"Links from the Gregg Zone!"

1) One of the things I like most about cruising around the internet is
bumping into things I really know nothing or very little about. Some times good, sometimes not so good, or in this case a little scary. I personally have never heard of Codex Alimentarius, nor was I particularly worried when I googled their main site it looked innocent enough, the only thought I had was the site seemed very well set up. Then I looked at the site I have listed here, watched the video, clicked around some and found some strange and seriously worrisome information, want to follow my tracks click on the
Article- Nutricide: The killing camps of Codex Alimentarius link under news, then the download full pdf file. Reads like a James Bond spy novel complete with Nazi world domination plots to control the world food supply. I have not decided what I believe about this whole thing, but if even a little is true it is scary. http://www.healthfreedomusa.org/index.php

2) I'm always looking for another useless time wasting pastime, I kind
of like collecting something, and I kind of miss the chase when nothing is available. I'm camped out at Joe's house for a while need to think about what I can take home with me, on the plane, weight and all. So I have started something new I have decided to start collecting one dollar bill origami. Here is a link for the first one I found, a bow tie, if you know of any more please let me know.
http://www.metacafe.com


3) I thought I would do a quick up date on the pet food recall as it
seems to be lingering in the news, while looking for an update I ran into this site. This is the place to check in if you are concerned about any thing like this regarding your pets. Here they even have copies of the notification papers to vets, what to look for in the way of symptoms, treatment, and other recalls not getting the media attention, also info on the legal end of the issue if you were damaged by the problem.
http://www.avma.org/default.asp

4) I have been reminded several times that this is Easter Sunday I
thought I would post a site for Easter eggs. That is the tech type, for those not familiar with them in the context of software (get that Cadbury Bunny out of your head!), an Easter Egg is a hidden feature or novelty that the programmers have put in their software. In general, it is any hidden, entertaining thing that a creator hides in their creation only for their own personal reasons. This can be anything from a hidden list of the developers, to hidden commands, to jokes, to funny animations. You'd be surprised just how many things contain Easter Eggs. This site has 10,357 so far 61 new ones in the last two weeks. You can even add new ones you may find, have fun http://www.eeggs.com/ .

5) Just a quickie for the Art Bell types. For those who know about the
Princeton Egg's, the site has changed some since I was there. For those who are not familiar you might check it out. It is an experiment in global consciousness set up by Princeton University back in 1998 using random generators it has been running continually for almost ten years now. Seem to have recorded most of the major events, 9-11, the tsunami, major earthquakes and more, days and hours before the event happens. The site is broken down into two areas, 1) Scientific work, and 2) The Aesthetic View, very interesting site, the dot shows coherence, that's new green good, red duck, and run. http://noosphere.princeton.edu/index.html

UK firm claims 100 per cent no-spam guarantee

UK firm ClearMyMail guarantees they will stop all spam with sophisticated filtering techniques. It's a bold claim, but tempting enough that I am wondering if they sell the service to Americans.

Along the same notion, a UK man who successfully sued a spammer over a single email message has set up a site here encouraging people to sue spammers. They're interesting and, frankly, I have wondered if I should not get involved with suing spammers as a nice way to increase my income.

Jack

eXtreme Power Supply Calculator

Extreme Outer Vision has cobbled a database of various hardware bits into a power usage calculator that you can use to make a pretty decent estimate of how much power a given system will take.

Something like this is long overdue, in my less than humble opinion, and according to friends and other journalists, the results obtainable from this are much more accurate than one might think, which probably means they've done their homework. With systems taking more and more power as time goes by, a tool like this will tell you how big a power supply you will need on that new 32 core system.

Enjoy,
Jack

Legally blind Texans may use lasers to pick out prey - Engadget

Legally blind Texans may use lasers to pick out prey?!?!?!!?! Whoa! I wondered if Riley had ever hunted game. :)

Completely bypassing the stunning fact that (legally) blind Texans are actually allowed to wield a weapon and fire at will during regular hunting seasons, a new piece of legislation could allow these folks to see what they're aiming at a wee bit better,.....

Jack might want to stay out of the way during hunting season. :)
--MissM
Legally blind Texans may use lasers to pick out prey - Engadget

Patch Tuesday Comes Twice in April - Security Fix

Brian Krebs at WaPo was the first place I ran into, in my rss feeds, about what was coming up on the official "Patch Tuesday." In the equal time category, he also writes:

Microsoft may not be the only large software vendor issuing updates next week. A number of other companies, most notably Apple, have been known to take advantage of "Patch Tuesday" to issue their own security updates. Microsoft took a pass on Patch Tuesday last month, but Apple used the occasion to push out fixes that plugged at least 46 individual security holes. Apple also issued another bushel of patches on February's Patch Tuesday.

Patch Tuesday Comes Twice in April - Security Fix
Then right after that (at least in my list (Security Fix, Welcome to the MSCRC(its alphabetical))), the MS Security Response Center blog posts the "'AS IS' with no warranties notification" about next weeks "Patch Tuesday."

--MissM
P.S. Sorry about the nested parens.
P.P.S. Has anybody had trouble with the patch issued Tuesday, MS07-17, I've noticed a couple of news stories about it, and wondered about our reader's experience.

An inside look into building and releasing MS07-017

I found this look at the process involved in security vulnerability repair (?) and updates. I hope you enjoy it too.
--MissM

Welcome to the Microsoft Security Response Center Blog! : An inside look into building and releasing MS07-017

WEP security totally broken

We all knew WEP was not terribly secure. Now there is proof it is nearly worthless in the face of a skilled attack.

Even so; I still recommend WEP with a 128 bit key (up from my past recommendation of a 64 bit key) for home users. In addition, I tell folks to run an intrusion detection utility. eEye Digital Security's "Blink" intrusion detection is available free in a home version for Windows XP and Vista and I have been testing that. (No results to report, yet. But I will say that you are going to have some fun getting it to run in the presence of an anti-virus program, hence the long test period.)

If you have sensitive data, use WPA1 or 2. (2 is preferable.) Better yet, encrypt your data and forget about wireless entirely.

Jack

PowerPoint presentations a 'disaster'

I have friends, clients and acquaintences who seemingly cannot live without PowerPoint or other presentation software. This is going to break their hearts.

As soon as I see a PP presentation beginning, I start to fall asleep. This seems to be a common reaction and I have long suspected people generate these things because they do not trust themselves to speak or write well enough to get their point across. It has always been my position that a well done PDF with a few illustrations (when absolutely necessary) does the best job of carrying the point.

Now I have scholarly evidence! :)

Jack

Two free games based on the Quake 3 engine tip up

The link above is to The Inquirer, which has an article on this.

It seems that since the source code for Quake3 was released under the GPL the folks at the "ioquake3 project" have been hard at work. First, they had to bring the Quake game engine up to date, and they seem to have done a sterling job of it, including support for OpenAL sound, which gives these new games surround sound and full support for Ogg Vorbis.

If the screenshots I have seen are any indication, the graphics of both games are very good. You will have hours of good game play ahead of you when you've downloaded them. I have both downloads running now. Not only do they have LinuxPPC ports, but the site accurately detected my platform and directed me to the correct download; a first.

Game download links are given at the bottom of the article. Enjoy!

Jack

Python on Planes

First was Microsoft's .NET development platform for web apps. To be blunt, it still leads the field and there was not much other than it to choose from.

Along came Ruby on Rails; the Ruby scripting language and the Rails development environment. That was as much a revelation as Microsoft's offering as the Rails RDE (Rapid Development Environment) was wonderful. The problem was the Ruby language, whose performance reminded (and still reminds) me of BASIC on an 8088.

Now comes Planes, which utilizes the Python scripting language and runtimes and whose output can be compiled to byte code, as well. If the Planes RDE is the equal of Rails, this one should win on performance. I've heard good things and am unhappy the Planes site seems to be overwhelmed by demand. It hasn't been working for hours.

I post this for those of you who may wish to fool with Rails, under Windows or Linux. Other platforms available soon. You might just be fooling around with the next big thing in web app development.

Jack

Cursor hole puts Windows PCs at risk - USATODAY.com

This is a couple days old, but not an April Fool's joke. Beware (by the way!).

A new security vulnerability puts Windows users at risk of serious cyberattacks, Microsoft warned late Wednesday.

The vulnerability affects all recent Windows versions, including Vista, which Microsoft has promoted heavily for its security. The operating system software is flawed in the way it handles animated cursors, Microsoft said in a security advisory.

An attacker could exploit the vulnerability through a Web page or e-mail message with rigged computer code, Microsoft said.

"Upon viewing a Web page, previewing or reading a specially crafted message, or opening a specially crafted e-mail attachment, the attacker could cause the affected system to execute code," Microsoft said in its advisory.

Such holes are often exploited by cybercrooks to do "drive-by" installations of malicious software. Spyware and remote control tools that turn PCs into drones for the attacker are silently loaded onto vulnerable computers by tricking people to visit a rigged website or hacking a trusted site. The website for the Super Bowl stadium is a recent example of a drive-by attack.

Cursor hole puts Windows PCs at risk - USATODAY.com
Update: Microsoft's Advisory on the vulnerability, updated yesterday, Mar. 31.
Additional Update: : Latest on security update for Microsoft Security Advisory 935423 There's an update coming 4/3 from MS, currently, on this vulnerability.
Third Update: Steve and Leo have a 10 minute podcast about this vulnerability.
And in other security vulnerability risks. Cross scripting vulnerability discussion (part 1) by Steve Gibson and Leo Laporte on Security Now.

--MissM
(picture from an Aussie Computer Lock Company)

MS plans emergency update to fix blinking cursor bug

MS is going to fix it in a hurry. I'm a little surprised, but quite grateful.

Now we have to ask why they can't get other zero day flaws fixed in shorter order. They have some which have been outstanding for months.

Jack

OnComputers Radio show Podcast 04-01-07

This is the On Computers Radio show podcast for 04-01-07. You can listen live every Sunday from 10AM to 1PM Pacific thats 1PM to 4PM Eastern. If you prefer, you can download the same MP3 file here via ftp.
If you are coming to Boston for Geek Meet `07 please send an email to GeekMeet07@OnComputers.info If you want us to pick you up at the airport or train station, we need to know.

Links from the Gregg Zone!

1) This first one is a interesting site about Saturn. An article caught my eye talking about pictures of a large hexagon at the North Pole of the planet taken by NASA’s Cassini space craft. This got me looking around; I found this site where you can see a movie of the phenomenon, very odd the hexagon stays still while the clouds race around its borders, not mentioned, there is square shape over the pole, which also remains motionless. I also found it intriguing that the Voyager photographed the same feature 20 years ago on its fly-by, in 1980. While you are there click on the Cassini Photo Essay, top right, I was particularly struck by the size of one of the craters on the moon Mimas, and the variety of the shapes the moons have evolved into. http://www.nasa.gov/

2) On this one I am not going to comment very much, as I’m trying to stay neutral when relating to any thing religious, or political, and this probably qualifies as a little of each. If you heard about the supposed miracle peace sign, on the White House lawn, and want to read up on it here is a link, personally I’m not sure how to take it, my only comment is the disclaimer at the bottom of the page that says picture number three, digitally enhanced. http://www.emissaryoflight.com/_

3) The third link this week is compliments of our man Jack he sent me an email with a very nice URL included, one he found in Wired Magazine, and he thought it would fit nicely into the Gregg Zone. I think it is a perfect fit; it deals with what seems to be a small, but growing cadre of "fusioneers" building "Fusors" in their basements and garages. This web site is where these backyard experimenters who might be determining the future of our planet, exchange ideas, and swap notes. Might keep an eye on them with a small penny stock portfolio in mind, just in case, somebody is going to crack the puzzle one of these days. Thanks Jack for a great link, I am always looking for interesting stuff, so don’t be bashful, got something good , pass it on. http://www.fusor.net/

4) The last one I got for you this week is also thanks to Jack, I found it at the fusion site. No matter how you feel about electric cars, this one might have you intrigued. How do you feel about 0 to 60 mph in 4 seconds, with a range of 250 miles on a charge, and only 3.5 hours for a full recharge; 100% torque immediately they say their favorite thing to do during a demo is ask the passenger to turn on the radio, then step on the accelerator, and watch them try to reach the knob. And it is a very nice looking car, a little pricy, but that may come down as fast as plasma T.V.’s once the technologies are out in the main stream. http://www.teslamotors.com

5) Okay, okay one more Joe tells me it is April Fools Day, sorry I was reminded to late to come up with a tricky prank type thing this year, maybe next year, be warned. But in looking around, for something tricky I found this site with the top 100 April Fools Day pranks, I thought it was interesting, and entertaining reading. So I thought I would let my self off easy this time, and just put it up here. http://www.museumofhoaxes.com

How To Choose CD/DVD Archival Media

Here is a good one. The title says it all.

Jack

PC Makers to Microsoft: "Vista Is Not a Seller. You Suck"

I don't agree with this article. Yes, everything in it may well be true. In fact; I'm pretty sure it is. What I don't agree with is the tone. I cannot see Vista as a failure, even though I don't care for it. It was released too early and still has a number of unresolved issues. So what? 95 and 98 had their own problems, too, and became runaway best sellers. I figure Vista will do that, as well.

Not that success won't take time. It will. And in all liklihood, a relaxation of the DRM contained in Vista's heart will have to take place. But MS will indeed make a success of Vista. Don't make a mistake thinking otherwise. MS is not staffed or led by stupid people and they will get it right. At least right in their own eyes and as their standards are pretty high, with the exception of the DRM fiasco, Vista will get a lot better.

In the mean; Vista gets painted as the Titanic of software.

Jack

Free Online Photo Editors

Extreme Tech has a review of 5 online photo editors. I found it surprising and informative.

Don't expect a Photoshop killer or a GIMP replacement. Even so, these all have some redeeming features and checking them out is a lot easier using this review.

Jack

Catalyst 7.3 Causes BSOD in Vista

Some, but not all that many, users are having trouble with AMD/ATI's new Catalyst drivers for Radeon cards (version 7.3). The problem is apparently in hardware detection for hot-plugging displays and you needn't perform that action to encounter it. If you have a problem, the link above will take you to a decent workaround at Extreme Tech, along with "last resort" directions.

This workaround appears to be very effective. The one person I know who encountered the problem had it fixed by this trick. It's not too hard to do. Anyone can manage it with these clear and simple directions.

AMD/ATI will come out with a fix soon. Until then, use this.

Jack

RIP: Community Linux (1991-2007)

This is going to be the biggest controversy to affect the Linux world in a long time.

What has happened is that the entire new board of The Linux Foundation is composed of corporate types. Nowhere are the vibrant and ongoing communities surrounding various distributions represented.

What does it mean? No one seems to be sure. I'm definitely up in the air about it. Does this mean Linux has come of age as a "corporate" product? Are the communities which have in the past contributed so much now passe? Has the common users and developers been put out to pasture or otherwise declared irrelevant? I fear so, despite statements to the contrary.

Jack

Windows XP Multi Core config - Does your OEM do it for you?

It seems some OEMs are not configuring dual core processor systems correctly and the owners of affected systems are losing out on performance as a result.

The link is to a forum post at notebookreview.com in which directions are given for enabling and tuning AMD dual core processors. Included are directions for seeing how to check that the cores are indeed enabled and downloads specific to AMD processors. I have yet to find directions for Intel processors and suspect this is more an AMD problem than an Intel one, though I do not know for sure.

Jack

Configuring a Linux home internet gateway

Besides being a really decent how-to, this will give you basic networking knowledge. In fact, that is probably the best reason for reading the article, unless you are really going to put up a Linux gateway.

Jack

OnComputers Radio show Podcast 03-25-07

This is the On Computers Radio show podcast for 03-25-07. You can listen live every Sunday from 10AM to 1PM Pacific thats 1PM to 4PM Eastern. If you prefer, you can download the same MP3 file here via ftp.
Remember GeekMeet 2007 is coming up May 4-6 in Boston, MA for info go to http://GeekMeet.OnComputers.info

Links from the Gregg Zone!

1) A quick up date to start things off, if you were fascinated by the crystal caves last week, here is a link to some more and later pictures, I can’t seem to get enough of this, would really like to go and see them. http://www.crystalinks.com

2) Anyone catch the story about the hole in the earth, seems there are thousands of square miles of missing earth crust in the mid-Atlantic ocean. There is a scientific team headed out there to investigate, and study the phenomenon. Here is a site where you can follow the expedition, information about what and why they are there, a daily log, and interactive links to ask questions. http://www.noc.soton.ac.uk/

3) I found a site here that has some rather stunning star related photos, it is called the “Astronomy Picture of the Day” they post a new picture every day, with an explanation, and they have endless archives of days past. http://antwrp.gsfc.nasa.gov

4) One more star related site, this one for a solar system simulator. You can look at Earth from the Moon, or Neptune, fly through the solar system and out to the stars at warp speed. Kind of fun, true scale as to size, distance, and color, but not the best graphics. http://space.jpl.nasa.gov/

5) For the Art Bell types out there in the event you have not heard yet France is the first country in the world to completely open their x-files on UFO’s, this happened Thursday, I have been trying to get in, but the site is being slammed 24 hours a day right now, here’s a link to the site http://www.cnes-geipan.fr/ And here is a link to the news story http://space.newscientist.com

The 10 Worst PCs of All Time

I know. Lists are a bore. Usually they are. But anyone who aspires to geekhood gets into contact with machines that can drive you bonkers, no matter your skill level. Users have it worse for not being familiar with more esoteric remedies which might be available.

I had a PC Jr. Paid an incredible amount of money for it and it never did do the job for which it was purchased. It simply would not stay up long enough to run the problems we posed to it. Within an hour or two of an intended 12 hour run, it would crash, or simply load the meager RAM to the point where none was free, refusing to release any of it, whether it was still needed or not, and grind to a halt. It got hot. It would lose contact with the floppy drive, making the job untenable.

I returned it and had the retailer refused it, I was perfectly willing to see whether or not the manager was capable of eating it. Such was my mood. We bought a replacement (an early clone) and got the work done.

Remember as you read this list; The "good old days" are the reason all us older guys are bald and have ulcers.

Jack

LinuxMCE

LinuxMCE is a free, open source add-on to Ubuntu including a 10' UI, complete whole-house media solution with pvr + distributed media, and the most advanced smarthome solution available. It is stable, easy to use, and requires no knowledge of Linux and only basic computer skills.
I might have to put a TV card in my Ubuntu box!
Thanks RickinFl from our chat

bLaugh | Are You a Twitter Ninja?

I thought this was funny. Do you know what twitter is???



bLaugh | Are You a Twitter Ninja?

Symantec's Latest Internet Security Threat Report

Symantec puts these out a couple times each year. They are generally informative and this one is no exception. Plus, they have instituted a synopsis for those of us too lazy to read through the entire thing.

There is something surprising in this report. Symantec, though not friendly to Microsoft any more, rates MS operating systems as having greatly improved their security. This applies to server and desktop OSs, and reflects changes to XP and the coming of Vista.

It's worth a read.

Jack

Nuance you've lost a customer.

Pardon me but, I need a bit of a rant. I've been using Paperport software for quite a few years. I've got version 11 pro now. There is a PDF creator in Paperport. When I upgraded to Vista it stopped working. So, I go to their site. Eventually I find a link for a supossed Vista version of paperport. I install everything OK. Now PDF creator does work but, I get a watermark on all PDF's created saying I have a trail version. So, I email them. They tell me to try a few things none of which work. They tell me I must now contact technical support. I go to email tech support and they want to charge me $9.95!. Granted not a large sum. Paperport cost me over $100. I don't Think I should be charged. Also there is no 800 number for tech support and they want $19.95 for phone support. Well they just lost a loyal customer. I've been using this program since version 5.3.

FBI Confirms Contracts with AT&T, Verizon and MCI

We all know that there is no privacy on the internet, who knew that there was so little in toto. Read on to find out how bad it is.

The FBI's general counsel, Valerie Caproni, testified today on Capitol Hill that the FBI entered into contracts with AT&T, Verizon and MCI to harvest phone records on American citizens under a national security letter program that has come under fire from Congress and the Justice Department's Office of Inspector General for circumventing privacy laws.

Caproni confirmed during a House Judiciary hearing that AT&T and Verizon, which bought MCI in 2005, had and continue to have contracts with the FBI that compensate phone companies for turning over the toll records of customers connected to counterterroism investigations. The telecoms entered into the contracts in May 2003, according to the report issued last week by the DoJ Inspector General.

"The contract essentially pays for the man hours or the personnel cost for the people who have to do the work," said FBI Assistant Director John Miller in an interview with Wired News last night. "We want dedicated people who handle our requests or do nothing else."

UPDATE: 27B looks into the FBI's use of "exigent letters" to bypass privacy laws and request information from phone companies during terrorism-related emergencies. In less than three years, the FBI sent out at least 739 of these letters. Were there really that many emergencies? We also hear back from AT&T. Read more here.

WIRED Blogs: 27B Stroke 6

--MissM

Kernel Designs Explained

It is a 5 page PDF and at 1500 words, something of a masterful compression. Still, it will tell the less geeky just what an operating system kernel does and the different ways of setting one up and building it. It's well enough written and quick by any standards.

What's not to like?

Jack

TheOnionRouter/SummerOfCode

TOR is having a summer of coder for students around the world, all the information is available at the link in the title or below. Location doesn't matter, just getting the job done. If you know of any students that this might interest, please pass it on. I am going to show it to my kids. :)

TheOnionRouter/SummerOfCode - Noreply Wiki
--MissM

Google Operating System Blog

I saw this link at Mike's Tech Show, and since Jack's under the weather, I thought I may actually beat him posting this. ;-) (Get well SOON! Jack) Google has an Operating System Blog?!?!?!?! It didn't reference the OS, on first glance, though the most recent post is about an Easter Egg in the new personalized home page themes. (Is "home page" one or two words... I notice that Google makes it one word, hmmm. Opinions? leave them in comments). The themes are pretty neat, I picked the beach one, and if you give it your location, the light will change based on your local time. (Initially, I thought that they should base it on available info from the home page (yes, I persist in the 2 words), ie., weather. Upon reflection, its probably a nod to privacy and the glass wall between what they know about you already...). If you have a personalized google page, themes is a new option in the upper right hand corner, Go check it out.

Back, to the Google Operating System Blog (yes, the original topic of the post, and I almost got lost in twitter, but refocused on my task. :P), it doesn't refer to an operating system, as in Windows or Ubuntu or OS X (how egalitarian of me, eh?) but more of a peek inside the "system" of google. For instance, how to improve your search, the easter egg in themes, etc., etc. Enjoy!

Google Operating System
--MissM

OnComputers Radio show Podcast 03-18-07

This is the On Computers Radio show podcast for 03-18-07. You can listen live every Sunday from 10AM to 1PM Pacific thats 1PM to 4PM Eastern. If you prefer, you can download the same MP3 file here via ftp.
Don't forget to send in your email if your coming to Boston for Geek Meet to GeekMeet07@OnComputers.info

What really happened at the Microsoft MVP Global Summit 2007 - istartedsomething

This was too funny. Now, I understand why Tony Linguini isn't an MVP. ;)
You have to go check out the pictures. I Started Something is a blog about MS, that I've been reading for a couple months, I believe the Vanishing Point Game
to promote Vista, may have been what led me to his site. But its a fun perspective on Microsoft, with a tilt towards Vista.

This is why Microsoft forces MVPs to sign strict non-disclosure agreements before entering the summit.

The MVP summit was this past week, and now that I've seen the pictures, I understand why Tony Linguini isn't an MVP. ;)
You have to go check out the pictures.

What really happened at the Microsoft MVP Global Summit 2007 - istartedsomething
--MissM

Links from the Gregg Zone!

1) Well to start off the week, during my cruising I found a link to the discovery of the largest crystals ever found anywhere in the world. They were found in a natural cave completely enclosed in bed rock adjacent to the Naica Mine, which mines silver, zinc, lead, and gypsum, in Chihuahua Mexico. They described the experience like walking around inside of a giant geode, with crystals up to fifty feet in length, a diameter of four to five feet, and estimated over ten tons. The story about the discovery accompanying the pictures is fascinating, seems the temperature is over one hundred fifty degrees, with 100% humidity. One of the miners working there tried to sneak in through a small opening to steal some crystals, they found him a few days later thoroughly baked. http://www.canyonsworldwide.com/

2) The next link is to a Google replay of a BBC, Channel four movie (1 hr. 13 min.) that essentially debunks Al Gore’s “An Inconvenient Truth”. I like to investigate both sides of an issue to develop my opinion, one which I am usually willing to admit is inaccurate, because I believe it is close to impossible to find enough unbiased information that will illustrate both sides of a politically charged issue in a manner that is clear and concise enough for some one like myself, an admitted non-expert on most of these issues, to develop a truly informed opinion. Given that disclaimer, I found this movie really challenged some of my basic understandings of the whole Global Warming issue, and while I thought several of the arguments had merit, and caused me to change my perspective related to the science used to explain the causes of Global Warming, and I’m now reconsidering my opinion in general. I did find the movie as blatantly politically bias as they claim their perceived opposition. I find it unnerving that on issues of this importance to all of us there is such a lack of cohesiveness, and a unacceptable amount of divisiveness’, and self serving agendas putting us all at risk for generations. Enough soap box, sorry, interesting movie, worth watching, very informative in many ways. http://video.google.com/

3) The link for Art Bell types this week, one of the better net movies I have found on 2012 as related to the Mayan Calendar, and there are actually three movies in segments totaling a little over five hours. The sequence is not correct watch them 1 3 2, I enjoyed it very much, found it to be easier to understand than some of the others I found. If you are interested in this subject this is a must see, well worth the time. http://video.google.com

4) Last week I noticed a link to a little helicopter game in the chat, it drove me crazy for a while, so I thought I would return the favor. The object here is to click on the red box, avoid the black squares, without hitting the edges. The email I got along with it said that the air force uses it to test pilots, and said they are expected to last two minutes, if that is true, I would be surprised there are ant planes in the air. http://members.iinet.net.au/

5) One more for any car fans out there a link to the Bugatti Veyron tested to see if it really can do 407 km/h. not your daddy’s Oldsmobile for sure. http://www.dailymotion.com

6) A late link added for those who need to check your pet foods due to the recent recall, tens of thousands of cans of cat and dog food are being recalled because of being a suspected cause of kidney failure. Here is a link to the company in Canada that has caused the problem. There are two lists one for dogs 48 different brands, and one for cats 40 brands, also the company press release explaining their reasoning, along with contact information. http://www.menufoods.com

Slashdot | Registerfly's Accreditation Terminated by ICANN

Just in case you have used registerfly as a provider, I wanted to post this. The only things I've ever heard about them was from Newshutch.com , I lost my home page for a weekend (technically not the weekend, because I got the ip and used that not the DNS :P), because of their incompetence. Newshutch blog post about it

Slashdot | Registerfly's Accreditation Terminated by ICANN

--MissM

P.S. This Week in Tech's del.icio.us feed. [Oh go ahead click it, it won't hurt!]
P.P.S. The DST 2007 page I mentioned earlier is here.

The 59 Top Influencers in IT Security

The first name I recognized in this list was Bruce Schneier and he's #5, but I thought I'd recognize more than 4 or 5 names on the list. Some names that I thought might be missing were, of course, Ben Edelman (a previous guest on the show and focus of several blog posts) and Alex Eckelberry of Sunbelt Software. Perhaps they don't qualify as influencers though, just documentation and protection from spyware and adaware.

Anyway, go read the article and leave people that you think were left out in the comments. Thanks!
--MissM
The 59 Top Influencers in IT Security
I was looking for the DST2007 blog from MS, but couldn't find it, and am in a rush. Sorry. I hope to find it later, and post it for your edification. :)

Slashdot | MPAA Violates Another Software License

Posted without comment.

W3C Launches New HTML Working Group

What is happening is that the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) is looking toward the future of web presentation. This is rather complex and [frankly] somewhat boring. But those of us who code HTML or any derivative thereof probably need to at least follow the proposed changes and perhaps we need to contribute.

Check it out.
Jack

OnComputers Radio show Podcast 03-11-07

This is the On Computers Radio show podcast for 03-11-07. You can listen live every Sunday from 10AM to 1PM Pacific thats 1PM to 4PM Eastern. If you prefer, you can download the same MP3 file here via ftp.
Don't forget Geek Meet 2007 will be in the Boston area May 4-6 If you would like to join us here is the information for you. http://GeekMeet.OnComputers.info

OS/2 2.1 tutorial

This was posted on OS News.com and I thought to pass it along for nostalgia's sake. It's exactly what it looks like; a tutorial for new OS/2 users.

This whole site is full of things like this. I did not know it existed, but have been studying it since I was steered to it. The home page is here. This one is definitely worth a look or two.

Jack

"Links from the Gregg Zone!"

1) This is one of the best ebay sites I have found, for those who are interested in what is going on with the auction site. What it is, is a list of the most active currently running auctions rated by how many people have the item listed in there watch list. Meaning only the very most interested buyers, these guys will be notified by email every time there is a bid. The site is broken down into different categories, from cars to the most bizarre, including sections on electronics, computer games, tech toys, etc. Just a quick sample 1969 Mustang for $90,100.00 with 40 bids, Basket ball patch $11,000 18 bids, how about the skeleton of Snippy the horse, it was the first reported alien animal mutilation case, this one ends Thursday currently at $1500.00, there’s a $2,000.00 beer can, you can get a piece of Jerry Seinfeld’s chewing gum for $13.00 a real bargain. Makes you wonder what’s in your closet? http://pulselist.blogspot.com/

2) This link is a follow up to last week’s links on coins. It seems there is an opportunity right now to find a little extra cash in your pocket due to a recent mix up at the mint. It appears there were as many as 50,000 (they do not know exactly how many) miss-stamped Washington dollars put into circulation last February 15, that’s less than a month ago, they are currently selling on ebay between $40.00 and $60.00 each. Called the Godless dollars because the in “God we Trust” along with several other markings were left off of the edge, where the new coins were supposed to have it inscribed. Here is a link to the story in the Daily Breeze. http://hosted.ap.org

3) Well I said I would start putting up a link or two related to some of the Art Bell type stuff I run across, to start off, here is one I promised last week during the show when I mentioned planes, helicopters, submarines and the like on Egyptian pyramids written in hieroglyphics http://www.catchpenny.org/abydos.html it is an interesting site, take a look around, the home button is at the bottom of the page. The other site I have for you is a pretty good net movie on U.F.O’s http://video.google.com/ about one and a half hours long, from 2006 so it’s not that old, better than the stuff you see on the History channel.

4) One more quickie for anyone who does not know about the phone rebate on your income tax this year, I.R.S says about a third of the people are missing it, so don’t miss out!! It is this year only, your first, last, and only chance. Rather than put up a link to the I.R.S., I’m sure you can find it, this is a link is to a news story about how much trouble they are having with scammers and the like. But every one gets $30.00 to $60.00 guaranteed depending on how many dependents, just for asking. http://www.usnews.com/

OneCare Deletes Users' Outlook Files

Ruh roh! Windows Live OneCare service deletes the outlook.pst file?!?!?!!?
Just a warning, and the first paragraph of the article in BetaNews:

A rash of users of Microsoft's new Windows Live OneCare service, launched last January 30, have been reporting on Microsoft's support forums that virus scans performed by the service have resulted in the deletion of their OUTLOOK.PST files - the local, centralized repositories of e-mail, scheduling, and collaboration data used by Outlook.

go read the rest of the article:BetaNews | OneCare Deletes Users' Outlook Files
--MissM

Why Apple's 'consumer' Macs are enterprise-worthy

The sub-header reads; "Not everyone needs a Mac Pro; sometimes a mini might do."

With the coming of Vista and it's increased costs both for licensing, software, hardware and retraining, some of the businesses I have dealings with are indeed looking toward Macs. Make no mistake about it; they WILL move away from Windows. The question is to what.

The learning curve for Linux is perceived to be too steep. The perception is more drastic than the reality, here, but there is no doubt that it will take a while to get used to the new regime.

Macs have MS Office if events prove you must have that. The OS is tied to the hardware, which is seen as an advantage for business because there is only one basic flavor of it, not the dozens of Linux distributions or the 3-4 versions of Vista that need choosing between. Macs are seen as "intuitive" and so with less of a learning curve. (I don't find that true and in fact dumped the Mac OS X when the learning curve proved too steep. I went to Linux on the Mac.) Java on the Mac is good enough that one can run one's Java software with little or no modification.

In the end; the cost of switching to Macs looks not much worse than the cost of switching to Vista. Upgrades are more manageable, as well. There is not much reason not to.

Jack

RSS in 7 minutes

RSS is da bomb! Its the ONLY way I could possibly read as many websites as I do. It turbocharges your web browsing, really!
--MissM

Learn Ubuntu Linux with freely available e-book - Lifehacker

At LifeHacker I found the following post:
Tech-book aggregator eBookSpyder has the complete text of the Ubuntu Linux Bible available for download as a PDF.

As you might expect from the title, the 931-page book covers everything you need to know about installing, configuring and using Ubuntu. It teaches you groups, graphics, gaming, spreadsheets, e-mail and much more. It's an impressively comprehensive guide--highly recommended for anyone interested in Ubuntu. Indeed, if you find the e-book useful, why not support the author and buy the hardcopy version? Either way, you'll need a password to unlock the PDF: It's 'ebookspyder.net' (without the apostrophes, of course). — Rick Broida
Ubuntu Linux Bible [eBookSpyder]
--MissM
Learn Ubuntu Linux with freely available e-book - Lifehacker

Dissection of a Rootkit The Dissection of a Rootkit

Here is a decent, short article about rootkits at EWeek.com. The author takes a realistic and pessimistic view of defenses available now for dealing with rootkits. It's somewhat scary.

The best part of the article is the links to two PDFs on the subject. One is text, the other is a slide show to go with it. I recommend these for anyone who still doesn't get what rootkits are and how dangerous they are.

Jack

Patch Your FireFox! Mozilla Foundation Security Advisory 2007-09

This is a critical flaw, introduced with a patch for another security problem that was issued in the middle of last December. It's very important you patch this right away. Evidently a lot of folks think so, too, as the Mozilla servers are apparently almost swamped, as of 11:30 a.m. US Central time.

Some notices of this flaw state that disabling javascript will protect against this privilege escalation flaw. The Mozilla Foundation states this is not true. There is no workaround. You must update your Firefox, Sea Monkey or Thunderbird installation.

Jack

Anti-Virus Comparisons

This is an independent site (at least they claim to be and to all appearances are) which compares anti-virus and anti-malware applications.

I've resisted posting stuff like this because all the sites I have seen comparisons at are allied with security companies and so at least appear to have an agenda. Hopefully, this site can give objective results.


Jack

OnComputers Radio show Podcast 03-04-07

This is the On Computers Radio show podcast for 03-04-07. You can listen live every Sunday from 10AM to 1PM Pacific thats 1PM to 4PM Eastern. If you prefer, you can download the same MP3 file here via ftp.

One little bit more on DTX form factor computers

I was just assured by one of my contacts that DTX motherboards and cases with power supplies will be available within the next couple weeks. Now, I'm going to lie back and see if the really smart early-adopters I know, like MissM, invest in it and what kind of experiences they have. I think all will be well and my next computer may very well be a DTX unit, though I am not aware of any OEMs making computers using this form factor, yet.

Jack

Firmware rootkits are the latest threat

Like we really need some new security issues to worry about, right? This is one that we have to be aware of and follow as it develops because we are vulnerable on this score. So start your keeping up with the news with this link at ZDNet.

Jack

Restoring Vista functionality once in reduced functionality mode

ZDNet UK has a series of images that will tell you just how to restore functionality, and so access to your files, should Vista lock you out.

Jack

"Links from the Gregg Zone!"

1) It just amazes the heck out of me how interesting it can be cruising around the net looking for something. One day last week I found in my pocket, a 1983 penny without a copper coating. Thinking it might be worth something I started looking into it on Google. It seems if you have a 1983 copper penny it may be worth a bunch, but not zinc, only worth a penny, no surprise. But, as the radio guy Paul Harvey says; “Now for the rest of the story”. I found out that people are now hording pennies not the copper ones, the newer zinc ones, seems the melt down value is at .8 cents, and they are speculating it will go up. Arizona is the main pusher to abolish the penny, because they will make tons of money on copper, if the nickel replaces the penny, HUH!! Here’s the site check it out. armchairpresident.com I found out how to melt down three pre 1982 penny’s and five post 1982 penny’s and make brass. This site will tell you how to do it. matse1.mse.uiuc.edu . Here is a site that mathematically, in a very scientific way, breaks down everything involved to determine if a penny is worth picking up, pointless but interesting. everything2.comSaved the best for last, just shows how it can pay off researching the mundane stuff in your life, I thought it was pointless to look at my pocket change since they converted everything in 1964, and 1982 this site tells you the ten top most valuable modern coins. Ranging from a real stunner a 1969 penny worth over $35,000.00, a 2005 nickel worth $1,400.00, and 2004 quarter @ $600.00, there’s more but, you get the idea. coins.about.com

2) This is a pretty neat site, for novices like me it is an on line computer encyclopedia site, any term, or subject related to computers, explained. I still have no idea what they are talking about half the time, but it is a start. Makes me at least feel like I have a place to look up those terms you guy’s insist on confusing me with. whatis.techtarget.com

3) For any Art Bell fans that may be out there I decided I would start putting up some of the related links I run across, I like on line movies, I guess because they are free, any way here is a link to William Hennery’s “Star Gates of the Gods” about 40 min. video.google.com

The Truth About Switching to a Mac

I just had to post this one. Stripped of all the hype, this person's reasons for switching to a Mac are, well, boring, mundane and featureless. That's really what switching from Windows to anything is all about. Sure, there are some hitches. There are some benefits, too. In the end, while I'm happy I'm not using Windows for much, I have to be honest and say that not all that much has changed, either.

And here I expected it to change my luck, my life and my bowling average.

Jack

My Vista Upgrade

I know there are folks who post here who don't think upgrading an OS is a good idea. They go clean install every time. Hear me out on this and it might make you think about at least trying an upgrade.
My main computer in my office was running XP pro. I've had a generic host process crash problems, at start up, for years I could not pin down. It would also knock out the sound card for some reason. I changed almost all the hardware and uninstalled just about every program I have at one time or another. I'd be OK for a day or two and then problem would be back. When vista came out I wanted to try it on at least one computer. Figured why not this one? First Vista install scanner would not work. So, I gave up quick and uninstalled, New scanner driver just came out. So, I tried again. I did have to jump trough a bunch of hoops but, scanner does work now. I had to use the original CD for scanner and Vista got the driver off that. Yes, had to reinstall many programs anyway but, not all. Most important my crash problem seems gone. Done about two dozen reboots and all is well.
My point? I always try an upgrade for an OS. If it does not work well, so be it. I've only lost the time the upgrade took. comments?

Adobe to take Photoshop online | News.com

I know a lot of people that use Photoshop to do image editing, for fun and profit. And I thought that the idea of Photoshop on the web is another interesting step to hosted applications. As the News.com article says:

Hoping to get a jump on Google and other competitors, Adobe Systems plans to release a hosted version of its popular Photoshop image-editing application within six months, the company's chief executive said Tuesday.

The online service is part of a larger move to introduce ad-supported online services to complement its existing products and broaden the company reach into the consumer market, Adobe CEO Bruce Chizen told CNET News.com. Chizen said Adobe laid the foundation for a hosted Photoshop product with Adobe Remix, a Web-based video-editing tool it offers through the PhotoBucket media-sharing site.

Like Adobe Remix, the hosted Photoshop service is set to be free and marketed as an entry-level version of Adobe's more sophisticated image-editing tools, including Photoshop and Photoshop Elements. Chizen envisions revenue from the Photoshop service coming from online advertising.

It looks like Google is inspiring?, motivating? others to offer hosted products. And is this a Picasa killer? Or a free trial, in order to get you hooked by Photoshop for people who have been intimidated by it. I'm curious to know what our photoshop gurus think of the product, and how Adobe handles the new online product, when its released in 6 months, or so.

Adobe to take Photoshop online | News.com
--MissM
[h/t BuzzOutLoud]

Ontrack reveals RAID data recovery secrets

Because of the interest expressed in the chat, I thought that this article on data recovery secrets would be a good read.

Kroll Ontrack, purveyors of data recovery, give a glimmer of hope to those with wrecked RAIDs in Tom's Hardware Guide's 7-page explanation detailing their step-by-step process, including preventative measures, proper handling tips, different types and levels of damage, and an overview of various Ontrack recovery methods.They stress the obvious solution to make a habit of defragging and backing up your data, however if it weren't for the irresponsible / lazy demographic, Ontrack would be counting their food stamps. They also encourage potential data-loss victims to stay calm, as freak-out sessions oftentimes yield impulsive and regretful decisions for data that might be recoverable. "In 2005, Kroll Ontrack processed 50,000 recovery cases. Ontrack was able to complete 40% of incoming orders successfully right away. The remaining 60% had to be taken to the clean room, where 75% of data recoveries were successful." The stats sound promising if you're in need of a serious data resurrection, and as long as you're willing to cough up a good chunk of your savings.

Ontrack reveals RAID data recovery secrets - Engadget

--MissM
image courtesy of Garner products degausser :)

Serious Security Vulnerability in Office 2007

The flaw is in Publisher, so it does not affect all Office users, but most. It allows remote control and execution of arbitrary code, so it is important. If you have Publisher or a reader for Publisher files installed, check the link above out.

Jack

KDE vs. Gnome

When I first started using Linux in 1998, there really were only two choices for the graphic desktop; KDE and Gnome. I chose KDE and stuck to that religiously for a long time. Now, I find myself using Gnome on my primary machine, XFCE on the machine I am using to post this, IceWM on another. Here in my home, KDE is not in sight unless my wife is using Linux. She still prefers KDE. We figure because KDE can be made to work more or less like the Windows desktop, it is easier for new users coming from Windows than some others. That is really the only reason she uses it; she can get around using much of the moves she already has and doesn't have to learn too many new ones.

Linus isn't enamored with Gnome and will tell you why in this post. I just wish everyone would get along. I like it because once I have it I don't really see the desktop at all, much less the window manager. That is how it should be, in my opinion. Others, who use their desktops differently than I do, disagree, and I have to honor that. In the end; it's all about the user and what she/he wants to do, isn't it?

Anyway; this short article contains the crux of the arguments for and against Gnome and KDE.

Jack

OnComputers Radio show Podcast 02-25-07

This is the On Computers Radio show podcast for 02-25-07. You can listen live every Sunday from 10AM to 1PM Pacific thats 1PM to 4PM Eastern. If you prefer, you can download the same MP3 file here via ftp.

"Links from the Gregg Zone!"

1) This week I thought I would start off with a couple of links for those who still read and buy books. The first is my favorite site to buy books, they may not always have what you are looking for but if they do the price is right, and shipping is $3.50 for as many as you buy, one book or a hundred same shipping. I have seen books discounted as much as 90%, they are new books not used. A fairly large selection, for C2C fans, before you consider buying a guests book search here, edwardrhamilton.com.

2) For on line e-books especially if you do a lot of research on anything, I the best I have found is Questa if you sign up for the news letter they seem to offer extra free trials, if you only have one small project the free trial will get you through, you can browse the new books for free, they have well over a million titles, and a lot of tools to keep your research in order.

3) Looking for something out of print, rare, or if you have a book you think might be worth putting on ebay and you want to check the value try this one, they do price comparisons, so you can see a range of what’s out there. bookfinder.com

4) While not book related, this site is pretty good for a how to do anything, I found this one just goofing around but I really liked it. Cruising around the site, small animals caught my eye, top of the list how to trim your Chinchilla’s toe nails; I knew I had found something for me. I don’t have a Chinchilla, but like the fact the site is a little off the wall. There is also a section for how to in computers the drop down offers six categories, I clicked on hardware there were over 670 articles. They are posted by people visiting the site, which is nice due to a lack of product pushing. Although the site does have advertising it is manageable. ehow.com Here is another similar one by Wikipidia wikihow.com/Main-Page

Another reason to run SETI@HOME

A geek's wife had her laptop stolen and he used SETI to track it down. Who needs laptop tracking now? Just install seti@home and use it to possibly cure cancer, listen for intelligent life, or a multitude of other useful projects that use distributed computing.

One of the computers on which Melin installed SETI @ Home is his wife's laptop, which was stolen from the couple's Minneapolis home Jan. 1.

Annoyed — and alarmed that someone could delete the screenplays and novels that his wife, Melinda Kimberly, was writing — Melin monitored the SETI @ Home database to see if the stolen laptop would "talk" to the Berkeley servers. Indeed, the laptop checked in three times within a week, and Melin sent the IP addresses to the Minneapolis Police Department.

Missing laptop found in ET hunt - Tech News & Reviews - MSNBC.com
[h/t Stuffleufagus]
--MissM

OCZ cools memory with heat pipes

I'm not sure why I find this so remarkable. After all; this is the sort of thing I expect of these folks. Still, the link is to a short blurb at The Inquirer and I urge you to follow the link from there to see the picture OCZ has posted. They even maintain the warranty on this memory when you get enthusiastic about upping the voltage!

Curious.
Jack

Radio Forgets to Pay the User First

I was sitting here mulling over what I may put in my letter to FCC Chairman Martin to discourage the XM-Sirius merger when I stumbled upon this piece by Tim O'Reilly. I'm still not clear on the satrad and Web 2.0 connection, but I really appreciate his take on "paying the user first".

In a world where you get increasing returns from network effects, putting users second, or third, or fourth, in the hierarchy of your concerns is a losing proposition.

That certainly is a problem I see with many businesses, high tech or not. Like this proposed merger, it is all about creating value for investors and not for creating reasons for customers to pay their hard earned money for a product that is useful. So it is with XM and Sirius. We customers only stand to have less choice, higher prices, and obsolete equipment in the face of this merger.

ESR gives up on Fedora

I thought to post this because a number of Eric S. Raymond's complaints regarding Fedora are mine as well. Not the ideological ones. Just the important ones; those based on function and attitude toward that. Fedora (and indeed all distributions based on the Red Hat RPM package management system) have disappointed me for years. I would rather use Slackware and handle most all of the dependency problems that arise myself, by hand, than entrust them to RPM and have to sort out the mess that system makes of things at times. I do, in fact, do just that at times. The rest of the time I used distros descended from Debian, like Ubuntu, and which use the apt-get package management or it's descendants.

While I am quite sure the ideological arguments are important and I DO read and digest them, function concerns me the most. It is on function that I made the decisions I made and ESR seems to have followed my path, at least in part.

Jack

Dell gives desktop Linux its "full attention"

Here's Dell's response to what was mentioned a couple posts down in this blog. Turns out the top 5 requests were for Linux or open source software or, at least, the option of buying a computer without an operating system!

The ball is in Dell's court, now. I wonder if anyone in Redmond is paying attention? And wouldn't you like to know what the response from Microsoft is? I would.

Jack

Vista users get the 64-bit blues

This article comes from Australia, but except for the mailing cost appears to apply to the US as well.

The good news is that 64 bit Vista is not for the faint-hearted. If you want a lot of frustration, order up a copy. Otherwise stick with the 32- bit version.

On a another subject, but one that didn't deserve it's own post, have you seen the Vista "Wow" campaign? The consensus seems to be that the ads are pretty lame and unbelievable. I saw a great tag-line based on it the other day:

Vista: we put the "ow" in "Wow".

Vista security overhaul questioned

Yeah; I know the last thing this blog needs is yet another article that trashes Vista security posted. Yet I thought this one had merit because it puts most of the problems known to exist in one short and succinct article. Plus, it relies in large part on Joanna Rutkowska and Mark Russinovich for sources. Those two are among the greatest experts on Windows security.

They don't agree. Russinovich takes the position that Vista's User Account Control (UAC) is a big step in the right direction. There is no real detail in the article, but at least most of the objections and their counters are in one place.

Jack

Top 10 things Dell customers want from the company

Dell has a site where you can actually vote on stuff like this. The ones I like the best are the "no extra software" option, pre-installed Linux and Mac OS X, changes to the Dell sales pages and letting buyers design their own laptops. That last is the least likely, after the licensing of the Mac OS X.

Interesting and quick read.

Jack

D-Wave demonstrates quantum computer... or a black box in a fridge

We've been hearing about quantum computers for a long, long time. This is the first one demonstrated. While not having the optimum configuration, it is still light-years ahead of what we have now.

Encryption of any sort will not be safe from these machines, unless we encrypt on quantum computers and even then the safety of encryption is not clear at all. So, while I am wowed by the "gee-whiz" factor, I am also afraid of devices like this in the hands of governments and other uncool types. That will happen, too.

Jack

Google should make a Linux

Okay; I know this is goofy. But it is true that Linux is the only viable desktop competitor to Microsoft's operating systems. Apple keeps the Mac far too locked down to sell to the majority of the populace, who want to use almost any software they can get to run on their computer and all sorts of weird peripheral devices. (Vibrating sex toys that respond to events in chat? They exist, powered by the USB port.) I'd be happy with being able to run any printer or scanner, but others are not.

Linux, on the other hand, supports all sorts of stuff, has an absolutely huge range of free software available and will handle Java very well, which is of paramount importance. So if Google got behind it, it might sell well. I do not really care about whether or not Windows dominance is lost. All I want to see is enough competition to stop MS or Apple or anyone else dictating to me what I have to see on and do with my computer.

C'mon Google!!

Jack

OnComputers Radio show Podcast 02-18-07

This is the On Computers Radio show podcast for 02-18-07. You can listen live every Sunday from 10AM to 1PM Pacific thats 1PM to 4PM Eastern. If you prefer, you can download the same MP3 file here via ftp.

"Links from the Gregg Zone!"

To start off the week I thought I would offer a couple of those over the top sites I talked about.
1) How about some people, who do not eat, I mean anything, for years, like up to fifty years, no food, some cases no water for years. Living on sunlight, and air, this diet is defiantly not for me. I ran across this article in a news paper from India about “The Buddha Boy” there are a lot of stories about him here is a link to one from the B.B.C.

bbc.co.uk

it made me curious so I started looking for more info. Here are a couple more I found on the subject:

breatharian.info
inlightimes.com

2) Here is one not for the squeamish, this guy is going to go for a power boat speed boat record using human fat for fuel, ass fat to be specific, ass fat, that’s right fat from his ass.

geekologie.com
calorielab.com

3) On a little milder note I’m sure most of you know about Craigslist, but if you don’t you need to check it out,

craigslist.org

if it is in your city make sure you scan the free ads. Here is a link to the movie trailer about the new movie out about the Craigslist company and founder

video.google.com

Netflix has the full movie, I just ordered it, I’ll try to remember to let you know more about how it was next week.

Ballmer hints at tougher Vista antipiracy crackdown

Read it and weep. Not that Microsoft does not have the right to deal with pirated software in almost any manner they feel they need to. They do. But what it boils down to is that we, the legitimate users, get treated as potential criminals as well. I worry about false positives in the software intended to detect illegitimate copies penalizing my clients and myself.

All these copy protection measures are of little help in fighting piracy, when all is said and done. Why? Because they can be and already have been defeated in a way MS can not currently detect. Copy protection is an arms race and the defenders always lose.

Jack

Toolmonger | Test to Destruction: Crimp Terminals

I believe that we might have what I would call "tool geeks" that read the blog, and I thought this would appeal to all of you, like it did to me. And is a twofer moment, because I get to reinforce my belief that quality does count.
This was an article that proved it. I can relate to quality making a real difference in RJ-45 connectors and crimpers and the time it takes to get it right. When one has to get 8 wires into the teeny weeny chute of the RJ-45 connector, getting it right the first time, makes a huge difference.
Complete, with pictures!, demonstration comparing 3 crimp terminals, and their strength.
Do YOU have any tools that have made an improvement in your life? Let us know in the comments, please!!
I feel bad that she hasn't had any comments to approve :/ I thought that her assurance that it would get moderated in a timely way would motivate SOMEbody. ;-)

Toolmonger | Test to Destruction: Crimp Terminals
[h/t Makezine]
--MissM

Change Your Router Password NOW!

Yes, you heard me. Change it now! Are you still using that default? Well, here's an article that will scare the pants off of you if you are.

Once again, Javascript, which half the Web runs on, is the vehicle for attack.

Web Worker Daily | Daylight Savings Update Central

I got the latest XP updates yesterday. One of the updates, that will affect those of us in the United States, fixes automatic daylight savings time changes recently passed by Congress. The link below includes links to the fixes for Max OS X (Tiger and Panther), XP, Exchange, Outlook 2000-2003, Palm OS, Blackberry, etc., etc. It seems like a very comprehensive list, so I wanted to pass it on. If you use Outlook Calendar, every article I read about this update suggests verifying the times with anyone you have appointments with, during the first 3 weeks (or until the previous time change would have taken place). One advantage of Vista and Office 07 coming out so late, is they are updated with the new DST dates. :)

--MissM

Web Worker Daily| Daylight Savings Update Central

The Futility of DRM

The link above will take you to a Doom9 forum thread. If you read it, you will find all the details of cracking HD-DVD and Blu-Ray DRM. Those DRM systems took 5 years and billions of dollars of development. (That is NOT an overstatement!) and yet they were broken in a few weeks at almost no cost.

Someone, somewhere in the content provider industries is going to realize one day that DRM isn't working. No matter how you feel about the owner's of intellectual properties rights to protect that content (and I think they do have that right) it has got to become obvious to them soon that DRM as it exists now does not work. They cannot rely on legal protection, either, as a business model based on suing one's customers or legally coercing them is bound to fail.

Something has got to change and to enable that, some new business model is going to have to be devised.

Jack

Vulnerability in Microsoft Malware Protection Engine Could Allow Remote Code Execution (932135)

Affected Software:

•	Windows Live OneCare
•	Microsoft Antigen for Exchange 9.x
•	Microsoft Antigen for SMTP Gateway 9.x
•	Microsoft Windows Defender
•	Microsoft Windows Defender x64 Edition
•	Microsoft Windows Defender in Windows Vista
•	Microsoft Forefront Security for Exchange Server
•	Microsoft Forefront Security for SharePoint

Affected Components:

•	Microsoft Malware Protection Engine

If you are using any of these applications, read the advisory linked to above. This is a critical vulnerability. As of the time of this post, there is no patch or workaround. I expect at least some information on ameliorating these faults to surface soon, but a patch may take a while.

Jack

Vista Not Playing Nice with Gamers

Vista is built on DirectX 10 and the larger Windows Graphics Foundation (WGF). While intended to be totally backward compatible with DirectX 9, apparently DX 10 is not. I do not find that surprising, really, considering the complexity of any display system and one intended to do so much is probably just that much more liable to contain bugs and conflicts.

All of this reflects on the graphics chipset maker's efforts to deliver good drivers. It's a very difficult and complex chore at the best of times and made even more difficult (and perhaps temporarily impossible) by having to work around bugs in the OS and display system code.

Contrary to the opinions of some (loudly voiced) "authorities" there is no evidence it cannot all be made to work. Obviously it is going to take time, though. How long I do not know and am not willing to speculate. A month or two should see very substantial progress. Beyond that, I have no notion.

Microsoft claims to have done extensive research, testing well over 1000 games. They say most work on Vista. It would be nice if they would share their results with us, but I expect they refrain from doing that so as not to embarrass the game companies. The same goes for their silence on which applications from other companies are truly Vista compatible or ready.

This is the time to lean back, work on our XP machines and thank the powers that there are early adopters who go through all these travails ahead of us. It's not time to upgrade yet, obviously.

Jack

YouTube - Web 2.0 ... The Machine is Us/ing Us

YouTube - Web 2.0 ... The Machine is Us/ing Us




Since my last video post got a good response, that just encourages me ;)
Enjoy!
--MissM

Windows Vista Tips and Tricks :: the How-To Geek

Some tips that might help anybody who has installed Vista, the ones that I thought might appeal to anybody .
Security

* Block Third-Party Cookies in IE7
* Blocking Spam from International Senders in Windows Vista Mail
* Disable User Account Control (UAC) the Easy Way on Windows Vista
* Enable Ctrl+Alt+Delete for Vista Logon Screen
* Enable or Disable UAC From the Windows Vista Command Line
* Make User Account Control (UAC) Stop Blacking Out the Screen in Windows Vista
* Make Windows Vista Log On Automatically
* Using Password Phrases For Better Security
Go to the page below for links to all the goodies.

Windows Vista :: the How-To Geek
[h/t MajorNelson's blog]

--MissM

OnComputers Radio show Podcast 02-11-07

This is the On Computers Radio show podcast for 02-11-07. You can listen live every Sunday from 10AM to 1PM Pacific thats 1PM to 4PM Eastern. If you prefer, you can download the same MP3 file here via ftp.

Dim Vista

Forbes.com savages Microsoft Vista. Agree with the article or not, it is this type of thing that is going to be influential in corporate circles. They also take a roundhouse swing at Office 2007 here.

There is nothing new in this post that I can see. I put it up because this sort of coverage will have tremendous influence on a lot of prospective purchasers and because those of us who support Vista will be seeing this sort of failure and corporate attitude soon enough.

Jack

"Links from the Gregg Zone!"

1) To start this week three on the lighter side links, one a little scary, one just funny, and one kind of cute.Ordering a pizza in the future, if things keep going in the direction we are going http://www.aclu.org/pizza/images/screen.swf Telemarketer revenge, very funny, how to turn the tables on the telemarketer, http://howtoprankatelemarketer.ytmnd.com/ Baby rappers, warning you might want to avoid this if you don’t like cute!! http://www.ladyskylar.com/swffiles/madeapoop.swf
2) For Art Bell fans, a link to Larry King interviewing Art about his U.F.O. sighting, he presents Larry with the gift of one of Art’s Parts. You will need to wait for the intro finish, or the sound overlaps, need to scroll down to the interview link.http://hem.bredband.net/b251920/A-Revolutionary-Act.htm
3) Anyone out there following those U.F.O. reports over O’Hare airport in Chicago? This is a very interesting site http://www.alienvideo.net/chicago-ohare-airport-ufo.php Seems Dan Aykroyd may have obtained some video. Scroll down, some of the better pictures of the object. Scroll down a very interesting bit of leaked video from one of the news broadcasting stations, two broadcasters talking before the show goes live. Scroll down a link to an interview with one of the employees for united, describing what he saw..

Next Tuesday == Windows update alert!

From the Microsoft Security Response Center Blog, a hint at what updates will be available next week, a brief list was posted on the blog. I've excerpted the basic info below:
*Five Microsoft Security Bulletins affecting Microsoft Windows.
*Two Microsoft Security Bulletins affecting Microsoft Office.
*One Microsoft Security Bulletin affecting Microsoft Windows and Microsoft Visual Studio.
*One Microsoft Security Bulletin affecting Microsoft Windows and Microsoft Office.
*One Microsoft Security Bulletin affecting Step-by-Step Interactive Training.
*One Microsoft Security Bulletin affecting Microsoft Data Access Components.
*One Microsoft Security Bulletin affecting Windows Live OneCare, Microsoft Antigen, Microsoft Windows Defender, Microsoft Forefront Security for Exchange Server and Microsoft Forefront Security for SharePoint.
And, of course.... "These updates may require a restart."
The updates are set to be released at 10am PT 02/13/2007.
Welcome to the Microsoft Security Response Center Blog! : February 2007 Advance Notification

--MissM
P.S. Has anybody tried Yahoo's pipes? It looks interesting when you can get to the actual site. But, I've been too busy to try it. Maybe that's what Gail, Jack and Joe are doing??? :)

Amazing weather phenomenon

This is too excellent to not post:



[h/t Random Good Stuff]

--MissM

Update: Its Youtube Day! Installing Vista. Tooooo Funny

Thoughts on Comments re; NVidia Driver Mess

As those of you who listened to this week's show know, I sided with NVidia in this. I know just how hard it is to accomodate the DRM in Vista and DirectX 10. I've spent over 50 hours reading the specs and documentation on just how things have to be.

So I found it rather strange that NVidia fanboys have taken such exception. I have deleted comments containing foul language regarding this and received over 50 emails, not one actually reflecting my position on this matter. I don't really appreciate being cursed, though I can live with it. The threats against me I can live without and ask those who are so incensed at me to download the show and hear exactly what I had to say before leaping to conclusions because I posted a news item. That item does not reflect my position at all.

Jack

Turbocharging the Tablet Computer

XP powered tablet PCs were neat. But the platform seems to come of age with Vista. Great strides have been made. This little 2 page mini-review will do more to tell you how much progress has been made in the platform itself than it will about the 5 machines discussed. It's definitely worth a look.

Jack

OnComputers Radio show Podcast 02-04-07

This is the On Computers Radio show podcast for 02-04-07. You can listen live every Sunday from 10AM to 1PM Pacific thats 1PM to 4PM Eastern. If you prefer, you can download the same MP3 file here via ftp.

Geek Meet 2007

Geek Meet 2007 will be held the weekend of May 4-7, 2007 in Boston MA.

Geek Meet will take place at the Residence Inn by Marriott, located in Norwood, MA (just a short ride into Boston). For more details on the hotel, please visit http://www.marriott.com/BOSBW. We have negotiated a group rate of $129.00 a night for a studio suite, and $189.00 a night for a two bedroom suite. Reservations must be made by 4/4/07. To make a reservation, you can contact the hotel directly at 781-278-9595 and mention that you are with the Computer Geek Meet group.

While in Boston, we are talking about walking the Freedom Trail. For more information on the Freedom Trail, please visit http://www.thefreedomtrail.org.

Some other ideas we are floating are a harbor cruise.

Are you planning on coming to Geek Meet? Do you have any ideas on what you want to do? Send us an email at geekmeet07@oncomputers.info and let us know.

"Links from the Gregg Zone!"

Joe is playing around with the new Vista O.S. these days so I thought I’d look around and see if I could dig up some interesting sites that might be related.

a) http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=7080932 This is a N.P.R. interview with Bill Gates on the release.

b) http://www.winmatrix.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=10995 This is a site with some tips and shortcuts.

c) http://www.neowin.net/index.php?act=view&id=36266 Another tip site, with some additional stuff.

d) http://www.technewsworld.com/story/50236.html This site compares Linux, and Vista, thought it had an interesting take on why Linux is not used more in the market place.

e)http://youtube.com/results?search_query=microsoft+vista&search=Search At the time I captured the link 574 video clips dealing with vista, would suggest staying to 3 stars and up, unless the clip has had less than 100 views, or sounds interesting.

f) http://blogs.zdnet.com/microsoft/?p=221

2) I thought I would offer some fun but educational kid’s sites that I have come across. I have found some of the more complicated subjects I get interested in, are easier for me to grasp if I search for sites aimed at students. It has proven to be a useful tactic for me when I’m trying to understand something I know very little about. I usually I start at the high school level; college level is about the same as a book, or even more complex. I hate to admit it, but on occasion I have even started at the lower grades, but that’s life in the Gregg zone.

a)http://www.americaslibrary.gov/cgi-bin/page.cgi

b)http://bensguide.gpo.gov/

c)http://starchild.gsfc.nasa.gov/docs/StarChild/

d)http://www.firstpeople.us/

e)http://www.doi.gov/kids/

f)http://www.sonomalibrary.org/homework/uskids.html

g)http://www.win.org/library/matls/govdocs/kids.htm

h)http://www.census.gov/mso/www/educate/kidspage.htm

i)http://www.whitehouse.gov/kids/whlife/index.html

J)http://www.kids.gov/

These are mostly about government because that was the area I was looking into when I thought about highlighting them, if anyone thinks this is a good idea, would like more like this, but on other subjects let me know, and I will start saving them as I find them.

3) I decided to write a little something about www.ebay.com , ebay can be a very interesting pastime. It is pretty amazing the items that you can find there. I learned if you want to buy something it is worth looking to see if it is at ebay. I was going to set up a second monitor in my living room to go with my HP media center, to do this I needed a 25 foot vga monitor extension cable, looking at the normal sites on the internet I found it ranging from $45.00 to $65.00, on ebay I found the same cable, same brand everything, new sealed for $12.50. The most recent example was one have been an interest in for a week or two, the Satellite on T.V. on Your P.C. soft ware, (see below), when looking at sites on the internet I found prices ranging from $19.95 to $199.00, Price range at ebay from $1.74 to $14.95. While I am sure there is a vast difference in the soft ware qualities, and I intend to do a lot more investigation I just wanted to point out the difference on price.

Now for a few little tricks; if you are looking for a particular item especially a collectable, try looking for it in the search engine, but try various misspellings. The angle here is that if someone misspelled the item in the title line, very few people will find it, unless they spell it the same way, hence no bidding competition. I’ve seen things that should sell for a hundred or more going for four or five dollars. You can enter several misspellings in the area that will email you about a new listing, patience can payoff, you can even find something to buy, only with the idea of reselling it. If you have a specific area of interest and would like to see lots of related items, but looking for deals. Try typing in a general search topic like civil war, as opposed to civil war badges, buttons, etc. However the trick here is to do it at a very odd time, say from 2:00am to 5:00am. A person who does not properly select a good end time for their auction, say, entering am instead of pm will lose most of the late action. At those odd times there are very few people bidding, your only real competition will be the advance bidders, using a service, or the ones who guessed the end price.

If you are interested in more tips on ebay let me know I’ll do another segment, maybe dealing with selling, or some of the very strange things out there. Like how to buy the stuff confiscated at air port security checks, Fiji mermaids, and some other interesting stories related to ebay.

4) I’m really looking for some input in this particular area, it seems there is a awful lot of stuff out there on this subject, and I’m extremely interested, but I’m really limited in my knowledge as to how these things work. What I am looking into is the Free Satellite T.V. on your P.C. downloadable software. The promises run up to 3200 T.V. stations world wide, allot of them in high def., plus thousands of radio stations. I have found many sites, selling lots of different packages; prices range from $1.74 at ebay up to one I saw for $199.00 quite a spread.

My understanding is (and I may be totally off base) the main differences between the programs is in the format for sorting, and locating what you are looking for, a T.V. guide with 3200 stations would be ridiculous, some of the download sites show screen pictures breaking things down by country etc. some show nothing, I would guess they leave you lost and confused. I’m sure there must also be differences in resolution, audio quality, and maybe stuff like recording, searching, etc., but I would think the actual part of the software that captures the signal off the internet would be basically the same.

The idea of telling my cable company to take a hike, really appeals to me, everything I have read says it is 100% legal, some of the software review sites say that some of the programs work extremely well, while the majority are a waste of money. I need to know how to sort it out. The idea of being able to hook all of my televisions up to the computer, and watch T.V. from different countries all over the world for free is amazing to me, please let me know what you think about this.

Here is some of the sites I looked at a google search will turn up many more:

http://www.articlesbase.com/entertainment-articles/pc-satellite-tv--review-of-satellite-tv-for-pc-2006-software-32339.html

http://club.cdfreaks.com/showthread.php?t=95214

http://www.tvshowdirect.com/google/?gclid=CMHW4v3w_4kCFQUgggodCCHIRg

http://www.tvonpcelite.com/index.htm

Shrinkwrap Licenses: An Epidemic Of Lawsuits Waiting To Happen

Cory Doctorow takes a look at the shrink wrap license. Sometimes it is just plain funny, but other times it is just plain sad.

The worst offenders are people who sell you movies and music. They're closely seconded by people who sell you software, or provide services over the Internet. There's supposed to be a trade-off to this -- you're getting a discount in exchange for signing onto an abusive agreement. But just try and find the software -- discounted or full-price -- that doesn't come with one of these 'agreements.'

And of course he has an especially kind word for the Vista EULA!