Thursday, December 29, 2011

iGlove

So the armored glove has been updated with an iPhone dock. Hipster Super Heroes rejoice!

Occupy Building Their Own Social Network

The Occupy folks are talking about building their own social network. It would be called Federated General Assembly (FGA). Some interesting quotes:
“We don’t want to trust Facebook with private messages among activists,” he said.
“You have to know someone in real life who sponsors you,” said Knutson.
"And he sees no reason against spinning off the tech to businesses."

What can happen in 60 seconds?





Via Business Insider

American Tested, Rapper Approved - The Glock

Uncrate is pimping the new book Glock: The Rise of America's Gun. What I find funny is their description of the book that:
"tells that story from its early 1980's origins in Austria through its rise as the preferred handgun of a huge number of rappers and Americans." 

EDC Rap

It is amazing what you can find on the internet - the usual knife makers make an appearance along with Youtube favs, CountyComm, etc.


Via ENDO

Yaesu Musen

KB6NU posts the new logo for Yaesu Musen and K0NR points out that at the same time Yaesu is showing additional commitment to the amateur world with this article on digital enhancements. The full annoucement can be found at KDSanders' site (PDF).






Baofeng UV-3R: Expanded Frequencies

In addition to the old trick of opening up the ability to store alpha tags in the Baofeng UV-3R, Frank Fort notes in the comments that he's opened up the frequencies available to his radio via the software:

"Baofeng Uv-3r Mark 11 is now with a 115Mhz to 530Mhz TX and RX modification, with the modded program...
  • Close the UV-3R Mark 11 software if you have it running.
  •  Browse to folder where the software is installed. (The default is C:\Program Files\UV3R.)
  •  Double-click the "setting.ini" file.
  • I tried copy and paste but didn't worked for me so i just changed manually for this.
[setup]com=2searchcom=1name=1
language=english 
[ModelInfo]
Freq0=[136-174/400-470]
data0=6013401700400047
Freq1=[115-400/400-529]
data1=5011993900409952
  • Close the file and save the changes.
  • Run the UV-3R Mark 11 software.
The (Name) option will work in the program only,not on the Baofeng but you can take notes.
So now you have now 3 frequencies choices in the menu up left in the program window. Now that's fun...I have a Baofeng Mark 11 with 19 menu options and work very well..."
Anyone else try it and have any luck? I know with the Wouxon that you can open it up and receive, but that the radio isn't designed to transmit outside the original frequencies.

Gun Sales Up

You've probably seen on other sites about the brisk sales of guns on Black Friday and just before Christmas, but I found this to be an interesting data point:
"January is typically a slow month for retailers, but it's the opposite in for gun stores. In fact, Coal Creek said January is their busiest month."
Via WBIR


ARES vs. RACES

"ARES vs RACES the truth about what each can do !!
ARES is a private sector volunteer organization, while RACES is a government organization. ARES is outlined and promoted by the ARRL, while RACES is outlined in Federal law and promoted by FEMA. ARES can be used for any event by any government agency or non-profit group. RACES can only be used by a local civil defense organization during a declared emergency. In the event of a war powers act all Amateur Radio could be silenced. In this event only RACES to RACES communications would be allowed. ARRL promotes that local ARES groups become hybrids meaning that they are concurrently registered as RACES members. This was the fundamental element on how and why ARESHMB was established. It was established as a partnership between the local amateur radio community and local government.
What Is RACES?
Founded in 1952, the Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service (RACES) is a public service provided by a reserve (volunteer) communications group within government agencies in times of extraordinary need. During periods of RACES activation, certified unpaid personnel are called upon to perform many tasks for the government agencies they serve. Although the exact nature of each activation will be different, the common thread is communications.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) provides planning guidance and technical assistance for establishing a RACES organization at the state and local government level.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is responsible for the regulation of RACES operations. RACES is administrated by a local, county, or state civil defense agency responsible for disaster services. This civil defense agency is typically an emergency services or emergency management organization, sometimes within another agency such as police or fire. RACES is a function of the agency's Auxiliary Communications Service (ACS), sometimes known as DCS (Disaster Communications Service), ECS (Emergency Communications Service), ARPSC (Amateur Radio Public Service Corps), etc. Many ACS units identify themselves solely as RACES organizations, even though their communications functions and activities typically go beyond the restrictions of RACES operations. Other ACS units combine government RACES and non-government ARES (Amateur Radio Emergency Service) activities and identify themselves as ARES/RACES organizations. Yet other ACS units who use amateur radio for emergency government communications identify themselves solely as ARES organizations, whether or not they activate under FCC RACES Rules.
The Amateur Radio Regulations, Part 97, Subpart E, §97.407, were created by the FCC to describe RACES operations in detail. Although no longer issued or renewable, RACES station licenses were issued in the past by the FCC to government agencies for RACES operations. The agencies may continue to conduct RACES operations without these licenses, using primary or club call signs.
ACS, in its RACES and other reserve emergency communications functions, provides a pool of emergency communications personnel that can be called upon in time of need. ACS/RACES units across the country prepare themselves for the inevitable day when they will be called upon. When a local, county, or state government agency activates its ACS unit, that unit will use its communications resources (RACES, if necessary) to meet whatever need that agency has.
Traditional RACES operations involve emergency message handling on Amateur Radio Service frequencies. These operations typically involve messages between critical locations such as hospitals, emergency services, emergency shelters, and any other locations where communication is needed. These communications are handled in any mode available, with 2 meters FM being the most prevalent. During time of war, when the President exercises his War Emergency Powers, RACES might become the only communications allowed via amateur radio. Activating under the FCC's restrictive RACES Rules is not always necessary when using Amateur Radio Service frequencies for emergency communications. For example, ACS communicators may need to communicate with ARES or other radio amateurs who are not government-certified to operate in a RACES net. ACS personnel also might become involved in non-amateur public-safety or other government communications, Emergency Operations Center (EOC) staffing, and emergency equipment repair.
Whatever need arises, trained ACS personnel are ready and prepared to help, via RACES or other means. ACS/RACES groups develop and maintain their communications ability by training throughout the year with special exercises and public-service events. When that fateful day occurs, ACS/RACES will be there to meet the challenge.
If you want to become an ACS or RACES member and to be able to participate in RACES and other government emergency communications activities, contact your local, county, or state ACS Officer or RACES Radio Officer or Coordinator.
For those in the Sevier County area if you are interested in RACES you can contact Darrell Sperry KA4TAR who is the RACES officer for the county or myself, RACES requirements for being a RACES member would include ICS100a, 200a,700a and 800b."
I'm not sure if this is original content from the 470 ARG site or if it was copied. If I find out it, I will post the source.

Stratfor Hacked

I occasionally see some of the Stratfor articles - thanks to a friend. They provide a good analysis of what is going on in the world and draw conclusions for what this might mean. Apparently, anonymous decided that meant they were the "bad guys" and therefore hacked the Stratfor site - including e-mails, a list of clients, and credit card information.

What I found very interesting was the response to the hacking on Slashdot. Generally, Slashdot has a liberal lean with a good measure of conspiracy theory tossed in along with an air of superiority stemming for the users' mad computer skillz. I was surprised how they (for the most part) vilified anonymous while defending Stratfor. There may be hope for humanity yet.

Paying for Apps

This article/cartoon pokes fun at our reluctance to pay a dollar for an app when we routinely buy $5 coffees, $200 phones, etc. It struck a cord with me as I buy very few apps - most apps that we have bought have been for our three year old. I think the reason I avoid buying apps is that I don't think I will use them over the long haul. Of course, I drink my Starbucks all in one sitting, too.

Via Slashdot.org

Wednesday, December 28, 2011

Wouxun KG-UV6D: Software Bug II

Ed provided the warning and now he provides an updated version that will prevent the software from opening the problematic files:
Description : Latest software for KG-UV6D. This version will not open .tw
files created by other versions of Wouxun software. THOSE OLDER .TW FILES WILL
DAMAGE THE KG-UV6D RADIO.

Ten-Tec 539 QRP Transceiver: Release Date

According to this poster, the Ten-Tec 539 is scheduled to be released at the Dayton Hamfest (May 18, 2012).

Ten-Tec Go-Bag

Ten-Tec is jumping on the Go-Bag bandwagon with a 40/30 Meter QRP Go Pack. It includes:
"R2327 Custom built, high performance portable multiband wire antenna which includes light weight coax,BNC connector, center balun, tie downs, plus Dacron rope.
R4030 two band QRP CW Transceiver. Light weight, trail friendly dual band transceiver built by YouKits and sold exclusively in the US by TEN-TEC. Covers 40 and 20 meter bands. Receives SSB and CW. Transmits CW only. No filters to buy. Fully assembled transceiver (not a kit).
R9920 Rugged Shoulder Bag with adjustable shoulder sling strap that contains a tactical non-slip shoulder pad. Includes a mesh compartment for your water bottle. Rapid accessibility for all of your QRP equipment. Loads of room for your antenna, rig, battery, key paddle, and much more. Water resistant storm collar can be deployed by pulling a cordlock draw string."
The web page says just add your favorite key and you are ready go. That and a brain transplant with a donor that knows CW and I would be all set!

Raspberry Pi

The Raspberry Pi is another one of those things that I would love to play with - if money and time were no issues. The Raspberry Pi is a simple computer on a board, but you do a lot with it.
  • 700-megahertz processor
  • 128 megabytes of RAM
  • SD Card slot for storage
  • USB port
  • HDMI Port
Oh, did I mention it was only $25.



Via the Business Insider

Beat E-mail

One man's strategy to manage e-mail... my thoughts:

  • Touch messages as few times as possible - obviously once is best.
  • In order of preference
    • Delete
    • Archive
    • Delegate
    • Act
    • Delay (mark for follow-up) 


Yaesu Musen

Always interesting to see what happens to the pieces when companies are split into parts:
"According to Vertex Standard President and Chief Executive Officer Jun Hasegawa, effective January1, 2012, Motorola will keep the Vertex Standard Land-Mobile Division, while the amateur, marine and air-band will be under the Yaesu Musen banner."

Sunday, December 25, 2011

Wednesday, December 21, 2011

Gonna be one of those days...

I was already running late when, out of no where, this guy on a Segway pulled out in front of me. To top it off, I ended up with a flat tire, too.

Airplane Filling Station


If you've been in the Knoxville area for any amount of time, you have most likely driven by the Airplane Filling Station (aka the Gas Station Airplane as I always called it). A project is underway to "save the plane" and restore the building. I had no idea that it was so old. Image via McClung.


Tuesday, December 20, 2011

Word of the Day: Panoply

I was trouble-shooting an Active Directory/DNS problem at work today and was using my google-fu to find a resolution. My search lead me to Troubleshooting DNS - which did not help me solve my problem, but did expand my vocabulary:
"Windows supports a whole panoply of naming services: DNS, WINS, HOSTS, LMHOSTS, and more."
And thus, I present "panoply" - a wide-ranging and impressive array or display.

So Microsoft has an impressive array of naming services. Who knew?!?

Majel

My wife just got an iPhone and we love playing with the Siri app. It has been surprisingly good at voice recognition and the results have been both fun and useful. (Although Siri did have a fit when were asking "what color is Paddington Bear's hat?")

I can only image that competition will make the tools even more useful in the near future. Bonus points to Google for using Majel as the name for their app. It has immediate geek cred and works on several levels.

Word Problems

From a NYTimes e-mail alert:
"Breaking News Alert
The New York Times
Tuesday, December 20, 2011 -- 1:19 PM EST
-----
Republicans in House Reject Deal Extending Payroll Tax Cut
House Republicans on Tuesday soundly rejected a bill approved by the Senate that would have extended the payroll tax cut for most Americans beyond the end of the year and allowed millions of unemployed people to continue receiving jobless benefits.
The House vote, which passed 229 to 193, also calls for establishing a negotiating committee so the two chambers can resolve their differences.  Seven Republicans joined Democrats in opposition.
But the Senate has left town for the year, and Democrats say they do not intend to call it back, putting continuation of the tax cut in jeopardy and leaving a shadow over many unemployed Americans as the holidays near.
Read More:
http://www.nytimes.com/2011/12/21/us/politics/house-republicans-move-closer-to-rejecting-payroll-tax-cut-deal.html?emc=na"

Emphasis is mine. Talk about your basic FUD job. I know doing word problems confuses people when they do math, but how much of a tax cut do unemployed people need? I say raise taxes on the unemployed. That will fix the deficit problem. Tax them at 10,000%! So the average unemployed person making $0.00 would owe... hmm, carry the 3, multiple then add, hmm... zero dollars!

If I give the NYT the benefit of the doubt, then that sentence is still poorly phrased.

The Democracy Will Cease to Exist

It may be new t-shirt time again. The http://www.brickolore.com/2011/04/t-shirts.html was for the Galt/Taggart 2012 and Taggart Transcontinental. I like wearing those shirts as it isn't too in your face, but if you are in the club, then my views can easily be guessed. This one is a wee bit more direct:
"The democracy will cease to exist when you take away from those who are willing to work and give to those who would not."

Stability is Speed

I'm really bad about having a bunch of tabs open. Even in Chrome it seems like one tab can cause the others to come to a screeching halt. And having a slow internet connections makes it even worse.
harrymccracken I'm at the point where almost the only thing I care about in a browser is stability when many tabs are open. Everything else is secondary.Sat, Dec 17 21:13:47 from web

Things I didn't know

Obviously not a short list, but some of these are mind blowing. For example, "If you properly shuffle a deck of cards, in all likelihood, the resulting deck has never been seen before in the history of the world."

ataussig On @Quora: What are some of the most mind-blowing facts? 159 Answers: qr.ae/7xuNPTue, Dec 20 07:30:22 from Quora
retweeted by msuster

I, for one, welcome our new Facebook overlords

Facebook represents about 95% of the time that people spend on social networking. Around 52% of the sharing is on Facebook as well. Not bad for a little web page used to connect college kids.





Via Business Insider Chart of the Day and AdAge

Monday, December 19, 2011

Christmas Music - When the River Meets the Sea

Since I had all of about 125 hits in December last year, I thought I would repost about my fondness for John Denver & The Muppets - A Christmas Together - especially "When the River Meets the Sea." I still don't know what makes me like this song so much, but I do.

Sunday, December 18, 2011

Heads Up Display

Puts my RunKeeper and all the running watches/apps to shame. The cool factor is off the charts.


Recon Instruments Fall 2011 Product Lineup from Recon Instruments on Vimeo.
"Recon Instruments passionately leads the innovation of customized solutions for direct-to-eye communications. We integrate Micro Optics Display systems with state-of-the-art sensors and GPS technology, providing real-time access to navigation, communication, and performance-based information. From Skiing to Moto…Trust Your Instruments.
MOD & MOD Live are the world’s first GPS enabled head mounted displays for alpine use. Track Speed, Altimeter, Jump Analytics, Distance, Vertical, Odometer and Temperature stats in real-time.

MOD LIVE also connects with Android smart phones to bring buddy tracking, MP3 playlists, navigation, wireless camera connectivity, SMS and caller ID apps to the dashboard. MOD and MOD Live can be snap-fit into any Recon-Ready goggles using the simple snap-fit process. Goggles not included."
I just need a Storm Trooper outfit to go with it.

Via Adventure Capitalist and Uncrate.

We are winning.

When my wife is pointing out jewelry like the "Ladies Night Out," I feel like we are winning. When I find out her friend posted the link on Facebook, I know we are. Love the caption.



Christmas Music - 12 Days by Straight No Chaser

This video from 1998 predates some of the current A cappella craze and these guys have a lot of fun with a Christmas remix. I really like the "Carol of the Bells" section.

 

Vapor

Noteslate is still vapor, but I do like the dragon drawing.

Dell Netbooks go into the ether.

And what's up with Fusion Garage of former CrunchPad infamy, the JooJoo, and the GridOS? Lawsuits, tigers, and bears. Oh my.

Saturday, December 17, 2011

Phosphor World Time Sport Watch with E ink

While not a fancy GPS running watch, I like the looks of the Phosphor World Time Sport Watch in orange. (For some strange reason, I like orange stuff.) Since I need to replace my $25 Timex Ironman and I don't think I would wear the 610 all the time, I might drop a "Benjamin" on the Phosphor. From the product page:
"The new World Time Sport with E INK display debuts a state-of-the-art buttonless touch lens operation, allowing for a sleek, ultra-modern look, and the ability to change modes with simple finger swipe across the case. The new World Time Sport offers the ability to select from 24 time zones for one display mode, while optionally displaying a second time zone simultaneously . The dual time zone display can also be configured to simply display the time of day or both the date and time in either over-sized or conventional-sized segments. 
These unique capabilities are packaged in a sleek, ultra-thin, curved case only 9.3mm thick. Incredibly versatile, the new World Time Sport gives you an assortment of different functions and display modes."


Via Geek Dad

Thursday, December 15, 2011

Power

Power... sometimes it lies outside the chain of command:


Via xkcd

Amazon White Label

I didn't even realize that Amazon had a "store brand" for a lot of staples. Another step towards global domination?
andrewchen Amazon Has a Ton of White Label Products and Is Hiding Them! (and Why Bezos Is the New Jobs) - LAUNCH - bit.ly/vZRz9tTue, Dec 13 11:01:04 from Timely by Demandforce

Optimists

I think Jimmy thinks we are in for a rough ride...
JimmyHyams Since 1925, only oncde has UT had a losing season in football, followed by losing season in men's basketball: 1977-78.Thu, Dec 15 14:55:31 from web

Game of Thrones: Peter the Stud

Peter Dinklage is GQ's Stud of the Year. Click the link for more pics. I've liked Mr. Dinklage's work for a long time.

Surveys

I get e-mails about surveys all the time. Some of which are through LinkedIn or TechSay. These surveys promise a reward for completing the survey. If I have time, I complete these surveys with care. I figure it is a business transaction and I should earn by reward by being thoughtful in my answers. I, of course, answer truthfully and on many occasions am told I don't fit the target pool they are researching. Overall, this is a win for both parties. They get data. I get a gift card or other reward.

However, some of the e-mails tell me I may win a thumb drive (or some cash or a widget) if I complete the survey and I am one of the first 250 people to respond. Unless I am unemployed and desperate for any sort of "income," I will never complete one of the surveys. A million people could have gotten that e-mail before I did. I think it is even more ludicrous when I get one of these "first 250" through the postal service.

Wednesday, December 14, 2011

No More Mobile Hams in the US?

NTSB new recommendations:

"To the 50 states and the District of Columbia:
  1. (1) Ban the nonemergency use of portable electronic devices (other than those designed to support the driving task) for all drivers; (2) use the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration model of high visibility enforcement to support these bans; and (3) implement targeted communication campaigns to inform motorists of the new law and enforcement, and to warn them of the dangers associated with the nonemergency use of portable electronic devices while driving. (H-11-XX)"
Seems to be a lot of folks with strong opinions on both sides of the proposal based on the chatter on the repeater and the general comments on various articles (here, here, here) posted about the recommendation. While I am in the don't tread on me camp, this cuts both ways as I want to talk on my radio/mobile phone, but I want my family to be safer, too. Liberty? Security? Pick one?

Game of Thrones - Cold Winds Are Rising

Only three plus months until Game of Thrones Season 2 starts. I heard rumors that it had already been picked up for Seasons 3 and 4, but I haven't seen anything official.


Tuesday, December 13, 2011

$20 for a $40 gift card to Smoky Mountain Knife Works

Apparently today is a good day for deals...

GEARHOG's deal for today is a $40 gift card to Smoky Mountain Knife Works (SMKW.com) for only $20.

"Smoky Mountain Knife Works offers all major knife brands for every function imaginable. Knives used on the job; hunting knives, fishing knives, camping knives and more!"

SMKW is in my backyard, but that doesn't help me as the deal is for the on-line store only. Other fine print below:
  • Expires 12/12/2012.
  • Not valid with other offers
  • Valid at SMKW.com only
  • Cannot be combined (stacked) with other gift cards
  • $40 minimum purchase requirement
  • One time use only
  • Limit 1 gift card per person
  • Limit 1 gift card per household
  • Deal valid through GEARHOG.com only
  • Online orders only


Baofeng UV-3R: $60 for Mark II, Free Ship, and USB Cable

Chris, NH7QH, has sold out of the Mark I radios and is kicking off his new shipment of Mark II radios with a sale:
BaoFeng UV-3R Black Mark II W/Free USB and Free USPS Shipping for $60

In order to spread the deal around, he is limiting the deal to one per callsign. Also, it is for the first 30 units. This is a great deal from a US Dealer, so get moving if you've been sitting on the fence.

Monday, December 12, 2011

Ayn Rand for Geeks

Not exactly a strike, but the same net effect:

Via xkcd

Baofeng UV-3R: Software Version 1.10 (UV-X4)

Mike, G0CVZ, alerted us to version 1.10 of the Baofeng UV-3R/UV-X4 software.

You can go to the Vero Telecom Download page and look for "Dual Band Pocket Radio UV-X4(Dual Watch) New Version" or you can use this direct link.

This version also uses the .3R file type.



The most notable update is the ability to update the FM Broadcast memories. Click "Program" the "FM Freq."


Wouxun KG-UV6D: Software Bug

Ed provided this warning on the Wouxun KG-UVD1 Yahoo Group:

"Here is what I know to be factual at this time. Since this is a newly discovered problem, the details may change as time goes by.
I want to make everyone aware of a potential problem with the KG-UV6D model, more specifically, the programming software for the KG-UV6D. If you know a 6D owner please make them aware of this.
When using the programming software for the 6D, DO NOT begin with a .tw file that was created and saved with previous versions of Wouxun software. These older files contain information THAT WILL DAMAGE the KG-UV6D radio if written to it. Even opening and modifying one of these older .tw files will still cause damage if written to the radio. Always begin programming a 6D with a blank file or one that was created and saved with KG-UV6D software.
A solution to this problem is being worked on and I will post any information I receive. At this time, it's not known if damaged radios will be able to be recovered via software, but hopefully that will be the case.
Regards,
Ed
www.Wouxun.US"
Emphasis is mine for a critical point. Let's see how Wouxun responds. All companies have problems. Good companies strengthen relationships by ignoring cost and focusing on the customer as they provide a solution.

Friday, December 9, 2011

OODA in the Movies

First Neo. Now Han Solo. Also reminds me of this guy.

See you can learn stuff from movies.

Gift Baskets for Him at Buds!

Budsgunshop sent me an e-mail with some gift ideas.. very mainstream.




This year, get him a Christmas present that he will actually be excited about !  Forget all the candy baskets, fruit baskets, and those horrible fruit cakes!  We have taken all the guess work out of it by assembling some very nice gift baskets featuring some of our most popular items !  We KNOW what your man wants....accessories, ammunition, range time, training certificates, gift certificates and more !  If we don't already offer the basket you want...you can even design your own and we will build it for you and discount the items up to 10%!
Gift Baskets at Buds!
It's not ALL about the guys....we also have lot's of items for the ladies and the little Buds !  We have assembled some Self Defense baskets for the ladies which include Pepper Spray, a certificate for 1 hour handgun defense lesson and even Pink Camo Buds T-shirts !  We also carry a full selection of the very popular Gun Tote'n Mama's conceal carry leather handbags.  The handbags are designed by women, for women, and each includes a very discreet carry compartment.  What good is a handgun, or even pepper spray, if it's buried in the bottom of a purse when you need it FAST !  You can carry and still be stylish in black leather, red leather....even leopard and zebra stripe bags !

Gift Baskets for Her!Gun Toten Momma's!

     For the little Buds...we have a a whole section of Air Guns, BB Guns, and accessories. Each year we always stock the all time Christmas favorite, and  still manufactured by Daisy....the "Official Red Ryder Carbine-Action Two-Hundred-Shot Range Model Air Rifle!"  We also carry youth size rifles and shotguns for the older kids...including the popular pink 22lr single shot rifles for the young ladies.
Sorry, these items are only available for purchase at our Gun Warehouse & Range retail store...not available online.

We are located at 1105 Industry Road in Lexington, KY.  Hours of operations are 9am to 8pm M-F, and 9am to 6pm on Saturday.  For additional information please call the store at 859-368-0419.

Gift certificates are also available for products, range time, range memberships, and training lessons for both men and women by Velocity Training Group in our indoor shooting range.

We look forward to seeing you at The Gun Warehouse & Range....exclusive Home of Budsgunshop.com!

Happy Holidays!

Team Buds





Nutnfancy Nametapes

Nutnfancy has some cools nametapes for sale. I like the "WROL SUCKS."


The best part...

Nutnfancy TacticalDoodle goofed on the spelling: nametape should say NEEDS JIMPING But it's pretty funny & probly will be a cult fave!Fri, Dec 09 13:09:51 from Twitter for iPhone

Give to Soldiers' Angels

I've given some reasons before, but here is THE REASON. Go here to get info about giving.

Via Robb Allen

Harry was right. Sally was wrong.

We called them "Mix Tapes"

ErikAinge3 Found burnt cds from high school, ridin around listening to old Jay Z and Warren G!Fri, Dec 09 10:42:52 from Twitter for Android

Wednesday, December 7, 2011

iPad Keyboard

Another keyboard innovation for your iPad... (cooler than the one I mentioned over the week-end for your computer).


This is part of a KickStarter project that has already raised $136,000 - a little more than the original goal of $10,000. TechCrunch has the story of how this project came to be.

The History of Android Phones

They've come a long way, baby, in three years.

The First Problem Solved by Computer: Four Color Theorem

From LifeHacker:
"Even during the 1970s, when computers were harder to come by and problems were weightier, computers were routinely brought in to solve things for the people who had access to them. But prior to 1976, they weren't required to prove any math problem. They just made things easier. That is, until Kenneth Appel and Wolfgang Haken used a computer to prove a 124-year-old conjecture. In 1852, Francis Guthrie came up with what's known as the Four-Color Theorem. That theorem stated that no map needed more than four colors to delineate territories. Generally, different countries, states, or provinces, were given different colors on a map. If a mapmaker were armed with four different colors, there was no territory, or set of them, that could be arranged in such a way that two adjoining territories were the same color."
I think the first actual use (not problem solving) of a computer must have been to start a flame war, play solitaire, or look at "adult" content.

Tempted - Garmin Forerunner 610

So I've been running a bit - even completing a half-marathon recently. As with any hobby, you have to get the toys. I'm so tempted by the Garmin Forerunner 610. I've been using RunKeeper on my Android phone. I really like RunKeeper, but the phone isn't the best solution. However, the Android/RunKeeper solution is free. The watch is $350.

The Virtual Racer feature would be a good training tool.

No Silence Silenced

I had a friend that was laid off yesterday, but I didn't know that Michael Silence was in the group, too. I liked his stuff. I hope he pops back on-line soon. After 29 years and 11 months:

A programming note
Michael Silence asked the online staff to post this message on No Silence Here on his behalf.
As you may know, I got laid off yesterday along with 32 others. That sucks, but it is the reality of our business. I will miss my colleagues, a great bunch of people who I got to hang around with for 29 years and 11 months.
This blog, started in August 2004, has been a blast, and thanks for constantly opening my eyes to new perspectives. I'm told it will cease to exist. It has been the most rewarding aspect of my time here. I've been honored to sit on the front porch of the 21st Century.
As I've said for many years of those who have left the online world, "They'll be back. They always come back."
Stay well my friends, and no worries
Michael

Stocking Stuffers - Faraday Bag

Uncle links to ZCOOR, who suggests some anti-corrosion bags as stocking stuffers for the gunnie prepper in your family. That reminded me of the Faraday bags for protecting your electronic equipment from EMP - for your geek prepper.

Tuesday, December 6, 2011

Yahoo Groups: Amateur and Ham Radio

I was poking around the Yahoo Groups and noticed that under the category of "Amateur and Ham Radio" there are about 7,200 groups. There are almost 200 with more than 1000 members.

The Yaesu FT-817 has the largest group with over 12,000 members.

The Wouxun KG-UVD1 group has 2,300 members and averages about 400 messages per month.

The Baofeng UV-3R group has around 1,900 members and averages close to 500 messages per month.

Saturday, December 3, 2011

Brick Breaker :: EOF

Offline.

The Best Used HF Rig?

A good discussion if you want to save a few pennies and go the used HF transceiver route.

Phil's Gear Bag

Phil, from Top Shot, has a web site and he offers advice on three gun and other gear.

Citation Needed

I can think of several times when this sign would come in handy.



Via XKCD.com

King’s Quest 3 Remake

I loved the King's Quest games. I rocked them on my IBM PCjr. And they are remaking KQ3!

(And don't look at the date on the Slashdot page because that will tell you how long I've been trying to get some of these things posted. Probably means I'll never actually play it either.)

Grey Man

The Grey Man:
"An individual who possesses the skills, ability and intent to blend into any situation or surrounding without standing out, concealing his or her true skills, ability, and intent from others."
I agree with the concepts, but the presentation is a little cheesy.

Tablet Comparison

The Kindle Fire, Nook Tablet, Nook Color, and iPad in a side-by-side comparison.

The Comfort Principle

A good idea - spend your money where you spend your time.

Race Matters on eBay

Harsh - Race Matters on eBay:
"The takeaway here is twofold: It's very hard to escape the world's entrenched racism, online or no. And if you're a person of color looking to get the most out of an auction on eBay, you should probably have your white friend hold your merchandise."
I do wonder if the race of the buyer made a difference.

Via:

Projects

A classic cartoon to explain the different points of view in a project. As a bonus, you can create your own.

How the consultant described it:


MSM Vs. Social Media

Main Stream Media Vs. Social Media.
Left Wing Vs. Right Wing.

Who is better at using social media? And why?

Uncle Summarizes Everything Gun on the Internet

If you missed it, he spits the trooth.

How Far We Have Fallen

This year we had the Orange Dog and a lose to Kentucky. No swagger in that. We had some swagger once upon a time.

 

"We Need a Battery Miracle"

I agree... Bill discusses why we need better batteries to leverage green energy sources. I just imagine the things we could do with more powerful, longer lasting batteries coupled with smart phones, tablets, GPS, wireless, etc.

 

1 Space Forward, 2 Spaces Back

If you don't have anything else to worry about, you can read why you shouldn't put two spaces after a sentence. I quit doing that long ago, but I have no idea why I stopped. I did very little typing on a typewriter, but I do remember that was the rule.

Crimson Trace - New Website

I figure I will give a little link love to Crimson Trace since they are supporting Linoge's Soldiers' Angels Fundrasier/Giveaway.

Plus $30 Off lasers with code 30LSR11.

Shotgun: Practical Home Makeover - Mossberg 500 Edition

Since I may never win the lottery and pick up a Silver Pigeon, something like this project gun seems a lot more practical. And I am definitely still in the mode of buying guns for practical purposes.

Bonus: Some hints on selecting a shotgun

Cut the baby in half

In a modern day Kramer vs. Kramer, Merck and Merck duke it out over the Facebook URL. Oh, the power of Facebook.

Via Slashdot.org

Ouch


Bunnie On Counterfeit Chips in US Military Hardware

An interesting read from Bunnie on counterfeit chips in US military hardware. (I like Bunnie's stuff. He rarely posts, but when he does his electronics, manufacturing, and China experiences make for good reading.)

The problem:
"In the case of the US Military, they have a unique problem where they are one of the biggest and wealthiest buyers of really old parts. Military designs have shelf lives of decades, but parts have production cycles of only years."
A solution:
"A final option could be to establish a strategic reserve of parts. A production run of military planes is limited to perhaps hundreds of units, and so I imagine the lifetime demand of a part including replacements is limited to tens of thousands of units. I can fit ten thousand chips in the volume of a large shoebox"

Old School Tacticool

There is just something cool about these .357 magnums. (The pictures alone are worth the click.) In some ways, they are like the bright yellow sports car that I think looks great, but would be way down on my list to buy.

Past My IT Prime

Oh great. First, no OT for IT workers. Now, I find I am past my prime by several years.

Transferring Large Files

A problem that still doesn't have a good solution... but at least some people are trying.

Cartoon from XKCD.com

Portable Inflatable Antenna Towers

What a cool idea!



Via eHam.net

Reminds me of the Russian Space Station in Armageddon

From Flat5.net - overheard in remote class:
Over the phone I hear a strong Russian accent: “Dees instruooctions not correkt. Dey are wrong! Dees system is broken. It kannot be used. It is garbage.”
Then I hear a second voice, American and slightly smug: “Well, Alexei, mine worked just fine. Maybe you should check your typing.”
The Russian voice says, “My typing is perfekt. … … [softly] Oh!” [long silence] “Ok, your system ees now working.”

Anti-piracy Ad uses Priated Music

jjaron Remember those annoying "You wouldn't steal a car" anti-piracy ads? They pirated the music bit.ly/tMYfYbFri, Dec 02 05:49:38 from TweetDeck
retweeted by arrington

Hillbilly Goblets

Hillbilly goblets--pint Mason jars on stems. Goblets come with lids so you never have to recork the "wine." And it looks like it has chalkboard paint on the top of the lids, so you can write your name or your sister/cousin's name.

Magpul T-Shirts

I really like the new Magpul t-shirt. I greatly prefer a subtle logo that requires you be in the know instead of something that is screaming my politics and hobbies. Although I go like my Galt/Taggart 2012 shirt. I guess that is still a bit of an inside joke to most.


No Guarantee

The Dwindling Power of a College Degree - it was never a guarantee. The last line strikes me as something we should always do: prepare for the worst and hope for the best.
"The increasingly vicious battle between left and right is, at the most basic level, a dispute over how to respond to these new rules. Republicans largely claim that the new rules will make the country richer and, in the long run, will be beneficial to everyone willing to put in the hard work. Few Democrats call for a return to record high taxes and trade barriers — after all, the free flow of cheap goods has helped many, particularly the poor. But many do want a return to the spirit of the old rules, when the government sought to make life more equal, more stable and, for some, less rewarding. The rest of us, meanwhile, should go to school, learn some skills and prepare for a rocky road."

And I'm not sure that I think it is a problem that the best nurse, plumber, or truck driver make a lot more money than the worst nurse, plumber, or truck driver.



Via:
andrewchen The Dwindling Power of a College Degree - NYTimes.com nyti.ms/vNsgnFWed, Nov 30 15:49:07 from Timely by Demandforce


FG-01 Antenna Analyzer

I like to see TEN-TEC getting into different stuff. A little diversity may be important to their long term existence in the ham radio business.
"TEN-TEC is proud to announce that we are the exclusive distributor in the US for YouKits brand products.
The first product we are introducing from YouKits is the FG-01 a 1 to 60 MHZ Antenna Analyzer. This is not a kit but a fully assembled unit ready for use. The FG-01 utilizes the latest in SMT technology to provide a compact unit with lots of value."



And when did TEN-TEC do a makeover on their website? It looks good. I've mentioned that I like sellers that have an RSS feed, so I am glad to see that TEN-TEC has one.

Tea Party vs. Occupy Wall Street

Video: The competing worldviews of the Tea Party and OWS:
"When it comes to The Tea Party and OWS, though, the more the surface differences become obvious, the more the transparent truth of what underlies those differences becomes obscured. It becomes easy to focus on the way the groups look and act differently — and harder to remember the way the groups think differently."


I don't have a problem making the distinction.

Via ExUrbanLeague

Bye Bye Game Consoles

First, they came for our dead tree books and I did nothing. Now they are coming for our gaming consoles.

That's okay. I only use my Wii to stream NetFlix. Oh wait, we canceled NetFlix. (Not really because of the pricing change, but rather we just watch so little TV now.)

In God We Trust, All Others We Nuke

Lingo has some MHI Fan Fiction - plenty of local flavoring.

Advanced Persistent Threat (APT)

Bruce Schneier on the Advanced Persistent Threat (APT) concept in his Crypto-Gram Newsletter:
"It highlights an important characteristic of a particular sort of Internet attacker.
A conventional hacker or criminal isn't interested in any particular target. He wants a thousand credit card numbers for fraud, or to break into an account and turn it into a zombie, or whatever. Security against this sort of attacker is relative; as long as you're more secure than almost everyone else, the attackers will go after other people, not you. An APT is different; it's an attacker who -- for whatever reason -- wants to attack you. Against this sort of attacker, the absolute level of your security is what's important. It doesn't matter how secure you are compared to your peers; all that matters is whether you're secure enough to keep him out.
APT attackers are more highly motivated. They're likely to be better skilled, better funded, and more patient. They're likely to try several different avenues of attack. And they're much more likely to succeed."  

How the World Works: Occupy Wallstreet

Soldier, Farmer, Poet

kasthomas "I was a soldier so that my son could be a farmer, so that his son could be a poet" -- Thomas Jefferson.Wed, Nov 23 18:17:40 from web
retweeted by msuster
But be careful that the soldier, farmer, poet doesn't become:

"A democracy cannot exist as a permanent form of government. It can only exist until the voters discover that they can vote themselves largesse from the public treasury. From that moment on the majority always votes for the candidate promising the most from the public treasury with the result that a democracy always collapses over loose fiscal policy, always followed by dictatorship.

The average age of the world's greatest civilizations has been 200 years. These nations have progressed through the following sequence


From bondage to spiritual faith

From spiritual faith to great courage

From courage to liberty

From liberty to abundance

From abundance to selfishness

From selfishness to complacency

From complacency to apathy

From apathy to dependency

From dependency back again into bondage"


Via The Smallest Minority