iPhone firmware 1.1.1 released, WiFi Music Store included - Engadget

iPhone firmware 1.1.1 released, WiFi Music Store included - Engadget:

• iTunes Wi-Fi Music Store • Louder speakerphone and receiver volume • Home Button double-click shortcut to phone favorites or music controls • Space bar double-tap shortcut to intelligently insert period and space • Mail attachments are viewable in portrait and landscape • Stocks and cities in Stocks and Weather can be re-ordered • Apple Bluetooth Headset battery status in the Status Bar • Support for TV Out • Preference to turn off EDGE/GPRS when roaming internationally • New Passcode lock time intervals • Adjustable alert volume

Slick: Vaio Zoom Concept is Exactly How We Want Laptops to Look in the Future - Gizmodo

Slick: Vaio Zoom Concept is Exactly How We Want Laptops to Look in the Future - Gizmodo: "This Vaio Zoom laptop concept is one of the coolest we've seen. Featuring a holographic glass screen that goes transparent and a keyboard that turns opaque when turned off, it's slick and beautiful. And sure, a touch keyboard like this would be extremely annoying without haptic feedback and screens like that don't really exist yet, but it's an interesting look at what we'll be playing with a few years down the line. Despite the fact that this isn't an official Sony concept, we still think they should work at making it a reality. Check another image after the jump."

Sony VAIO TZ Review

Sony VAIO TZ Review: "The Sony TZ is the latest offering from Sony in the ultra portable market. With its small size and extreme low weight, it is a must on any business traveler's notebook list. The Sony TZ combines a new LED backlight display, solid state drive, over-sized battery, and ultra low voltage processors from Intel to make it an all around extended battery performer. Read on to find out how the paper specs stack up in real world use."

DailyTech - NBC Universal to Offer Free TV Show Downloads

DailyTech - NBC Universal to Offer Free TV Show Downloads: "According to The New York Times, NBC Universal isn’t stopping there. The media conglomerate will offer a new online service called NBC Direct. With NBC Direct, customers will be able to download TV shows to a Windows-based PC for free immediately after they have aired. Once downloaded, the episodes would be viewable for one week."

install pfsense on a CF card

Having just gone through my first pfsense & m0n0wall installation *yawn* I thought I would share and record this before I forget. Installing pfsense on a compact flash can be pain since the embedded images are meant to be used on a small appliance device that doesn't have VGA support. You will hear the line that it supports serial access only.

If you try to boot up a CF card with the regular embedded image you will get a message that looks like this:

Searching for Boot Record from IDE-0..OK

BTX Loader 1.00 BTX version is 1.01 Consoles: internal video/keyboard BIOS drive C: is disk0 BIOS 639KB/257024kB available memory

FreeBSD/i386 bootstrap loader, Revision 1.1 (sullrich@builder.livebsd.com, Sun Oct 29 01:30:00 UTC 2006) Loading /boot/defaults/loader.conf /

and then it hangs. It is actually working in the background, just not echoed to the screen.

In order to get pfsense onto your compact flash card with vga support you will need a 3rd party modified version of the image. Hacom is currently a source for those images:

Network Appliances \ pfSense Appliances \ pfSense Firewall Software

When you get there, you will see file names like this:

• pfSense-1.2-RC2-1gb-ad0.img.gz

You will notice that there are several version of each firmware:

pfSense-1.2-RC2-1gb-ad0.img.gz

The first part is the firmware version, in this case it's version 1.2 RC2.

pfSense-1.2-RC2-1gb-ad0.img.gz

The second portion is the the size of the compact flash card you will be using not RAM (e.g.128, 256, 512, 1gb). The example is for a 1 GB memory card. They have already expanded the images to make up to that size usable, I'm guessing this is much the way a Tivo hard drive upgrade works).

pfSense-1.2-RC2-1gb-ad0.img.gz

The next part is the location of the CF card on your IDE chain (e.g. ad0, ad2, da0). I'm no expert but I believe this is what they mean:

• ad0: primary master IDE (/dev/ad0)
• ad1: primary slave IDE (/dev/ad1)
• ad2: secondary master IDE (/dev/ad2)
• ad3: secondary slave IDE (/dev/ad3)
• da0: USB memory stick (/dev/da0)

and the final section just shows that it is a gzipped image.

To write these onto a compact flash card, unzip them and use physdiskwrite.

http://m0n0.ch/wall/physdiskwrite.php

1. Connect your compact flash to your computer.
2. save phydiskwrite.exe and the ungzipped pfsense image (pfSense-1.2-RC2-1gb-ad0.img) to the same directory
   • c:\temp\phydiskwrite.exe
   • c:\temp\pfSense-1.2-RC2-1gb-ad0.img
3. open DOS window
   • start > run > cmd
4. navigate to the directory
   • c:
   • cd \temp
5. start phydiskwrite
   • phydiskwrite pfSense-1.2-RC2-1gb-ad0.img
   • if the image file you're writing to the compact flash card is larger than 2GB then you may need to use the "-u" switch. Currently 1Gb is the largest size downloadable.
     • phydiskwrite -u pfSense-1.2-RC2-1gb-ad0.img
6. phydiskwrite will now ask for which device to write to. If you pick the wrong one you could over write your hard drive. Make absolutely sure before you select one.
   • Roadkil's Disk Image is another utility to write an image and is GUI based, it looks friendlier than phydiskwrite, but I haven't used it before. Try at your own risk.
7. Get those thumbs twiddling. If you are writing the 1GB image, it will take a looooooong time, over an hour.
8. Properly drop the compact flash using the Safely Disconnect Hardware utility in your system tray.
9. YOU'RE DONE!!!!!!!!!!!

Sept 20, 2007: Just an update that everything is amazingly still working great!

Fujifilm FinePix F50fd, Image Stabilized: Digital Photography Review

Fujifilm FinePix F50fd, Image Stabilized: Digital Photography Review: "FinePix F50fd Ups Ante With Dual Image Stabilization, Face Detection 2.0 Technology and ISO Levels Of Up To 6400"

Pet Moustache

Pet Moustache

Give yourself or someone else a 'stache

dryers and stupid clothing companies

There should be a rule. EVERYTHING CAN GO IN THE DRYER UNLESS IT SAYS IT CAN'T! If the clothes will shrink if they go anywhere near heat then there should be a label on them with exact instructions on what should be done with them. I don't see labels on each individual sock I own, they all go in the dryer. 100% cotton into the dryer. And what's with the stores and you ask them if the clothes will shrink. Every store says it might shrink a little bit in length. It won't shrink in width...

Networking and Communication: Cables To Go Unit Gives You USB Function Up to 150 Feet from a Computer, by Arlen Schweiger - Electronic House Product N

Networking and Communication: Cables To Go Unit Gives You USB Function Up to 150 Feet from a Computer, by Arlen Schweiger - Electronic House Product News: "The USB SuperBooster Wall Plate from Cables To Go runs over standard patch cords so your USB-connected device can be in a different room than a host computer without harming room decor."

Beijing's Cardboard-Stuffed Buns a Hoax -- South Florida Sun-Sentinel.com

Beijing's Cardboard-Stuffed Buns a Hoax -- South Florida Sun-Sentinel.com: "BEIJING - A freelance reporter for a Beijing television station has been detained for faking a hidden camera report about street vendors who used chemical-soaked cardboard to fill meat buns, local media said."

Lifehacker Code: Better Gmail (Firefox extension) - Lifehacker

Lifehacker Code: Better Gmail (Firefox extension) - Lifehacker:

Gmail's good, but it could be better. We've featured several Greasemonkey scripts that enhance Gmail in lots of different ways - like adding saved searches, attachment icons, label colors, keyboard macros, a filter assistant and right-click conversation previews.

STEWART/STAND: woven stainless steel wallets

STEWART/STAND

Blackberry Solutions Guide

Bring your worlds together, virtually anywhere.

Whether you're an entrepreneur, executive or busy parent, one thing's for certain: the world is changing. With BlackBerry® solutions, you can connect and collaborate virtually wherever you are. Not just through email, PIM and voice but with access to the applications and information necessary to make important decisions quickly. The BlackBerry Solutions Guide contains hundreds of applications and services that have been developed to help you do just that. Allowing you to access everything you need to be successful right at your fingertips.

Medbroadcast: Report: Cardboard main ingredient in steamed buns sold as Beijing street food

Infections - Signs, Symptoms, Causes & Treatment - Medbroadcast:

BEIJING (AP) - Chopped cardboard, softened with an industrial chemical and made tasty with pork flavouring, is a main ingredient in batches of steamed buns sold in one Beijing neighbourhood, state television said...

"What's in the recipe?" the reporter asks. "Six to four," the man says.

"You mean 60 per cent cardboard? What is the other 40 per cent?" asks the reporter. "Fatty meat," the man replies.

The bun maker and his assistants then give a demonstration on how the product is made.

Squares of cardboard picked from the ground are first soaked to a pulp in a plastic basin of caustic soda - a chemical base commonly used in manufacturing paper and soap - then chopped into tiny morsels with a cleaver. Fatty pork and powdered seasoning are stirred in.

Soon, steaming servings of the buns appear on-screen. The reporter takes a bite.

"This baozi filling is kind of tough. Not much taste," he says. "Can other people taste the difference?"

"Most people can't. It fools the average person," the maker says. "I don't eat them myself."

The police eventually show up and shut down the operation

Prime The Pump: Letterman Jerks Off Optimus Prime - Gizmodo

Prime The Pump: Letterman Jerks Off Optimus Prime - Gizmodo: "That David Letterman sure knows how to demo products. Check out his deft operation of this Optimus Prime Transformer, reminding himself of some adolescent transformations of his own. [Late Show with David Letterman, CBS]"

Drop Shipping scam: Aces Full of Links: Half Annoyed

Aces Full of Links: Half Annoyed:

Comment/ Question: Hi,

Would you mind sending this package without a packing slip and/or invoice? I would really appreciate it. Also, please use delivery confirmation, if possible - I only make this suggestion, as the USPS is far less likely to lose the package.

If this item is a different condition (used/new/etc.), binding or media type (softcover/hardcover/tape/disc/etc.), edition or version (international/etc.) or differs in any way from your listing, please refund this order immediately.

You don’t need to respond to this email unless there is a problem with the order. However, if you write me with a question and I don’t respond right away, please hold the order until you hear from me. I receive a lot of emails and sometimes I’m backed up. Thank you!!

Hands-on with T-Mobile HotSpot @Home - Engadget Mobile

Hands-on with T-Mobile HotSpot @Home - Engadget Mobile:

GSM / WiFi handoff is a brilliant idea in theory -- but to be usable, it's gotta be seamless, unnoticeable, and virtually effortless for the user. So far, the national carriers have failed to deliver any solution -- let alone a usable one -- so how does T-Mobile stack up? The Phone Fairy recently dropped off a Nokia 6086 and Linksys WRT56G-TM router to have a go with T-Mobile's just-announced HotSpot @Home service, and our initial impressions are fairly positive. In brief: setup was a snap, the phone's basic but well-designed, GSM / WiFi handoffs were hit or miss, and for ten bones a month, it seems like a square deal. Read on for more, and don't forget to peep the gallery!

Kitten Cannon

Kitten Cannon kinda like penguin baseball

2WG - Garment Bag for Biking to Work

Two Wheel Gear - Home

The Garment Bag for Biking to Work

Our bicycle commuter pannier was developed to simplify getting your clothes, accessories, and papers to and from work. Our bike commuter pannier was designed by cyclists for cyclists. We use it (and abuse it). We guarantee that our Commuter Pannier will simplify bicycle commuting.

Safe Turn Bicycle Indicator Light - Buy One Get One free

Safe Turn Bicycle Indicator Light - Bike Turn Signal: http://safeturn.com/ppolnews.html

Special Offer: "Two for One"

for the readers of PPOL: News

Buy 1 Indicator and receive 1 FREE Buy 2 and receive 2 FREE, buy 3 and receive 3 FREE etc. Limited time only - When you order, the final page is checkout / order form - Go to the Details field and type PPOLNEWS You pay for what you order, as seen on the checkout screen. We will send you the extra Indicators free of charge.

The Safe Turn Indicator is a new Australian invention (patent pending). It is a small, portable, automatic bicycle light indicator that easily clips to the wristband that is provided or to your own glove.

Unlike other bicycle indicators, the Safe Turn Indicator does not require any special action from the cyclist. When your hand is raised to indicate a turn, the internal tilt switch detects the change in the position and the orange light starts to blink.

Retail Price: $19.95 AUD (approx $15.50 USD)

The Safe Turn Indicator offers the following advantages:

Diameter 40mm or 1.6 inches Weight 19 grams or 0.67 oz.

You do not have to learn to use the device, as its use can be combined with your normal hand signals, To accommodate for your individual preferences, the base can be adjusted at 15 degree intervals to allow the tilt switch to function at any angle, Containing 3 LEDs, the indicator is extremely visible and it flashes in a similar fashion as a vehicle/motorbike indicator does, The Indicator is portable, lightweight and has low energy consumption, The Indicator will keep blinking as long as your hand is raised, and The Indicator promotes safe cycling.

Tomato Firmware for Linksys WRT54G / WRT54GS / WRT54G.*

Tomato Firmware | polarcloud.com: "Tomato is a small, lean and simple replacement firmware for Linksys' WRT54G/GL/GS, Buffalo WHR-G54S/WHR-HP-G54 and other Broadcom-based routers. It features a new easy to use GUI, a new bandwidth usage monitor, more advanced QOS and access restrictions, enables new wireless features such as WDS and wireless client modes, raises the limits on maximum connections for P2P, allows you to run your custom scripts or telnet/ssh in and do all sorts of things like re-program the SES/AOSS button, adds wireless site survey to see your wifi neighbors, and more. "

Tip of the Trade: Voyage Linux

Tip of the Trade: Voyage Linux: "The tiny Linux category is filled with excellent, stripped-down specialized Linuxes for all occasions, from desktops to servers to routers to Internet kiosks, and everything else you can think of. They run on embedded devices, router boards, commercial wireless routers (like the Linksys WRT54G series), PCs, blades, USB sticks, CDs and the sleek new IDE flash solid-state drives."

WiFi Paint Security

http://tech.blorge.com/Structure:%20/2007/03/24/new-paint-offers-wireless-protection/

"Assuming" this paint works, wouldn't it have to cover every square inch of surface?  That's okay if you work in a dungeon but what if you are in a regular office that has windows?  Or have the TV boardroom with floor to ceiling glass windows?  Would you need to put in a painted revolving door to ensure any of those sneaky wifi signals don't get out when someone opens a door to the outside?

Forget WEP and WPA; I'm switching over to the EM-SEC Coating System, a recently revealed paint developed by EM-SEC Technologies that acts as an electromagnetic fortress, allowing a wireless network to be contained within painted walls without fear of someone tapping in or hacking wireless networks.

The EM-SEC Coating System is clearly the most secure option aside from stringing out the CAT5, and can be safely used to protect wireless networks in business and government facilities.

offline google reader with gears

http://gears.google.com/

http://www.google.com/reader

Google gears provides offline web application functionality.  I just found out that it support google reader, so you can read your rss feeds in reader offline.

Install gears and then sign of for reader if you haven't already.

In the top bar, there will be a new icon next to your email address.  the green download arrow will sync your offline store and then change to a blue up arrow when it is complete.   You'll now be in offline mode.  click the blue arrow to have your feeds updating live again.

update: Official Google Blog: Feeds on a plane!

Stupid user tricks: Eleven IT horror stories

http://www.itbusiness.ca/it/client/en/home/News.asp?id=43856&PageMem=2

Security silliness
Security should be everyone's job, from CTO to administrative assistant. It's surprising how few organizations recognize this.
I think back to a time right after a fairly large network upgrade. All weekend, day and night, had been spent migrating a nightmare network from a hodgepodge of Windows 95/98/ME and even OS/2 clients with NetWare and Windows NT servers to a clean, homogenous utopia of redundant Windows 2000 Servers on the back and Windows XP Professional desktops on the front. Things hadn't gone quite as smoothly as we'd hoped, so instead of finishing up on Sunday afternoon, we were still putting final tweaks in place on Monday morning.
After we did our last test (making sure all local tape backups were working properly) it was about noon. (Most users by now had logged in, been informed that they needed to choose a new password in accordance with our medium-strong password guidelines, and had chosen a new password.) I stumbled bleary-eyed into the lunchroom for my umpteenth caffeine fix. Chugging my Coke, I almost missed it while mincing out of the lunchroom. But it grabbed my attention from the corner of my eye and caused Coca-Cola to shoot from my schnoz like some enraged soda dragon.
“Password List.” Yes, every user's new password along with IT and even some specific switch passwords had been printed out by a well-meaning secretary and posted in the lunchroom. After they pried my hands from her throat, she explained that she just figured it'd be easier to post them there than to answer all the phone calls when users inevitably forgot them. So she went around and collected them (in my name), built her list, and posted it.
Solution:  User training. Passwords should not be regarded as obstacles but as keys for very important locks. Users must be made aware of such concepts, not simply dropped into new environments. If the secretary had been given a clue, she never would have done it, but the only training this company ever gave her was how to use Word.
Moral:  Preaching may be a pain, but it can sure stop a lot of FUBAR stupidity before it gets very far.

Ultimate weirdness
This one won our Deepest Chuckle Award. Dave Schultz related an incident in which he tagged a note to a network laser printer informing users that if print quality suffered enough to warrant a toner cartridge replacement, they should first “shake a few times to yield a few additional copies.”
Schultz was later berated because a user suffered a work-related back injury by reading the note, then picking up the entire HP LaserJet 4000 and trying to shake the printer back and forth.
Solution: Shoot the user, he's lame now, anyway.
Moral: Never let your blood pressure get too far into the dangerous numbers and keep a bottle of Advil handy.

The Beerbelly and Winerack

 

The Beerbelly

A removable spare tire that also serves a stealth beverage. So now you can not only sport the look that’s legit to the touch (and the frisk), but you can also enjoy a tasty beverage wherever you want, whenever you want! You can even customize your belly.

The Winerack

Now you can turn an A cup in to double Ds AND sport your favorite beverage for yourself and your friends! We get it that some chicks just don’t want that pregnant look that comes with The Beerbelly. We developed The Winerack to “Fill Out” our product line if you will. The picture shown here is of our good friend Sue, who is not, no offense Sue, Well Endowed. Strap on the Winerack and Voila’ Sue’s giving Pamela Anderson a run for the money.

ORM Smackdown!

http://www.secretgeek.net/ormsmackdown.asp

In case you missed it, there was a very amusing DotNetRocks episode this week, billed as an 'ORM Smackdown' (listen here) between Ted Neward and Orein 'Ayende Rahein' Eini

Here's my summary of some of the points of contention [note that this is in my words, not theirs and i expect i've completely missed the point on most of these ;-) ]...

Windows Live Writer Beta

http://writer.live.com/

Fun and easy

Windows Live Writer is a free, downloadable desktop application that helps make blogging easier and more fun.

WYSIWYG editing

Now you don’t have to waste time going through the process of publishing, refreshing, previewing, and tweaking your post to get it looking the way you want. Writer knows the style of your blog (such as headings, fonts, colors, background images, paragraph spacing, and margins) and lets you see what your post will look like before you publish it.

Photo publishing

Writer makes inserting, customizing, and uploading photos to your blog a snap. Once you’ve added your pictures, you can modify size, text wrapping, and borders. Writer also lets you show a smaller thumbnail that links to a larger image for more detail.

Compatibility

Writer is a great client for Windows Live Spaces, and it also works with other weblogs including Blogger, LiveJournal, TypePad, and WordPress (and many others). Writer supports RSD (Really Simple Discoverability), the Metaweblog API, and the Moveable Type API.

Enterprise Java Community: Improving Developer Productivity with Sculptor

Enterprise Java Community: Improving Developer Productivity with Sculptor: "Sculptor is a simple and powerful code generation platform, which provides a quick start to Model Driven Software Development (MDSD). When using Sculptor you can focus on the business domain, instead of technical details. You can use the concepts from Domain-Driven Design (DDD) in the textual Domain Specific Language (DSL). Sculptor uses openArchitectureWare (oAW) to parse the DSL and generate high quality Java code and configuration. The generated code is based on well-known frameworks, such as Spring, Hibernate and Java EE."

SX Series: Portable One

SX Series: Portable One: "The Portable One SX series is a sleek and light weight mobile computing solution that is jam-packed with the same features and conveniences of larger portable workstations. Housed in durable carbon fiber alloy and weighing in at just over 4 pounds, the SX Series boasts a gorgeous cinematic 13.3 inch widescreen UVA display, the latest Intel Core Duo processors, Hitachi 7K100 series hard drives, super multi-format dual-layer optical drive and optional TrioView Transflective display for optimal viewing under all lighting conditions. Other highlights include an integrated Multi-Card Reader for SD/MMC/MS/MS PRO storage, 3 USB 2.0 ports, IEEE 1394 Firewire port, integrated tri-band wireless LAN, Bluetooth 2.0+EDR (PAN), S-Video (TV-Out) & ExpressCard™ slot."

Tecra M8 - Toshiba Laptop

Tecra M8 - Toshiba Laptop:

Optimized for Windows Vista™ and powered by proven Intel® Centrino® Duo processor* technology, including Core™2 Duo* processors* , Tecra® M8 balances exceptional portability with overall size, enabling users to effortlessly handle demanding tasks and applications. Offering a 20% larger viewing area than most 12.1' screens, Tecra® M8's brilliant 13.3' diagonal widescreen TruBrite® display* delivers the optimal combination of viewing experience and carrying comfort, while retaining a system weight starting at a mere 4.5 pounds* including an integrated DVD SuperMulti optical drive.

To help safeguard your hard drive and assist in protecting your critical data, Tecra® M8 integrates a 3D accelerometer. Standard security features, such as multi-level passwords and an on-board fingerprint reader protect user privacy and prevent unauthorized access. The 1.3 megapixel Webcam facilitates videoconferencing, while on-board connectivity options reliably meet a broad range of user networking requirements. Available Intel® Wireless* Wi-Fi® Link 4965AGN allows users to enjoy up to 5X the performance and up to 2X the range with draft 802.11n* wireless.

Portege R500 - Toshiba Laptop

Portege R500 - Toshiba Laptop:

The Ultimate Ultraportable With its ultralight design and stunning silhouette, the feather light 1.72 pound† Portégé® R500 Series is the transcendent expression of executive mobility and style. Offering the world's lightest* widescreen 12.1" notebook PC in one configuration, and the world's thinnest widescreen 12.1" notebook PC with an integrated DVD-SuperMulti drive in another, the Portégé® R500 Series represents an uncompromising synthesis of portability and productivity that's meticulously engineered for the demands of executive computing.

†Lightest model configuration of 1.72 lbs is based on a 64GB solid state drive (SSD), a 3 cell battery and no optical disk drive. The Portégé® R500 with the solid state drive will not be available until the end of July 2007. Weight may vary.

Dell XPS m1330 performance ultraportable revealed - Engadget

Dell XPS m1330 performance ultraportable revealed - Engadget

We've got the scoop on some early marketing materials / renders for Dell XPS m1330, and we have to say, this is as impressed as we've ever been with a Dell laptop. Check it out:

• 13.3-inch screen, configurable with LED backlight! (300cd/m2, or 220 with CCFL backlight)
• Core 2 Duo processor (up to 2.4GHz), Santa Rosa chipset (965PM/GM)
• Up to 4GB DDR2 SDRAM
• 32GB SSD drive or spinning-platter drive options up to 250GB
• Slot-loading dual-layer DVD±RW drive!
• Optional NVIDIA GeForce Go 8400M GS / 128MB
• WWAN option for Verizon, Sprint, or AT&T
• Ethernet, 802.11a, a/g, or n options, Bluetooth option
• Integrated 2 megapixel webcam (VGA only on LED-backlit display)
• HDMI, VGA, 1394, (2) USB 2.0, integrated media reader (MS, SD, xD), dual mini-PCI slots, fingerprint reader
• Dimensions with LED 12.5 x 9.4 x 0.87 - 1.33-inches (318 x 238 x 22.1 - 33.8mm) / with CCFL 12.5 x 9.4 x 0.97 - 1.43-inches (318 x 238 x 24.6 - 36.3mm)
• Weight starts at 4 pounds

nuTsie Beta Review by LAPTOP Magazine

nuTsie Beta Review by LAPTOP Magazine: "nuTsie Beta This clever service streams your iTunes wirelessly--no PC required--to a select group of cell phones, but the Web-based player is what's more compelling for now."

Chocolate Candy Bars - Gourmet Milk, Dark & White Chocolate Candy Bars from Vosges Haut-Chocolat - Bacon Exotic Candy Bar

Philips Bodygroom

Philips Bodygroom

This one has been ripped off from the button guy. All likeness and similarities to said button guy are purely intentional and all rights to said likeness belong to whomever chooses to invoke those rights.

Pictures I Like For A Variety Of Reasons - Happy Mother's Day

Pictures I Like For A Variety Of Reasons - Happy Mother's Day

credit goes to the button guy

WiFi Routers: Silent, Blinking Death?

WiFi Routers: Silent, Blinking Death?

The Real Utility Belt

The Real Utility Belt Originally uploaded by seafoam.

686 CHECKER WEAVE SNOW TOOLBELT

100% full grain waterproofing checker pattern woven leather belt

• Detachable steel, alloy and brass buckle with bottle opener
• Detachable double prongs with #2 phillips screwdriver
• Detachable loop with 8mm, 10mm and 11mm wrenches
• Blackened copper finish on buckle and loop

Available in Dark Brown Sizes: SM/MD or LG/XL

Dave VE7CNV's Truly Canadian Dictionary of Canadian Spelling

Dave VE7CNV's Truly Canadian Dictionary of Canadian Spelling: "This is a dictionary with Canadian English spelling. There are many dictionaries out there which call themselves 'Real Canadian' English dictionaries; however, I have never* seen one that really was. They all give priority to American spelling for such words as 'color' instead of listing it under the Canadian spelling of 'colour.' Some people say to just use a British dictionary; however, Canadian spelling is different in many cases."

No 50 Real programmers code in binary

No 50 Real programmers code in binary

wires_dirty on Toyota MAF (Mass Air Flow sensor)

wires_dirty on Toyota MAF (Mass Air Flow sensor)
Originally uploaded by seafoam.

wires_dirty on Toyota MAF (Mass Air Flow sensor)

www.4x4wire.com/toyota/maintenance/tacoma_4runner_30k/wir...



Urgent / Recall Notice 60I-Reprogram ECM



My wife's '01 RAV4 has had the P0420/P0430 code (cat efficiency below threshold) occur since '03. When it first happened, I took it into the dealership and they replaced the cat under the 80K emissions warranty and forgot to reset the light so I did with my OBDII scanner. I thought all was well until the light came back on a couple days later. This time I read the code and it gave a lean code (P0171/P0174). I called the dealer again and they said it needs new O2 sensors and wanted to charge me an arm and a leg since O2 sensors are considered electrical and not emissions (stupid EPA rules, I know). Anyway, I told them no thank you and started to see if it indeed was the O2 sensors. I did lots of searching and it wasn't until I brought up the issue with a buddy of mine that is a Nissan/Infiniti master tech that I found the solution. He suggested that it's probably a dirty MAF sensor and said that older Maximas had the exact same problem. I figured it was worth a try so I took out the MAF (located on the back side of the intake tubing and is removed in about 10 minutes with 2 screws) and cleaned it with brake cleaner (also have used throttle body cleaner -- better idea). After waiting a few minutes to let it dry, I reinstalled the MAF sensor and reset the codes and voila! problem solved for good...at least for a year or so when it gets dirty again. Apparently Toyota's original ECM program's acceptable MAF readings is too narrow so when the MAF gets a little dirty it freaks out. I've had to clean the MAF two times since and every time the problem was solved (last year it registered the infamous P0420/P0430 code again and this year it threw the lean codes -- P0171/P0174).




Occasional problems on this vehicle are failure of the Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor and the Engine Control Module (ECM) software.

Occasional problems on this vehicle are failure of the Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor and the Engine Control Module (ECM) software. The MAF and ECM software will cause the check engine light to illuminate. Toyota has revised the software so the Check Engine Light will not illuminate falsely and set trouble codes related to the Catalyst System. Factory warranty covers this software update for 8 years or 80,000 miles. The cost to replace the MAF Sensor is estimated at $139.95 for parts and $52.00 for labor. The cost to recalibrate the ECM is $65.00 for labor. All prices are estimates based on $65.00 per flat rate hour and do not include diagnostic time or any applicable sales tax.

gmail-greasemonkey - Google Code

gmail-greasemonkey - Google Code:

Various Greasemonkey scripts that enhance Gmail: * Conversation Preview: shows a preview bubble with a conversation contents while viewing the list of messages (i.e. without requiring navigation to another page) - more info * Fixed Font Toggle: adds a font toggle button so that messages can be viewed in a fixed-width font more info * Label Colors: allows labels to be colored so they stand out more more info * Macros: adds more keyboard shortcuts (for marking messages as read, moving them to the trash, applying labels, etc.) more info even more info * Google Reader Integration: adds a 'Feeds' links in the navigation area that opens up an embedded instance of Google Reader more info * Saved Searches: lets you save search queries so you can re-run them easily more info

10. Textarea Backup (all sites except Gmail) - Lifehacker

10. Textarea Backup (all sites except Gmail) - Lifehacker: "Top 10 Greasemonkey User Scripts, #10: If you spend a lot of time typing into web forms - whether it's for a blog, web mail, forum or comment - you know how painful it can be to accidentally close a tab or your browser and lose your work before you save it. The Textarea Backup script automatically saves the contents of your textareas every 10 keystrokes, whenever the area loses focus and every 10 seconds, for instant restore in case of an accident. (Note: there were some issues with this script auto-filling Gmail To: and BCC: fields, so by default it's disabled in Gmail, which does its own auto-saving anyway.)"

indy - Drowning Girl

www.myspace.com/drowninggirlmusic

A No-Frills Kitchen Still Cooks - New York Times

A No-Frills Kitchen Still Cooks - New York Times:

THE question I’m asked more often than any other is, “What kitchen equipment should I buy? ... In fact, I contend that with a bit of savvy, patience and a willingness to forgo steel-handle knives, copper pots and other extravagant items, $200 can equip a basic kitchen that will be adequate for just about any task, and $300 can equip one quite well.

The Magic of Photoshop In Action at Gear Diary

The Magic of Photoshop In Action at Gear Diary Major, major photoshopping, more like photoshoppingspree

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DZDHQ9b9fbo

io lighting: luxrail | illuminated LED handrail | architectural handrail system

io lighting: luxrail | illuminated LED handrail | architectural handrail system:

luxrail illuminated LED handrail system

Application ANSI and ADA compliant luxrail, is an indoor/outdoor handrail that delivers functional illumination. Two intensities may be specified; "standard light output" & "high output". The standard light output version delivers illuminance levels appropriate for exterior applications (3 to 4 footcandles at grade) as well as dark interior environments with low ambient illumination levels, (i.e. theatres, themed environments). The high output version delivers illuminance levels applicable to interior environments - providing in excess of 10 footcandles along the path of egress (ANSI required). Independent photometric test reports and IES Format data are available upon request from io Lighting.

luxrail's standard handrail gripping surfaces are circular in cross section and meet 2004 ADAAG (Americans with Disability Act Accessibility Guidelines). Beam spread options include 10, 45, and 65 degrees. The 45 and 65 degree beam patterns are most suitable for illuminating pathways while the 10 degree beam spread offers accent lighting to optional glass or stainless steel cable railing infills. Reference page 8 for information regarding infill options. LED lumen depreciation at 50,000 hrs. is 30%.

ALL-ETT Billfolds

Very tempting, might be ordering one of these

ALL-ETT Billfolds:

Ever wanted a great wallet that keeps all of you credit cards, money, and receipts in one, but didn’t want the bulkiness and wearing issues? Well America, here is something for you. It’s called the ALL-ETT, The World Thinnest Wallet and seeing is believing!

• Comfort
• Health
• Durability
• Appearance
• Protection
• Price

Paper Pilot: Battle of the air - SolidWorks

Paper Pilot: Battle of the air - SolidWorks virtually design and throw paper airplanes

World of Warcraft VISA Credit Card

World of Warcraft VISA Credit Card

Awesome: The Keyboard Waffle Iron - Gizmodo

Awesome: The Keyboard Waffle Iron - Gizmodo: "Because breakfast isn't nerdy enough, I present to you the Keyboard Waffle Iron. There's really nothing else to be said about this wonder of modern technology, but I invite you to make your best keyboard/waffle puns in comments. Come on, let's see what you've got. –Adam Frucci"

WTF? The Sharper Image & Trump Steaks ?!?!?!?!?!?!?

The Sharper Image

The Sharper image is one of my favourite stores -- with fantastic products of all kinds. That's why I'm thrilled that they agree with me: Trump Steaks are "The World's Greatest Steaks" -- and I mean that in every sense of the word....

sizeasy - UTStarcom 6700, HTC P4000, BB Pearl

sizeasy - your size comparison website

(( LiteFeeds )) for your mobile phone

(( LiteFeeds )) for your mobile phone

(( 1 )) Add some feeds and choose which you want mobile Choose which feeds you want mobile enabled. Only these mobile enabled feeds will be pushed to your mobile device. You can also choose to receive email alerts for certain feeds. All of your feed configuration is done via your online account so that you never have to struggle on your mobile.

(( 2 )) Install litefeeds on your mobile device Litefeeds mobile is an application that you can install over the air to your mobile device (or download and install). Once installed simply enter your litefeeds username and password and your mobile device will synchronize with your online account, receiving all of your chosen feeds.

(( 3 )) Scan feeds, view full text & images, and clip items Feeds are cached,compressed & stripped so your mobile experience is fast and simple. Quickly scan your feed headlines,descriptions and full text articles. When you see the icon you can select 'View Img' to get any images. Also 'Clip' articles to your online clip board to store and view later.

(( 4 )) Email articles to your friends As you are reading a feed choose 'Email It' from the menu to send that article to a friends email address. Simply type the email address and add comments to the article if desired. Use your online account to configure an address book of 'nicknames' which you can use on your mobile instead of typing the full email address.

(( 5 )) Post articles to your Blog Enter your blog settings in the Configure panel of your online account. Once configured you can post to your blog while mobile with just a click of a button. Simply click 'Blog It' on your mobile to post an article. You can add your own comments alongside the article as well.

(( 6 )) Bookmark articles to your Del.icio.us account Enter your Del.icio.us settings in the Configure panel of your online account. Once configured you can bookmark articles while mobile with just a click of a button. Simply click 'Bookmark' on your mobile to post the article to your Del.icio.us account. You can add your own tags or edit the title as well.

TNT-Stubby - A DIY Speaker Stand Project on TNT-Audio [English]

Do it yourself speaker stands

TNT-Stubby - A DIY Speaker Stand Project on TNT-Audio [English]: "The design is pretty darned simple actually. Sandwich a sand filled piece of 3' schedule 40 PVC between two pieces of solid Red Oak. Tie them together with some 3/8' all thread rod and nuts, slap on some stain and you are done."

Here's a summary of the costs (averaged for a pair, since we built eight).

12" x 12" Red Oak 2' $15.00 8" x 8" Red Oak 2' $13.00 3" Schedule 40 PVC Pipe 4' $ 5.00 3/8" All Thread Rod 4' $1.00 3/8" Hex Nuts 6 $ .30 3/8" Washers 6 $ .18 80 lb Tube of Sand 1 $2.50 Stain and Sundries 1 $1.00 Total Cost for the Pair $37.98

Retrevo - Consumer Electronics Search

Search for consumer electronics quickly. Just tried it out and it looks fairly slick. There is a 3 pane interface with the search categories, search results and preview of each search results. I did a quick search for "Blackberry Pearl' and it came up with the user manual as the first hit.