, 1,000:1 contrast ratio, 300 cd/m² brightness, 5ms response time, one HDMI input, and both DVI and VGA inputs. Rebate ends August 9 TODAY

Deals at BestBuy:
Laptops starting at $350 [Exp 8/15]
5% - 46% Off Select Printers [Exp 8/15]
Desktop Packages starting at $350 [Exp 8/15]
$30 - $100 Off Select GPS Receivers [Exp 8/15]
20% Off Select Laptop Bags and Mice [Exp 10/31]
Microsoft Office Home and Student 2007 for $100 [Exp 8/15]
Free $15 iTunes Gift Card with Select Western Digital Hard Drives [Exp 8/15]
10% Off Select Antennas and Flat-Panel TV Mounts [Exp 8/15]
10% Off Select Accessories with Any Netbook [Exp 8/29]
5% - 33% Off Select Digital Camcorders [Exp 8/15]
Free $15 Gift Card with 8GB iPod touch [Exp 8/15]
5% - 17% Off Select Digital Cameras [Exp 8/15]
5% - 15% Off Select HDTVs [Exp 12/31]
10% Off All Bose Headphones [Exp 8/22]
$6.99 DVD Sale [Exp 8/29]
$9.99 - $14.99 Blu-ray Movie Sale [Exp 8/15]
$14.99 DVD and $24.99 Blu-ray Movie Sale [Exp 8/29]
$10 Off Any Video Game $29.99 and Up with Select Video Game Pre-Orders [Exp 8/15]
$10 Off 12-Month Live with Madden NFL 10 for Xbox 360 [Exp 8/15] (Starts 8/14)
Free $25 Gift Card with Xbox 360 Pro Gaming Console [Exp 8/15]
10% Off Select Upright Vacuums $99 and Up [Exp 8/15]
5% - 10% Off Select Major Appliances [Exp 8/15]
Free $5 Gift Card with TV on DVD [Exp 8/15]
$12.99 - $19.99 TV on DVD Sale [Exp 8/29]

Judge rebukes SCO, blocks sale, appoints bankruptcy trustee

You were wondering what has been happening in the SCO case, haven't you? Well, SCO is still on life support.

"These bankruptcy cases have been pending for 23 months. Were the Court to approve the Sale Motion, Debtors sole business would be the Litigation, putting aside the Mobility business which is of de minimis value. There would be no plan of reorganization and instead, all that the Debtors would have to show for their millions of dollars of post-petition losses is the Litigation," the Judge wrote.

Comcast adopts DNS hijacking, imposes irritating opt-out

Despite knowing the ways in which DNS hijacking can cause problems for non-Web clients, Comcast has rolled it out in an attempt to make money off misspelled URLs. To make matters worse, opting out is a hassle

Gmail flaw shows value of strong passwords

This article made a true believer out of me. I just beefed up my Gmail password. After reading it you may want to, too. I think some of her suggestions carry things to extremes, but I also think that putting a stronger password in Gmail is a good thing to do.

OnComputers Radio show Podcast 08-02-09

This is the On Computers Radio show podcast for 08-02-09. You can listen live every Sunday from 10AM to 1PM Pacific that's 1PM to 4PM Eastern. Join us for the live show and chat. If you prefer, you can download the same MP3 file here via ftp.

Earl's Cyber Steals and Deals

Dell Small Business offers the Dell Vostro 220 Intel Core 2 Duo 2.8GHz Mini Tower Desktop PC bundled with a Dell E2210H 21.5" Widescreen LCD Monitor for $409 plus $35 for shipping 3GB RAM

WalMart and Staples are slashing laptop prices and expanding their selections for the back-to-school shopping season

Dragon NaturallySpeaking 10 Preferred for PC for $50
after rebate + $7 s&h, more TigerDirect.com offers the OEM Dragon NaturallySpeaking v.10.0 Preferred with Headset, model no. A109A-K07-10.0, for $99.99. This $50 mail-in rebate knocks it to $49.99.

Buy.com offers the Kingston 4GB PC2-5300 DDR2-667 SO-DIMM 200-Pin Dual Channel Notebook Memory Kit with two
2GB SO-DIMMs, model no. KVR667D2K2SO/4GETR, for $48.54. With free shipping,

newegg.com offers the Kingston 2GB
PC2-6400 DDR2 Dual Channel Desktop Memory, model no. KVR800D2/2GR, for $23.99 with free shipping. That's the lowest total price we could find by a buck. Deal ends August 3.

Refurbished HP Pavilion Intel Dual Core 2.4GHz Desktop for $370 + $21 s&h Tiger Direct Presario Desktop $300 with dual core AMD CPU & 3gb RAM AMD Athlon X2 4450e 2.3GHz with 3GB of pre-installed system memory. The Compaq Presario SR5710y Refurbished Desktop, Vista Home Premium. 250GB (7200rpm) HD

Dell Home offers the Dell Inspiron 15 Pentium Dual-Core 2GHz 15.6" Widescreen Notebook in Jet
Black for $399 with free shipping. Intel Dual Core T4200 2GHz
processor, 15.6" 1366x768 widescreen, 3GB RAM, 250GB HD, dual-layer DVD burner, 802.11g wifi, 6-cell battery, and Windows Vista Home Basic. Ends August 6.

J&R offers the Lexar Media 8GB
Secure Digital High-Capacity (SDHC) Class 2 Flash Card, model no. SD8GB711, for $11.99 plus $2.95 for shipping

ZipZoomfly.com offers the ASUS 23" 1080p Widescreen LCD Monitor, model no. VH236H, for $174.99 with free shipping. This $20 mail-in rebate cuts it to $154.99. 1920x1080
(1080p) resolution, 20,000 :1 contrast ratio, 2ms response time, 300 cd/m² brightness, built-in speakers, one HDMI input, and both VGA and DVI inputs. Rebate expires August 31

Zipzoomfly.com offers the OEM Western Digital Caviar GP 1TB Serial ATA 3Gb/s Internal Hard Drive model no. WD10EADS, for $87.99 with free shipping. This $15 mail-in rebate chops it to $72.99 ($0.07/GB). 32MB cache. Rebate ends August 20.

Links from the Gregg Zone

1) Well last week we were talking electric bicycles, this week I’m offering a link to a very nice electric motorcycle. Top speeds of 65 mph, 100 mile range, operating cost $0.003 per mile, the batteries last 2000 recharges or/for about seven years. That sounds pretty good to me. The link opens on the home page click on products I’ve been looking at the X-Rider, click on the details page. I followed the buy links to learn the price, the full price is $8,000.00, they are asking for a $3,000.00 deposit, so it may not be readily available. Need to check into it, but it does demonstrate the direction of the market. http://www.xtremegreenproducts.com
2) I have been into this project of severing myself from Cox Cable, to save myself a dime, and because they have been doing their best to make me hate them. Anyway, because of this I have been looking at online video stuff. Looking around for more content I remembered was looking for X-Conference Disclosure Press Conference video, it was back in April I looked for a week or two after it came out, and then forgot about it. Well I found the complete video yesterday. If you are curious about U.F.O.’s you should check it out full video here http://www.vimeo.com/4267335
3) This whole business of cloaking or invisibility seems to really be taking off. I have a lot of trouble wrapping my mind around the whole concept. The idea of something being in front of me in plain sight, and then disappearing somehow just does not compute. I have seen several articles on this, I am afraid this is just one more, but interesting. http://news.softpedia.com
4) Always interested in new products, and concepts coming out, some times I wonder why, and sometimes I am just totally wowed. Here is a slide show with captions of New Scientist’s favorites from the 2009 International Design Excellence Awards (IDEA) just released. Very cool I especially like the Braille converter for printed text, I also like the cheese grater, really makes me wonder what took this one so long to come out. http://www.newscientist.com
5) For my Geek link, after reading this I was left wondering how big the threat is to life on line as we know it, and how we may be affected by this. Skype has been so ingrained into my world I am not sure what I would do without it. I am not sure what to think about the risk to me, us, the show, who knows how this will shake down in the end, it sounds pretty scary to me. http://www.theage.com.

Microsoft sticker shock: Anytime Upgrade, Family Pack details

"The upgrade prices from consumer editions are reasonable; the prices for Ultimate edition are not."

Here's all the info on Windows 7 pricing you've been waiting for from Ed Bott. For those who skipped the Pre-sale in early July in favor of the family pack, it's basically a wash.

P.S. though similar, this article has more information than the article Joe posted a day or so ago.

Jury awards $675K in Boston music downloading case

Boston student who admitted downloading, sharing music ordered to pay $675K to record labels

How to avoid the “500 worst passwords of all time” - SmartPlanet

"A strong password should be two things: easily recalled by its owner and difficult to guess by someone who doesn’t know it. So even non-hackers can guess a few on the worst list."
We have talked about using a secure password on the show. Here is a site that talks about some things to do and some things not to do, in making up a password and or secret question.

AlaskaJoe

Remove the usage restrictions from Adobe PDF files by sending to Gmail account

You can lift the usage restrictions from Adobe PDF files by simply forwarding them as attachments to your Gmail account and opening them in HTML mode right from your inbox. That way, you can copy whatever the ’secured’ PDF contains to a text editing program

GeekDad Parents, Kids and the Stuff We Obsess About 100 Things Your Kids May Never Know About

Very interesting article as to tomorrow's generation.....

CCleaner

"CCleaner (or Crap-Cleaner as it is also known) describes its function in the title of the software. Simply put, CCleaner helps you get rid of junk and unwanted files from your PC. There are three different functions which the software can perform, two of which are very useful indeed:"
I have been using and recommending CCleaner for a while now, I like it and it does work. The new version even has an system restore button.

AlaskaJoe

Windows 7 Family Pack and WAU pricing - SuperSite Blog

"Details confirming both the availability and price of the Windows 7 Family Pack and three Anytime Upgrade products for Windows 7 ... a set of product listings from Expercom includes a WINDOWS 7 FAMILY PACK/ HOME PREMIUM UPGRADE (GFC-00236) with a listed price of $136.95."

This looks like a good deal for someone that needs 3 licenses of Windows 7.

AlaskaJoe

OnComputers Radio show Podcast 07-26-09

This is the On Computers Radio show podcast for 07-26-09. You can listen live every Sunday from 10AM to 1PM Pacific that's 1PM to 4PM Eastern. Join us for the live show and chat. If you prefer, you can download the same MP3 file here via ftp.

“Electric Bicycle Links”

CURRIE Technologies

E-Zip 2008 Mountain Trailz Hybrid Electric Bike $298


Currie Electro-Drive Electric Bicycle Motor Conversion Kits From ElectricScooterParts.com Pictures Specifications and Information

The Electric Commuter Bike – Ezip Trailz

Blogger’s Review - E-Zip Trailz electric bEicycle

New Electric Bike Federal LAW

Electric Bicycles: Best Buys in Add-On Kits – Old Prices

Electric-Bikes.com Electric Bicycles - Older but good INFO

Rise and Fall of EV Global Motors

EV Global Motors Co. Announce Recall of Lithium Batteries in Electric Bikes

Electric Star article on the Rayos Electric Bicycle

Electric Bike Conversion Kits, Crystalyte Phoenix, RoadRunner, Sparrow Hub Motors

EV Deals Motor Replacement Kits and Parts

UK Ebike with stackable Li batteries

Earl's Cyber Steals and Deals

Canon Laser Multifunction ImageClass D480 Copier $299.99 $149.99 after rebate at Fry’s
Kingston 8GB SDHC Card (Class 4) $17.17 Free Shipping, Jul. 23 12 PM Buy.com has the Kingston 8GB Secure Digital High Capacity (Class 4) Memory Card for a low $17.17 Free Shipping.
Dell Inspiron 546 AMD Quad Core 2.4GHz Desktop PC for $429 + free shipping via 1-day
Dell Home offers its new Dell Inspiron 546 AMD Phenom X4 2.4GHz Mini Tower Desktop PC) for $429 with free shipping via overnight delivery. (You must select "Next Business Day Delivery" at checkout.) AMD Phenom X4 9750 2.4GHz quad-core processor, 4GB RAM, 500GB 7200 rpm hard drive, ATI Radeon HD HD 3200 video card, DVD burner, Ethernet, and Windows Vista Home Basic 64-bit. Deal ends July 30

Finepix Z200fd 10MP 5x Zoom Digital Camera for $110 + free shipping Best Buy offers the Fujifilm Finepix Z200fd 10-Megapixel Digital Camera in Silver, model no. 15831038, for $109.99 with free shipping.. Features include 5x optical zoom, face detection, trimming mode, image stabilization, video mode, xD-Picture and SDHC card slots, USB connectivity, and more.

Samsung 22" 1080p Widescreen LCD Display for $135 + free shipping, more
Dell Home offers the Samsung 21.5" 1080p Widescreen LCD Monitor, model no. 2233SW-Dell, for $134.99. (Add it to your cart to see this price.) With free shipping, that's the lowest total price we could find by $25. Sales tax is added where applicable. Features include a 1920x1080 (1080p) native resolution, 15,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio, 5ms response time, 300 cd/m² brightness, and DVI (with HDCP) and VGA video inputs. Of note, this $20 mail-in rebate is available that could potentially reduce the price to $114.99. However, the rebate lists the model number as "2233SW", and the Dell product page lists this as the "2233SW-Dell". Rebate expires July 31.
Seagate Barracuda LP 1.5TB SATA 3Gbps Internal Hard Drive for $110 + free shipping
newegg.com offers the OEM Seagate Barracuda LP 1.5TB Serial ATA 3Gb/s Internal Hard Drive, model no. ST31500541AS, for $119.99 with free shipping. Coupon code EMCLVNP28" knocks the price to $109.9
.
newegg CPU Roundup: AMD Phenom II X3 2.5GHz for $109 + free shipping, more
newegg.com discounts select retail-boxed Intel and AMD processors, as listed below. Those with coupons are for newsletter subscribers only, and expire July 29. With free shipping, each is at the lowest total price we could find. The deals:
• AMD Phenom II X3 705e Heka 2.5GHz Triple-Core AM3 CPU (pictured) for $109 after code "EMCLVNP39"
• Intel Core 2 Duo E7500 Wolfdale 2.93GHz Dual-Core LGA 775 CPU for $119.99
• Intel Core 2 Quad Q8400 Yorkfield 2.66GHz Quad-Core LGA 775 CPU for $169.99
• Intel Core 2 Quad Q9400 2.66GHz Quad-Core LGA 775 CPU for $189.99

Links from the Gregg Zone

1) I heard a rumor that Earl may be including some electric bikes in his segment, so when I ran across this article I thought it might be a good fit. With all of the talk about China becoming the next mega auto pollution country, there may be a ray of hope stirring due to a new popularity in E-bikes, and not just China, India is right there. What I like about this is that, with markets that large; and increasing interest in the U.S. we may see an increase in technology, and design, coupled with a lowering price. http://www.cbsnews.com
2) Ever have doubts about the monies spent for space exploration, thinking we do not get much bang for the bucks we spend. Well I was listening to a radio show someone was complaining about just that. Then the interviewed guest started talking about research, and spinoffs that are regularly given away by N.A.S.A., he mentioned N.A.S.A has a yearly publication listing all of them. The publication is free if you request one, they also have a free searchable archive at the site, great item for those interested. http://www.sti.nasa.gov
3) Medical advancements seem to really be taking off these days; I heard a story on N.P.R. last week about the trafficking of human organs from poorer countries to people who do not wish to wait for a donation. Taking advantage of poor people who get $10,000 for a kidney, but the brokers sell them for $100,000. An even scarier story out of China, they are using mobile death vans for capital punishment by using lethal injection, they leave the body intact for the organ trade, story here http://www.usatoday.com All that made this story about growing organs in the lab, look like a very good thing to me. They have already grown hearts for rats, say people coming soon, http://www.newscientist.com
4) Like those printable batteries this is another one of those discoveries leading to wearing your computer like a undershirt, or maybe just packing a lot of electronics for medical purposes in wearable clothing. Amazing what we can learn from observation. http://blogs.zdnet.com
5) This one has been bouncing around in my maybe folder for a while now, so I thought I would use it to day. It is about the Loebner Prize. While I would guess it is not new to most of you, it was to me. I had no idea they had a prize for A.I., but I suppose it makes sense, the x-prizes seem to get results. I would guess with A.I. realistic robo telemarketers are right around the corner. I may have to regulate my land line to the cell phone drawer. http://discovermagazine.com

Skype singled out as threat to Russia's security | U.S. | Reuters

"Russia's most powerful business lobby moved to clamp down on Skype and its peers this week, telling lawmakers that the Internet phone services are a threat to Russian businesses and to national security."

I'm posting this article so you can see how some people controlling the governments can control the internet we need to keep the internet free!

The savetheinternet.com coalition is more than a million everyday people who have banded together with thousands of non-profit organizations, businesses and bloggers to protect Internet freedom. learn more »

AlaskaJoe

L.A. weighs plan to replace computer software with Google service - Los Angeles Times

"Frustrated by a slow and antiquated computer system, the city of Los Angeles is weighing a plan to replace its e-mail and records retention software with a service provided by Google, a move that could allow the Internet giant to retain sensitive records transmitted by the police and other municipal agencies."

My big question is: Do you want your personal info transmitted over the internet when you apply for a business license or get a parking ticket?

Please leave a comment on this BLOG and we will talk about your answers on the show next week.
Thank you JonathanM for this tip.

AlaskaJoe

The Microsoft Security Response Center (MSRC) : Advance Notification for July 2009 Out-of-Band Releases

"We have just published our advance notification for an out-of-band security bulletin release, with a target of 10:00 AM Pacific Time next Tuesday, July 28, 2009."

This is an Out-of-band Windows update, make sure you get it this coming Tuesday!

AlaskaJoe

RIAA: DRM is Dead - Tom's Guide

"Apparently so according to Jonathan Larry, chief spokesperson for the RIAA."
It looks like the RIAA did something right for a change.
The are admitting that DRM didn't work and is dead! It's about time.

AlaskaJoe

DD-WRT httpd vulnerability (milw0rm.com report)

"Note: The exploit can only be used directly from outside your network over the internet if you have enabled remote Web GUI management in the Administration tab. As immediate action please disable the remote Web GUI management. But that limitation could be easily overridden by a Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSFR) where a malicious website could inject the exploit from inside the browser."
If your running DD-WRT on your router get the update!

AlaskaJoe

Michael Fortin: Windows 7 Efficiency | Charles | Channel 9

"The Windows 7 project involved very efficient software engineering planning and execution. It is no surprise that an equivalent level of efficiency exists throughout the OS (efficiency in how the OS deals with faults, threads, memory management, power management, process management, window management, graphics, audio, local search, diagnostics, and on and on - truly excellent, and efficient, engineering)."

This is one of the best interviews I have ever watched. (it has a 28 minute video) You can read it if you want must of the interview is here for you to read.
Gregg turned me onto channel9 and I have always liked to watch interviews from Microsoft Engineers. This is no exception it is a very good interview with Michael Fortin, he is a Distinguished Engineer in the Windows Core Operating System Division.

Michael talks about the inter-workings of Windows 7 how it is bigger bits wise but more efficient in what runs and when, like what services are running and when they turn on or off. He explained in easy to understand language how an OS does what it does.

As I have said many times I like Windows 7 very much and think everyone should go to it. As a computer tech I make a living fixing Windows XP! The only time I have to work on a Vista computer is hardware replacement. (I did have one lady that had to reinstall Vista, she said this sign kept coming up all of the time so she would just click OK.)

You can just listen to this interview while doing your other things, it's a good one! A half hour well spent while playing FreeCell or Spider :)

AlaskaJoe

Open-source firmware vuln exposes wireless routers • The Register

A vulnerable has been found in DD-WRT firmware there is a fix for it. You need to upgrade the firmware on your router if your using DD-WRT.
"Update
DD-WRT developer Sebastian Gottschall just emailed to say an interim fix is available here. 'Consider that this exploit was released without any Report to us,' he added."

AlaskaJoe

DSL has some life left in it as Qwest rolls out 40Mbps tier - Ars Technica

"Qwest today announced its plan to offer higher DSL speeds in 23 markets over the next few months, including Denver, Minneapolis/St. Paul, Salt Lake City, Tucson, Omaha, Phoenix, and Des Moines, Iowa."
This sounds like a very cool upgrade to the dreaded DSL. I would like to hear from anyone that gets this upgrade from Qwest.
AlaskaJoe

Earl's Cyber Steals and Deals

Western Digital "Green" 1.5TB SATA 3Gbps Hard Drive for $117 + free shipping
Dell Small Business offers the Western Digital Caviar 1.5TB Serial ATA 3Gb/s Internal Hard Drive, model no. WD15EADS, for $129.99 with free shipping. Apply coupon code "XTHR0RQRXJHQ12" to drop it to $116.99 ($0.08/GB). Coupon expires July 23.

SanDisk 16GB Cruzer USB 2.0 Flash Drive (pictured), model no. SDCZ36-016G-A11, for $24.99 plus $2.95 for shipping.

Hanns-G 25" 1080p Widescreen LCD Display with HDMI for $200 + free shipping
newegg.com offers the Hanns-G 24.6" Widescreen LCD Monitor, model no. HH-251HPB, for $199.99. With free shipping, 1920x1080 native resolution, 2ms
response time, 800:1 contrast ratio, 300 cd/m² brightness, and HDMI and VGA inputs

Seagate Barracuda LP 1.5TB SATA 3Gbps Internal Hard Drive for $110 + free shipping newegg.com model no. ST31500541AS, for $109.99 with free shipping ($0.07/GB).

Hitachi Deskstar 1TB SATA 3Gbps Internal Hard Drive for $70 + free shipping, more Amazon.com offers the model no. 0A38016, for $69.74 with free shipping ($0.07/GB).
Inspiron 546 at Dell Online Store Upgrade using Dell process to dual 2.5 or dual 2.7 ghz CPU. $269 base and $50 or $70 for upgrades. Buy the memory on your own.

Walmart.com has the Crosman Pulse M70 Full Auto Soft Air Machine Gun for $19 + shipping. Shipping is about $6; free in-store pickup in most locations. Features velocities up to 175 fps, gun holds up to 250 plastic BBs, gun comes with 100 plastic BBs.

Inspiron 546 at Dell Online Store Upgrade using Dell process to dual 2.5 or dual 2.7 ghz CPU. $269 base and $50 or $70 for upgrades.

Inspiron 546 at Dell Online Store Upgrade using Dell process to dual 2.5 or dual 2.7 ghz CPU. $269 base and $50 or $70 for upgrades. Buy the memory on your own.

Hitachi Deskstar 1TB SATA 3Gbps Internal Hard Drive for $70 + free shipping

Seagate Barracuda LP 1.5TB Serial ATA 3Gb/s Internal Hard Drive, model no. ST31500541AS, for $109.99 with free shipping

Hanns-G 25" 1080p Widescreen LCD Display with HDMI for $200 + free shipping

Hanns-G 25" 1080p Widescreen LCD Display with HDMI for $200 + free shipping

newegg.com offers the Hanns-G 24.6" Widescreen LCD Monitor, model no. HH-251HPB, for $199.99. With free shipping,

Sandisk SAD SDCZ36016GA11 16GB Cruzer USB Flash Drive

SanDisk 16GB Cruzer USB 2.0 Flash Drive (pictured), model no. SDCZ36-016G-A11, for $24.99 plus $2.95 for shipping.

Western Digital "Green" 1.5TB SATA 3Gbps Hard Drive

Western Digital "Green" 1.5TB SATA 3Gbps Hard Drive for $117 + free shipping

Dell Small Business offers the Western Digital Caviar 1.5TB Serial ATA 3Gb/s Internal Hard Drive, model no. WD15EADS, for $129.99 with free shipping. Apply coupon code "XTHR0RQRXJHQ12" to drop it to $116.99

OnComputers Radio show Podcast 07-19-09

This is the On Computers Radio show podcast for 07-19-09. You can listen live every Sunday from 10AM to 1PM Pacific that's 1PM to 4PM Eastern. Join us for the live show and chat. If you prefer, you can download the same MP3 file here via ftp.

Microsoft Hits Back Against Apple Ads ad Keeps Swinging

Microsoft has launched its own "I'm a PC" series of ads poking fun at Apple's prices and is not stopping despite Apple's whining legal department. And on top of that MS is opening its own series of MS stores some of which will be nextdoor to Apple stores.

Links from the Gregg Zone

1) Going to start with a link Joe sent me about a new way to not own your car. I suspect this may actually be the future, because I have seen the concept in Sci-Fi books and movies. However it may be quite some time before it becomes main stream due to its appeal being restricted to how, and where you live. It might have local appeal in today’s world, I wish them well. I think it would play nicely here in Las Vegas, and would be a good fit for electric vehicles, but think it would have problems in Montana. http://www.zipcar.com/
2) Well here we are in Joe’s neighborhood again; link is to an article from the Anchorage Daily News about the Alaskan blob floating off the coast. I think we will be reading more about this for the next couple of weeks. While the mystery seems to be settled as to what it is, the tests say it is a type of algae. The questions about where it came from, why it is there; still remain because it has never been seen before. The obvious connection to global warming, and climate change will need some study. Be interesting to follow the story, looking forward to the answers. http://www.adn.com
3) This is an article about Amazon, Kindel, and ethics. Sent to me by Troll no doubt to confuse my interest stated a week or two back in a link here talking about how I wanted one. Well I have been successfully confused now I am not to sure I like the idea, you know how I love a good conspiracy. I suspect there is more here than what meets the eye. Not sure I like the implications regarding invading my privacy just because they feel the need. I do very much like the irony. http://www.nytimes.com
4) This is another Joe sent me, during our morning coffee and Skype conference he was reading Daily Rotation, and says hey here is a link for you. He was absolutely right this one grabbed me, and there is more here than just the headline subject. We are talking about printing batteries, but they also mention printing flexible electronics. The batteries solve some of the problems with those. This has got me thinking I need to get back up to speed on these prototype printers. There seems to be a lot going on there, batteries, organ replacements, got to find out what is new. http://blogs.zdnet.com
5) For my geek thing this week I thought this was interesting, appears they have taught a computer to read sign language. I am having some trouble deciding what the implications of the technology will be, but they must have had some purpose in mind, other than we did it because we could. http://www.newscientist.com