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The Woo => Technology => Topic started by: Walks_At_Night on July 12, 2018, 04:27:21 PM

Title: Technology Tidbits
Post by: Walks_At_Night on July 12, 2018, 04:27:21 PM
A place for random technology bits and pieces that do not fit in an existing thread
Title: Technology Tidbits: Guido steps down as Python's Benevolent Leader for Life
Post by: Walks_At_Night on July 12, 2018, 04:32:54 PM
Guido van Rossum (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guido_van_Rossum) announced today that he is resigning from the position as the Python (https://www.python.org/) programming language's benevolent dictator for life.   Like MV, it seems like he just simply had enough...........


Guido van Rossum resigns as Python leader


Quote
From:       Guido van Rossum <guido-AT-python.org>
To:       python-committers <python-committers-AT-python.org>
Subject:       Transfer of power
Date:       Thu, 12 Jul 2018 07:57:35 -0700
Message-ID:       <CAP7+vJ+oK5q8a3kxizcbgUrrhwhOBbDj9VhSSNwZ0XgiOuBztQ@mail.gmail.com>
Archive-link:       Article
Now that PEP 572 is done, I don't ever want to have to fight so hard for a
PEP and find that so many people despise my decisions.

I would like to remove myself entirely from the decision process. I'll
still be there for a while as an ordinary core dev, and I'll still be
available to mentor people -- possibly more available. But I'm basically
giving myself a permanent vacation from being BDFL, and you all will be on
your own.

After all that's eventually going to happen regardless -- there's still
that bus lurking around the corner, and I'm not getting younger... (I'll
spare you the list of medical issues.)

I am not going to appoint a successor.

So what are you all going to do? Create a democracy? Anarchy? A
dictatorship? A federation?

More here -> https://lwn.net/Articles/759654/
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: GravitySucks on July 12, 2018, 04:36:47 PM
A place for random technology bits and pieces that do not fit in an existing thread


My repurposed eyepad.
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: Walks_At_Night on July 12, 2018, 04:38:18 PM

My repurposed eyepad.

Can it be controlled via that remote in the corner of the pix?
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: wr250 on July 12, 2018, 08:19:52 PM

My repurposed eyepad.
thats not an eye-pad. this is an eye-pad:

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Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: pate on July 15, 2018, 11:42:01 PM
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: Sofia on July 17, 2018, 01:07:44 AM

Cute.
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits: Guido steps down as Python's Benevolent Leader for Life
Post by: zeebo on July 17, 2018, 11:00:34 PM
Guido van Rossum (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guido_van_Rossum) announced today that he is resigning from the position as the Python (https://www.python.org/) programming language's benevolent dictator for life.   ...

That's too bad.  Python is my favorite language.  Feels like a natural compromise between the obsessive structure of Java and the freewheeling pragmatism of PERL.  Hope good ol' Guido can kick back and relax after a job well done.
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: Sofia on July 28, 2018, 11:11:48 PM
In Capitalism, everything is branded.  So how come when I'm using a browser, I can't tell at a glance which one it is?!  It should be right on the screen!  Search engines could also be a little more prominent.  Also, even Windows is surreptitious.  And why isn't my exact version of Word labeled on the screen?  How am I supposed to appreciate or even know what I'm using if I have to go digging to learn the make and model?

A friend and I have noticed that websites are acting very differently in different browsers.  How long has this been going on?
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: Dyna-X on July 28, 2018, 11:50:29 PM
In Capitalism, everything is branded.  So how come when I'm using a browser, I can't tell at a glance which one it is?!  It should be right on the screen!  Search engines could also be a little more prominent.  Also, even Windows is surreptitious.  And why isn't my exact version of Word labeled on the screen?  How am I supposed to appreciate or even know what I'm using if I have to go digging to learn the make and model?

A friend and I have noticed that websites are acting very differently in different browsers.  How long has this been going on?
The quick way to see which version on just about any piece of software Help > About and click. I agree, it should be in the title.
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: Sofia on July 29, 2018, 12:39:32 AM
Thanks for the reminder.  I don't trust this Amazon Fire tablet.  I downloaded Libre Office last month, used it, and was happy.  Now, it's not in my downloads, there is no desktop icon, and when I downloaded it again today, it still doesn't show in downloads.  Twice!  I know it's not me being stupid, because last month this went far great.  I think I need a non-Amazon tablet.

Also, today, OneDrive wouldn't let me attach files to email because it claimed I was operating in plain text.  Not sure how it would know what I was doing, ugh.
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: JUAN on July 29, 2018, 03:38:42 AM
Don’t trust machines where the brains are in the cloud and the data is in the cloud, at least not for creation of things. This iPad, for instance, is fine for reading sites, but I don’t try to create anything on it.

As for websites looking different in different browsers, it’s been that way since at least Netscape, the first versions of IE, and several other browsers that I’ve long forgotten.
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: wr250 on July 29, 2018, 04:16:19 AM
In Capitalism, everything is branded.  So how come when I'm using a browser, I can't tell at a glance which one it is?!  It should be right on the screen!
so this isnt good enough?
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Quote
  Search engines could also be a little more prominent.
so the google search engine has google in giant letters isnt enough? yahoo is the same way, as is bing.


Quote
  Also, even Windows is surreptitious.  And why isn't my exact version of Word labeled on the screen?  How am I supposed to appreciate or even know what I'm using if I have to go digging to learn the make and model?

because $micro$oft has deemed it irrelevant. you can enable the "Testing version watermark" on the windows desktop if you like.
visitors can't see pics , please register or login

now update your system like a good little windows user, or we will update it for you. - microsoft

Quote
A friend and I have noticed that websites are acting very differently in different browsers.  How long has this been going on?
since the browser was invented.
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: Sofia on July 29, 2018, 10:57:23 PM
so this isnt good enough?
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so the google search engine has google in giant letters isnt enough? yahoo is the same way, as is bing.

 
because $micro$oft has deemed it irrelevant. you can enable the "Testing version watermark" on the windows desktop if you like.
visitors can't see pics , please register or login

now update your system like a good little windows user, or we will update it for you. - microsoft
since the browser was invented.
Duly noted.  I'm just having a difficult time with Amazon Fire.  It's okay for sheer recreation, but horrible for any serious endeavor other than shopping!  Yes, the search engines are visible, but somehow it switched me to Bing without my knowing it, and I would have thought I would notice it immediately, but I didn't.  I wonder where my Libre Office download went.  I need it badly!  It worked fine a couple weeks ago.  I didn't factory reset, so it should still be here.
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: wr250 on July 30, 2018, 06:10:18 AM
Duly noted.  I'm just having a difficult time with Amazon Fire.  It's okay for sheer recreation, but horrible for any serious endeavor other than shopping!  Yes, the search engines are visible, but somehow it switched me to Bing without my knowing it, and I would have thought I would notice it immediately, but I didn't.  I wonder where my Libre Office download went.  I need it badly!  It worked fine a couple weeks ago.  I didn't factory reset, so it should still be here.

probably in a folder called downloads.
tablets (and any other touch only device) are generally useless for any real work.
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: Sofia on August 04, 2018, 10:37:37 PM
probably in a folder called downloads.
tablets (and any other touch only device) are generally useless for any real work.
Yes.  "probably in a folder called downloads", lol, well yes, if I can just LOCATE a usable such folder!
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: wr250 on August 05, 2018, 05:50:20 AM
if you are using chrome on the fire (it uses android) there are 3 "." vertically on the upper right corner. tap those  scroll down until you find "Downloads" .
otherwise open a file manager (you may need to install one).
usually downloads is listed on its opening page.
if not:
open internal storage scroll down until you find Download
open that
if you have a sd card
open it scroll down until you find Download
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: Lob Bazare on August 06, 2018, 06:15:02 AM
10 PRINT "Wasn't quite sure where to post this. Movies or Technology. Technology it is....
Watched this movie last night. I used to have a Vic-20 year's ago when they first came out. It was an insane amount of money for the time. It couldn't do much but it was my first taste of computer crack and got me hooked."
20 GOTO 10
RUN
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IMDB: https://m.imdb.com/title/tt6541512/ (https://m.imdb.com/title/tt6541512/)
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: MaxPower on August 06, 2018, 11:40:24 AM
10 PRINT "Wasn't quite sure where to post this. Movies or Technology. Technology it is....
Watched this movie last night. I used to have a Vic-20 year's ago when they first came out. It was an insane amount of money for the time. It couldn't do much but it was my first taste of computer crack and got me hooked."
20 GOTO 10
RUN
I remember the Vic-20. Back in the day, we pioneers had choices such as the Vic-20 (the sequel to the Commodore PET), the Apple II, the TRS-80, the Atari 400/800, the Exidy Sorcerer, and a few others. For those of us who were kit builders in the mid/late 70's and early 80's, we had the Mits Altair, the Imsai 8080, the SWTPC 6800, and a few others. Those were the days  :)
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: nbirnes on August 06, 2018, 12:23:30 PM
I remember the Vic-20. Back in the day, we pioneers had choices such as the Vic-20 (the sequel to the Commodore PET), the Apple II, the TRS-80, the Atari 400/800, the Exidy Sorcerer, and a few others. For those of us who were kit builders in the mid/late 70's and early 80's, we had the Mits Altair, the Imsai 8080, the SWTPC 6800, and a few others. Those were the days  :)

I published a computer game and book with my daughter for many of those machines. It was called Qwerty's Alphabet Adventure (http://shadowlawnpress.com/03-children/03-qwerty/ (http://shadowlawnpress.com/03-children/03-qwerty/)) and was meant for children to learn their reading, abc's, and keyboard all at once. We did the artwork via rubber stamps that we hand-carved and which I still have today, in case there's ever a sequel.
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: Smeghead on August 06, 2018, 01:25:21 PM
10 PRINT "Wasn't quite sure where to post this. Movies or Technology. Technology it is....
Watched this movie last night. I used to have a Vic-20 year's ago when they first came out. It was an insane amount of money for the time. It couldn't do much but it was my first taste of computer crack and got me hooked."
20 GOTO 10
RUN
visitors can't see pics , please register or login

IMDB: https://m.imdb.com/title/tt6541512/ (https://m.imdb.com/title/tt6541512/)
My first was a Timex Sinclair.  I didn't have the 16k memory module, so I had a total of 1k for the machine.  I bought a cassette recorder so I could save programs on it.  I never had any of the cartridges either, I just programmed in Basic on it.   Then I moved up to a Texas Instruments TI-99-4A.  That was a well built machine, and the full keyboard was a dream after the membrane of the tiny sinclair.

  [ You are not allowed to view attachments ]  
  [ You are not allowed to view attachments ]  
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: Lob Bazare on August 06, 2018, 02:11:28 PM
My first was a Timex Sinclair.  I didn't have the 16k memory module, so I had a total of 1k for the machine.  I bought a cassette recorder so I could save programs on it.  I never had any of the cartridges either, I just programmed in Basic on it.   Then I moved up to a Texas Instruments TI-99-4A.  That was a well built machine, and the full keyboard was a dream after the membrane of the tiny sinclair.
Indeed, those membrane keyboards were absolutely terrible. My neighbour had a Atari 800 with one. I shudder when I see those new laser projected virtual keyboards and can't help but think they are a step backwards. A friend had the TI-99. It was always fun to play on.
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: MaxPower on August 06, 2018, 09:08:57 PM
I published a computer game and book with my daughter for many of those machines. It was called Qwerty's Alphabet Adventure (http://shadowlawnpress.com/03-children/03-qwerty/ (http://shadowlawnpress.com/03-children/03-qwerty/)) and was meant for children to learn their reading, abc's, and keyboard all at once. We did the artwork via rubber stamps that we hand-carved and which I still have today, in case there's ever a sequel.
Small world...I thought that title sounded familiar and clicked on the link and I see it was distributed by Hayden. We had a computer retail store for many years and carried most of the Hayden titles. I probably still have our dealer not-for-resale demo copy of your program in storage (probably the Apple II version). Our Hayden rep was good about giving demo copies to us for their titles...
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: MaxPower on August 06, 2018, 09:16:39 PM
My first was a Timex Sinclair.  I didn't have the 16k memory module, so I had a total of 1k for the machine.  I bought a cassette recorder so I could save programs on it.  I never had any of the cartridges either, I just programmed in Basic on it.   Then I moved up to a Texas Instruments TI-99-4A.  That was a well built machine, and the full keyboard was a dream after the membrane of the tiny sinclair.
I remember the Timex Sinclair and also the TI 99/4 and 99/4A very well. The $99 price tag for the Timex was a great price point at that time. The TI 99/4 had a lot of potential with the breakthrough 16-bit processor, but if I recall, TI made some corporate decisions about the product line which killed it way too soon.
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: nbirnes on August 06, 2018, 09:46:48 PM
Small world...I thought that title sounded familiar and clicked on the link and I see it was distributed by Hayden. We had a computer retail store for many years and carried most of the Hayden titles. I probably still have our dealer not-for-resale demo copy of your program in storage (probably the Apple II version). Our Hayden rep was good about giving demo copies to us for their titles...

Small world, indeed. We loved working with Hayden! At our signing luncheon, I had sushi for the first time and found out that the green mashed potato rosette wasn't potato after all. Where was your store?
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: VENUS FIREBALL XL5 on August 07, 2018, 07:00:00 AM

My repurposed eyepad.
Have you contacted Falkie?  I know he needs a new Ipad  ::)
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: Smeghead on August 08, 2018, 12:45:33 AM

A friend and I have noticed that websites are acting very differently in different browsers.  How long has this been going on?

There were always some slight differences, but in the past few years it's been very obvious and getting more so every day.   Now some pages only work correctly with Firefox.  Others with Chrome.  I rarely use IE for anything so not sure about that.  A lot of times it's the setting in the Browsers or what attachments you have installed.

I usually run Chrome on everything now, but there are pages that I have to switch to Firefox to view.  A few years ago it was the opposite.
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: cweb on August 09, 2018, 10:56:55 AM
There were always some slight differences, but in the past few years it's been very obvious and getting more so every day.   Now some pages only work correctly with Firefox.  Others with Chrome.  I rarely use IE for anything so not sure about that.  A lot of times it's the setting in the Browsers or what attachments you have installed.

I usually run Chrome on everything now, but there are pages that I have to switch to Firefox to view.  A few years ago it was the opposite.

There's a lot of sloppy, bloated, irregular web design out there. Script/ad blocking is a godsend. Flash going away has helped, but depending on what is being used to create sites, there are a lot of best practices being ignored.
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: Smeghead on August 10, 2018, 02:36:56 PM
There's a lot of sloppy, bloated, irregular web design out there. Script/ad blocking is a godsend. Flash going away has helped, but depending on what is being used to create sites, there are a lot of best practices being ignored.
I haven't used IE in years, but now it seems like I have to use it most times a site has videos that aren't youtube linked.
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: Smeghead on August 14, 2018, 02:01:09 AM
  [ You are not allowed to view attachments ]  
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: Sofia on August 22, 2018, 12:04:41 AM
if you are using chrome on the fire (it uses android) there are 3 "." vertically on the upper right corner. tap those  scroll down until you find "Downloads" .
otherwise open a file manager (you may need to install one).
usually downloads is listed on its opening page.
if not:
open internal storage scroll down until you find Download
open that
if you have a sd card
open it scroll down until you find Download
Thanks.  I haven't been able to download Chrome, but you got me to the Silk Browser download file.  Thank you!!  I do feel kinda silly now  ::).
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: Sofia on August 25, 2018, 12:30:15 AM
if you are using chrome on the fire (it uses android) there are 3 "." vertically on the upper right corner. tap those  scroll down until you find "Downloads" .
otherwise open a file manager (you may need to install one).
usually downloads is listed on its opening page.
if not:
open internal storage scroll down until you find Download
open that
if you have a sd card
open it scroll down until you find Download
I still cant get chrome.  Every you tube instructions breaks down, every search result instruction breaks down at some point.  Amazon wont even let me get confirmation emails from "unknown" senders!  I'm going crazy.

I just want to download and install it.  I dont want to logon to google play bec that opens a can of worms, for hours, and i am not fishing!!!

Im sick of not having chrome.  The Amazon Fire has glitches and I need a good browser so i can tell when a glitch is the tablet.

Can anyone help?  Does TL have Chrome on hers?
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: wr250 on August 25, 2018, 04:10:21 AM
I still cant get chrome.  Every you tube instructions breaks down, every search result instruction breaks down at some point.  Amazon wont even let me get confirmation emails from "unknown" senders!  I'm going crazy.

I just want to download and install it.  I dont want to logon to google play bec that opens a can of worms, for hours, and i am not fishing!!!

Im sick of not having chrome.  The Amazon Fire has glitches and I need a good browser so i can tell when a glitch is the tablet.

Can anyone help?  Does TL have Chrome on hers?
sounds like time for a new tablet.
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: Sofia on August 25, 2018, 11:52:54 AM
sounds like time for a new tablet.
You Are A Gifted Psychic  :)!  I think I'll aim for Chromebook.  How I wish I'd saved my pain-in-the-ass worn out RCA.  I could have at least used it like a sound background tab.  Amazon is acting like a dictator, appalling.  Way better than nothing, though.  And Coast always plays as a background tab, even though little else will.  Thank you for your input!
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: Inglorious Bitch on August 25, 2018, 12:12:32 PM
Self-healing reverse filter opens the door for many novel applications


https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2018/08/180824150545.htm


A self-healing membrane that acts as a reverse filter, blocking small particles and letting large ones through, is the "straight out of science fiction" work of a team of Penn State mechanical engineers.

"Conventional filters, like those used to make coffee, allow small objects to pass through while keeping larger objects contained," said Birgitt Boschitsch, graduate student in mechanical engineering.

She and the research team, however, developed the exact opposite, a stabilized liquid material that screens out smaller objects while allowing larger ones to pass through. The research was published today (Aug. 24) online in Science Advances.

The team experimented with liquids for their unique properties.

"If you put your finger in a glass of water and take it out, the water's surface self-heals," explained Tak-Sing Wong, the Wormley Family Early Career Professor and assistant professor of mechanical and biomedical engineering.

This newly developed membrane does the same, but unlike conventional filters, this one does not separate objects by size. Instead, it responds to an object's kinetic, or movement, energy.

"Typically, a smaller object is associated with lower kinetic energy due to its smaller mass," Wong said. "So, the larger object with a higher kinetic energy will pass through the membrane, while the smaller object with lower kinetic energy will be retained."

More at site
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: wr250 on August 25, 2018, 12:58:04 PM
You Are A Gifted Psychic  :) !
as long as i am not a grifter psychic
Quote
I think I'll aim for Chromebook.  How I wish I'd saved my pain-in-the-ass worn out RCA.  I could have at least used it like a sound background tab.  Amazon is acting like a dictator, appalling.  Way better than nothing, though.  And Coast always plays as a background tab, even though little else will.  Thank you for your input!
chromebooks are ok.
i would look for a used core i3 (2100 series or newer)  laptop for cheap. then i would put an ssd in it.
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: GravitySucks on August 25, 2018, 01:02:02 PM
as long as i am not a grifter psychic chromebooks are ok.
i would look for a used core i3 (2100 series or newer)  laptop for cheap. then i would put an ssd in it.

Newegg.com has some reasonable priced refurbished chromebooks and other windows laptops. I wasn’t looking for touch screen when I was looking.
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: Sofia on August 25, 2018, 06:36:59 PM
Newegg.com has some reasonable priced refurbished chromebooks and other windows laptops. I wasn’t looking for touch screen when I was looking.
Would I be held responsible if a used electronic device was not fully wiped of illegal material?
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: Sofia on August 25, 2018, 06:41:01 PM
Self-healing reverse filter opens the door for many novel applications


https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2018/08/180824150545.htm


A self-healing membrane that acts as a reverse filter, blocking small particles and letting large ones through, is the "straight out of science fiction" work of a team of Penn State mechanical engineers.

"Conventional filters, like those used to make coffee, allow small objects to pass through while keeping larger objects contained," said Birgitt Boschitsch, graduate student in mechanical engineering.

She and the research team, however, developed the exact opposite, a stabilized liquid material that screens out smaller objects while allowing larger ones to pass through. The research was published today (Aug. 24) online in Science Advances.

The team experimented with liquids for their unique properties.

"If you put your finger in a glass of water and take it out, the water's surface self-heals," explained Tak-Sing Wong, the Wormley Family Early Career Professor and assistant professor of mechanical and biomedical engineering.

This newly developed membrane does the same, but unlike conventional filters, this one does not separate objects by size. Instead, it responds to an object's kinetic, or movement, energy.

"Typically, a smaller object is associated with lower kinetic energy due to its smaller mass," Wong said. "So, the larger object with a higher kinetic energy will pass through the membrane, while the smaller object with lower kinetic energy will be retained."

More at site
How exciting!  Especially for women!
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: wr250 on August 25, 2018, 07:32:07 PM
Would I be held responsible if a used electronic device was not fully wiped of illegal material?
yes
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: Whistler on August 26, 2018, 03:36:39 AM
There's a lot of sloppy, bloated, irregular web design out there. Script/ad blocking is a godsend. Flash going away has helped, but depending on what is being used to create sites, there are a lot of best practices being ignored.
Ignored ?
A lot of sites don't even know what 'Best Practices' are.    It's horrible.
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: Whistler on August 26, 2018, 03:42:30 AM
 [ You are not allowed to view attachments ]
Oh Hell, you're not going to go off on Mouse Balls, I hope.    ;)       ;D

https://www.snopes.com/fact-check/mouse-balls/ (https://www.snopes.com/fact-check/mouse-balls/)
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: Whistler on August 26, 2018, 03:49:18 AM
I still cant get chrome.  Every you tube instructions breaks down, every search result instruction breaks down at some point.  Amazon wont even let me get confirmation emails from "unknown" senders!  I'm going crazy.

I just want to download and install it.  I dont want to logon to google play bec that opens a can of worms, for hours, and i am not fishing!!!

Im sick of not having chrome.  The Amazon Fire has glitches and I need a good browser so i can tell when a glitch is the tablet.

Can anyone help?  Does TL have Chrome on hers?

Have you tried this ?    https://www.technipages.com/kindle-fire-how-to-install-google-chrome-via-apk-file (https://www.technipages.com/kindle-fire-how-to-install-google-chrome-via-apk-file)
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: Whistler on August 26, 2018, 03:53:39 AM
Self-healing reverse filter opens the door for many novel applications


https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2018/08/180824150545.htm


A self-healing membrane that acts as a reverse filter, blocking small particles and letting large ones through, is the "straight out of science fiction" work of a team of Penn State mechanical engineers.   ...


That's damn interesting.
Thanks Ibby.   :)
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: Whistler on August 26, 2018, 04:05:50 AM
Would I be held responsible if a used electronic device was not fully wiped of illegal material?
Yes.

You might want to check this out.
https://lifehacker.com/5894838/customize-your-windows-installation-to-create-the-os-of-your-dreams (https://lifehacker.com/5894838/customize-your-windows-installation-to-create-the-os-of-your-dreams)

You can create an install disc from an up and running OS.

I believe this is the newer version of NT-Lite (which was developed for Win XP) which I've used numerous times, BUT, this version keeps you from removing needed components. (On NT-Lite, you could remove anything - no matter how bad it F***ed up the install)   ;)

Give it a try, all you have to lose is a burnt disc if you create a separate partition to test it out on before you commit your entire disk / flash drive to it.

Or else just DBAN (https://dban.org/) the disc and install Linux.
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: wr250 on August 28, 2018, 07:01:38 AM
Yes.

You might want to check this out.
https://lifehacker.com/5894838/customize-your-windows-installation-to-create-the-os-of-your-dreams (https://lifehacker.com/5894838/customize-your-windows-installation-to-create-the-os-of-your-dreams)

You can create an install disc from an up and running OS.

I believe this is the newer version of NT-Lite (which was developed for Win XP) which I've used numerous times, BUT, this version keeps you from removing needed components. (On NT-Lite, you could remove anything - no matter how bad it F***ed up the install)   ;)

Give it a try, all you have to lose is a burnt disc if you create a separate partition to test it out on before you commit your entire disk / flash drive to it.

Or else just DBAN (https://dban.org/) the disc and install Linux.
i didnt bother to dban. i just installed linux, wiping out winders 10.
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: JUAN on August 30, 2018, 04:58:17 AM
I see that Adobe CC (rented by the month) will now only work with a current operating system - latest update of Windows 10 or Mac OS. They're getting in line to force people to go to the Microsoft Managed Desktop (rented by the month).
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: wr250 on August 30, 2018, 11:59:36 AM
I see that Adobe CC (rented by the month) will now only work with a current operating system - latest update of Windows 10 or Mac OS. They're getting in line to force people to go to the Microsoft Managed Desktop (rented by the month).
yet another reason to move to any thing other than windows. Unless that software is mission critical and only runs on windows (bogus imo)
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: Lob Bazare on August 30, 2018, 12:28:21 PM
I found this beauty at work today. Brand new from 2005. Blast from the past. Never used and still had the plastic film on the screen. Battery wouldn't take a charge and it only worked when plugged in. An enormous 128MB SD card and foldable IR keyboard was included.
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Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: JUAN on August 30, 2018, 01:34:37 PM
I have a Palm T2 that still charges enough for me to use it as a prop in one of the talks I give. They were wonderful devices for their time.
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: albrecht on August 30, 2018, 06:10:37 PM
Capt Crunch was not aware but a caller claimed there was a number, or series of numbers, on your phone to tell if was tapped. Art confirmed and said number would reply with tones; one would indicate local, State,.Federal, etc but then cryptically said "he didn't want to give out details."  Anyone know if this was remotely true? I can't see it except, maybe, for officials or something. Note this.was before most lines/switches n devices digital so MAYBE some thing could be 'found out' by line resistance or something. But by calling a number?
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: GravitySucks on August 30, 2018, 06:15:45 PM
Capt Crunch was not aware but a caller claimed there was a number, or series of numbers, on your phone to tell if was tapped. Art confirmed and said number would reply with tones; one would indicate local, State,.Federal, etc but then cryptically said "he didn't want to give out details."  Anyone know if this was remotely true? I can't see it except, maybe, for officials or something. Note this.was before most lines/switches n devices digital so MAYBE some thing could be 'found out' by line resistance or something. But by calling a number?

The only thing I remember is a series of tones you could put in or a number you could dial and then the switch would call you back in 10-15 seconds to test the line. It was a prank we woukd pull at other peoples homes. The phone woukd ring but noone would be on the line. I don’t remember the details.
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: albrecht on August 30, 2018, 06:23:44 PM
The only thing I remember is a series of tones you could put in or a number you could dial and then the switch would call you back in 10-15 seconds to test the line. It was a prank we woukd pull at other peoples homes. The phone woukd ring but noone would be on the line. I don’t remember the details.
I recall that. And also party lines (including the unofficial ones Capt Crunch show caller mentioned,) and the phone phreaks and later phone scams by the #9 to get outside line/conference call, and some deal about using paperclip on mic on handset n touch metal on coin box to get call, supposedly. Don't remember a "are you being tapped" number. I know phone n cable companies can tell when stealing services or install unauthorized lines
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: Whistler on August 31, 2018, 01:21:36 AM
I see that Adobe CC (rented by the month) will now only work with a current operating system - latest update of Windows 10 or Mac OS. They're getting in line to force people to go to the Microsoft Managed Desktop (rented by the month).
Erhm...     https://www.techradar.com/news/the-best-free-alternatives-to-adobe-creative-cloud (https://www.techradar.com/news/the-best-free-alternatives-to-adobe-creative-cloud)

Worth a look.  ;)
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: Whistler on August 31, 2018, 01:22:55 AM
i didnt bother to dban. i just installed linux, wiping out winders 10.
LOL - That'll do it - unless those pesky Russians installed a hidden r/o partition.    (heh, heh, heh)
JK...    Linux will totally wipe the entire disc if you select it on install, or if you dd the disc - but you know this.    ;)
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: albrecht on August 31, 2018, 01:42:54 AM
LOL - That'll do it - unless those pesky Russians installed a hidden r/o partition.    (heh, heh, heh)
JK...    Linux will totally wipe the entire disc if you select it on install, or if you dd the disc - but you know this.    ;)
Isn't there 'stuff' n 'chips' anyway? Even IF you arent dealing with notorious routers or internet or cell networks etc. That are exploitable even by design or once might attempt connections or even do so remotely without command (assuming not air gapped, etc?) In other words can one 'trust' even the basics? Obviously the connections and peripherals are compromised, by design?
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: Whistler on August 31, 2018, 01:45:17 AM
Capt Crunch was not aware but a caller claimed there was a number, or series of numbers, on your phone to tell if was tapped. Art confirmed and said number would reply with tones; one would indicate local, State,.Federal, etc but then cryptically said "he didn't want to give out details."  Anyone know if this was remotely true? I can't see it except, maybe, for officials or something. Note this.was before most lines/switches n devices digital so MAYBE some thing could be 'found out' by line resistance or something. But by calling a number?
Here's a little history on Phreaking.
https://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2013/02/whatever-happened-to-the-phone-phreaks/273332/ (https://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2013/02/whatever-happened-to-the-phone-phreaks/273332/)

As far as being able to tell if your phone is tapped, it doesn't matter with digital. ALL phone conversations, texts, etc, etc, etc, since 2003 have been stored, cataloged, and profiled.  (Analog + digital)
Yes ECHELON goes back to '56, but it's been stored and profiled en-mass since 2003. EVERY electronic communication has been profiled, and they are available to any, and all, LEO's

Phreaking is pretty much dead. The phone companies can now tell where the signal is coming from within milliseconds. Bypassing the security is now pretty much impossible - unless you are highly specialized in that area of expertise.  (It can still be done, but you need some serious equipment.) 
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: albrecht on August 31, 2018, 01:53:39 AM
Here's a little history on Phreaking.
https://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2013/02/whatever-happened-to-the-phone-phreaks/273332/ (https://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2013/02/whatever-happened-to-the-phone-phreaks/273332/)

As far as being able to tell if your phone is tapped, it doesn't matter with digital. ALL phone conversations, texts, etc, etc, etc, since 2003 have been stored, cataloged, and profiled.  (Analog + digital)
Yes ECHELON goes back to '56, but it's been stored and profiled en-mass since 2003. EVERY electronic communication has been profiled, and they are available to any, and all, LEO's

Phreaking is pretty much dead. The phone companies can now tell where the signal is coming from within milliseconds. Bypassing the security is now pretty much impossible - unless you are highly specialized in that area of expertise.  (It can still be done, but you need some serious equipment.)
Thanks. I have no nefarious or illegal designs. But curious. So my one-time pads made my random recorded traffic patterns and doppler storm data sent via encrypted short-term SW blasts or number stations won't work. Got a bottle of vodka on this....kidding.
ps: kidding and appreciate your info. Phreaking.was cool.because I could LIMITED understand, the whole computer stuff with hacking and now beyond me.
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: wr250 on August 31, 2018, 05:04:54 AM
Isn't there 'stuff' n 'chips' anyway? Even IF you arent dealing with notorious routers or internet or cell networks etc. That are exploitable even by design or once might attempt connections or even do so remotely without command (assuming not air gapped, etc?) In other words can one 'trust' even the basics? Obviously the connections and peripherals are compromised, by design?
all intel chips since 1995 (except itanium and early atom chips) have whats called "intel me" . this is a on chip operating system (its integrated into the processor itself), meant for sysadmins to be able to remotely configure a  computer. it has many exploits all of which are undetectable by any other operating system (linux,bsd, windows etc)or antivirus.
it can only be fixed by:
1. firmware (bios + microcode) updates (often with detrimental effects)
2. hardware changes during manufacture of said chips.
intel also has ongoing issues with spectre/meltdown, with seemingly weekly revisions of this appearing which bypass mitigation's by intel and OS vendors.
its my opinion that the US govt has known about these flaws since 2008 (and possibly earlier), and has exploited these silently via some sort of malware they have written. only the actual code writers need to know the actual exploit, and the finished program was distributed to govt employed actors to basically steal data.


amd ryzen is affected by affected by the above, but to a much lessor degree.
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: wr250 on September 04, 2018, 06:32:24 AM
AI sucks at stopping online trolls spewing toxic comments timestamp 29:18

Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: wr250 on September 04, 2018, 06:35:59 AM
 U.S. Senator Bans Funding for Beerbots That Don’t Exist timestamp: 31:15
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: Walks_At_Night on September 04, 2018, 05:16:40 PM
AI sucks at stopping online trolls spewing toxic comments timestamp 29:18

Swishy Pants will not be stopped!

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Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: Whistler on September 08, 2018, 10:45:31 AM
Isn't there 'stuff' n 'chips' anyway? Even IF you arent dealing with notorious routers or internet or cell networks etc. That are exploitable even by design or once might attempt connections or even do so remotely without command (assuming not air gapped, etc?) In other words can one 'trust' even the basics? Obviously the connections and peripherals are compromised, by design?
Here's some info on Air Gap Malware.   ;)

Long, but detailed:  https://cacm.acm.org/magazines/2018/4/226377-bridgeware/fulltext (https://cacm.acm.org/magazines/2018/4/226377-bridgeware/fulltext)
Short but sweet:  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Air_gap_malware (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Air_gap_malware)
Medium length:  https://www.thesslstore.com/blog/air-gapped-computer/ (https://www.thesslstore.com/blog/air-gapped-computer/)

Trust nothing unless you wrote the code yourself, and then only in moderation.    ;)      ;D
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: JUAN on September 08, 2018, 11:14:51 AM
That’s why I use my 1933 Remington Noiseless Portable typewriter and a sheet of paper for anything important.
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: Whistler on September 08, 2018, 11:29:59 AM
That’s why I use my 1933 Remington Noiseless Portable typewriter and a sheet of paper for anything important.
Flash Paper ?  ;)     ;D
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: Sofia on September 10, 2018, 09:34:18 PM
I need a garage remote.  I can't afford one.  Here is what I have access to.  Is these supplies enough to make a remote or "camp" on top of someone else's remote when they are home so they don't have to let me in? @wr250

1.  315MHZ transmitter, one button
2.  315MHZ Chamberlain garage door system with purple learn button.
3.  A working, installed wired wall switch with red and white terminals.
4. A door combo pad outside the garage which is not in use.
5.  A non-operational Lift Master 81LM single button remote which is not compatible per the manufacturer.
6.  Limited access (but not possession of) a working, single-button 950CD remote.

I want to use the transmitter to operate the working remote when we both are home.  Can I remote a remote?
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: wr250 on September 11, 2018, 04:52:41 AM
Is these supplies enough to make a remote or "camp" on top of someone else's remote when they are home so they don't have to let me in? @wr250

no, you cant.
if your garage door opener is "smart" , you can get the chamberlin app to open/close it with a phone/tablet.
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: Sofia on September 12, 2018, 02:27:48 AM
no, you cant.
if your garage door opener is "smart" , you can get the chamberlin app to open/close it with a phone/tablet.
Thank you.  I was going bonkers trying.  I'll look into the smart thing!
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: BartIsGod on September 29, 2018, 08:05:52 AM
Okay, this question will surely be lame to all you younger tech wizards, but you guys are a wealth of knowledge on damn near any subject.
So in a week, my 2 year contract with verizon will end. At which time I'll probably upgrade my existing Galaxy S5.
Ive never used or even touched an Apple product. When I asked the twenty something yo girls at starbucks which iphone they would suggest, they said, in so many words, "dude, you're old, better stay with android", (I'm 59). So the question is, and i realize it is subjective, what difficulties would I encounter switching to an iphone, if any?
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: BartIsGod on September 29, 2018, 08:12:45 AM
Also, in "shopping" phones online, I've come across "Whitedome" screen protectors, where you place phone in a tray, put liquid adhesive on, apply glass screen protector, apply UV light, etc. (I think it'd be easier to remove my own appendix!).
Is this system/brand really worth the sixty dollar online price?

Im leaning towards a Galaxy S9, and I'm reading online, "issues" with screen protectors on the rounded edges  of the S9.
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: JUAN on September 29, 2018, 08:29:51 AM
I’m older than you. I switched to an iPhone a few years ago. I can hear it much better. Remember that our generations invented all of this cool stuff.
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: MaxPower on September 29, 2018, 09:45:28 AM
Also, in "shopping" phones online, I've come across "Whitedome" screen protectors, where you place phone in a tray, put liquid adhesive on, apply glass screen protector, apply UV light, etc. (I think it'd be easier to remove my own appendix!).
Is this system/brand really worth the sixty dollar online price?

Im leaning towards a Galaxy S9, and I'm reading online, "issues" with screen protectors on the rounded edges  of the S9.
The Whitedome screen protectors if installed correctly look very good. Their install process does minimize bubbles but you can also still end up with bubbles or cracked edges in some cases. I don't know about the long term durability of them as the ones I have seen were relatively new installs.

I would go with the inexpensive ones though, as I have installed many over the years, both liquid and dry installs. With the inexpensive ones, you usually get a few in the package and if you have never installed one you may need more than one to get a bubble free install. The most important thing is to install them in a completely (as possible) dust free room with no fans on. ANY small spec of dust that lands on the surface of the phone between the short time you clean the screen and when you place the protector on the phone will cause a bubble. Some of the bubbles can be worked out but some cannot without a reinstall. I have used several brands and have had good results. Check the ones with a lot of good reviews on Amazon.

One thing that is a must for expensive phones is a silicon or rubber case that slips on and protects the edges and corners. These can be lifesavers if the phone is dropped. They do add a little thickness to the phone though.
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: MaxPower on September 29, 2018, 10:00:14 AM
I’m older than you. I switched to an iPhone a few years ago. I can hear it much better. Remember that our generations invented all of this cool stuff.
Yes ... and a lot of the cool stuff today has its roots in the NASA space program of the 1960's.
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: JUAN on September 29, 2018, 10:03:24 AM
Yes ... and a lot of the cool stuff today has its roots in the NASA space program of the 1960's.
Like Tang.
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: BartIsGod on September 29, 2018, 10:43:24 AM
Yes Max, upon further review, (as they say in NFL), I'm going for the ten dollar screen protectors. Gonna get the S9.
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: BartIsGod on September 29, 2018, 10:46:48 AM
Yes ... and a lot of the cool stuff today has its roots in the NASA space program of the 1960's.
Roots in the space program AND in Colonel Corso's file cabinet.
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: Whistler on October 03, 2018, 12:59:31 AM
Thanks. I have no nefarious or illegal designs. But curious. So my one-time pads made my random recorded traffic patterns and doppler storm data sent via encrypted short-term SW blasts or number stations won't work. Got a bottle of vodka on this....kidding.
ps: kidding and appreciate your info. Phreaking.was cool.because I could LIMITED understand, the whole computer stuff with hacking and now beyond me.
Are you talking Shortwave Phreaking ? That's a totally different ballgame. What satellites are you running ? (yeah, don't post the frq here, but if you were, and still are running the SatCom, there are a lot of open (abandoned) freq's) BTW - that's a fun playground.  ;)

This is interesting...    https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=plasma+antenna (https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=plasma+antenna)
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: Whistler on October 03, 2018, 01:02:02 AM
all intel chips since 1995 (except itanium and early atom chips) have whats called "intel me" . this is a on chip operating system (its integrated into the processor itself), meant for sysadmins to be able to remotely configure a  computer. it has many exploits all of which are undetectable by any other operating system (linux,bsd, windows etc)or antivirus.
it can only be fixed by:
1. firmware (bios + microcode) updates (often with detrimental effects)
2. hardware changes during manufacture of said chips.
intel also has ongoing issues with spectre/meltdown, with seemingly weekly revisions of this appearing which bypass mitigation's by intel and OS vendors.
its my opinion that the US govt has known about these flaws since 2008 (and possibly earlier), and has exploited these silently via some sort of malware they have written. only the actual code writers need to know the actual exploit, and the finished program was distributed to govt employed actors to basically steal data.


amd ryzen is affected by affected by the above, but to a much lessor degree.
It's not a bug...      It's a feature.   ;)
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: StarrMountain on October 03, 2018, 01:06:16 AM
It's not a bug...      It's a feature.   ;)

Heh, heh. ;D
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: Whistler on October 03, 2018, 01:12:31 AM
I need a garage remote.  I can't afford one.  Here is what I have access to.  Is these supplies enough to make a remote or "camp" on top of someone else's remote when they are home so they don't have to let me in? @wr250

1.  315MHZ transmitter, one button
2.  315MHZ Chamberlain garage door system with purple learn button.
3.  A working, installed wired wall switch with red and white terminals.
4. A door combo pad outside the garage which is not in use.
5.  A non-operational Lift Master 81LM single button remote which is not compatible per the manufacturer.
6.  Limited access (but not possession of) a working, single-button 950CD remote.

I want to use the transmitter to operate the working remote when we both are home.  Can I remote a remote?
This is the best you'll get from me. I won't show you (or anyone else, how to break GDO systems.) They are fricken simple, and if you can't find the info on them, well...
[url}https://ddmgaragedoors.com/diy-instructions/[/url]   
Caruthers, is that you ?    ;)
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: BartIsGod on November 02, 2018, 10:10:37 AM
I turn to you to educate me, regarding my 2 week old Galaxy S9, and a music download.

I got an email from grateful dead.net, offering, every day in November, a free (mp3), music download, which I successfully downloaded, but could not play. So here is the series of "taps & clicks" I performed.

Email was opened in my gmail, on the phone, I clicked the "get started"  box, arrived on a page with the options "play now", or "download mp3".
Upon completion of download, I went into Chrome, I tapped the 3 dots, upper right corner, where options are, new tab, bookmarks, history, etc, when I tapped downloads, the one in question was displayed, tapping it however, does nothing, and the 3 dots next to download title only offer share or delete.
So, what am I doing wrong?
Now obviously, i can play/listen on the page where download was offered, but how can i play in future?
Sorry this is so lengthy, but, you know.....

ps, file name as stored in chrome, ends in mp3.
Im wondering do i first need to download an "app for playing mp3's?
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: Dancing queen on November 11, 2018, 03:38:56 AM
I turn to you to educate me, regarding my 2 week old Galaxy S9, and a music download.

I got an email from grateful dead.net, offering, every day in November, a free (mp3), music download, which I successfully downloaded, but could not play. So here is the series of "taps & clicks" I performed.

Email was opened in my gmail, on the phone, I clicked the "get started"  box, arrived on a page with the options "play now", or "download mp3".
Upon completion of download, I went into Chrome, I tapped the 3 dots, upper right corner, where options are, new tab, bookmarks, history, etc, when I tapped downloads, the one in question was displayed, tapping it however, does nothing, and the 3 dots next to download title only offer share or delete.
So, what am I doing wrong?
Now obviously, i can play/listen on the page where download was offered, but how can i play in future?
Sorry this is so lengthy, but, you know.....

ps, file name as stored in chrome, ends in mp3.
Im wondering do i first need to download an "app for playing mp3's?

if you go to the downloads folder you can prob click on the mp3s there and they will play.
Title: Kilogram to be redefined
Post by: albrecht on November 11, 2018, 11:15:11 AM
Why? One reason:   ;)
"“If aliens ever visit Earth what else would we talk about other than physics?” said Schlamminger. “If we want to talk about physics we have to agree on a set of units, but if we say our unit of mass is based on a lump of metal we keep in Paris, we’ll be the laughing stock of the universe.”"

https://amp.theguardian.com/science/2018/nov/09/in-the-balance-scientists-vote-on-first-change-to-kilogram-in-century
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: damon on November 13, 2018, 10:43:28 PM
https://www.wired.com/story/google-internet-traffic-china-russia-rerouted/
Google traffic was rerouted on monday. Its the commie's fault.
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits - ARC Audio Return Channel
Post by: Up All Night on November 14, 2018, 12:45:50 AM
I bought a Samsung TV made in 2015, and I finally figured out that it does not have ARC with it's HDMI port. My Vizio 29", that I use in the office, made in 2013, does have ARC with it's HDMI port.

They way you tell if your receiver and/or your TV has ARC, is that "ARC" will by stamped outside the HDMI port (in very small letters).

ARC, or Audio Return Channel, uses high speed HDMI cables (version 1.4 or later), and allows you to, for example stream Digital audio through the HDMI cable back to your receiver, including DD 5.1. If you don't have ARC, then you can get DD 5.1 through an optical connection from the TV.......but only from the OTA TV channels and internal TV programs, and not from say a Roku stick plugged into your TV's (non-ARC) HDMI port.
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits - ARC Audio Return Channel
Post by: MaxPower on November 14, 2018, 09:53:35 AM
I bought a Samsung TV made in 2015, and I finally figured out that it does not have ARC with it's HDMI port. My Vizio 29", that I use in the office, made in 2013, does have ARC with it's HDMI port.

They way you tell if your receiver and/or your TV has ARC, is that "ARC" will by stamped outside the HDMI port (in very small letters).

ARC, or Audio Return Channel, uses high speed HDMI cables (version 1.4 or later), and allows you to, for example stream Digital audio through the HDMI cable back to your receiver, including DD 5.1. If you don't have ARC, then you can get DD 5.1 through an optical connection from the TV.......but only from the OTA TV channels and internal TV programs, and not from say a Roku stick plugged into your TV's (non-ARC) HDMI port.
Which model do you have? One of my Samsung TVs from 2014 (Model HU8550xx series) has ARC on one of the HDMI ports.
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits - ARC Audio Return Channel
Post by: Up All Night on November 14, 2018, 10:04:29 AM
Which model do you have? One of my Samsung TVs from 2014 (Model HU8550xx series) has ARC on one of the HDMI ports.

EH5000FXZA UD03 Mfg. April 2015 Purchased in Best Buy store.
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits - ARC Audio Return Channel
Post by: MaxPower on November 14, 2018, 10:41:30 AM
EH5000FXZA UD03 Mfg. April 2015 Purchased in Best Buy store.
Samsung likes to play around with including/excluding features more than some of the other manufacturers. Another example of this is when Samsung doesn't include the compass sensor on some of it's tablets when lesser priced and lesser known brands include it. To get it you have to go with a much more expensive tablet if you want Samsung. Sometimes it is annoying.
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits - ARC Audio Return Channel
Post by: Up All Night on November 14, 2018, 03:31:23 PM
Samsung likes to play around with including/excluding features more than some of the other manufacturers. Another example of this is when Samsung doesn't include the compass sensor on some of it's tablets when lesser priced and lesser known brands include it. To get it you have to go with a much more expensive tablet if you want Samsung. Sometimes it is annoying.

I got screwed with my first purchase of a flatscreen TV, a Sanyo, purchased at WalMart.
It had issues with the board after the warranty ran out.

So, I thought I was doing the right thing buy buying a brand leader at Best Buy.

But, before I buy another flatscreen, I'm going to do some serious internet research on what customers and reviewers are saying about it.
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits - ARC Audio Return Channel
Post by: MaxPower on November 14, 2018, 07:46:39 PM
I got screwed with my first purchase of a flatscreen TV, a Sanyo, purchased at WalMart.
It had issues with the board after the warranty ran out.

So, I thought I was doing the right thing buy buying a brand leader at Best Buy.

But, before I buy another flatscreen, I'm going to do some serious internet research on what customers and reviewers are saying about it.
Check out the AV Forums site. A lot of information and many subforums on TVs and just about anything audio/video related. Link here (click on Forums in the menu bar at the top): https://www.avforums.com/ (https://www.avforums.com/)
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: Whistler on September 07, 2019, 09:35:43 AM
This is funny, but not unexpected.
https://naist-se.github.io/study-of-microsofts-github-acquisition/ (https://naist-se.github.io/study-of-microsofts-github-acquisition/)
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: BartIsGod on November 07, 2019, 02:28:52 PM
My "Tech" question isn't a technology tidbit, but I'm not sure where to post it, and I know you guys have the answer.
What is a VPN, and why would I need one?
Isn't Google or Firefox "private browsing" the same?
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits - ARC Audio Return Channel
Post by: BartIsGod on November 07, 2019, 02:38:04 PM
Check out the AV Forums site. A lot of information and many subforums on TVs and just about anything audio/video related. Link here (click on Forums in the menu bar at the top): https://www.avforums.com/ (https://www.avforums.com/)

I researched AV FORUMS, and a sight called Rtings.com, for weeks before purchasing my 65"4k a month ago. Rtings not only review, but give you ideal settings for optimal picture.
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: GravitySucks on November 07, 2019, 03:14:40 PM
My "Tech" question isn't a technology tidbit, but I'm not sure where to post it, and I know you guys have the answer.
What is a VPN, and why would I need one?
Isn't Google or Firefox "private browsing" the same?

https://www.dailydot.com/debug/private-browsing-safe/
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: KSM on November 07, 2019, 11:51:16 PM
What is a VPN, and why would I need one?
Isn't Google or Firefox "private browsing" the same?
Fuck. No.

https://www.dailydot.com/debug/private-browsing-safe/
You could've just said, Fuck. No.
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: BartIsGod on November 08, 2019, 07:35:19 AM
Fuck. No.
You could've just said, Fuck. No.
I see google referencing free vpns. What are your opinions on free vpns?
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: JUAN on November 08, 2019, 07:42:18 AM
Google is one of the companies I want to keep my data away from.
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: KSM on November 08, 2019, 11:57:02 PM
Google is one of the companies I want to keep my data away from.
@BartIsGod what juan said.


BTW  There's no free lunch. Even lucifer hates google. Small L, small g. I hate them both.

I must ask you, if Bart is indeed, GOD! What paradise has he promised you? Coz I make the most scrumptious milkshakes :D You're a girl right?
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: Whistler on November 09, 2019, 12:32:42 AM
My "Tech" question isn't a technology tidbit, but I'm not sure where to post it, and I know you guys have the answer.
What is a VPN, and why would I need one?
Isn't Google or Firefox "private browsing" the same?
VPN is an acronym for a Virtual Private Network.
Any query you send out online, like loading a web page in your browser, sends your IP address to that website.
(The webpage that loads into your browser has to know where to go when it is sent from the server.)
They know exactly where, and can easily find out,  who you are. This is dangerous because a profile on you can be built up by anyone that wants to do it. Anyone.

Are you into hairy ape porn ?   :o
Someone monitoring your IP will know about it.
Want to make your own fireworks for the forth of July ?
(Pyrotechnics is a respectable profession, but) now you've just been added to about 20 Domestic Terrorist Watch-lists.
Do you visit political websites ?
You've just been added to hundreds, possibly thousands of junk mail, ad network, and cold calling lists.

Are you getting the picture ?

A VPN sits between you, and the final destination of your query,  and routes all your queries through the VPN's servers. That way,  the queries you send out use the IP of the VPN instead of sending yours.

With VPNs, you get what you pay for. With free VPNs, you are the product.

Private browsing is totally misnamed and offers no protection, whatsoever, online. All is does, is to keep someone with physical access to your machine, from viewing your browsing history.
Ex.   More than one person uses the same machine.
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: StarrMountain on November 09, 2019, 12:56:59 AM
VPN is an acronym for a Virtual Private Network.
Any query you send out online, like loading a web page in your browser, sends your IP address to that website.
(The webpage that loads into your browser has to know where to go when it is sent from the server.)
They know exactly where, and can easily find out,  who you are. This is dangerous because a profile on you can be built up by anyone that wants to do it. Anyone.

Are you into hairy ape porn ?   :o
Someone monitoring your IP will know about it.
Want to make your own fireworks for the forth of July ?
(Pyrotechnics is a respectable profession, but) now you've just been added to about 20 Domestic Terrorist Watch-lists.
Do you visit political websites ?
You've just been added to hundreds, possibly thousands of junk mail, ad network, and cold calling lists.

Are you getting the picture ?

A VPN sits between you, and the final destination of your query,  and routes all your queries through the VPN's servers. That way,  the queries you send out use the IP of the VPN instead of sending yours.

With VPNs, you get what you pay for. With free VPNs, you are the product.

Private browsing is totally misnamed and offers no protection, whatsoever, online. All is does, is to keep someone with physical access to your machine, from viewing your browsing history.
Ex.   More than one person uses the same machine.

I pay for a yearly subscription for TM VPN. ;) ;D
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: Whistler on November 09, 2019, 03:27:04 AM
I pay for a yearly subscription for TM VPN. ;) ;D
Heh, heh, heh.  ;)
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: BartIsGod on November 28, 2019, 10:45:39 AM
Okay folks. Next topic.
I have family living in my house. In my room, I have different wi-fi than is throughout the rest of the house, (could not agree on TV/Wi-fi vendor),
I may purchase a hidden "nanny cam" allowing me to view the room in real time if desired.
My question is this, can someone in the home, by whatever detection means, know that a "new device" is connected to my wi-fi?
I believe it is possible to know which/who'se (RIP Ramona) devices are connected to a network, but, without my login credentials,  is it possible for someone to know which devices I have connected to my network?
I'm thinking not, but unsure.
Anyone?
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: Whistler on November 30, 2019, 05:43:22 AM
Okay folks. Next topic.
I have family living in my house. In my room, I have different wi-fi than is throughout the rest of the house, (could not agree on TV/Wi-fi vendor),
I may purchase a hidden "nanny cam" allowing me to view the room in real time if desired.
My question is this, can someone in the home, by whatever detection means, know that a "new device" is connected to my wi-fi?
I believe it is possible to know which/who'se (RIP Ramona) devices are connected to a network, but, without my login credentials,  is it possible for someone to know which devices I have connected to my network?
I'm thinking not, but unsure.
Anyone?
If your devices are connected wirelessly, then yes. Not only that, wireless nanycams are extremely easy to hack.
If you're serious about it, go professional with a hardwire connection.
https://www.foxspyoutlet.com/pinhole-cameras/ (https://www.foxspyoutlet.com/pinhole-cameras/)

Search terms: high resolution pinhole camera

But, consider this - you already have a high res camera that you can SSH to other devices. All newer laptops have a camera built in. Do a little research on how to connect it to your phone for remote monitoring. If your research is thorough enough, you don't even have to have the laptop turned on to use the camera, as long as the lid is open. (I'd still run a dedicated hardwired pinhole or cctv cam, disguised as something else.)
Anyone can view the nanycam stream. They are notoriously insecure.

If you're a DIYer:  https://opensource.com/article/18/3/how-build-digital-pinhole-camera-raspberry-pi (https://opensource.com/article/18/3/how-build-digital-pinhole-camera-raspberry-pi)
Like the article states, pinhole cams are blurry.
Use a disguised CCTV cam instead for clear, high res pics or vid.
https://www.cctvcameraworld.com/4k-ip-cameras.html (https://www.cctvcameraworld.com/4k-ip-cameras.html)      ;)
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: StarrMountain on June 29, 2020, 04:20:41 PM
I've decided to give one of my laptops to my eldest Son.  What apps and options should I remove?  What apps and options are okay to leave on?  Let me know.  You know where.  ;) :-*
Title: Re: Technology Tidbits
Post by: StarrMountain on October 16, 2022, 01:55:14 PM


 :o