A few years ago, I researched the subject of the Star of Bethlehem for a presentation I was doing in Kansas City, KS. I pointed to 10 different possibitilies, omens, events, astronomical phenomenon. My presentation was entitled "The 10 Myths of the Star of Bethlehem".
It wasn't Halley's Comet which appeared in sky 12BC ( was late and nearer to 2 BC) Besides comets were bad omens and mostly associated with dread. .
http://clioaudio.com/2007/12/24/nero-and-the-comets-of-doom/
This nice account tries to explain comet as the "Star" (blog info on 12/23/2007)
http://www.sciencemusings.com/2007/12/star-of-bethlehem.html
another
http://nation.ittefaq.com/issues/2007/12/25/news0558.htm
Mark Kidger of the European Space Agency (as did I ) that while a Triple Conjuction in 7BC was good (an forthcoming omen), the conjunction of 2 BC was a possibly better or best fit.
Going back in time, with my Imac Macintosh computer and Starry Night Pro software, I simulated this conjunction. There it was in 2BC. I concluded that it was this conjunction after looking at a host of other possibilities.
But lately Kidger and others have surmised that this date may have been too late for the "Star". So that led to something in between.
Now the suggestion turned to a possibility of a nova star in 5 BC. This is in the realm of one of my ten possibilities.
http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/local/bal-te.md.christmas25dec25,0,822279.story?coll=bal_tab01_layout
Astronomers are still looking for this Nova that the Chinese might have noted and that might have been a good candidate.
Happy holidays!
Thursday, December 27, 2007
Tuesday, December 25, 2007
Macs in latest movie National Treaure (City of Gold) with Nicholas Cage
The latest movie National Treaure (City of Gold) with Nicholas Cage and cast has ipods and MacBooks all over.
Apple logo is prominent on the black laptop facting towards the camera. I wonder how much Apple pays for doing this?
Dr. Eric Flescher, Olathe, KS(dreric1kansas@aol.com): DrEric1MacNews/Macsightings Blog : http://dreric1macnewsmacsightings.blogspot.com/ : editor MacsU.N.I.T.E. ( MacIntosh Users Network for Integrating Technology into Education):(Subscribe send email to :macsunitsubscribe@egroups.com)
Staff Writer at macCompanion Magazine (http://www.maccompanion.com/); moderator
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macintoshvideo-subscribe@yahoogroups.com; editor TechU.N.I.T.E. (Subscribe send email to PC version TechU.N.I.T.E.: to subscribe send email to techunite-subscribe@egroups.com
Apple logo is prominent on the black laptop facting towards the camera. I wonder how much Apple pays for doing this?
Dr. Eric Flescher, Olathe, KS(dreric1kansas@aol.com): DrEric1MacNews/Macsightings Blog : http://dreric1macnewsmacsightings.blogspot.com/ : editor MacsU.N.I.T.E. ( MacIntosh Users Network for Integrating Technology into Education):(Subscribe send email to :macsunitsubscribe@egroups.com)
Staff Writer at macCompanion Magazine (http://www.maccompanion.com/); moderator
macintoshvideo@yahoogroups.com- to subscribe
macintoshvideo-subscribe@yahoogroups.com; editor TechU.N.I.T.E. (Subscribe send email to PC version TechU.N.I.T.E.: to subscribe send email to techunite-subscribe@egroups.com
Monday, December 24, 2007
iHear and trying out Noise canceling headphones
iHear and trying out Noise canceling headphones
by Dr. Eric Flescher, Olathe, KS (dreric1kansas@aol.com)
Staff Writer at macCompanion Magazine (http://www.maccompanion.com/)
I like my Koss (non canceling ) headphones. But I was interested in some more fidelity and obtaining some audio canceling power to use on jets (to cut the noise). Also I wanted to musically ehance my music while playing my collection on my Imac and iTunes.
I have seen the commercials and the ads about the Bose Quiet Comfort 3 ones. I figured because they never say the price and do installments, well its pricey and out of my budget for headphones. I was right they are over $300. Hey I would like to use the money for an iPhone someday. But I was still looking for canceling power and quality at a budget price.
I have lost some of my hearing (high end) and wear hearing aids when teaching, social stuff etc. My hearing is not that far enough (well talk to my wife though). I wanted to hear more fidelity, use the phones when traveling on jets and possibly cutting down some of the noise, playing my music in more sound ambient environment.
I am pretty good at goggling and found some links. I found some instantly at CNET.
http://reviews.cnet.com/4370-7877_7-229-104.html
They had pricey ones from $100 to the Bose.
I found this page had
Logitech Noise Canceling Headphones.
http://reviews.cnet.com/headphones/logitech-noise-canceling-headphones/4505-7877_7-31797806.html?tag=txt
But how could the price vary so much ($39.97 - $183.95)? But this would not do as I read “The bad: The Logitech Noise Canceling Headphones can be uncomfortable after an hour or so of use; the noise-canceling feature noticeably processes music, though not necessarily in a bad way (depending on your taste). “
I wanted something comfortable around or on the ear. Next please!
Consumer search had some interesting stuff. There were pricey ones and this one caught my eye.
Best value, full-size headphones.
“The Grado SR60 score points in reviews where it counts – sound quality, including bass reproduction. The Grado SR60 headphones have a huge following among music lovers, who say they're great companions to an iPod. “
But they “leak” sound. I won’t use them as I don’t (gasp) have an iPod. I listen to other things and look at then went I work out at the gym at the JCC. But they leak noise so no. Next.
On the PC mag link, I found some interesting facts and information written by Tim Gideon, the Lead Audio and Video Analyst for PC Magazine.
http://www.pcmag.com/author_bio/0,1908,a=3895,00.asp
I liked the very personable style of his writing and information that I wanted to “hear”. Unlike my musically inclined children (my son is Junior Percussion major at Juliard in NYC and my daughter works for music record and sound industry in NYC too) I never have played an instrument (hey I can play Batman on the piano and cool jerk).
I do like listening to my music (I love Moody Blues finding new music and working with garageband and etc for my videos.
http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2704,2120964,00.asp
I wanted to know how canceling helps not just plugging the ears (earbuds) which has and does got concern. He noted
“ Noise cancellation ... is achieved actively, using circuitry that monitors surrounding ambient sound and produces an inverse wave, to cancel it out. “
Well he uses the Bose which is out of my price range. But what else did he list? I was getting closer when I read that he liked the more affordable (cheaper).
Recommended were the JVC HA-NC80-J/-C alternative and the
Sony MDR-NC22
http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,1895,2113467,00.asp
But these use earbuds and there are other inconveniences. These two models however are less impressive in the cancellation department (but still good) but have more bass than you'd expect for $100. Not bad but I don’t want earbuds. But I was closer possibly then I thought. I was interested if there was a Sony version that I saw at Radio Shack.
I was a little surprised there was this Sony model at Radio Shack.
http://www.winbuyer.com/cat-418/keyword-Sony%20mdr-nc6/init-1/D-10122007/C-Type1_1/pid-22714717/?c=8100418&gclid=CNGu4N7AwpACFQqiQQod81mXPQ
I’ve bought material from Radio Shack to buy stuff to make my robots, thermistors for chemical and electrical experiments and more for years. You could pay less at Overstock but I wanted to try them now. The other local chains may have them but they had them at my local radio Shack for about $50 (most have this price). It was rated from 3/5 to 5/5 so I thought I would try them.
First I tried them in the store. ( I recommend doing this). They were not earbuds but a thick pad fitted on to my ears (no around). While I was really look for an around the ear like my Koss, this sounded very good and felt very comfortable.
At home, I inserted the A battery into the little compartment on one side of the head gear part. I turned on my my Imac and loaded my iTunes. I was pleased with the fidelity and could hear more of the sounds. Some of the TV downstairs was blocked out to a greater extent. Maybe I felt more immersed. The base part was great and I felt more surrounded by my music.
I decided to write about my experience for you all. Let me know what you think about your headphones and whether you use head canceling phones (this model or others).
Dr. Eric Flescher, Olathe, KS(dreric1kansas@aol.com): DrEric1MacNews/Macsightings Blog : http://dreric1macnewsmacsightings.blogspot.com/ : editor MacsU.N.I.T.E. ( MacIntosh Users Network for Integrating Technology into Education):(Subscribe send email to :macsunitsubscribe@egroups.com)
Staff Writer at macCompanion Magazine (http://www.maccompanion.com/); moderator
macintoshvideo@yahoogroups.com- to subscribe
macintoshvideo-subscribe@yahoogroups.com; editor TechU.N.I.T.E. (Subscribe send email to PC version TechU.N.I.T.E.: to subscribe send email to techunite-subscribe@egroups.com
by Dr. Eric Flescher, Olathe, KS (dreric1kansas@aol.com)
Staff Writer at macCompanion Magazine (http://www.maccompanion.com/)
I like my Koss (non canceling ) headphones. But I was interested in some more fidelity and obtaining some audio canceling power to use on jets (to cut the noise). Also I wanted to musically ehance my music while playing my collection on my Imac and iTunes.
I have seen the commercials and the ads about the Bose Quiet Comfort 3 ones. I figured because they never say the price and do installments, well its pricey and out of my budget for headphones. I was right they are over $300. Hey I would like to use the money for an iPhone someday. But I was still looking for canceling power and quality at a budget price.
I have lost some of my hearing (high end) and wear hearing aids when teaching, social stuff etc. My hearing is not that far enough (well talk to my wife though). I wanted to hear more fidelity, use the phones when traveling on jets and possibly cutting down some of the noise, playing my music in more sound ambient environment.
I am pretty good at goggling and found some links. I found some instantly at CNET.
http://reviews.cnet.com/4370-7877_7-229-104.html
They had pricey ones from $100 to the Bose.
I found this page had
Logitech Noise Canceling Headphones.
http://reviews.cnet.com/headphones/logitech-noise-canceling-headphones/4505-7877_7-31797806.html?tag=txt
But how could the price vary so much ($39.97 - $183.95)? But this would not do as I read “The bad: The Logitech Noise Canceling Headphones can be uncomfortable after an hour or so of use; the noise-canceling feature noticeably processes music, though not necessarily in a bad way (depending on your taste). “
I wanted something comfortable around or on the ear. Next please!
Consumer search had some interesting stuff. There were pricey ones and this one caught my eye.
Best value, full-size headphones.
“The Grado SR60 score points in reviews where it counts – sound quality, including bass reproduction. The Grado SR60 headphones have a huge following among music lovers, who say they're great companions to an iPod. “
But they “leak” sound. I won’t use them as I don’t (gasp) have an iPod. I listen to other things and look at then went I work out at the gym at the JCC. But they leak noise so no. Next.
On the PC mag link, I found some interesting facts and information written by Tim Gideon, the Lead Audio and Video Analyst for PC Magazine.
http://www.pcmag.com/author_bio/0,1908,a=3895,00.asp
I liked the very personable style of his writing and information that I wanted to “hear”. Unlike my musically inclined children (my son is Junior Percussion major at Juliard in NYC and my daughter works for music record and sound industry in NYC too) I never have played an instrument (hey I can play Batman on the piano and cool jerk).
I do like listening to my music (I love Moody Blues finding new music and working with garageband and etc for my videos.
http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2704,2120964,00.asp
I wanted to know how canceling helps not just plugging the ears (earbuds) which has and does got concern. He noted
“ Noise cancellation ... is achieved actively, using circuitry that monitors surrounding ambient sound and produces an inverse wave, to cancel it out. “
Well he uses the Bose which is out of my price range. But what else did he list? I was getting closer when I read that he liked the more affordable (cheaper).
Recommended were the JVC HA-NC80-J/-C alternative and the
Sony MDR-NC22
http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,1895,2113467,00.asp
But these use earbuds and there are other inconveniences. These two models however are less impressive in the cancellation department (but still good) but have more bass than you'd expect for $100. Not bad but I don’t want earbuds. But I was closer possibly then I thought. I was interested if there was a Sony version that I saw at Radio Shack.
I was a little surprised there was this Sony model at Radio Shack.
http://www.winbuyer.com/cat-418/keyword-Sony%20mdr-nc6/init-1/D-10122007/C-Type1_1/pid-22714717/?c=8100418&gclid=CNGu4N7AwpACFQqiQQod81mXPQ
I’ve bought material from Radio Shack to buy stuff to make my robots, thermistors for chemical and electrical experiments and more for years. You could pay less at Overstock but I wanted to try them now. The other local chains may have them but they had them at my local radio Shack for about $50 (most have this price). It was rated from 3/5 to 5/5 so I thought I would try them.
First I tried them in the store. ( I recommend doing this). They were not earbuds but a thick pad fitted on to my ears (no around). While I was really look for an around the ear like my Koss, this sounded very good and felt very comfortable.
At home, I inserted the A battery into the little compartment on one side of the head gear part. I turned on my my Imac and loaded my iTunes. I was pleased with the fidelity and could hear more of the sounds. Some of the TV downstairs was blocked out to a greater extent. Maybe I felt more immersed. The base part was great and I felt more surrounded by my music.
I decided to write about my experience for you all. Let me know what you think about your headphones and whether you use head canceling phones (this model or others).
Dr. Eric Flescher, Olathe, KS(dreric1kansas@aol.com): DrEric1MacNews/Macsightings Blog : http://dreric1macnewsmacsightings.blogspot.com/ : editor MacsU.N.I.T.E. ( MacIntosh Users Network for Integrating Technology into Education):(Subscribe send email to :macsunitsubscribe@egroups.com)
Staff Writer at macCompanion Magazine (http://www.maccompanion.com/); moderator
macintoshvideo@yahoogroups.com- to subscribe
macintoshvideo-subscribe@yahoogroups.com; editor TechU.N.I.T.E. (Subscribe send email to PC version TechU.N.I.T.E.: to subscribe send email to techunite-subscribe@egroups.com
Sunday, December 23, 2007
I took took my aiport problem to the Apple Store
Thanks Jared for your assistance and figuring out what is ailing with my imac and airport.
I went down to the Apple Store on the Country Club Plaza, in Kansas City, MO to find out more about my Internet problem. I wanted to see if the problem was the airport or AT&T (they said previously the problem was airport). I had read some Airport books and fiddled more with the diagnostics on the system preferences It's not. Sometimes it worked sometimes not. Weak signal, no signal, strong sometimes, I could not figure out and rhyme or reason what was wrong. Yeah I could try to call someone but I decided to see if I can find out more at the local Apple Store.
I had made an appointment at the Genius Bar at 3:15 the night before over the Internet. I got there an hour early as I did not know how the roads would be after the snowfall. The roads were fine. I knew I was in luck when a parking space opening up across the street from the Apple Store.
I strolled in an hour earlier put my Imac on the bar and then I wandered around and waited while checking out the laptops but mostly the iPhone which I have not seen close up. I had some questions to answer if I might buy one in the future.
I was able to try out the iPhone and try to get into one of the weather websites that I use for my stormchasing. I flipped over the iPhone and the screen went sideways-cool. But the font was small. I was told by another Mac Genus and he demonstrated visually, that to enlarge the font and screen content you place two fingers together on a point on the screen and then widen your two fingers. The screen then enlarged-very cool. I fiddled with it for a while.
I asked about the price for online plans. Still pricey. I asked if you can have several people on the same plan (my wife and I currently share a plan with Sprint for our phones). He said yes. I would have to inquire with AT&T whether there are less costly plans and I might do that.
I looked at the macpros, ipods and other equipment. The place was absolutely mobbed. One guy was getting help at the Studio bar (used to be the Genius bar) for projects and work (could not figure out what he was working on with his pad). A young women was demonstrating the iPhone to someone else. Kids and adults were playing with the iPhones and iPods and desktop and laptops.
At 3:15 I was called and wondered over to the Genius Bar (now at the head of the room and not at the side) and I met Jared Cash, one of the genius guys. He was very personable and helpful indeed.
And he new his stuff.
He plugged in my Imac and had it running off my airport so the airport was not the problem.
Wewww!! So far so good.
He said it was probably the cable modem of AT&T and the 2WIRE system that the guy put in when he came when things did not work right a few weeks ago.
Jared said it was most likely that the 2Wire AT&T modem was either interfering with the base station next to my wife's Macpro laptop and her airport. My Imac is some 20 feet away up some short stairs so it was not clear why all of a sudden the signal was cutting out or non existent sometimes.
Jared graciously drew me a drawing of the system. Most likely I would have to call AT&T and tell them what's up (it is not the airport and too old like they said as the airport still has some life in it). But it seems that the best way to fiddle with the system is to click on my wife's current airport preferred network and not the 2WIRE network in my preferred network listing. Originally set up with her computer and Comcast when we first got high speed and my Mac troubleshooter Tom had installed for me from my wife's defunct mac laptop.
Jared also said that even a telephone line would mess things up. So I moved the phone further away instead of next to the computer.
So right now the high speed and airport are working synched to the local network name I configured.
I will cross my fingers and see what happens.
If things get wishy washy again I will try fiddling with the 2wire or shutting it off. But so far so good.
Thanks Jared. Appreciate your time and patience!! Happy holidays.
PS It seem to me that the best thing Apple ever did was create iTunes/ Ipod. I think that has fueled things around working the Apple computer and OSX. But the Genius bar idea is a stroke of GENIUS!!!
Happy holidays!
Dr. Eric Flescher, Olathe, KS(dreric1kansas@aol.com): DrEric1MacNews/Macsightings Blog : http://dreric1macnewsmacsightings.blogspot.com/ : editor MacsU.N.I.T.E. ( MacIntosh Users Network for Integrating Technology into Education):(Subscribe send email to :macsunitsubscribe@egroups.com)
Staff Writer at macCompanion Magazine (http://www.maccompanion.com/); moderator
macintoshvideo@yahoogroups.com- to subscribe
macintoshvideo-subscribe@yahoogroups.com; editor TechU.N.I.T.E. (Subscribe send email to PC version TechU.N.I.T.E.: to subscribe send email to techunite-subscribe@egroups.com
**
I went down to the Apple Store on the Country Club Plaza, in Kansas City, MO to find out more about my Internet problem. I wanted to see if the problem was the airport or AT&T (they said previously the problem was airport). I had read some Airport books and fiddled more with the diagnostics on the system preferences It's not. Sometimes it worked sometimes not. Weak signal, no signal, strong sometimes, I could not figure out and rhyme or reason what was wrong. Yeah I could try to call someone but I decided to see if I can find out more at the local Apple Store.
I had made an appointment at the Genius Bar at 3:15 the night before over the Internet. I got there an hour early as I did not know how the roads would be after the snowfall. The roads were fine. I knew I was in luck when a parking space opening up across the street from the Apple Store.
I strolled in an hour earlier put my Imac on the bar and then I wandered around and waited while checking out the laptops but mostly the iPhone which I have not seen close up. I had some questions to answer if I might buy one in the future.
I was able to try out the iPhone and try to get into one of the weather websites that I use for my stormchasing. I flipped over the iPhone and the screen went sideways-cool. But the font was small. I was told by another Mac Genus and he demonstrated visually, that to enlarge the font and screen content you place two fingers together on a point on the screen and then widen your two fingers. The screen then enlarged-very cool. I fiddled with it for a while.
I asked about the price for online plans. Still pricey. I asked if you can have several people on the same plan (my wife and I currently share a plan with Sprint for our phones). He said yes. I would have to inquire with AT&T whether there are less costly plans and I might do that.
I looked at the macpros, ipods and other equipment. The place was absolutely mobbed. One guy was getting help at the Studio bar (used to be the Genius bar) for projects and work (could not figure out what he was working on with his pad). A young women was demonstrating the iPhone to someone else. Kids and adults were playing with the iPhones and iPods and desktop and laptops.
At 3:15 I was called and wondered over to the Genius Bar (now at the head of the room and not at the side) and I met Jared Cash, one of the genius guys. He was very personable and helpful indeed.
And he new his stuff.
He plugged in my Imac and had it running off my airport so the airport was not the problem.
Wewww!! So far so good.
He said it was probably the cable modem of AT&T and the 2WIRE system that the guy put in when he came when things did not work right a few weeks ago.
Jared said it was most likely that the 2Wire AT&T modem was either interfering with the base station next to my wife's Macpro laptop and her airport. My Imac is some 20 feet away up some short stairs so it was not clear why all of a sudden the signal was cutting out or non existent sometimes.
Jared graciously drew me a drawing of the system. Most likely I would have to call AT&T and tell them what's up (it is not the airport and too old like they said as the airport still has some life in it). But it seems that the best way to fiddle with the system is to click on my wife's current airport preferred network and not the 2WIRE network in my preferred network listing. Originally set up with her computer and Comcast when we first got high speed and my Mac troubleshooter Tom had installed for me from my wife's defunct mac laptop.
Jared also said that even a telephone line would mess things up. So I moved the phone further away instead of next to the computer.
So right now the high speed and airport are working synched to the local network name I configured.
I will cross my fingers and see what happens.
If things get wishy washy again I will try fiddling with the 2wire or shutting it off. But so far so good.
Thanks Jared. Appreciate your time and patience!! Happy holidays.
PS It seem to me that the best thing Apple ever did was create iTunes/ Ipod. I think that has fueled things around working the Apple computer and OSX. But the Genius bar idea is a stroke of GENIUS!!!
Happy holidays!
Dr. Eric Flescher, Olathe, KS(dreric1kansas@aol.com): DrEric1MacNews/Macsightings Blog : http://dreric1macnewsmacsightings.blogspot.com/ : editor MacsU.N.I.T.E. ( MacIntosh Users Network for Integrating Technology into Education):(Subscribe send email to :macsunitsubscribe@egroups.com)
Staff Writer at macCompanion Magazine (http://www.maccompanion.com/); moderator
macintoshvideo@yahoogroups.com- to subscribe
macintoshvideo-subscribe@yahoogroups.com; editor TechU.N.I.T.E. (Subscribe send email to PC version TechU.N.I.T.E.: to subscribe send email to techunite-subscribe@egroups.com
**
On Dec 22, 2007 9:36 PM, <Dreric1kansas@aol.com> wrote:
Steve
Thanks very much for answering.
Have you found any rhyme or reason why it fades out or just completly goes out while my wife's with her maclaptop is going fine?
NO, I HAVE NO CLUE ... I HAD HEARD THAT SOME AT&T FIELD TECHNICIANS DON'T LIKE 2WIRE BECAUSE THEY NEED TO KEEP REPLACING THEM, BUT IF THAT IS THE ONLY PROBLEM BOTH MACS SHOULD BE AFFECTED
The signal was out all day and I tried. Finally came in synch 15 minutes ago. The signal keeps ebbs and strengthening. I've looked in an airport book for more answers but not much has come. I keep tweaking the airport connection port info. I have an Imac flatpanel.
WELL I'M GLAD YOU ARE AT LEAST FUNCTIONAL ... DID YOU TRY PLUGGING YOUR MAC INTO THE 2WIRE WITH AN ETHERNET CABLE? I USUALLY DO THIS & JUST SHUT OFF THE AIRPORT CARD. IT SAVED A LOT OF FRUSTRATION, BUT DID NOT SETTLE THE PROBLEM. HOWEVER, SINCE I USUALLY USE MY MACBOOK PRO IN THE LIVING ROOM, I HAVE A CABLE RUNNING FROM A NETGEAR SWITCH (ALSO USED BY APPLE TV) ACROSS THE FLOOR TO MY LAZY BOY ... IT IS A GOOD THING MY WIFE LOVES ME A LOT.
what do you mean "Back-to-My-Mac?"
YOU'RE NOT FAMILIAR WITH THE NEW .MAC SERVICE IN LEOPARD? ...
http://www.apple.com/dotmac/backtomymac.html
What kind of DSL modem ? How will you work that out? Let me know if it works?
A FRIEND WHO IS AN APPLE CERTIFIED TECHNICIAN RECOMMENDED A SPEEDSTREAM 5100 FROM TERAYON COMMUNICATION SYSTEM. HE GAVE IT TO ME, SO I DO NOT KNOW WHERE TO PURCHASE. I WILL NEED TO CALL AT&T TO GET THEIR DIRECTION. I'VE BEEN SO BUSY, I'M NOT SURE WHEN I'LL TRY IT.
That is totally weird. As I was typed the signal gave out. I went back and did the diagnostics on the airport and went on and the signal keeps going in and out.
I just had to go back in and do the diagnostic and turn the airport on and off 2 times and then it clicked into the 2wire again.
Could that mean I have a bad airport card? That is what the AT&T person said?
PERHAPS IT IS THE AIRPORT, BUT HAVE YOU TRIED GOING TO A WI-FI HOT SPOT OR A FRIENDS HOUSE WITH WIRELESS CONNECTION. IF THE PROBLEM ONLY HAPPENS AT HOME AND IT IS NOT THE 2WIRE, PERHAPS YOU ARE GETTING INTERFERENCE FROM SOME OTHER WIRELESS DIVICE IN YOUR. TRY SHUTTING OFF ANY CORDLESS PHONE. PERHAPS YOU ARE GETTING SOME SORT OF ELECTRICAL DEVICE INTERFERENCE. IF YOU HAVE A LOCAL APPLE RETAIL STORE, PERHAPS THEY CAN CHECK THE AIRPORT CARD.
I don't think that is the problem but...
MIGHT BE WORTH THE TIME TO CONFIRM THAT IT IS OK.
Take care. Have a Merry Christmas.
Steve
Thursday, December 20, 2007
Beyond Google Earth
Maps, web stuff, add captions , search your mac, 3D modeler, add New toolbar. Check out the 5 other mac downloads in addition to Google Earth. PC versions too.
http://www.google.com/mac.html
http://www.google.com/mac.html
Agreement shuts down Apple info site
I heard about this judgement that Apple sued to discourage Apple tech secrets.
The ThinkSecret Blog is being shut down by court order.
The ThinkSecret Blog is being shut down by court order.
iHacking of the iPhone
iHacking of the iPhone-A freshman to be (now) at Rochester Institute of Technology developed a solution for using the iPhone away from the AT & T.
While this story is old, this article tells more and makes for interesting developments.
http://www.newsweek.com/id/42672
While this story is old, this article tells more and makes for interesting developments.
http://www.newsweek.com/id/42672
Thursday, December 13, 2007
Macworldreviews Mac Gems Catalog
I review mac products and books which I post on MacCompanion, my newsletters and this blog.
Here is a nice listing of other reviews. I will review them and post as I have time.
Read the ratings and try them out.
http://www.macworld.com/products/macgems/?lsrc=mwgems
http://www.macworld.com/weblogs/macgems/complete-archive/?lsrc=mwgems
Here is a nice listing of other reviews. I will review them and post as I have time.
Read the ratings and try them out.
http://www.macworld.com/products/macgems/?lsrc=mwgems
http://www.macworld.com/weblogs/macgems/complete-archive/?lsrc=mwgems
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
iMovie '08 & iDVD: what's Up Doc!!!
iMovie '08 & iDVD
Well it is now in stores and on new Macs. It is a big change. I am reviewing David Pogue's book iMovie '08 & iDVD : The Missing Manual and I will have more later to say as I work through iLife 08.
But until then have a look what Mr. Pogue says about iMovie '08.
http://pogue.blogs.nytimes.com/2007/08/17/apple-takes-a-step-back-with-imovie-08/
there are comments from over 200 other people (and counting) under this editorial type reading but before I looked through them I typed in my own to echo similar or different sentiments.
I haved used versions of iMovie to make videos concerning my travels. These have included my hosting trips to Caribbean, Europe, S. Africa to see total solar eclipses, videotaping 10 different types of hummingbirds south of Tucson, visiting Seattle and Vancouver and its aquariums and parks, stormchasing in KS, OK, NE, capturing the great brilliant Comet McNaught 1/10/2007 on video and much more. They came out pretty well. But that changed with trying to master complete DVDs recently.
I have had much trouble with iMovie 6 and iDVD 6. It was (1) difficult to connect with the videos I wanted to place on the DVDs; (2) quit the DVD process eventhough there was plenty of room on the DVD; (3) hard to decipher whether connected to mv files were the problem or what; (4) left parts of the video on the DVD but not others ; (5) even doing the one step feature did not work. Why have the books I have read so glowing and that there is trouble here?
That's why when iMovie and iDVD 08 came out a week or so ago, I thought that would solve my problems (when I would get the versions or find out possible remedies in his new book). But for many as Mr. Pogue says in this blog and his book that I am reviewing , it is a step backwards in many ways. And I am cringing even before I get past the introduction.
I might be wrong but I have a feeling that the problems that I have had with these two programs and DVD mastering is a problem for others as well. And I still have iMovie HD and iDVD 5 : The Missing Manual book here next to me . No matter how well I tried to make sense of it and another great book by iLife 06 by Heid, trying several times with the programs and the videos I have, I could not find the answers to my problems.
I mean sometimes, Apple , I think, makes things so elegant it actually makes things ----confusing. And I think despite all that is said about Apple and its machines and software (and I am a huge fan!), some PC users don't understand or want to understand it. And I have noticed some of this before but more so with the problems I have had with the previous versions of these two applications.
I like tinkering with the movies and not just splattering it in the computer and snapping on to a DVD, quick dirty but NOT NICE. I mean why show your DVDs unless they look good. But in my case lately, its not "why" it's "can't".
And maybe Steve Jobs heard that mac users were dissatified with DVD creations, so as an easy way out (and with the help of a tech designer , had a applicatin solution). Now we have these 08 versions which many can't understand (why this was done). And when I see Mr. Pogue echo these sentiments I wonder what is really going on?
Now I am stuck to either figuring out the previous version (which I have not been able to do for 2 or so years ) or making a go of this shread (or is it shrek) of iMovie or move to Final cut express or what?
I guess I will read more, look at the Missing Manual and more of Mr. Pogue's and the comments from other people in the book and take a look at iMovie ).
Step back, step forward who knows. I am still in the middle frozen until I figure out what do with videos and dvds next.
Dr. Eric Flescher, Olathe, KS(dreric1kansas@aol.com): DrEric1MacNews/Macsightings Blog : http://dreric1macnewsmacsightings.blogspot.com/ : editor MacsU.N.I.T.E. ( MacIntosh Users Network for Integrating Technology into Education):(Subscribe send email to :macsunitsubscribe@egroups.com)
Staff Writer at macCompanion Magazine (http://www.maccompanion.com/); moderator
macintoshvideo@yahoogroups.com- to subscribe
macintoshvideo-subscribe@yahoogroups.com; editor TechU.N.I.T.E. (Subscribe send email to PC version TechU.N.I.T.E.: to subscribe send email to techunite-subscribe@egroups.com
Well it is now in stores and on new Macs. It is a big change. I am reviewing David Pogue's book iMovie '08 & iDVD : The Missing Manual and I will have more later to say as I work through iLife 08.
But until then have a look what Mr. Pogue says about iMovie '08.
http://pogue.blogs.nytimes.com/2007/08/17/apple-takes-a-step-back-with-imovie-08/
there are comments from over 200 other people (and counting) under this editorial type reading but before I looked through them I typed in my own to echo similar or different sentiments.
I haved used versions of iMovie to make videos concerning my travels. These have included my hosting trips to Caribbean, Europe, S. Africa to see total solar eclipses, videotaping 10 different types of hummingbirds south of Tucson, visiting Seattle and Vancouver and its aquariums and parks, stormchasing in KS, OK, NE, capturing the great brilliant Comet McNaught 1/10/2007 on video and much more. They came out pretty well. But that changed with trying to master complete DVDs recently.
I have had much trouble with iMovie 6 and iDVD 6. It was (1) difficult to connect with the videos I wanted to place on the DVDs; (2) quit the DVD process eventhough there was plenty of room on the DVD; (3) hard to decipher whether connected to mv files were the problem or what; (4) left parts of the video on the DVD but not others ; (5) even doing the one step feature did not work. Why have the books I have read so glowing and that there is trouble here?
That's why when iMovie and iDVD 08 came out a week or so ago, I thought that would solve my problems (when I would get the versions or find out possible remedies in his new book). But for many as Mr. Pogue says in this blog and his book that I am reviewing , it is a step backwards in many ways. And I am cringing even before I get past the introduction.
I might be wrong but I have a feeling that the problems that I have had with these two programs and DVD mastering is a problem for others as well. And I still have iMovie HD and iDVD 5 : The Missing Manual book here next to me . No matter how well I tried to make sense of it and another great book by iLife 06 by Heid, trying several times with the programs and the videos I have, I could not find the answers to my problems.
I mean sometimes, Apple , I think, makes things so elegant it actually makes things ----confusing. And I think despite all that is said about Apple and its machines and software (and I am a huge fan!), some PC users don't understand or want to understand it. And I have noticed some of this before but more so with the problems I have had with the previous versions of these two applications.
I like tinkering with the movies and not just splattering it in the computer and snapping on to a DVD, quick dirty but NOT NICE. I mean why show your DVDs unless they look good. But in my case lately, its not "why" it's "can't".
And maybe Steve Jobs heard that mac users were dissatified with DVD creations, so as an easy way out (and with the help of a tech designer , had a applicatin solution). Now we have these 08 versions which many can't understand (why this was done). And when I see Mr. Pogue echo these sentiments I wonder what is really going on?
Now I am stuck to either figuring out the previous version (which I have not been able to do for 2 or so years ) or making a go of this shread (or is it shrek) of iMovie or move to Final cut express or what?
I guess I will read more, look at the Missing Manual and more of Mr. Pogue's and the comments from other people in the book and take a look at iMovie ).
Step back, step forward who knows. I am still in the middle frozen until I figure out what do with videos and dvds next.
Dr. Eric Flescher, Olathe, KS(dreric1kansas@aol.com): DrEric1MacNews/Macsightings Blog : http://dreric1macnewsmacsightings.blogspot.com/ : editor MacsU.N.I.T.E. ( MacIntosh Users Network for Integrating Technology into Education):(Subscribe send email to :macsunitsubscribe@egroups.com)
Staff Writer at macCompanion Magazine (http://www.maccompanion.com/); moderator
macintoshvideo@yahoogroups.com- to subscribe
macintoshvideo-subscribe@yahoogroups.com; editor TechU.N.I.T.E. (Subscribe send email to PC version TechU.N.I.T.E.: to subscribe send email to techunite-subscribe@egroups.com
here come the hd videorecorder
Well more High definition camcorders are coming out.
Who will switch now? Who will switch later? I just bought a used 3ccd chip 320 Panasonic (great reviews). So I am waiting.
Which of this HD will lead the pack? Read on and start deciding.
new hd videorecorder
Uses DVD and HD definition
http://www.usa.canon.com/app/html/HDExpert/index.html?&WT.mc_id=C123886
Who will switch now? Who will switch later? I just bought a used 3ccd chip 320 Panasonic (great reviews). So I am waiting.
Which of this HD will lead the pack? Read on and start deciding.
new hd videorecorder
Uses DVD and HD definition
http://www.usa.canon.com/app/html/HDExpert/index.html?&WT.mc_id=C123886
Saturday, December 8, 2007
Take off iPhone ads on TV- called jPhone
Happy Hannuak. Well it is Hannukah and I made sweet potato pancakes and they were great.
We have a lot of Mac here. Sue has a new laptop. I have my older Imac flatpanel, Shira has an Imac and Brian (mazol tov now has latop he has finally seen the light) and the kids also have iPods.
I was browsing through this jewish website. Near to the bottom of this page in the website, there is a little short film icon called jPhone. Click on it and you will see a funny well done take off movie on the iPhone ads on TV.
Cute!!
http://www.aish.com/jewlarious/
We have a lot of Mac here. Sue has a new laptop. I have my older Imac flatpanel, Shira has an Imac and Brian (mazol tov now has latop he has finally seen the light) and the kids also have iPods.
I was browsing through this jewish website. Near to the bottom of this page in the website, there is a little short film icon called jPhone. Click on it and you will see a funny well done take off movie on the iPhone ads on TV.
Cute!!
http://www.aish.com/jewlarious/
Sunday, November 25, 2007
These are a good tips , ideas and thoughts about video
These are a good tips , ideas and thoughts about video
Macworld Video: 10 tips to be thankful for
By Rob Griffiths Macworld Video: 10 tips to be thankful for
By Rob Griffiths
http://www.macworld.com/weblogs/mwvodcast/
Macworld Video: 10 tips to be thankful for
By Rob Griffiths Macworld Video: 10 tips to be thankful for
By Rob Griffiths
http://www.macworld.com/weblogs/mwvodcast/
iPatch unveiled at RBTE
iPatch unveiled at RBTE
The latest innovative tech product new iPatch was unveiled at the 11/24/2007 in Lawrence , KS.
Why look at your videos on an iPod or iPhone screen when you can see it right next to your eye. Nothing was said how much it costs and wether Bill Gates will try to copy the design.
(Right Between The Ears comedy show is in Lawrence KS and we regularly go to see it).
The latest innovative tech product new iPatch was unveiled at the 11/24/2007 in Lawrence , KS.
Why look at your videos on an iPod or iPhone screen when you can see it right next to your eye. Nothing was said how much it costs and wether Bill Gates will try to copy the design.
(Right Between The Ears comedy show is in Lawrence KS and we regularly go to see it).
Top 10 terrible tech products
Top 10 terrible tech products
http://crave.cnet.com/8301-1_1
05-9821071-1.html?tag=nl.e729
includes the Tamagotchi (1996) - Yeah I remember that one
I was hoping to NOT find an Apple product but alas there was "Apple Puck Mouse."
I also hated the "Apple Puck Mouse" that I used in some schools. However the puck was the first mouse to use USB standard as method of connectivity.
http://crave.cnet.co.uk/gadgets/0,39029552,49293700-6,00.htm
But #10 and sneaking in there was drum roll please...... VISTA.
Hurray -Microsoft was not immune and had a scathing rebuke of Windows Vista
http://crave.cnet.co.uk/gadgets/0,39029552,49293700-10,00.htm
"Any operating system that provokes a campaign for its predecessor's reintroduction deserves to be classed as terrible technology." It was noted for being an operating system that has a downgrade-to- previous-edition option introduced for PC makers deserves to be classed as terrible technology. Took six years of development was instantly hated by hordes of PC professionals and enthusiasts deserves to be classed as terrible technology.
Windows Vista conforms to all of the above. Its incompatibility with hardware, its obsessive requirement of human interaction to clear security dialogue box warnings and its abusive use of hated DRM, not to mention its general pointlessness as an upgrade, are just some examples of why this expensive operating system earns the final place (#10)in our terrible tech list. "
But will it make any difference? Most will still supportt Microsoft and buy it
http://crave.cnet.com/8301-1_1
05-9821071-1.html?tag=nl.e729includes the Tamagotchi (1996) - Yeah I remember that one
I was hoping to NOT find an Apple product but alas there was "Apple Puck Mouse."
I also hated the "Apple Puck Mouse" that I used in some schools. However the puck was the first mouse to use USB standard as method of connectivity.
http://crave.cnet.co.uk/gadgets/0,39029552,49293700-6,00.htm
But #10 and sneaking in there was drum roll please...... VISTA.
Hurray -Microsoft was not immune and had a scathing rebuke of Windows Vista
http://crave.cnet.co.uk/gadgets/0,39029552,49293700-10,00.htm
"Any operating system that provokes a campaign for its predecessor's reintroduction deserves to be classed as terrible technology." It was noted for being an operating system that has a downgrade-to- previous-edition option introduced for PC makers deserves to be classed as terrible technology. Took six years of development was instantly hated by hordes of PC professionals and enthusiasts deserves to be classed as terrible technology.
Windows Vista conforms to all of the above. Its incompatibility with hardware, its obsessive requirement of human interaction to clear security dialogue box warnings and its abusive use of hated DRM, not to mention its general pointlessness as an upgrade, are just some examples of why this expensive operating system earns the final place (#10)in our terrible tech list. "
But will it make any difference? Most will still supportt Microsoft and buy it
MacBook for Dummies review
MacBook for Dummies
reviewed by Dr. Eric Flescher, Olathe, KS: (dreric1kansas@aol.com)
Author: Mark L. Chamber
website:
Publisher: Wiley
Released: 2006
Pages: 366
$ USA 22
Canada 26
UK 15
ISBN: 0-470-04859-X
Strengths: The book includes a very introduction. Good screenshots and illustrations including the pointers to specific areas within the illustrations. Five icons help pinpoint helpful information along the way. Chapter 23 “ Top Ten Things to Avoid like the Plague “ is quite good as well as Chapter 22 “ Top Ten Laptop Rules to Follow (which is insightful and well written). Good price, well written and readable.
Weaknesses: Chapters like the ones with iDVD and Imovie have minimal amounts of information. Really these and some of the sections just have the basics. To know and learn more, books that detail more information regarding specific applications should be found besides these basics. the iLife applications, you might want to turn elsewhere. Users who read about “movies,” “projects.” “video clips,” may find the information in this book not well defined, especially concerning when and how the media can be imported, exported and utilized
Novice/Intermediate
Rating: 4.5/5
There are several books on the market dealing with MacBook. Several include not only information about MacBook but MacBook Pro. This is one includes both. I wanted to see what the author had to offer in this MacDummies series related to these laptops. I found the author of this book has previously published the Mac OSX All-In-One desk Reference for Dummies and completed thirty computer books. My wife related bought a MacBook so I decided to research this book to see what it could tell me.
The book covers 366 pages and spans 23 chapters with seven part/ sections. The first part of the book includes a very nice introduction that gives the reader a nice prelude to learning about the laptops but more . As the author says, “ he started with no assumption “ regarding knowledge of the laptop. The book starts “from the ground up” and launches into some interesting ideas that relate to more then the “hardware.” It is nice that in this beginning section, the author pinpoints information about “switchers,” those computer users who are moving into the Macintosh realm from the PC/windows usage (particularly targeting Windows XP users). He also nicely mentions that if you are new to Macintosh and the Apple world, most of the software is in the computer and does not have to be purchased. This is a great tip that probably many PC people still don’t know about even though many Apple users already are mindful about.
While many of the Dummies books vary in their versatility , breadth and depth of the instructional content, this one is solid. While the illustrations are only black and white, the screen shots are readable. Several include pointers to various sections within the illustrations that zone in on the information talked about. This takes away the annoying quess work that I have found in some books that I have read in which “hunting” within the illustrations was a regular and recurring point. There are also five icons that are placed throughout the pages. These (Tip; mark’s Maxim; Technical stuff; Warning!; Remember) serve to include precise additional information that assists along the way regarding the instructions.
The Part 1 includes information pertaining to Mac laptops, turning on and starting with the system and computer. Part focus in on the OSX and operating system while Part 3 launches into the world of connecting and communicating. Part 4 focuses on the iLife applications ( introductory instruction and while the text takes you through each application starting up and using, if you want more in-depth information other books will be needed). Part 5 is sharing access and information while Part 6 deals with important troubleshooting, upgrading information and maintaining your laptop.
Part 7 is called the Parts of Tens. This includes Chapter 22 “ Top Ten Laptop Rules to Follow (insightful and well written) and Chapter 23 “ Top Ten Things to Avoid like the Plague “ (useful for many reasons in your encounter with the internet, applications, hardware and more).
All in all I liked the book and what it had “to say.” Novice and intermediate laptop users might like it not only for its good price but also the information it provides. Readable and you gain insights throughout the book. But especially if you already have a Macbook or Pro and have worked with it and want more information (concerning the iLife applications), you might want to turn elsewhere. Users who read about “movies,” “projects.” “video clips,” may find the information not well defined, especially concerning when and how the media can be imported, exported and utilized.
reviewed by Dr. Eric Flescher, Olathe, KS: (dreric1kansas@aol.com)
Author: Mark L. Chamber
website:
Publisher: Wiley
Released: 2006
Pages: 366
$ USA 22
Canada 26
UK 15
ISBN: 0-470-04859-X
Strengths: The book includes a very introduction. Good screenshots and illustrations including the pointers to specific areas within the illustrations. Five icons help pinpoint helpful information along the way. Chapter 23 “ Top Ten Things to Avoid like the Plague “ is quite good as well as Chapter 22 “ Top Ten Laptop Rules to Follow (which is insightful and well written). Good price, well written and readable.
Weaknesses: Chapters like the ones with iDVD and Imovie have minimal amounts of information. Really these and some of the sections just have the basics. To know and learn more, books that detail more information regarding specific applications should be found besides these basics. the iLife applications, you might want to turn elsewhere. Users who read about “movies,” “projects.” “video clips,” may find the information in this book not well defined, especially concerning when and how the media can be imported, exported and utilized
Novice/Intermediate
Rating: 4.5/5
There are several books on the market dealing with MacBook. Several include not only information about MacBook but MacBook Pro. This is one includes both. I wanted to see what the author had to offer in this MacDummies series related to these laptops. I found the author of this book has previously published the Mac OSX All-In-One desk Reference for Dummies and completed thirty computer books. My wife related bought a MacBook so I decided to research this book to see what it could tell me.
The book covers 366 pages and spans 23 chapters with seven part/ sections. The first part of the book includes a very nice introduction that gives the reader a nice prelude to learning about the laptops but more . As the author says, “ he started with no assumption “ regarding knowledge of the laptop. The book starts “from the ground up” and launches into some interesting ideas that relate to more then the “hardware.” It is nice that in this beginning section, the author pinpoints information about “switchers,” those computer users who are moving into the Macintosh realm from the PC/windows usage (particularly targeting Windows XP users). He also nicely mentions that if you are new to Macintosh and the Apple world, most of the software is in the computer and does not have to be purchased. This is a great tip that probably many PC people still don’t know about even though many Apple users already are mindful about.
While many of the Dummies books vary in their versatility , breadth and depth of the instructional content, this one is solid. While the illustrations are only black and white, the screen shots are readable. Several include pointers to various sections within the illustrations that zone in on the information talked about. This takes away the annoying quess work that I have found in some books that I have read in which “hunting” within the illustrations was a regular and recurring point. There are also five icons that are placed throughout the pages. These (Tip; mark’s Maxim; Technical stuff; Warning!; Remember) serve to include precise additional information that assists along the way regarding the instructions.
The Part 1 includes information pertaining to Mac laptops, turning on and starting with the system and computer. Part focus in on the OSX and operating system while Part 3 launches into the world of connecting and communicating. Part 4 focuses on the iLife applications ( introductory instruction and while the text takes you through each application starting up and using, if you want more in-depth information other books will be needed). Part 5 is sharing access and information while Part 6 deals with important troubleshooting, upgrading information and maintaining your laptop.
Part 7 is called the Parts of Tens. This includes Chapter 22 “ Top Ten Laptop Rules to Follow (insightful and well written) and Chapter 23 “ Top Ten Things to Avoid like the Plague “ (useful for many reasons in your encounter with the internet, applications, hardware and more).
All in all I liked the book and what it had “to say.” Novice and intermediate laptop users might like it not only for its good price but also the information it provides. Readable and you gain insights throughout the book. But especially if you already have a Macbook or Pro and have worked with it and want more information (concerning the iLife applications), you might want to turn elsewhere. Users who read about “movies,” “projects.” “video clips,” may find the information not well defined, especially concerning when and how the media can be imported, exported and utilized.
Saturday, November 24, 2007
Macro Photography book review
Macro Photography Photo Workshop
Reviewed by Dr. Eric Flescher
***
Strengths: Magnificent layout makes the book easy to read. Superb general examples of photography, close-ups, large screen shots and (Photoshop) screen well done. The author has included many insightful ways of looking and dealing with Macro Photography as well as photography in general. Breadth and depth covered in excellent fashion. This book is Intuitively written and easy to understand.
Weaknesses: This is not a tutorials guide, per se. You have to “digest” the readings slowly step by step like a textbook. The tutorials are learned through these worthwhile readings. If you want a quick guide, this is not for you (but you will miss a great book!).
Introduction
Most of my photography has been with nature, sky and other worldly objects, using telephoto, regular or other lenses. Lately however I have seen objects such as spiders, plants and other objects that show objects close up. Having dabbled in taking close-up pictures of spiders, flowers, moths and more, I thought it lucky that a book called Macro Photography appeared at the right time when I was searching for further information about creating better close-up photographs. And this is why I was happy about finding it.
The author, a freelance writer, has a popular photography blog and is known for his creativity and work with hardware. He also has a good way of using words and I found that his ideas and ways he communicated them within the tutorials and more, a great read. In many ways, I found the “wording” and “ his ideas different then I had ever thought about. I found myself being drawn into the book by this and several other ways.
The author, using expressive words, says that macro photography “has changed over time and that macro photography has changed it even to further”. The 10th chapter spans a wide range of his important insights, reflections and ideas. What is remarkable about this book is the extremely intuitive nature and the clear ideas that are laid out about macro photography.
Instead of regular text laden tutorials, the author integrates detailed examples (photos) with profound statement that are instantly understood. These insights gave me a “new look” on several ideas and included new insights that I could use about photography in general but also macro photography. Instead of stating the obvious or including information that one should just do a task, the author eases the user into understanding and the “why’s and how’s”. This is a refreshing change. His statements are communicated brilliantly and concisely. He also addresses how and what ways macro photography “has changed over time and how digital photography has changed it even more” (page 5). He then continues to introduce you to “the regular topics” used in macro photography and going beyond.
Photos in the book (collected from other photographers) are magnificent and illustrate his “points of view and idea,” too an even greater extent. He also says that while macro photography can be used in many ways, many of the rules that apply to other branches of photography are “meaningless when you start to getting close enough for the results you want” (page 7). I found statements like this and others helped me pay attention even further to the remarkable detail the author has crafted into this book.
Orange box-markers (ref for reference) within the chapters, detail additional ideas regarding instruction, hardware or software. Additional ideas called “notes”, assist with knowing about equipment, learning new ideas, and even include websites for finding additional information. Boxes with “tip” inside yield information about equipment. “Idea” boxes include other websites and resources to search for find additional information.
Chapter 1 eases you into the world of macro photography. This includes basic challenges, working with macros and information about camera bodies for the topic of this book. Chapter 2 focuses more in-depth about equipment, while Chapter 3 includes lighting under many situations (well done chapter and important). Chapter 4 lays the ground work for “ macro opportunities everywhere.” This is followed by subsequent chapters which include techniques and ideas for photographing flowers, textures, insects. Then skills can be practiced with abstracts pictures and art and people. Finally Chapter 10 includes digital darkrooms skills and understanding more “how’s and what’s” which includes Raw information.
In the Appendix A, there are internet resources while Appendix B includes the 10 names of contributing photographers who has some of the books photos utilized in this text. A nice glossary allows for the searching of vocabulary, while the index helps find additional information at your finger tips.
Conclusions
I really found this book insightful, resourceful and a refreshing way to learn about photography. I instantly found more information concerning utilizing my camera for “macro – fun. ” The photos elevated my ideas even further because I literally could look at the photos and tutorial/ readings and instantly get “a-hah (insight)” in my mind how and when to try to use my camera for other close-ups now and in the future.
Recommendation
I think you will be delighted you found this book for several reasons. The price is right and is a great buy. Everywhere you turn in this book, you will learn something new. It looks good and will no doubt inspire you to look at the “the world “ and using your camera in different way.
Anyone who wants to use their digital camera for close-ups / macro activities should take a look at this book. Not only does it expand your thoughts about exploring with your camera but also the best ways to experiment and how. You will also discover some twenty-plus ways to be challenged, how to troubleshoot and use your digital-editing skills to create effects desired. Find and read this book to get as many “ahahs” as I did.
Reviewed by Dr. Eric Flescher
***
Strengths: Magnificent layout makes the book easy to read. Superb general examples of photography, close-ups, large screen shots and (Photoshop) screen well done. The author has included many insightful ways of looking and dealing with Macro Photography as well as photography in general. Breadth and depth covered in excellent fashion. This book is Intuitively written and easy to understand.
Weaknesses: This is not a tutorials guide, per se. You have to “digest” the readings slowly step by step like a textbook. The tutorials are learned through these worthwhile readings. If you want a quick guide, this is not for you (but you will miss a great book!).
Introduction
Most of my photography has been with nature, sky and other worldly objects, using telephoto, regular or other lenses. Lately however I have seen objects such as spiders, plants and other objects that show objects close up. Having dabbled in taking close-up pictures of spiders, flowers, moths and more, I thought it lucky that a book called Macro Photography appeared at the right time when I was searching for further information about creating better close-up photographs. And this is why I was happy about finding it.
The author, a freelance writer, has a popular photography blog and is known for his creativity and work with hardware. He also has a good way of using words and I found that his ideas and ways he communicated them within the tutorials and more, a great read. In many ways, I found the “wording” and “ his ideas different then I had ever thought about. I found myself being drawn into the book by this and several other ways.
The author, using expressive words, says that macro photography “has changed over time and that macro photography has changed it even to further”. The 10th chapter spans a wide range of his important insights, reflections and ideas. What is remarkable about this book is the extremely intuitive nature and the clear ideas that are laid out about macro photography.
Instead of regular text laden tutorials, the author integrates detailed examples (photos) with profound statement that are instantly understood. These insights gave me a “new look” on several ideas and included new insights that I could use about photography in general but also macro photography. Instead of stating the obvious or including information that one should just do a task, the author eases the user into understanding and the “why’s and how’s”. This is a refreshing change. His statements are communicated brilliantly and concisely. He also addresses how and what ways macro photography “has changed over time and how digital photography has changed it even more” (page 5). He then continues to introduce you to “the regular topics” used in macro photography and going beyond.
Photos in the book (collected from other photographers) are magnificent and illustrate his “points of view and idea,” too an even greater extent. He also says that while macro photography can be used in many ways, many of the rules that apply to other branches of photography are “meaningless when you start to getting close enough for the results you want” (page 7). I found statements like this and others helped me pay attention even further to the remarkable detail the author has crafted into this book.
Orange box-markers (ref for reference) within the chapters, detail additional ideas regarding instruction, hardware or software. Additional ideas called “notes”, assist with knowing about equipment, learning new ideas, and even include websites for finding additional information. Boxes with “tip” inside yield information about equipment. “Idea” boxes include other websites and resources to search for find additional information.
Chapter 1 eases you into the world of macro photography. This includes basic challenges, working with macros and information about camera bodies for the topic of this book. Chapter 2 focuses more in-depth about equipment, while Chapter 3 includes lighting under many situations (well done chapter and important). Chapter 4 lays the ground work for “ macro opportunities everywhere.” This is followed by subsequent chapters which include techniques and ideas for photographing flowers, textures, insects. Then skills can be practiced with abstracts pictures and art and people. Finally Chapter 10 includes digital darkrooms skills and understanding more “how’s and what’s” which includes Raw information.
In the Appendix A, there are internet resources while Appendix B includes the 10 names of contributing photographers who has some of the books photos utilized in this text. A nice glossary allows for the searching of vocabulary, while the index helps find additional information at your finger tips.
Conclusions
I really found this book insightful, resourceful and a refreshing way to learn about photography. I instantly found more information concerning utilizing my camera for “macro – fun. ” The photos elevated my ideas even further because I literally could look at the photos and tutorial/ readings and instantly get “a-hah (insight)” in my mind how and when to try to use my camera for other close-ups now and in the future.
Recommendation
I think you will be delighted you found this book for several reasons. The price is right and is a great buy. Everywhere you turn in this book, you will learn something new. It looks good and will no doubt inspire you to look at the “the world “ and using your camera in different way.
Anyone who wants to use their digital camera for close-ups / macro activities should take a look at this book. Not only does it expand your thoughts about exploring with your camera but also the best ways to experiment and how. You will also discover some twenty-plus ways to be challenged, how to troubleshoot and use your digital-editing skills to create effects desired. Find and read this book to get as many “ahahs” as I did.
Sunday, November 11, 2007
Europe gets the iPhone
first iPhones sold in Germany as 10,000 are sold by 5pm. Each costs $566 to $587.
http://www.kansascity.com/business/story/354686.html
http://www.kansascity.com/business/story/354686.html
Thursday, November 8, 2007
my son bought a macpro laptop - no longer part of the dark side
My daughter ,wife and I have always had mac. Brian went to the darkside as he did not want a mac for his graduation present. (We settled on a Sony laptop). He is now a junior at Juliard School of Music in NYC and said he just bought a macpro white laptop.
This is good !!!
Dr. Eric Flescher, Olathe, KS(dreric1kansas@aol.com)
This is good !!!
Dr. Eric Flescher, Olathe, KS(dreric1kansas@aol.com)
Saturday, November 3, 2007
2007: The Year in Review an eclipse?
from Macworld 12/2007 P.132 " 2007: The Year in Review" by7 John Motlz (crazyapplerumors.com)
middle column
" Truly the "IT" device if 2007- if not the decade, century, millenium, and indeed all of time and space - the iPhone finally arrived on June 29. Its arrival was greeted by a chorus of angels , followed by a solar eclipse , an overflight by a flock of doves , and a dire warning from a strange bearded man who kept mumbling something that sounded like " $200 price -cut."
Hilarious!!
middle column
" Truly the "IT" device if 2007- if not the decade, century, millenium, and indeed all of time and space - the iPhone finally arrived on June 29. Its arrival was greeted by a chorus of angels , followed by a solar eclipse , an overflight by a flock of doves , and a dire warning from a strange bearded man who kept mumbling something that sounded like " $200 price -cut."
Hilarious!!
Sunday, October 28, 2007
Microsoft can't use market power 80 percent profit margin to harm consumers by killing competition on any market
I have to hand it to Bill Gates and company. They new from the start ,that they would a lot of companies and businesses "by the balls." With the fact that most people did not care of the shoddiness of windows and did not want to buy Apple stuff made it worse. They thought they can do anything they wanted. I commend the European union for finally standing up to them.
Microsoft Yields to European Regulators
the company can no longer use the market power derived from its 95 percent share of the PC operating system market and 80 percent profit margin to harm consumers by killing competition on any market it wishes," Neelie Kroes, the E.U.'sSoftware Giant Ends Years-Long Antitrust Fight
Washington Post Staff Writer
Tuesday, October 23, 2007; Page D01
Microsoft yesterday capitulated to European Union regulators, ending a decade-long antitrust battle that some say could shape how U.S. companies operate in Europe.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/10/22/AR2007102200425.html?wpisrc=newsletter&wpisrc=newsletterWednesday, October 10, 2007
Apple keep on going higher
Friday, October 5, 2007
MacBook for Dummies REVIEW
All in all I liked the book and what it had “to say.” Novice and intermediate laptop users might like it not only for its good price but also the information it provides.
MacBook for Dummies
reviewed by Dr. Eric Flescher, Olathe, KS: (dreric1kansas@aol.com)
Author: Mark L. Chamber
website:
Publisher: Wiley
Released: 2006
Pages: 366
$ USA 22
Canada 26
UK 15
ISBN: 0-470-04859-X
Strengths: The book includes a very introduction. Good screenshots and illustrations including the pointers to specific areas within the illustrations. Five icons help pinpoint helpful information along the way. Chapter 23 “ Top Ten Things to Avoid like the Plague “ is quite good as well as Chapter 22 “ Top Ten Laptop Rules to Follow (which is insightful and well written). Good price, well written and readable.
Weaknesses: Chapters like the ones with iDVD and Imovie have minimal amounts of information. Really these and some of the sections just have the basics. To know and learn more, books that detail more information regarding specific applications should be found besides these basics. the iLife applications, you might want to turn elsewhere. Users who read about “movies,” “projects.” “video clips,” may find the information in this book not well defined, especially concerning when and how the media can be imported, exported and utilized
Novice/Intermediate
Rating: 4.5/5
There are several books on the market dealing with MacBook. Several include not only information about MacBook but MacBook Pro. This is one includes both. I wanted to see what the author had to offer in this MacDummies series related to these laptops. I found the author of this book has previously published the Mac OSX All-In-One desk Reference for Dummies and completed thirty computer books. My wife related bought a MacBook so I decided to research this book to see what it could tell me.
The book covers 366 pages and spans 23 chapters with seven part/ sections. The first part of the book includes a very nice introduction that gives the reader a nice prelude to learning about the laptops but more . As the author says, “ he started with no assumption “ regarding knowledge of the laptop. The book starts “from the ground up” and launches into some interesting ideas that relate to more then the “hardware.” It is nice that in this beginning section, the author pinpoints information about “switchers,” those computer users who are moving into the Macintosh realm from the PC/windows usage (particularly targeting Windows XP users). He also nicely mentions that if you are new to Macintosh and the Apple world, most of the software is in the computer and does not have to be purchased. This is a great tip that probably many PC people still don’t know about even though many Apple users already are mindful about.
While many of the Dummies books vary in their versatility , breadth and depth of the instructional content, this one is solid. While the illustrations are only black and white, the screen shots are readable. Several include pointers to various sections within the illustrations that zone in on the information talked about. This takes away the annoying quess work that I have found in some books that I have read in which “hunting” within the illustrations was a regular and recurring point. There are also five icons that are placed throughout the pages. These (Tip; mark’s Maxim; Technical stuff; Warning!; Remember) serve to include precise additional information that assists along the way regarding the instructions.
The Part 1 includes information pertaining to Mac laptops, turning on and starting with the system and computer. Part focus in on the OSX and operating system while Part 3 launches into the world of connecting and communicating. Part 4 focuses on the iLife applications ( introductory instruction and while the text takes you through each application starting up and using, if you want more in-depth information other books will be needed). Part 5 is sharing access and information while Part 6 deals with important troubleshooting, upgrading information and maintaining your laptop.
Part 7 is called the Parts of Tens. This includes Chapter 22 “ Top Ten Laptop Rules to Follow (insightful and well written) and Chapter 23 “ Top Ten Things to Avoid like the Plague “ (useful for many reasons in your encounter with the internet, applications, hardware and more).
All in all I liked the book and what it had “to say.” Novice and intermediate laptop users might like it not only for its good price but also the information it provides. Readable and you gain insights throughout the book. But especially if you already have a Macbook or Pro and have worked with it and want more information (concerning the iLife applications), you might want to turn elsewhere. Users who read about “movies,” “projects.” “video clips,” may find the information not well defined, especially concerning when and how the media can be imported, exported and utilized.
MacBook for Dummies
reviewed by Dr. Eric Flescher, Olathe, KS: (dreric1kansas@aol.com)
Author: Mark L. Chamber
website:
Publisher: Wiley
Released: 2006
Pages: 366
$ USA 22
Canada 26
UK 15
ISBN: 0-470-04859-X
Strengths: The book includes a very introduction. Good screenshots and illustrations including the pointers to specific areas within the illustrations. Five icons help pinpoint helpful information along the way. Chapter 23 “ Top Ten Things to Avoid like the Plague “ is quite good as well as Chapter 22 “ Top Ten Laptop Rules to Follow (which is insightful and well written). Good price, well written and readable.
Weaknesses: Chapters like the ones with iDVD and Imovie have minimal amounts of information. Really these and some of the sections just have the basics. To know and learn more, books that detail more information regarding specific applications should be found besides these basics. the iLife applications, you might want to turn elsewhere. Users who read about “movies,” “projects.” “video clips,” may find the information in this book not well defined, especially concerning when and how the media can be imported, exported and utilized
Novice/Intermediate
Rating: 4.5/5
There are several books on the market dealing with MacBook. Several include not only information about MacBook but MacBook Pro. This is one includes both. I wanted to see what the author had to offer in this MacDummies series related to these laptops. I found the author of this book has previously published the Mac OSX All-In-One desk Reference for Dummies and completed thirty computer books. My wife related bought a MacBook so I decided to research this book to see what it could tell me.
The book covers 366 pages and spans 23 chapters with seven part/ sections. The first part of the book includes a very nice introduction that gives the reader a nice prelude to learning about the laptops but more . As the author says, “ he started with no assumption “ regarding knowledge of the laptop. The book starts “from the ground up” and launches into some interesting ideas that relate to more then the “hardware.” It is nice that in this beginning section, the author pinpoints information about “switchers,” those computer users who are moving into the Macintosh realm from the PC/windows usage (particularly targeting Windows XP users). He also nicely mentions that if you are new to Macintosh and the Apple world, most of the software is in the computer and does not have to be purchased. This is a great tip that probably many PC people still don’t know about even though many Apple users already are mindful about.
While many of the Dummies books vary in their versatility , breadth and depth of the instructional content, this one is solid. While the illustrations are only black and white, the screen shots are readable. Several include pointers to various sections within the illustrations that zone in on the information talked about. This takes away the annoying quess work that I have found in some books that I have read in which “hunting” within the illustrations was a regular and recurring point. There are also five icons that are placed throughout the pages. These (Tip; mark’s Maxim; Technical stuff; Warning!; Remember) serve to include precise additional information that assists along the way regarding the instructions.
The Part 1 includes information pertaining to Mac laptops, turning on and starting with the system and computer. Part focus in on the OSX and operating system while Part 3 launches into the world of connecting and communicating. Part 4 focuses on the iLife applications ( introductory instruction and while the text takes you through each application starting up and using, if you want more in-depth information other books will be needed). Part 5 is sharing access and information while Part 6 deals with important troubleshooting, upgrading information and maintaining your laptop.
Part 7 is called the Parts of Tens. This includes Chapter 22 “ Top Ten Laptop Rules to Follow (insightful and well written) and Chapter 23 “ Top Ten Things to Avoid like the Plague “ (useful for many reasons in your encounter with the internet, applications, hardware and more).
All in all I liked the book and what it had “to say.” Novice and intermediate laptop users might like it not only for its good price but also the information it provides. Readable and you gain insights throughout the book. But especially if you already have a Macbook or Pro and have worked with it and want more information (concerning the iLife applications), you might want to turn elsewhere. Users who read about “movies,” “projects.” “video clips,” may find the information not well defined, especially concerning when and how the media can be imported, exported and utilized.
creative differences or ?:Microsoft, 'Halo' Creators Split
Microsoft, 'Halo' Creators Split
By JESSICA MINTZ,
AP
Posted: 2007-10-05 16:25:06
SEATTLE (AP) - Bungie Studios, the "Halo" video game developer acquired by Microsoft Corp. in 2000, is once again operating as an independent company, Microsoft said Friday.
http://money.aol.com/news/articles/_a/microsoft-halo-creators-split/n20071005162509990002
By JESSICA MINTZ,
AP
Posted: 2007-10-05 16:25:06
SEATTLE (AP) - Bungie Studios, the "Halo" video game developer acquired by Microsoft Corp. in 2000, is once again operating as an independent company, Microsoft said Friday.
http://money.aol.com/news/articles/_a/microsoft-halo-creators-split/n20071005162509990002
Expensive music
Expensive music
Woman Owes $220,000 for Sharing Files
Posted: 2007-10-05 11:41:19
DULUTH, Minn. (Oct. 4) - The recording industry won a key fight Thursday against illegal music downloading when a federal jury found a Minnesota woman liable for damages for sharing copyrighted music online.
http://money.aol.com/news/articles/ar/_a/woman-owes-220000-for-sharing-files/20071004195309990001?ncid=NWS00010000000001
Woman Owes $220,000 for Sharing Files
Posted: 2007-10-05 11:41:19
DULUTH, Minn. (Oct. 4) - The recording industry won a key fight Thursday against illegal music downloading when a federal jury found a Minnesota woman liable for damages for sharing copyrighted music online.
http://money.aol.com/news/articles/ar/_a/woman-owes-220000-for-sharing-files/20071004195309990001?ncid=NWS00010000000001
Monday, September 17, 2007
Microsoft Suffers Stunning Antitrust Blow
The money penalty is still a dr0p in the bucket but this ruling says much more what is really at the heart: the software which is the main focus and is anti trust worthy
Microsoft Suffers Stunning Antitrust Blow
By David Lawsky and Michele Sinner,
AP
Posted: 2007-09-17 09:20:36
BRUSSELS, Belgium (Sept. 17) - A European Union court rejected Microsoft Corp.'s appeal of a landmark antitrust ruling and record $613 million fine on Monday, a resounding victory for the EU that confirms its role as a major global regulator.
http://money.aol.com/news/articles/_a/microsoft-suffers-stunning-antitrust/20070917064609990001
Microsoft Suffers Stunning Antitrust Blow
By David Lawsky and Michele Sinner,
AP
Posted: 2007-09-17 09:20:36
BRUSSELS, Belgium (Sept. 17) - A European Union court rejected Microsoft Corp.'s appeal of a landmark antitrust ruling and record $613 million fine on Monday, a resounding victory for the EU that confirms its role as a major global regulator.
http://money.aol.com/news/articles/_a/microsoft-suffers-stunning-antitrust/20070917064609990001
Monday, September 10, 2007
Well Apple did well . Apple Sells 1 Millionth iPhone
Well Apple did well . Apple Sells 1 Millionth iPhone
By MAY WONG,
AP
Posted: 2007-09-10 17:31:26
SAN JOSE, Calif. (Sept. 10) - Apple Inc. sold its millionth iPhone over the weekend, days after it slashed the price by a third to spur sales.
By comparison, it took two years for the company to sell 1 million iPods, Apple CEO Steve Jobs noted in a statement.
http://money.aol.com/news/articles/_a/apple-sells-1-millionth-iphone/20070910095109990001
By MAY WONG,
AP
Posted: 2007-09-10 17:31:26
SAN JOSE, Calif. (Sept. 10) - Apple Inc. sold its millionth iPhone over the weekend, days after it slashed the price by a third to spur sales.
By comparison, it took two years for the company to sell 1 million iPods, Apple CEO Steve Jobs noted in a statement.
http://money.aol.com/news/articles/_a/apple-sells-1-millionth-iphone/20070910095109990001
Thursday, September 6, 2007
Jobs Apologizes, Gives $100 iPhone Credit
My thoughts going in was this was a very innovative produce but still had kinks to work out, especially the pricing ATT plan. But phase out of the 4gig one and the price break was unexpected. I don't hear people complaining as much about Windows and the lousy product it is. So I am not sure what they are whining about. But Jobs gave them a break. I don't see Gates giving Windows a break.
Jobs Apologizes, Gives $100 iPhone Credit
By JORDAN ROBERTSON,
AP
Posted: 2007-09-06 18:18:19
SAN JOSE, Calif. (Sept. 6) - Apple Inc. CEO Steve Jobs apologized and offered $100 credits Thursday to customers who shelled out $599 for the most advanced model of the iPhone, only to have the company unexpectedly slash the price $200 in a push to boost holiday sales.
Customers who bought an iPhone within 14 days of the price cut can get a refund of the price difference if they have the original receipt.
The price cut - and the phaseout of the 4-gigabyte iPhone, which retailed for $499 - came less than 10 weeks after the two products hit the market June 29, angering early iPhone adopters who were startled to have their prized gadgets plummet in value.
read on for interesting commentary about this an on the board with it.
http://money.aol.com/news/articles/ar/_a/jobs-apologizes-gives-100-iphone-credit/20070905095809990001
from another person:
"Two of my friends who bought within the last 14 days returned their phones today, repurchased the same phone and got their $200 back each per apple's 14 day return policy. I've always been an early technology adopter- and never got screwed this bad."
Jobs Apologizes, Gives $100 iPhone Credit
By JORDAN ROBERTSON,
AP
Posted: 2007-09-06 18:18:19
SAN JOSE, Calif. (Sept. 6) - Apple Inc. CEO Steve Jobs apologized and offered $100 credits Thursday to customers who shelled out $599 for the most advanced model of the iPhone, only to have the company unexpectedly slash the price $200 in a push to boost holiday sales.
Customers who bought an iPhone within 14 days of the price cut can get a refund of the price difference if they have the original receipt.
The price cut - and the phaseout of the 4-gigabyte iPhone, which retailed for $499 - came less than 10 weeks after the two products hit the market June 29, angering early iPhone adopters who were startled to have their prized gadgets plummet in value.
read on for interesting commentary about this an on the board with it.
http://money.aol.com/news/articles/ar/_a/jobs-apologizes-gives-100-iphone-credit/20070905095809990001
from another person:
"Two of my friends who bought within the last 14 days returned their phones today, repurchased the same phone and got their $200 back each per apple's 14 day return policy. I've always been an early technology adopter- and never got screwed this bad."
Saturday, September 1, 2007
New iPod coming?
The scuttlebutt is that there is some BIG NEWS coming out of Apple come this coming Wednesday. Rumors (including CBS news) think it might be a new revamped iPod.
No iPods have shipped to stores lately which has fueled rumors.
No iPods have shipped to stores lately which has fueled rumors.
Saturday, August 25, 2007
Saturday, August 11, 2007
Internet explorer
No mac user should be using internet explorer.
Why?
(1) It is not the best web browser on the market
(2) others have more versatility and flexibility
(3) others like Firefox (which I like to use) have special add on , free features and more including tab browsers (which I think are very helpful)
(4) If you use internet explorer you are just siding with Mr. Bill and his minuns
Why?
(1) It is not the best web browser on the market
(2) others have more versatility and flexibility
(3) others like Firefox (which I like to use) have special add on , free features and more including tab browsers (which I think are very helpful)
(4) If you use internet explorer you are just siding with Mr. Bill and his minuns
Thursday, August 2, 2007
Apple security patch release it was bound to happen
How many patches has Microsoft undergone? Windows users take it for granted. Apple users don't usually have it happen to them. But with the newness of the iPhone it was bound to happen sometime to get kinks out.
Apple security patch release
http://money.aol.com/news/articles/_a/apple-releases-security-patch-for-iphone/20070802085509990001
Apple security patch release
http://money.aol.com/news/articles/_a/apple-releases-security-patch-for-iphone/20070802085509990001
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Capturing DV and Analog Sources from the Panasonic 3CCD Camcorder
Capturing DV and Analog Sources from the Panasonic 3CCD Camcorder
http://www.pana3ccduser.com/article.php?filename=Capturing-DV-and-Analog-Sources-from-the-Panasonic
nice tutorial and photo shots of the process. While it focuses mostly on PC the method is similar for mac. If you don't have a panasonic it is pretty much the same if you are using firewire (many use Usb).
Dr. Eric Flescher, Olathe, KS(dreric1kansas@aol.com): DrEric1MacNews/Macsightings Blog : http://dreric1macnewsmacsightings.blogspot.com/ : editor MacsU.N.I.T.E. ( MacIntosh Users Network for Integrating Technology into Education):(Subscribe send email to :macsunitsubscribe@egroups.com)
Staff Writer at macCompanion Magazine (http://www.maccompanion.com/); moderator
macintoshvideo@yahoogroups.com- to subscribe
macintoshvideo-subscribe@yahoogroups.com; editor TechU.N.I.T.E. (Subscribe send email to PC version TechU.N.I.T.E.: to subscribe send email to techunite-subscribe@egroups.com
http://www.pana3ccduser.com/article.php?filename=Capturing-DV-and-Analog-Sources-from-the-Panasonic
nice tutorial and photo shots of the process. While it focuses mostly on PC the method is similar for mac. If you don't have a panasonic it is pretty much the same if you are using firewire (many use Usb).
Dr. Eric Flescher, Olathe, KS(dreric1kansas@aol.com): DrEric1MacNews/Macsightings Blog : http://dreric1macnewsmacsightings.blogspot.com/ : editor MacsU.N.I.T.E. ( MacIntosh Users Network for Integrating Technology into Education):(Subscribe send email to :macsunitsubscribe@egroups.com)
Staff Writer at macCompanion Magazine (http://www.maccompanion.com/); moderator
macintoshvideo@yahoogroups.com- to subscribe
macintoshvideo-subscribe@yahoogroups.com; editor TechU.N.I.T.E. (Subscribe send email to PC version TechU.N.I.T.E.: to subscribe send email to techunite-subscribe@egroups.com
Tuesday, July 3, 2007
Starry Night Widget see the sky
Starry Night Widget
http://www.apple.com/downloads/dashboard/information/starrynightwidget.html
About Starry Night Widget
Astronomy widget that will let you see the sky (planets, constellations) for any location on Earth.
- Set your location by ZIP/postal code or by latitude and longitude, and the widget flips to show a view of the current sky.
- With a touch of a button, see the sky from all directions.
- It’s easy to customize your view. Choose to show constellations, the horizon, the ecliptic line, and labels for the celestial sights above.
- The widget refreshes your sky image every few minutes so you are always looking at something new.
What’s New in this Version
- A Space/Astronomy news ticker.
- Live display of location and gaze direction (altitude and azimuth).
- Star labels to more easily identify objects in the sky.
- Live "panning" via the arrow keys. Now allows you to view any direction and tilt up/down.
- Easier access to our full-featured web version.
- Upgraded server back-end for faster image return.
Download 1.3MB
Download Details
• Company: Starry Night - Imaginova
• Version: 1.1
• Post Date: April 19, 2007
• License: Freeware
• File Size: 1.3MB
• URL Type: Download
• Download ID: 48
System Requirements
• Mac OS X 10.4 or later
http://www.apple.com/downloads/dashboard/information/starrynightwidget.html
About Starry Night Widget
Astronomy widget that will let you see the sky (planets, constellations) for any location on Earth.
- Set your location by ZIP/postal code or by latitude and longitude, and the widget flips to show a view of the current sky.
- With a touch of a button, see the sky from all directions.
- It’s easy to customize your view. Choose to show constellations, the horizon, the ecliptic line, and labels for the celestial sights above.
- The widget refreshes your sky image every few minutes so you are always looking at something new.
What’s New in this Version
- A Space/Astronomy news ticker.
- Live display of location and gaze direction (altitude and azimuth).
- Star labels to more easily identify objects in the sky.
- Live "panning" via the arrow keys. Now allows you to view any direction and tilt up/down.
- Easier access to our full-featured web version.
- Upgraded server back-end for faster image return.
Download 1.3MB
Download Details
• Company: Starry Night - Imaginova
• Version: 1.1
• Post Date: April 19, 2007
• License: Freeware
• File Size: 1.3MB
• URL Type: Download
• Download ID: 48
System Requirements
• Mac OS X 10.4 or later
Monday, July 2, 2007
ESPN2, iPhone info
7/2/2007
On ESPN2, I was watching sports when they had started showing off the new iPhone. The sportcasters were talking about and said the following:
(1) Unlike the iPod which was continually changed ,the software will be updated while the hardware stays the same (unless see down below).
(2) Yes no streaming video or steaming audio but can play YouTube at Quicktime. Has real time email etc .
(3) wifi works fine but AT-T internet is slow(er).
(4) When the new AT-T network will run, the speed on the internet will be faster. If you want to upgrade when this occur you will need a new iPhone.
(5) does a sports fan need- possibly but nothing to entice many others for now especially if you have your own pda etc
On ESPN2, I was watching sports when they had started showing off the new iPhone. The sportcasters were talking about and said the following:
(1) Unlike the iPod which was continually changed ,the software will be updated while the hardware stays the same (unless see down below).
(2) Yes no streaming video or steaming audio but can play YouTube at Quicktime. Has real time email etc .
(3) wifi works fine but AT-T internet is slow(er).
(4) When the new AT-T network will run, the speed on the internet will be faster. If you want to upgrade when this occur you will need a new iPhone.
(5) does a sports fan need- possibly but nothing to entice many others for now especially if you have your own pda etc
Sunday, July 1, 2007
canon camera book reviews
Canon EOS 30 D Digital Field Guide And Canon Rebel Xti (400D) Digital Field Guide reviews compared
reviewed by Dr. Eric Flescher, Olathe, KS: (dreric1kansas@aol.com)
Book: Canon Rebel Xti Digital Field Guide
Author: Charles K. Lowrie
Publisher: Wiley
Released: 2007
Pages: 263
$ 20 USA
24 Canada
14 UK
ISBN: 978-0-470-1107-2
Strengths: Full color. Includes information about camera and how to use the camera to make better photographs. I like the second half of the book but not the first. The first part about the camera is missing some visual camera photos and additional information. Good use of tables, colors, bold face, photos and more.
Weaknesses: Some pictures pertaining to the camera are not included ( like where to put the card). There are a lot of “bells and whistles” to understanding what controls can do what and how and when. It was most irritating to have to hunt for the camera’s icons and what they mean. Instead of saying in text what to do, the visual of the camera’s icon would have been far better to include.
Novice/Intermediate
Rating: 4/5
Book :Canon EOS 30 D Digital Field Guide
Author: Charles K. Lowrie
Publisher: Wiley
Released: 2007
Pages: 271
$ 20 USA
24 Canada
14 UK
ISBN: 0-470-053-40-2
Strengths: Full color. One section focuses upon camera information and the second main section using the camera to make better photographs. Tables used for different information and making better and different types of photographs are well done.
Weaknesses: The first part is not as good as the second. The information about the camera is confusing. Information about the camera is confusing at many times.
Novice/Intermediate
Rating: 4/5
These two books are created by the same author. The " look and the feel" of both books are so similar, in so many ways, that I thought it would be more instructive to compare and contrast the two books, the EOS Rebel Xti and the EOS 30D cameras. I am glad I did for several reasons by for myself and for readers who may use either cameras (or in my case the XT which is very similar to the XTi).
It is really nice that both books are in full color. The colorful photos and the screenshots make the instruction and learning an easier one. The white text within the burnt-orange titles on top of the pages give an easy way to find out the content within the book/chapters. The mini- tutorials were numbered and the titles were in bold face. Nice but that did not help much with the understanding of the instructions. I can understand the use of an introduction and quick tour sections within the first part of the books but these created more headaches then being beneficial.
There are some small side notes (within pink small square), cross- reference( light blue) and tip (in light bulb icon) that appear next to the text areas. While these are meant for true informational purposes, some of these helpful- hints take you to other chapters or sections within the book. While there were only a few of these, especially in the introduction and the first chapters, I passed over them as I found these annoying. Little visual cues that were missing, I found were major weaknesses. And I began to see that this very nice looking book had several other weaknesses.
Having purchased a new Canon Rebel XT, I was looking at using these two books to help me learn how to use Canon cameras , especially in terms of all the capabilities that can be used to make better photos. Photographing for many years, including both digital and non-digital camera use, I am aware of what needs to be accomplished with photos (some published as in Astronomy magazine). However there is always room for learning and having used digital cameras for several years, I was looking forward to advancing my skills with the Canon capabilities. An older photographer that also wanted to use and learn about the newer technology
A nice photo of the command dial, used on the Canon camera(s) for making different crucial settings, showed up ( p.2) . But it did not explain, like it should have, what each of the icons meant. I would have liked to see lines that show what each icon meant instead of “hunting.” However (p.4) has a list of these. But a list is not a graphic display and this cross-reference only communicated about one of the dial modes. I won’t go into some of the other wording that I found confusing. But I found more.
Later on with the same page one of the tips (P.4) , has a lengthy set of sentences about changes to the menus and the ISO settings. The text then said “ for other menus, however, be sure to press the Set button to confirm changes that you make.” I was so amazed at this - I just wanted to scream! Looking in the Index, there was no information under “set” or “buttons” for example.
Within the books are 3 parts in 8 chapters. Both books are basically divided into three main sections with the last being an appendix. One sections has information about the camera. The second part deals more with how to make your photos better by using the camera. Both have an introduction which is where some of the problems begin.
Finding the setting that turns off the flash, for example, even if you don’t want the flash to fire, like during a total solar eclipse (which many people still do!). Neither books, showed visual information where the icon on the dial would turn off the flash. There were several instance of the lack of references related to commands, camera functions and more. This non cross referencing I found confusing and not helpful in my quest.
There were more photos of the camera and its sides and features on the 30D book then the Rebel book (p.12-13). The 30D book showed visually where in the camera the Compact Flash card and eject button can be found. The Rebel book did not show this at all. The view of the whole camera and its features is more sparse in the 30D while the Rebel photo shows all the control areas. Both have good visuals of the LCD display screen but cameras have different panel displays. The viewfinder display photos are a little different according to the camera differences. These include lines to highlight what the icons mean and where they are situated. I wondered why the author did not do that with the camera function mode dial settings.
There are some good things. The tables of information for the rest of the book are pretty much the same in each book. These highlight in specific details how to take better photographs according to different setting ( Low-light, Night shots , Action and Sports, Environmental Portrait and more. In many ways, this part of the books, are well done, readable and easy to understand. The trick is that these tutorials do not integrate how to use the cameras to meet those specific photographic needs. It is assumed you already know how to use all the “bells and whistles.” For some of you that might be enough to go on your merry way. For others, you might have to struggle a bit.
Since I have a XT and not an XTi, I wanted to know more about the dust elimination capability so hyped with the XTi. The XTi book focuses 3 pages on it and does a good job. I now know the need for using that function in the Xti to make sure dust not get into your camera or lenses or eliminate them if they do so you create better pictures. I did not get the XTi mainly because of this extra device, and bought the XT instead which saved me possibly a couple hundred dollars. If there was a difference between the Xt and Xti, I did not see it in these books. In fact, the 30D book, had no information about dust elimination or this Xti device/process. So I am led to possibly believe that this device is not needed (until I find out further - any I looked in the book for a Sony digital camera that was not written by the author of these two books).
Finally looking over the Appendix, it was helpful. While the XTi book includes (A) custom functions and (B) Internet resources, 30D has information about RAW images ( in Rebel it is in four separate sections in the book which is maddening) , conversion RAW programs and creating an efficient workflow ( a recent buzzword for making more efficient use of your photographic work).
A guide should be informational, easy to use and very visual in a way that integrates the helpful written material. The structure should be a tutorial based one that guides the user to understanding how to use the device, in this case, the Canon cameras, to take better photos in whatever settings you wish to photograph. I feel the author had noble intentions but the integration was lacking. The techniques are there but how they mesh with the use of the technology could have been much more arrange and displayed in a much more effective means.
If you know how to use the Rebel XT, XTi and/or 30D and want to learn how to take better pictures you might be okay. That second part of the book is solid. Those of you who are trying to learn how to use any of these cameras for the first time and want to learn how to become a better photographer, you might still find the book a good deal. This is true especially if you have the little Canon tutorial (which is very good I must add) that comes with the camera.
I like the second half of the book but not the first. For these books, the price is right if you want to find out how to take better photographs. You might have to “hunt” a little. Like myself , its a matter of time how long it takes for finding the “gizmos” on the camera and then using the skills you might learn to get the expected outcomes. Any new learning, no matter what, has different types of “learning curves” that sometimes make learning easier or more difficult. In this case, these two books, because of the way they are written, make learning about the cameras more difficult, confounding and irritating. Its up to you and your stage of learning with a Canon camera and how to photograph with them, whether one of these books can help you. You make the choice whether you can try this book or another based on this information
reviewed by Dr. Eric Flescher, Olathe, KS: (dreric1kansas@aol.com)
Book: Canon Rebel Xti Digital Field Guide
Author: Charles K. Lowrie
Publisher: Wiley
Released: 2007
Pages: 263
$ 20 USA
24 Canada
14 UK
ISBN: 978-0-470-1107-2
Strengths: Full color. Includes information about camera and how to use the camera to make better photographs. I like the second half of the book but not the first. The first part about the camera is missing some visual camera photos and additional information. Good use of tables, colors, bold face, photos and more.
Weaknesses: Some pictures pertaining to the camera are not included ( like where to put the card). There are a lot of “bells and whistles” to understanding what controls can do what and how and when. It was most irritating to have to hunt for the camera’s icons and what they mean. Instead of saying in text what to do, the visual of the camera’s icon would have been far better to include.
Novice/Intermediate
Rating: 4/5
Book :Canon EOS 30 D Digital Field Guide
Author: Charles K. Lowrie
Publisher: Wiley
Released: 2007
Pages: 271
$ 20 USA
24 Canada
14 UK
ISBN: 0-470-053-40-2
Strengths: Full color. One section focuses upon camera information and the second main section using the camera to make better photographs. Tables used for different information and making better and different types of photographs are well done.
Weaknesses: The first part is not as good as the second. The information about the camera is confusing. Information about the camera is confusing at many times.
Novice/Intermediate
Rating: 4/5
These two books are created by the same author. The " look and the feel" of both books are so similar, in so many ways, that I thought it would be more instructive to compare and contrast the two books, the EOS Rebel Xti and the EOS 30D cameras. I am glad I did for several reasons by for myself and for readers who may use either cameras (or in my case the XT which is very similar to the XTi).
It is really nice that both books are in full color. The colorful photos and the screenshots make the instruction and learning an easier one. The white text within the burnt-orange titles on top of the pages give an easy way to find out the content within the book/chapters. The mini- tutorials were numbered and the titles were in bold face. Nice but that did not help much with the understanding of the instructions. I can understand the use of an introduction and quick tour sections within the first part of the books but these created more headaches then being beneficial.
There are some small side notes (within pink small square), cross- reference( light blue) and tip (in light bulb icon) that appear next to the text areas. While these are meant for true informational purposes, some of these helpful- hints take you to other chapters or sections within the book. While there were only a few of these, especially in the introduction and the first chapters, I passed over them as I found these annoying. Little visual cues that were missing, I found were major weaknesses. And I began to see that this very nice looking book had several other weaknesses.
Having purchased a new Canon Rebel XT, I was looking at using these two books to help me learn how to use Canon cameras , especially in terms of all the capabilities that can be used to make better photos. Photographing for many years, including both digital and non-digital camera use, I am aware of what needs to be accomplished with photos (some published as in Astronomy magazine). However there is always room for learning and having used digital cameras for several years, I was looking forward to advancing my skills with the Canon capabilities. An older photographer that also wanted to use and learn about the newer technology
A nice photo of the command dial, used on the Canon camera(s) for making different crucial settings, showed up ( p.2) . But it did not explain, like it should have, what each of the icons meant. I would have liked to see lines that show what each icon meant instead of “hunting.” However (p.4) has a list of these. But a list is not a graphic display and this cross-reference only communicated about one of the dial modes. I won’t go into some of the other wording that I found confusing. But I found more.
Later on with the same page one of the tips (P.4) , has a lengthy set of sentences about changes to the menus and the ISO settings. The text then said “ for other menus, however, be sure to press the Set button to confirm changes that you make.” I was so amazed at this - I just wanted to scream! Looking in the Index, there was no information under “set” or “buttons” for example.
Within the books are 3 parts in 8 chapters. Both books are basically divided into three main sections with the last being an appendix. One sections has information about the camera. The second part deals more with how to make your photos better by using the camera. Both have an introduction which is where some of the problems begin.
Finding the setting that turns off the flash, for example, even if you don’t want the flash to fire, like during a total solar eclipse (which many people still do!). Neither books, showed visual information where the icon on the dial would turn off the flash. There were several instance of the lack of references related to commands, camera functions and more. This non cross referencing I found confusing and not helpful in my quest.
There were more photos of the camera and its sides and features on the 30D book then the Rebel book (p.12-13). The 30D book showed visually where in the camera the Compact Flash card and eject button can be found. The Rebel book did not show this at all. The view of the whole camera and its features is more sparse in the 30D while the Rebel photo shows all the control areas. Both have good visuals of the LCD display screen but cameras have different panel displays. The viewfinder display photos are a little different according to the camera differences. These include lines to highlight what the icons mean and where they are situated. I wondered why the author did not do that with the camera function mode dial settings.
There are some good things. The tables of information for the rest of the book are pretty much the same in each book. These highlight in specific details how to take better photographs according to different setting ( Low-light, Night shots , Action and Sports, Environmental Portrait and more. In many ways, this part of the books, are well done, readable and easy to understand. The trick is that these tutorials do not integrate how to use the cameras to meet those specific photographic needs. It is assumed you already know how to use all the “bells and whistles.” For some of you that might be enough to go on your merry way. For others, you might have to struggle a bit.
Since I have a XT and not an XTi, I wanted to know more about the dust elimination capability so hyped with the XTi. The XTi book focuses 3 pages on it and does a good job. I now know the need for using that function in the Xti to make sure dust not get into your camera or lenses or eliminate them if they do so you create better pictures. I did not get the XTi mainly because of this extra device, and bought the XT instead which saved me possibly a couple hundred dollars. If there was a difference between the Xt and Xti, I did not see it in these books. In fact, the 30D book, had no information about dust elimination or this Xti device/process. So I am led to possibly believe that this device is not needed (until I find out further - any I looked in the book for a Sony digital camera that was not written by the author of these two books).
Finally looking over the Appendix, it was helpful. While the XTi book includes (A) custom functions and (B) Internet resources, 30D has information about RAW images ( in Rebel it is in four separate sections in the book which is maddening) , conversion RAW programs and creating an efficient workflow ( a recent buzzword for making more efficient use of your photographic work).
A guide should be informational, easy to use and very visual in a way that integrates the helpful written material. The structure should be a tutorial based one that guides the user to understanding how to use the device, in this case, the Canon cameras, to take better photos in whatever settings you wish to photograph. I feel the author had noble intentions but the integration was lacking. The techniques are there but how they mesh with the use of the technology could have been much more arrange and displayed in a much more effective means.
If you know how to use the Rebel XT, XTi and/or 30D and want to learn how to take better pictures you might be okay. That second part of the book is solid. Those of you who are trying to learn how to use any of these cameras for the first time and want to learn how to become a better photographer, you might still find the book a good deal. This is true especially if you have the little Canon tutorial (which is very good I must add) that comes with the camera.
I like the second half of the book but not the first. For these books, the price is right if you want to find out how to take better photographs. You might have to “hunt” a little. Like myself , its a matter of time how long it takes for finding the “gizmos” on the camera and then using the skills you might learn to get the expected outcomes. Any new learning, no matter what, has different types of “learning curves” that sometimes make learning easier or more difficult. In this case, these two books, because of the way they are written, make learning about the cameras more difficult, confounding and irritating. Its up to you and your stage of learning with a Canon camera and how to photograph with them, whether one of these books can help you. You make the choice whether you can try this book or another based on this information
Saturday, June 30, 2007
iPhone a device you can finally get your hands on
IPhone Launch Day Arrives
I won't get one yet but it will interesting to hear how things check out now that users will play with it.
http://money.aol.com/news/articles/_a/iphone-launch-day-arrives/20070629062909990001
more about the iPhone etc
http://www.apple.com/hotnews/
Do you have an Iphone and/or plan to buy one?
aol poll
No 89% 34,143
Yes 11% 4,358
I won't get one yet but it will interesting to hear how things check out now that users will play with it.
http://money.aol.com/news/articles/_a/iphone-launch-day-arrives/20070629062909990001
more about the iPhone etc
http://www.apple.com/hotnews/
Do you have an Iphone and/or plan to buy one?
aol poll
No 89% 34,143
Yes 11% 4,358
Thursday, June 28, 2007
iPhone you got a question?
There's the hype, Apple magic and then then how it will really work for you. Apple covers many of the bases as it always does. Just depends if people if people do their homework and listen beyond PC and Windows.
Often-Asked iPhone Questions
USA TODAY REVIEW: Apple's iPhone isn't perfect, but it's worthy of the hype
June 28, 2007
By Edward C. Baig
USA Today
http://www.freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070628/NEWS09/70627089/1001/NEWS
Still, iPhone isn't perfect, or even the most ideal smartphone for every user. It's pricey. It lacks certain features found on some rival devices. AT&T's coverage was spotty in some areas I tested over the past two weeks. Your employer may prevent you from receiving corporate e-mail on the device.....iPhone is a "quad-band GSM" phone, meaning you can operate it overseas......On the data side, it works through AT&T's Edge network, which is pokey compared with third-generation, or 3G, data networks used with other phones..... IPhone provides a wireless connection to YouTube........ IPhone runs Apple's Safari browser. You can view full Web pages, then double-tap the screen to zoom in....... You can watch movies, music videos, podcasts and TV shows synced through iTunes... much more goodies to read
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/06/28/technology/circuits/28pogue.html?ei=5090&en=6db6ecaa7a2c97d0&ex=1340683200&adxnnl=1&partner=rssuserland&emc=rss&adxnnlx=1183037022-bTzvjmbedtDMAhvwyVkyLQ
Do you have iPhone envy? Here are some things to know
Sign up for business enewsletters
http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070628/BUSINESS/7062
Often-Asked iPhone Questions
USA TODAY REVIEW: Apple's iPhone isn't perfect, but it's worthy of the hype
June 28, 2007
By Edward C. Baig
USA Today
http://www.freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070628/NEWS09/70627089/1001/NEWS
Still, iPhone isn't perfect, or even the most ideal smartphone for every user. It's pricey. It lacks certain features found on some rival devices. AT&T's coverage was spotty in some areas I tested over the past two weeks. Your employer may prevent you from receiving corporate e-mail on the device.....iPhone is a "quad-band GSM" phone, meaning you can operate it overseas......On the data side, it works through AT&T's Edge network, which is pokey compared with third-generation, or 3G, data networks used with other phones..... IPhone provides a wireless connection to YouTube........ IPhone runs Apple's Safari browser. You can view full Web pages, then double-tap the screen to zoom in....... You can watch movies, music videos, podcasts and TV shows synced through iTunes... much more goodies to read
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/06/28/technology/circuits/28pogue.html?ei=5090&en=6db6ecaa7a2c97d0&ex=1340683200&adxnnl=1&partner=rssuserland&emc=rss&adxnnlx=1183037022-bTzvjmbedtDMAhvwyVkyLQ
Do you have iPhone envy? Here are some things to know
Sign up for business enewsletters
http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070628/BUSINESS/7062
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
Shaaking up Mobile market
interesting read
Apple has always had "cool" and interesting harware and software eventhough the has public has failed to notice by buying what is really good. This changes with the ipod. Naysayers are dissing the price. The price is right but later they price will go down, the phone will get even better and even more will buy. I don't have an iPod but would like an iPhone in the future.
Apple takes risks in bid to shake up the mobile market
By Kevin Allison
Published: June 25 2007 18:22 | Last updated: June 25 2007 18:22
http://www.ft.com/cms/s/13c627c4-233e-11dc-9e7e-000b5df10621.html
Apple has always had "cool" and interesting harware and software eventhough the has public has failed to notice by buying what is really good. This changes with the ipod. Naysayers are dissing the price. The price is right but later they price will go down, the phone will get even better and even more will buy. I don't have an iPod but would like an iPhone in the future.
Apple takes risks in bid to shake up the mobile market
By Kevin Allison
Published: June 25 2007 18:22 | Last updated: June 25 2007 18:22
http://www.ft.com/cms/s/13c627c4-233e-11dc-9e7e-000b5df10621.html
Monday, June 25, 2007
iphone is coming
Despite the fact many say that the new iPhone costs too much, it will be here soon. And I think many will buy.
Consumers, Industry Eagerly Await iPhone
http://money.aol.com/news/articles/_a/consumers-industry-eagerly-await-iphone/n20070624142909990001
Consumers, Industry Eagerly Await iPhone
http://money.aol.com/news/articles/_a/consumers-industry-eagerly-await-iphone/n20070624142909990001
Saturday, June 16, 2007
Tuesday, June 12, 2007
Apple offers Safari for Windows
Apple offers Safari for Windows
A new version of the No. 3 Web browser aimed at Windows users could boost Apple's share of a market dominated by Internet Explorer.
http://money.cnn.com/2007/06/11/technology/bc.apple.browser.reut/index.htm?section=money_email_alerts
A new version of the No. 3 Web browser aimed at Windows users could boost Apple's share of a market dominated by Internet Explorer.
http://money.cnn.com/2007/06/11/technology/bc.apple.browser.reut/index.htm?section=money_email_alerts
Saturday, May 26, 2007
Apple: America's best retailer
This is must read for all mac diehards. The figures statistics about the Apple stores are astounding!!!
http://money.cnn.com/magazines/fortune/fortune_archive/2007/03/19/8402321/index.htm
http://money.cnn.com/magazines/fortune/fortune_archive/2007/03/19/8402321/index.htm
Dialing in to the iPhone bonanza
Dialing in to the iPhone bonanza
Apple isn't the only stock expecting gains from the iPhone craze. Other companies could profit too. Fortune's Stephanie Mehta makes the call.
Friday, May 18, 2007
Apple is the best retailer - here's why
this is a remarkable insightful article
"Why Apple is the best retailer in America - March 19, 2007-"
"Sorry Steve, Here's Why Apple Stores Won't Work," BusinessWeek wrote with great certainty in 2001. "It's desperation time in Cupertino, Calif.," opined ...well how things have changed
Read this :
Saks takes in $362 per square foot----> Apple stores on average take in (gulp) $4032 p.s.f.
In 2004 , Apple reached $1 billion sales for the year
----> 2006 Apple reached in the stores 1 billion per quarter
read more how it is done
http://money.cnn.com/magazines/fortune/
Dail the new Apple phones soon
Dialing in to the iPhone bonanza
Apple isn't the only stock expecting gains from the iPhone craze. Other companies could profit too. Fortune's Stephanie Mehta makes the call.
http://money.cnn.com/magazines/fortune/fortune_archive/2007/05/28/100034326/index.htm
apple's ipon cleared for sale
http://money.cnn.com/2007/05/17/technology/bc.apple.iphone.reut/index.htm?section=money_email_alerts
http://money.cnn.com/magazines/fortune/fortune_archive/2007/03/19/8402321/index.htm
Apple isn't the only stock expecting gains from the iPhone craze. Other companies could profit too. Fortune's Stephanie Mehta makes the call.
http://money.cnn.com/magazines/fortune/fortune_archive/2007/05/28/100034326/index.htm
apple's ipon cleared for sale
http://money.cnn.com/2007/05/17/technology/bc.apple.iphone.reut/index.htm?section=money_email_alerts
http://money.cnn.com/magazines/fortune/fortune_archive/2007/03/19/8402321/index.htm
Tuesday, May 1, 2007
Apple TV stuff -what is it good for? absolutely something
Apple TV stuff -what is it good for? absolutely something
I am still not sure about the feasability of the Apple TV so I went hunting for more information.
http://www.macworld.com/topics/appletv/index.php?lsrc=mwpvw
I am still not sure about the feasability of the Apple TV so I went hunting for more information.
http://www.macworld.com/topics/appletv/index.php?lsrc=mwpvw
Sunday, April 29, 2007
Food Network : Ace of Cakes show MacSightings
MacSightings
(1) Food Network : Ace of Cakes show
One of the women in the show is constantly using her Imac flatpanel for different projects
(1) Food Network : Ace of Cakes show
One of the women in the show is constantly using her Imac flatpanel for different projects
Saturday, April 28, 2007
Friday, April 27, 2007
Apple’s earning are doing really well as of late based on sales of Macs and iPods.
Apple’s earning are doing really well as of late based on sales of Macs and iPods.
Sounds good to us
http://news.yahoo.com/s/usatoday/20070426/tc_usatoday/strongsalesofmacsipodshaveappledancing
Sounds good to us
http://news.yahoo.com/s/usatoday/20070426/tc_usatoday/strongsalesofmacsipodshaveappledancing
Thursday, April 19, 2007
switched from pc to mac
This school system switched to Mac. Must know something other school districts don't?
switched from pc to mac
http://www.apple.com/education/profiles/cambridge/
Dr. Eric Flescher, Olathe, KS(dreric1kansas@aol.com): DrEric1MacNews/Macsightings Blog : http://dreric1macnewsmacsightings.blogspot.com/
switched from pc to mac
http://www.apple.com/education/profiles/cambridge/
Dr. Eric Flescher, Olathe, KS(dreric1kansas@aol.com): DrEric1MacNews/Macsightings Blog : http://dreric1macnewsmacsightings.blogspot.com/
Sunday, April 8, 2007
If when or how ? Microsoft can beat iTunes
How Microsoft can beat iTunes
By David Carnoy
Executive editor, CNET Reviews
(April 2, 2007)
http://reviews.cnet.com/4520-6449_7-6722226-1.html?tag=nl.e729#talkback
By David Carnoy
Executive editor, CNET Reviews
(April 2, 2007)
http://reviews.cnet.com/4520-6449_7-6722226-1.html?tag=nl.e729#talkback
The 15 Best Places to Waste Time on the Web
There are some good ones here- Some you know about and some you may not.
The 15 Best Places to Waste Time on the Web
By Christopher Null, PC World
Saturday, April 7, 2007
John Hodgemen of the Apple ad fame NPR 4/7/2007
John Hodgman of the Apple ad fame was on NPR radio 4/7/2007. I just happened to catch him. He talked about he got the gig. He also said that when he happened to go into the SOHO Apple store, he was immediately mobbed as the girl at the counter jumped up and down. The Apple people then started to play his Apple commercials all over the store.
what a hoot!!
www.slate.com/id/2143810/
ple commercials all over the store.what a hoot!!
www.slate.com/id/2143810/
Thursday, March 22, 2007
Microsoft still 'abusive,' says Europe gee I did not think this would happen yeah right why am I not surprised?
Microsoft still 'abusive,' says Europe gee I did not think this would happen yeah right why am I not surprised? What is the matter with those Europeans.
Do they think a couple Billion dollars in fine will solve what they perceive as a problem? Microsoft could care less and you know whose fault it is - pc users
Top antitrust official tells European Parliament that software giant is still illegally abusing Windows dominance to gain market share.
03/22/07 09:44 AM, EDT
The European Union's top antitrust official, Neelie Kroes, told the European Parliament on Thursday that software giant Microsoft continued to gain market share through abusive behavior.
FULL STORY
http://money.cnn.com/2007/03/22/news/international/bc.microsoft.eu.kroes.reut/index.htm?section=money_email_alerts
Do they think a couple Billion dollars in fine will solve what they perceive as a problem? Microsoft could care less and you know whose fault it is - pc users
Top antitrust official tells European Parliament that software giant is still illegally abusing Windows dominance to gain market share.
03/22/07 09:44 AM, EDT
The European Union's top antitrust official, Neelie Kroes, told the European Parliament on Thursday that software giant Microsoft continued to gain market share through abusive behavior.
FULL STORY
http://money.cnn.com/2007/03/22/news/international/bc.microsoft.eu.kroes.reut/index.htm?section=money_email_alerts
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
1984 Ad integrated into Hillary Obamized ad
I saw the 1984 Ad integrated into Hillary Obamized ad on TV on 3/20/2007
While most of the talk is about politcal stuff like in this url below, what I found that CNN and Loud Dobbs were mostly talking about this ad as more copyright infringement- interesting
The ad has Hillary on the big screen as 1984 overlord. The women hurls the sledgehammer at the screen and it explodes . A big O then appears in multicolored old Apple colors.
Creative I think. It will be interested to find out who will claim authorship
http://www.newsfactor.com/news/YouTube-and-the-Birth-of-YouPolitics/story.xhtml?story_id=11000A3XKAQI
While most of the talk is about politcal stuff like in this url below, what I found that CNN and Loud Dobbs were mostly talking about this ad as more copyright infringement- interesting
The ad has Hillary on the big screen as 1984 overlord. The women hurls the sledgehammer at the screen and it explodes . A big O then appears in multicolored old Apple colors.
Creative I think. It will be interested to find out who will claim authorship
http://www.newsfactor.com/news/YouTube-and-the-Birth-of-YouPolitics/story.xhtml?story_id=11000A3XKAQI
Sunday, March 18, 2007
Apple on- put it directly to your forehead Apple megapatch plugs 45 security holes
Apple megapatch plugs 45 security holes
Apple issued a security update for its Mac OS X to plug 45 security holes, including several zero-day ...
The megapatch is the seventh Apple security patch release in three months. It deals with vulnerabilities in Apple's own software, as well as third-party components such as Adobe Systems' Flash Player, OpenSSH and MySQL. Sixteen of the vulnerabilities addressed by the update were previously released as part of two high-profile bug-hunting campaigns.
The vulnerabilities pose varying risks to Macs. Several of the flaws could be exploited to gain full control over a Mac running the vulnerable component, according to Apple's advisory
See all stories on this topic. Other holes are limited and could only be exploited to crash a Mac or used by somebody who already has access to a machine to elevate privileges, for example.
One focus of the patch is to fix eight vulnerabilities in the way Mac OS X handles disk images, files that when opened appear as a drive within the Macintosh Finder
http://news.com.com/Apple+megapatch+plugs+45+security+holes/2100-1002_3-6166971.html?tag=nefd.top
Apple issued a security update for its Mac OS X to plug 45 security holes, including several zero-day ...
The megapatch is the seventh Apple security patch release in three months. It deals with vulnerabilities in Apple's own software, as well as third-party components such as Adobe Systems' Flash Player, OpenSSH and MySQL. Sixteen of the vulnerabilities addressed by the update were previously released as part of two high-profile bug-hunting campaigns.
The vulnerabilities pose varying risks to Macs. Several of the flaws could be exploited to gain full control over a Mac running the vulnerable component, according to Apple's advisory
See all stories on this topic. Other holes are limited and could only be exploited to crash a Mac or used by somebody who already has access to a machine to elevate privileges, for example.
One focus of the patch is to fix eight vulnerabilities in the way Mac OS X handles disk images, files that when opened appear as a drive within the Macintosh Finder
http://news.com.com/Apple+megapatch+plugs+45+security+holes/2100-1002_3-6166971.html?tag=nefd.top
Friday, March 9, 2007
Apple: iTunes glitches remain on Vista
I am not surprised . Vista has so many iTunes of course will take time. The thing is Microsoft pushes itself out knowing it will have loads of mistakes and upgrades. Itunes and Apple stuff is not in the same area though.
Apple: iTunes glitches remain on Vista
PC users were warned against installing Vista until probl
ems were fixed
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/17489688/wid/11915829
Apple: iTunes glitches remain on Vista
PC users were warned against installing Vista until probl
ems were fixed
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/17489688/wid/11915829
Thursday, March 8, 2007
Apple may soon introduce speedy mini-laptop
Apple may soon introduce speedy mini-laptop
Small portable computer would break usual mold by using flash memory, the same type used in most iPods, says analyst.
03/08/07 02:50 PM, EST
Apple may sell zippy notebook computers later this year that use the same type of fast memory as music players and digital cameras, driving down prices of hard-disk drives, an analyst said on Thursday.
FULL STORY
http://money.cnn.com/2007/03/08/technology/apple.reut/index.htm?section=money_email_alerts
Small portable computer would break usual mold by using flash memory, the same type used in most iPods, says analyst.
03/08/07 02:50 PM, EST
Apple may sell zippy notebook computers later this year that use the same type of fast memory as music players and digital cameras, driving down prices of hard-disk drives, an analyst said on Thursday.
FULL STORY
http://money.cnn.com/2007/03/08/technology/apple.reut/index.htm?section=money_email_alerts
Wednesday, March 7, 2007
Top 5 MP3 Players flash and HD based
Believe it or not, I still have not bought an iPod of any kind or another mp3 player. I don't need to hear "my songs" all the time. I listen to them sometimes when I get on my Imac rounddome computer. I don't have a zillion songs I like, I might have less then 500 from my cds and ones that I have downloaded from itunes store.
Top 5 MP3 Players (Flash-Based)
These are the top flash-based MP3 players today, but ratings and rankings can change quickly due to pricing and technology changes, so check back frequently for the latest info.
By Eric Butterfield
Top 5 MP3 Players (Hard Drive-Based)
These are the top hard drive-based MP3 players today, but ratings and rankings can change quickly due to pricing and technology changes, so check back frequently for the latest info.
Saturday, March 3, 2007
Parrallel program for windows on mac
From Parallels to Fusion
Posted by Jason Compton at 11:34PM, Friday 2nd March 2007
Virtualization vendors square off in competition for Macintosh-to-Windows desktop users
BofA: Apple Macintosh user base estimate: 22 million and counting
Friday, March 02, 2007 - 03:49 PM EST
http://www.itpro.co.uk/applications/news/106456/from-parallels-to-fusion.html
Posted by Jason Compton at 11:34PM, Friday 2nd March 2007
Virtualization vendors square off in competition for Macintosh-to-Windows desktop users
BofA: Apple Macintosh user base estimate: 22 million and counting
Friday, March 02, 2007 - 03:49 PM EST
http://www.itpro.co.uk/applications/news/106456/from-parallels-to-fusion.html
You would think Microsoft would welcome Vista on the macs
You would think Microsoft would welcome Vista on the macs. The sales by all accounts are lackluster for many reasons.
see about those who are switching to mac or not upgrading on pcs a this interesting blog
http://tech.yahoo.com/blogs/null/18085
BOSTON: After years of delays and billions in development and marketing efforts, it would seem that Microsoft would want anyone who possibly can to buy its new Windows Vista operating system. Yet Microsoft is making it hard for Mac owners and other potentially influential customers to adopt the software.
http://www.iht.com/articles/2007/02/28/business/ptvista.php
see about those who are switching to mac or not upgrading on pcs a this interesting blog
http://tech.yahoo.com/blogs/null/18085
BOSTON: After years of delays and billions in development and marketing efforts, it would seem that Microsoft would want anyone who possibly can to buy its new Windows Vista operating system. Yet Microsoft is making it hard for Mac owners and other potentially influential customers to adopt the software.
http://www.iht.com/articles/2007/02/28/business/ptvista.php
Thursday, March 1, 2007
Microsoft puts up roadblocks on Vista for Mac owners
BOSTON: After years of delays and billions in development and marketing efforts, it would seem that Microsoft would want anyone who possibly can to buy its new Windows Vista operating system. Yet Microsoft is making it hard for Mac owners and other potentially influential customers to adopt the software.
http://www.iht.com/articles/2007/02/28/business/ptvista.php
http://www.iht.com/articles/2007/02/28/business/ptvista.php
Monday, February 26, 2007
interesting spin info about Europe and apple
interesting spin info about Europe and apple
• The Curse of Apple's Success
Newsweek - USA
March 5, 2007 issue - Apple, Inc., maker of the Macintosh computer and the iPod, never lets anyone forget what it isn't—Microsoft. ...http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/17312084/site/newsweek/
• The Curse of Apple's Success
Newsweek - USA
March 5, 2007 issue - Apple, Inc., maker of the Macintosh computer and the iPod, never lets anyone forget what it isn't—Microsoft. ...http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/17312084/site/newsweek/
Sunday, February 25, 2007
European corporate moguls want to punish Apple?
wsweek - USA
March 5, 2007 issue - Apple, Inc.,
maker of the Macintosh computer and the iPod, never lets anyone forget what it isn't—Microsoft. ...
By John Sparks
Newsweek International
March 5, 2007 issue - Apple, Inc., maker of the Macintosh computer and the iPod, never lets anyone forget what it isn't—Microsoft. The company's ads show a hipster named Mac humiliating a pale, pudgy loser named PC; its slogan urges consumers to "Think different." But as Apple has evolved from struggling computer maker to digital media giant, it now finds itself cast in a role that had been Microsoft's alone—European corporate villain
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/17312084/site/newsweek/
March 5, 2007 issue - Apple, Inc.,
maker of the Macintosh computer and the iPod, never lets anyone forget what it isn't—Microsoft. ...
By John Sparks
Newsweek International
March 5, 2007 issue - Apple, Inc., maker of the Macintosh computer and the iPod, never lets anyone forget what it isn't—Microsoft. The company's ads show a hipster named Mac humiliating a pale, pudgy loser named PC; its slogan urges consumers to "Think different." But as Apple has evolved from struggling computer maker to digital media giant, it now finds itself cast in a role that had been Microsoft's alone—European corporate villain
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/17312084/site/newsweek/
Tuesday, February 20, 2007
Steve Jobs and Bill Gates to share stage at All Things Digital conference
Steve Jobs and Bill Gates to share stage at All Things Digital conference
http://www.bloggingstocks.com/2007/02/20/steve-to-share-stage/
http://www.bloggingstocks.com/2007/02/20/steve-to-share-stage/
Monday, February 19, 2007
Top five gadgets to avoid
Interesting article
Top five gadgets to avoid gives a peek into companies' technology strategies and consumer response
Posted Feb 16th 2007 12:01PM by Tobias Buckell
Filed under: Microsoft (MSFT), Sony Corp ADR (SNE), Best Buy (BBY), Circuit City Stores (CC)
http://www.bloggingstocks.com/2007/02/16/top-five-gadgets-to-avoid-gives-a-peek-into-companies-technolog/
Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) got dinged pretty hard by the article due to products of their own and their close relationship to others.
Windows Vista Operating System got a pass by the Smart Money folks due to the fact that they think there are a few bugs that need to be worked out before you upgrade. With a needed 1GB of RAM the thought is one should wait until upgrading and just get the software new with a new purchase. The sentiment isn't Smart Money's alone. Security expert Bruce Schneier noted in a Forbes article that he thinks
Vista will not actually increase security or stability or speed due to resources Vista will spend continually running, monitoring, and rebooting sub-systems to control DRM. General consumer enthusiasm of Vista doesn't seem to be strong, as earlier reported by BloggingStocks. Certainly nothing at all like the crowds of fans who lined up in long lines for Windows 95 when it first came out.
Top five gadgets to avoid gives a peek into companies' technology strategies and consumer response
Posted Feb 16th 2007 12:01PM by Tobias Buckell
Filed under: Microsoft (MSFT), Sony Corp ADR (SNE), Best Buy (BBY), Circuit City Stores (CC)
http://www.bloggingstocks.com/2007/02/16/top-five-gadgets-to-avoid-gives-a-peek-into-companies-technolog/
Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) got dinged pretty hard by the article due to products of their own and their close relationship to others.
Windows Vista Operating System got a pass by the Smart Money folks due to the fact that they think there are a few bugs that need to be worked out before you upgrade. With a needed 1GB of RAM the thought is one should wait until upgrading and just get the software new with a new purchase. The sentiment isn't Smart Money's alone. Security expert Bruce Schneier noted in a Forbes article that he thinks
Vista will not actually increase security or stability or speed due to resources Vista will spend continually running, monitoring, and rebooting sub-systems to control DRM. General consumer enthusiasm of Vista doesn't seem to be strong, as earlier reported by BloggingStocks. Certainly nothing at all like the crowds of fans who lined up in long lines for Windows 95 when it first came out.
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