The Dude Says

Project: Remote Temperature Sensor Array

2012-01-19T14:06:00.000-08:00

Alright. I have begun to work on a new home project and wanted to document my work (because I often forget) and if anyone else is interested. I have broken down this project into 4 phases with my end goal being completed at the end of Phase 4.

Here is my project code named: Thunder Rock (yup, just because).

Phase 1. Develop a temperature sensor that can read the ambient temperature have have it display the readings on my computer via USB connection.

Phase 2. Build a multiple sensor array via wired sensors and have the temperature be displayed on my computer.

Phase 3. Convert sensors to be wireless and transmit the data remotely back to my desktop computer.

Phase 4. Connect working wireless sensor array to the WWW and allow myself to view the different temperatures on the web.

NOTES:
- For the beginning stages of the project I plan to use an Arduino Uno as my micro-controller
- There have been a lot of great resources on internet and I am not trying to re-invent the computer here.

Best & Worst Recommendations

2011-07-23T04:59:00.000-07:00

Updated: 7-23-2011

Below is a list of items that I would always recommend and feel they are a great value and other items I have used and believe them to be a complete waste of money and should be avoided. These are my opinions.

BEST RECOMMENDATIONS

RipIt - [Mac App] This has been a very reliable alternative to backup movies I want to watch at a later date. Very few DVD's it won't work on and it just works when you put the DVD in.

WORST RECOMMENDATIONS

Dell TV - [Consumer Electronics] I purchased a Dell TV probably 5 years ago and only a little over a year it stopped working (remote, display, etc) properly. I will never recommend purchasing a Dell TV ever again with all the other quality alternatives.

Podcasting with two USB Mic's in Garageband PICS -v2.0

2011-03-06T12:44:00.000-08:00

After getting a few requests I have decided to update my old post to current info for OSX 10.6.4 and Garageband 3.0.5. Yes, I know that there is a new version of iLife'11 available but I have not had the need to purchase, but once I do I will update my post to v3.0. Also, new is a notes feature at the end of the post for strange things that I have come across.

This following post is an updated version of my original: Podcasting with two USB Mic's in Garageband PICS

So after searching the internet and apple forums I found some work arounds, but finally found a way that works great and is easy to setup using the utilities provided by my Mac.

So here is how I found out how to do it:

Step 1. Plug both of your USB mics into your Mac

Step 2. Open up the "Audio MIDI Setup" utility Applications -> Utilities -> Audio MIDI Setup

Step 3. In the bottom left of the "Audio MIDI Setup" window click on the "+" button to add a new aggregate device.

Step 4. Locate your two USB mics and check in the "use" column. You can now double click on the new device "Aggregate Device" and change the name. I changed mine to "Dual Blue Snowball Mics" so that I could easily identify it later on.

Step 5. Verify that your newly created aggregate device shows up in your audio settings. You can find it under System Preferences -> Sound -> Inputs

Step 6. Open your Garageband podcast project. You now want to set your Garageband Preferences to take the input from your new aggregate device. Garageband -> Preferences -> Audio/MIDI -> Audio Input and find your device for mine I added Dual Blue Snowball.

Step 7. Now to add the input to the podcast poject. For this I added two new tracks using the Podcasting -> No effects setting (you can set this by using the track info on the right hand side after clicking on the track).

NOTE: Don't forget to change the "input" on the track info to "Channel 1 & 2 (stereo)" for one of the tracks and "Channel 3 & 4 (stereo)" for the second track. Otherwise Garageband won't pick up both mic inputs.

You should now be able to test either mic and verify that they are input and being recorded by Gargageband.

Good luck and happy podcasting.

The dude abides.

NOTES:

- Make sure you are connecting your USB mics directly into the laptop or desktop computer. If you use a USB hub you may have some interference or it may not pickup the mic correctly.

Updated: 3-6-11

Wikipedia the worlds oyster...

2009-06-30T20:29:00.000-07:00

After reading recent criticism about accuracy of Wikipedia I find myself in an interesting position. Currently I am finishing my second Masters degree and over that time I have written countless articles on a wide range of topics from a few pages to over fifty. When asked by my professor to utilize credible sources and "peer reviewed journals" I think nothing over it. I have learned to navigate the educational abyss of the the university library like a busy street during rush hour downtown. However, this doesn't mean I always begin my search flying blind and disregard the wealth of information available on the internet. Thus this brings me to Wikipedia the self regulated largest collection of knowledge with over a couple million english articles. Although I agree that you should never find a wikipedia entry as your primary source it can be a great spot to start your search as it offers a good overview of almost any topic imaginable and if it current doesn't have an article by the end of your research you can author one. Often I have read an entry in Wikipedia as an overview of the topics I am going to examine to help me drill down to that next level and to begin to make sense of what constraints are for the topic.

So the next time you need to research a topic don't shy away from the opportunity to begin your search on the internet using Wikipedia as a starting point. Although remember that it's not a good idea to quote directly from a wikipedia page and it's worth the extra ten minutes to find the original quote from a reputable source.

Be Adventurous in the Current Economy

2009-03-01T06:57:00.000-08:00

Although it may be an interesting turbulent time there appears to be a lot of positives that consumers and investors can take advantage of.

For example:

- Car shopping. Many car dealerships being hit hard by the current economy are beginning to offer better and better deals to car buyer. The trick is that you need to be patient and work them against each other, and also realize that financing may be a sticking point if you need to go through a bank instead of a car dealership themselves. Recently my wife and I had found a great opportunity at a local Honda dealer and recently purchased a 2009 Pilot. We did this because it was once of the rare times that we have ever seen Honda offer such great price on a vehicle.

- Internet shopping. If you have been looking for a particular item it's a great time to browse the internet for deals.

Best way to find deals. Begin at either Google.com (do a quick search for price comparison) or Amazon.com (to find out quick reviews about most products). Next when you find the website you would like to purchase from be sure to use your resources and do a search for "coupon code" etc. This can turn up a lot of hidden treasures and can save you a bundle of money.

To make up for loss of sales companies have been offering steep discounts to get new members or increase sales.

- Buy last years model. When looking to buy something (cars, tv's, etc) consider purchasing the previous model or years product. Many sellers are trying desperately to move these items and continue to offer steep discounts. You may not get the latest/greatest, but you can get a very similar product a great discount.

- Investing. Consider if you have not already begun saving for you future the opportunity of putting away money pre-tax (401K, IRA, etc). This can automatically increase your current savings by using pre-tax money to begin building your nest egg. A good starting point is finding a discount brokerage account and buying a few index funds. **Remember that this is a long-term investment** By investing now you can continue to purchase stocks at a depressed value (even if the market continues to drop).

Overall, may sellers are trying to keep drumming up business and continue to offer sales and discount to keep products moving off the shelves. So if your patient and do your research good things can happen and great deals can be found.

The Dude Abides.

Car Stalking

2009-02-14T11:21:00.000-08:00

So what do we do for fun when we want to have a no hassle approach to car "browsing." My wife and I had coined the phase "car stalking." Which simply put means we do our research online and then find the local dealers that carry the cars we are looking at. After the dealership closes we head over and drive around to look at the model we like, writing down specs from the window sheets and getting a chance to look at the colors. Although this will work for some, I am not suggesting everyone try this. The pros to this are: we can really look at the spec sheets and do a thorough walk around without feeling watching, no pressure to test drive or make a deal. Cons don't get to see the inside and we need to go back to work on the deal.

But overall if your just in the market to "look" at cars we have a found this to be a no-hassle way to do that.

The dude abides.

2008 Tax Suites: Buyer Beware!

2009-01-29T21:48:00.000-08:00

Very sly... buyer beware. As tax season is approaching and those of us early birds who file to get our money back that the government has graciously held for us back have begun working already on our 2008 taxes. However, after doing a little research I have noticed that several tax programs most notably TaxCut (H&R Block) and Turbo Tax (Intuit) have removed the packing of state e-filing from their packages.

Meaning that last year if I would have purchased the "Premier" version of TaxCut I would have been allowed to prepare both Federal and State taxes AND e-file both federal AND state. Currently they have removed these options in their 2008 software packages.

When digging I found a response from a representative at TaxCut that stated that few people had used the state e-filing so they had removed it and lowered the cost. Thus lowering the overall cost of the software package. This may be true and in some instance can save some people some money, but others who are more creatures of habit may overlook this small feature switch. Just a heads up. Now go get cracking on your taxes.

The Dude Abides.

Welcome to the future

2008-12-14T22:08:00.001-08:00

Looking for inspiration in today's world seem very easy to find.

I have the internet at my finger tips (literally via my iPhone) and access to information at incredible speeds. What boggles my mind is the things we are still faced with as a developing society.

Take for instance our recent financial downturn that we have are currently experiencing. Who would have speculated that something like this would have happened? A few did but most of the world didn't listen and now we find ourselves in a pickle. The US housing market has plunged the stock market has crashed and crashed again, and we still don't have an answer on if we will need to bail out the "Big 3." Hindsight is 20/20 but when did we move so recklessly into the future without caution for much of anything?

Now there are tough questions being answered and people and having to "pay the piper." What sucks are the millions of people who were honestly taken advantage of during the housing boom and were given the wrong types or size of mortgages who will suffer because of the other group of people who own two or more houses they were trying to flip or knowingly asked for a $350K mortgage when they could only afford $200K. It's how are system works thought we must flush everything out or help everyone because if we don't those who know how to work the system will get all the benefits while those who truly need it will not.

So looking forward I hope we take a step back and see where we are now and these leaves a small scar on the minds of Americans as we realize what we are capable of good and bad. Because there is a chance to make a difference and turn things around. We have a chance to change our future and make things better, but we must always realize what got us here as well.

The Dude Abides.

Pondering the World - 1

2008-07-01T08:35:00.000-07:00

Things that make me go "huh." One of the biggest items I ponder are why other people do the things they do...

Here are some examples...

- Went to a local restaurant that has a buffet and clearly at the start of the line it clearly states "One bowl please." Yet there are still those people (big, small, old, young, etc) who choose to take two bowls. What in our human nature causes us to disobey a simple guideline. I would imagine its the fact that there are no penalties for anyone who violates this norm and that because others are doing it, it must be OK.

- A second example is where I watched as a car pulled into a parking lot that was full and because there was no room decided to park next to another car (not in a spot) and make their own new row. Even better was they guy in the expensive BMW who pulled up and actually moved a set of cones restricting people from parking in a spot to use the spot for himself.

Where in our history have people found the need to feel entitled to these items?

The Dude Abides.

iPhone 3G - Release Info UPDATE

2008-06-09T09:27:00.000-07:00

EDIT: As all good things go, if it's too good to be true it probably is. The actually release date for the 3G iPhone is set for July 11th.

The new 3G iPhone that is expected and now confirmed via sources from Gizmodo will be released TODAY Monday June 9th after the keynote address by Apple guru Steve Jobs.

Althought it is still based on confirmed sources based on recent news about boxes arriving to retailers worldwide this has some credence.

Now to wait and see what happens.

Follow the news live via MacrumorsLive.com

iPhone 3G - Release date TBD (coming soon)!

2008-04-05T20:43:00.001-07:00

With all the recent news of the new revision of the iPhone due out in the next few months it has spurred some thoughts on how well received this will be and what will it mean for AT&T.

Recently during a presentation Walt Mossberg Co-editor of All Things Digital has stated that iPhone will be 3G within the next 60 days. This has increase speculation about the summer release of the iPhone rev 2.0.

As someone who has waited to jump on the bandwagon for several reasons, but most notably because of the 2 year contract I was tied into with Verizon Wireless has decided to wait it out and switch over in September after my contact expired.

Currently reasons to wait for the next generation of iPhone (mostly speculation):
- 3G network capabilities
- Ability to download and use native (non-internet depended) application on your iPhone
- Ability to cut and paste
- Larger storage capacity 32 GB +
- Corporate system integration (push email, iCal, etc)

It Must Be the Season

2007-12-22T07:03:00.001-08:00

No matter where I go the Holiday's always seem to have an opposite affect on people in regards to shopping. I find myself being cut off for parking spots and brushed out of the way as the hustle and bustle ensues. I find this irony disturbing for the holidays are a time to revel with strangers and celebrate people we love most.

Hence, a key reason why I mostly avoid the in-person shopping experience opting for one of my many favorite online stores such as Amazon.com or an other handful that offer online coupons and free shipping.

Remember next you are out and challenged with a situation, rise above, and bring the holiday spirit with you.

Warm wishes. Happy Holiday and a great New Year.

The Dude Abides.

Rhetorical Question no. 5002548

2007-11-30T22:24:00.000-08:00

When will I be able to use an iPhone on the Verizon network?

Image from: http://www.mobilemag.com/content/100/344/C11529/

Apple playing nice with others...

2007-11-01T11:42:00.000-07:00

With the much anticipated release of the new version of Mac OSX 10.5 Leopard Apple has made some broad claims for the future. The bets have been made that this new version of the operating system will be the "anchor" for future application development. Having had the opportunity to install and use the new system I can see where they are coming from. This new version has several much anticipated features such as Time Machine, Cover Flow viewing, new integrated finder, and countless others.

See Apple's website to view the over 300 new features:
http://www.apple.com/macosx/features/300.html

However big the news isn't about Leopard. Personally I feel the big news came when Apple released info that beginning next year they would be offering a SDK (software development kit) for the iPhone and iPod Touch. This is a huge step in the right direction. I still don't think the end result product will be as smooth as the "install.app" and "jailbreak" versions currently used on hacked iPhones and iPod Touch's but it will be close.

So now I sit in anticipation to see what Apple's next big move will be to cause others to scurry around franticly in an attempt to beat the growing giant.

The Dude Abides.

Pop Culture Entertainment

2007-10-17T21:08:00.000-07:00

So, I find myself sitting in a hotel room while at a business conference and it in between working on things I need break. I begin to browse the web reading some articles and checking out Digg. Next thing I know I am send to the website of a video blogger on youTube. This video made me laugh and reval at the ingenuity of amateur entertainers... rock on vloggerman.

For your viewing pleasure:

The Dude Abides.

iMac update soon upon us?

2007-07-28T05:55:00.002-07:00

UPDATE: The Apple store is currently back up and now showing prices for the iMacs. Although I still hold that this may be an indicator of a soon update of the product line.

Currently the Apple Store is not showing iMacs for sale. This could be first indications new iMac with industrial designs are soon upon us.

Members of the Macrumors forums some people have begun experiencing delays with current iMac orders.

Rumors have pointed to an Aug 7th release, but this may be an indicator of an earlier release.

Here is a screenie from 7/28

Some recent rumors:
http://www.macrumors.com/2007/07/17/imac-revision-and-ilife-on-august-7th/
http://notes.thinksecret.com/secretnotes/0707august7.shtml

iMac update soon upon us?

2007-07-28T05:55:00.001-07:00

Even God Knows About the iPhone

2007-07-09T09:57:00.000-07:00

Now that much of the hype of the iPhone has diminished I thought I would be able to escape the craziness that has ensued from the previous two weeks of the climax and intro of the iPhone... I was mistaken.

Recently I attended the funeral of my grandmother and while we were at her burial the pastor was giving a few words about death and the passing of the soul. During his talk he described the wait that she was going to have to participate in before she got into heaven "just like the people were waiting in line for the phone recently."

I was shocked and for a moment my spirits lifted a bit at the comedic humor involved in this situation. Later afterwards I took a moment to comprehend just how far this iPhone phenomena had really gone and asked my dad an aging boomer who only purchased his Razor phone because it was on-sale when he went into the store. He responded by saying that he had heard about the "iPhone" or Apple attempt at getting into the market, but also described it as an overpriced phone for the offerings.

So it seems that Apple has done a good job of getting the word out on their new "baby." I just hope this thing grows up to live up to the hype and expectations.

The Dude Abides.

Dear Santa (Jobs) where's my HiBRID device?

2007-06-28T20:05:00.000-07:00

Dear Santa (Jobs) where's my HiBRID device?

I would love to purchase the new iPhone for many of it's features, but find the burden of a 2 year AT&T contract overwhelming (and frankly crazy) I currently have Verizon and they have EVDO. So with all the hype surrounding the launch of the new iPhone I thought I would take this moment to write my Dear Santa letter for the year.

Dear Santa (Jobs).
For Christmas (or sooner) I would like a hybrid device that can:
- Sync with iTunes
- Play's music and videos
- Has WiFi connectivity
- A mini version of OSX
- A great version of iCal that actually syncs with my macs
- A device that allows third party software development

You can give the coal and 2 year phone subscription to someone who needs it more than I do.

The Dude.

PS. What's up with the flux in the RDF (Reality Distortion Field) at the WWDC?

The Dude Abides.

Oh my Google!

2007-04-20T07:23:00.000-07:00

Recently among speculation of a release of a the new Google phone and other clever new products, such as a new powerpoint like product in their Google doc lineup.

Recently, BusinessWeek ran an article on the growing giant. Is Google to Powerful April 9, 2007. The article discussed Googlezon spawned from the creation of the merger of both GOOGLE and AMAZON.com. This is also based on EPIC 2014 "a faux documentary posted to the Web in late 2004 by young journalists Matt Thompson and Robin Sloan."

What this all describes is a monolith of a company that has been silently and with a smile on their face growing very large in scope and purpose. Last week Google announced its recent acquisition of DoubleClick another rival online advertising company. This has caused great concern from the others out there because this now offers Google a large share of the market.

A majority of all online searches are being routed through the Google servers and they do their best to keep these statistics to use as competitive advantage. However, with growing concerns over size it is also brings some concern over privacy. Google is frightfully getting close to the edge of the cliff that many other large companies have approached and then fallen off the cliff. It's this your too big and now your the enemy. No one likes things to be to big or to controlling. No matter how much Google does good it's company will begin this slippery slope down to "evil" status.

The enigma currently with Google is what's its business. Google seems to be diversifying over several technology markets, and by doing so is spreading itself very thin. By branding all new products with the Google Docs, Google Calendar, Google Search, Google Adsense, etc. They are creating a culture of Googlemania.

It will be interesting to see where we go next from here. As Google continues to grow and its long arm reaches gets bigger that they take great care and control over its large company.

Cited from: BussinessWeek.com

WoW Gold Farmers use in game "Auction House" to deliver gold!

2007-03-22T14:27:00.000-07:00

WoW gold farmers find new and inventive ways to circumvent the system. Here is an email that was spammed out a few days ago from one such company. This only goes to show the constant struggle in the digital world to provide parameters to control cheating as well as though determined to fight against it.

---------------------------

The fields gave forth an odour of spring, just like our warm greetings here.

Since Blizzard updated the in-game mail system, sometimes your orders of WOW-US Gold
cannot be received in your mailbox after we have made delivery. To ensure that you do
not experience such problems with your order, we have been changing the process of
delivery:

Delivery by In-game Auction House System!

You only need few steps to receiving your gold:

STEP ONE: Fill in the relative information which contains your payment, your character
name, the item name what you provide to sell.

STEP TWO: Set your Buyout price which was based on your order.

STEP THREE: We will do our best to source the gold for you and buyout the items which
you put them on Auction house after confirmed your information.

There are some advantages in this service:
1. You do not need to provide any personal information.
2. We can promise to deliver your order within 24hours.
3. The gold and your account will be arranged the most security.

SAFER, FASTER, COVENIENT!!!
ENJOY OUR BETTER SERVICE NOW!

Best wishes,

Sincerely,
The Team

---------------------------

Digg Scam: Investigative Reporting PICS

2007-03-02T13:58:00.000-08:00

I hope this information can be use to help make Digg stronger and better!

So after reading a few articles on the digg.com conspiracy I decided to do a little investigative reporting. I found a source that was willing to send me some pics and and information about an unnamed website. This site apparently charges money to help promote "Submitted" websites to help promote them on the Digg website.

Here is a screen shot of their main login page:

Here is a shot send to me looking at the user page giving them instructions on how to use the service.

Here is a final shot of the verification that the stories had been dugg by the appropriate user.

IRONY. The irony of the whole situation is that my friend indicated that on average they were receiving a bout 6 - 8 new articles a day and were getting them verified within 24 - 48 hrs.

So looking at that it would be like.

6 stories a day / 3 per .50 = 2 x .5 = $1.00 a day

A DOLLAR A DAY! For that amount of money it would take approximately almost month to get the minimum $20 dollars needed to with withdraw your money. So who is making out like a bandit... um its easy to see.

Most likely users will keep getting banned, blocked, or modded from Digg and will never see a penny from this "company"

So I hope Digg can fix their algorithm to account for the ever changing "attacks".

The Dude Abides. Digg on!

Apple's Clever Product Placement

2007-02-22T13:22:00.000-08:00

Recently while watching two of my favorite TV shows I noticed some clever product placement by Apple.

CSI New York: The non-tech savvy Mac Taylor (Gary Sinise) ironic with the Mac, recently needed to view a video evidence found during an investigation. After bringing the DVD back to the lab Detective Mac Taylor proceeded to play the DVD on his MacMini.

Numb3rs: Although not as direct as the above reference if you are clever you can see that Dr. Charlie Eppes (David Krumholtz) relies on his trusty Mac Book Pro to aide him in his quest to finding the numerical probability with the use of (insert random math theory).

It's no mystery that Apple has already capitalized on their market share with the iPod while included several of their products in TV shows and movie.

It will be interesting to see how long it will take before the iPhone begins to make its debut on prime time.

The Dude Abides.

Apple iPhone: Remove the celluar provide = happier customers

2007-02-07T18:57:00.000-08:00

Apple has release the information regarding their long awaited Apple iPhone.

"iPhone combines three products — a revolutionary mobile phone, a widescreen iPod with touch controls, and a breakthrough Internet communications device with desktop-class email, web browsing, maps, and searching — into one small and lightweight handheld device. iPhone also introduces an entirely new user interface based on a large multi-touch display and pioneering new software, letting you control everything with just your fingers. So it ushers in an era of software power and sophistication never before seen in a mobile device, completely redefining what you can do on a mobile phone. "

Retrieved from: Apple.com

However, now the catch to this whole equation "iPhone + Cingular = PDA / Phone." Cingular... Cingular has a lot to gain from this and it will find itself securing more customers in the future. But like myself there are many others who are unwilling to compromise on our phone service.

Why or when will Apple release a version of the iPhone for other cellular providers. Also does it beg the questions that how many people will purchase the iPhone with the sole intention to use it as a PDA only by passing the use of the cellular service if it is at all possible.

So I take my chance and prognosticate the fact that I believe Apple with release a new "upgraded" version of the iPhone that can still utilizes all the benefits of the iPhone minus the cellular service equalling happier customers or "iPhone - Cingluar = Happier Customers."

The dude abides.

How Google Handles Spam

2007-01-23T22:05:00.000-08:00

They cook it!

Spam Swiss Pie - Bake 45-55 minutes until eggs are set.

The Dude Abides.

Podcasting with two USB Mic's in Garageband PICS

2007-01-15T19:24:00.000-08:00

After getting interested in podcasting I decided to purchase and use two Blue Snowball Microphones and Garageband 3. The only problem I found is that when I connected both USB mic's at the same time to Garageband I could only use one of the microphones at a time.

So after searching the internet and apple forums I found some work arounds, but finally found a way that works great and is easy to setup using the utilities provided by my Mac.

So here is how I found out how to do it:

Step 1. Plug both of your USB mics into your Mac

Step 2. Open up the "Audio MIDI Setup" utility Applications -> Utilities -> Audio MIDI Setup

Step 3. Using the Audio MIDI Setup program open the "Aggregrate Device Editor." You can access this from the menu under Audio -> Open Aggregate Device Editor

Step 4. Locate your two USB mics from the list under structure and click the "+" button to add them to the top. You can then click on the Aggregate devices and change the name to something you can remember. I changed mine to "Dual Blue Snowball Mics" so that I could easily identify it later on. Make sure you click on the "Use" button on the bottom under structure to ensure those devices will be used.

Step 5. Change your System Settings under your "Audio Devices" to indicate your newly created aggregate device "Dual Blue Snowball Mics." Under the Properties For: make any necessary changes to the aggregate device. You will now notice that one of them is set to use channel 1 & 2 and the other will use channel 3 & 4.

Step 6. Open your Garageband podcast project. You now want to set your Garageband Preferences to take the input from your new aggregate device. Garageband -> Preferences -> Audio/MIDI -> Audio Input and find your device for mine I added Dual Blue Snowball Mics.

Step 7. Now to add the input to the podcast poject. For this I used one male voice track and one female voice track.

First clicking on the male voice I clicked on it to bring up the info in the bottom right of Garageband and made sure it was set to take input from Channel 1 & 2.

Next clicking on the female voice I clicked on the track info and made sure the input was taken from Channel 3 & 4.

After testing this out it worked great. The inputs from one mic went right to a single track and the inputs from the second mic went to the other track.

Good luck and happy podcasting.

The dude abides.

&lt;br>

Apple's Big News!

2007-01-01T18:30:00.000-08:00

This image adorned the www.Apple.com homepage on January 1,2007.

In true Apple form they have increased the anticipation surrounding the release of their new 2007 products. Only one can wait and see what will be on the horizon for this increasingly viral company of products.

Here are a list of some of the suggestions mentioned so far:
-Apple iPhone
-New GUI for Leporard
-New features for the iTV
-Widescreen iPod

Who know's whats in store for the future, but one can sit back and smile at the anticipation of what is to come.

Look for more details after the WWDC (World Wide Developers Conference) later this month.!

Amazon Confirms Nintendo Wii Strap Recall

2006-12-18T21:05:00.000-08:00

Email from Amazon.com sent 12/18

Nintendo (previous Digg post) may be denying the recall, but the email below confirms that they are sending out new replacement straps and their is a recall.

Hello from Amazon.com.

We have recently learned that Nintendo of America is voluntarily
recalling the Wrist Straps used with Controllers for the Nintendo Wii
Video Game System you recently ordered. If consumers swing the
hand-held "Wii Remote" game controllers using excessive force and
accidentally let go, the cord connecting the controller to the wrist
strap can break, potentially causing the controller to strike
bystanders or objects. You may find additional details about the
recall in the CPSC bulletin at:

http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml07/07061.html.

Nintendo is offering to replace the original version of the wrist
straps for the Wii remote with a newer version, free of charge. For
more information, contact Nintendo toll-free at (800) 859-4519 between
6 a.m. and 7 p.m. PT, or visit their Web site at
www.support.nintendo.com.

If you purchased this item as a gift for someone, please let the
recipient know about this issue as soon as possible, and provide them
with the information to contact Nintendo for a replacement wrist
strap.

Thank you for shopping at Amazon.com.

Sincerely,

Customer Service
Amazon.com
http://www.amazon.com/

Great deal on Podcasting Mic

2006-12-15T13:41:00.000-08:00

I was looking for a nice USB powered microphone for my podcasting needs and I found this one available at a few online stores Blue Microphones SNOWBALL retail price $150.00, but if you follow these instructions you can get it for $83.95 w/ free shipping.

This is from the BSWUSA.com website:

Got a computer? Need great sound in that PodCast or DAW program? Here it is! Incredibly easy to use with its universal driver and plug & play USB compatibility, the Snowball makes recording a piece of cake. Its dual capsule design and three-position switch dials in the desired sound for any application. One capsule is tailored for vocals and the other is for instruments. The three position switch on the back of the mic lets you change between the capsules – giving you cardioid, cardioid with a 10dB pad and omni-directional patterns. The result makes Snowball a multi-talented recording tool—the first USB mic designed and engineered by people who know sound. With stand and cable. An incredible BSW value.

The best part is the price. With a coupon code from Podcastgearguy.com

To get you started, take $20 off your first order over $100! Anything in our store!! Just use the promotional code: 92654 at Checkout for your discount. This special promotional code for PodcastGearGuy readers expires 12/31/06.

So if you order from BSWUSA.com and:
-Order http://www.bswusa.com/proditem.asp?item=SNOWBALL
-and http://www.bswusa.com/proditem.asp?item=ALMONDROCA
-and use coupon code 92654

My total was $83.95 with FREE Shipping!

A great deal for a begginner - intermeddiate podcasting mic.

The Dude Abides.

Black Friday Recap

2006-11-30T10:02:00.000-08:00

Consumers risk lives to save a few bucks...

The day after Thanksgiving is considered the first day of the Christmas/Holiday shopping season. It is often called "Black Friday" because it is when retailers that have been operating in the red first turn a profit for the year. A lot of retailers open before the sunrise that day for big sales ending later that same morning. They have always drawn crowds, and frequently caused disputes over a place in line, or the last of a hot item, but this year it got ugly, very ugly. Across the nation, people stampeded when doors were opened, and riots broke out when items the crowds were seeking had run out. Seven fatalities and dozens of injuries have been reported.

The first known fatality occurred at a Wal-Mart in Secaucus, New Jersey, a woman repeatedly stabbed a man with a kitchen knife taken from the housewares section to prevent him from buying the last Xbox 360. Another sad incident transpired at a Tucker, Georgia Toys R Us. One woman bludgeoned another to death with a baseball bat over an American Girl doll. She was heard yelling at her victim, "hasta la vista, baby." Cars were overturned and set on fire in Chicago, while a security guard was beaten to death by an angry mob in Sheboygan, Wisconsin. The first of these incidents involved a DVD player priced at $17.95, and the second was touched off by the Xbox 360. In Columbus, Ohio a shortage of Star Wars toys had shoppers at wit's end when someone yelled, "they've got some over here!" A stampede ensued. Four were left trampled. In Glendale, California, two men fighting over an electronic toy called a Roboraptor knocked over several shelves full of merchandise causing thousands of dollars in destruction.

http://www.uncoveror.com/blackfriday.htm

------

Once the doors opened just before 5 a.m., hundreds of people poured through, breaking down the police tape. Dozens of others cut the line and ran through the exit door before Wal-Mart employees were able to stop them.
Inside, Wal-Mart workers were throwing boxes with laptops and portable DVD players to the people who were pushing and shoving to get the merchandise. A lone sneaker lay on the floor, lost by an anxious shopper in the scrum.

http://www.cadenhead.org/workbench/news/2814/black-friday-more-than-i-bargained
------

Looking back to the release of the PS3 we can see similar stories of people being shot, robbed, and stabbed all for a piece of hardware. WOW! What drives people to this end. Is taking a life worth a $17.95 DVD player or a $599 Playstation 3.

There comes a time when stores will need to be held accountable for the actions that are CAUSED by their doing. Accountability will be assessed based on the foresight to avoid this instead of contributing to it by have faulty systems to address the chaotic masses.

The Dude Abides.

Nintendo takes a page out of Apples book!

2006-11-20T22:52:00.000-08:00

However, neat and innovative this product seems it has some very peculiar similarities to a certain Apple product line. At first glance you would hardly even know it was part of the Nintendo family, sort of step child to clan. But after playing around on the Wii interface, Zelda (Twilight Princess), and Wii Sports its clear it belongs.

But if we take a close look it gets a little fuzzier… The white glossy finish of the console and Wii-mote remind me of my iPod or white Mac Book. The interactive menu with the “channels” which can tell me the temperature or news (not currently active) can be a mini-clone of the dock and widgets those Appleites have on the OS X. Now if only I could get my iTunes to sink with my Wii console to play songs from my library while I play 9 on the golf course or bowl a few.

After having received my shipment today of the new Nintendo Wii I can honestly say WOW! This console is nothing like the Xbox 360 or Playstation 3, but is in a class alone. The Wii sports takes a note from the Guitar Hero & Dance Dance Revolution’s page as it plays to that crowd of ultra-interactive and entertaining party games. Spend a hour boxing on the Wii Sports and see how tired you are.

Nintendo’s innovation may as a result of implementing current technologies into their next generation console. As similar as they are the Nintendo Wii offers tons of fun with its unique Wii-mote and Nunchuck controls. Once you played with one of these for a while you will leave feeling tired and having a great big grin on your face.

Although I will say this console is not for the hardcore gamer, as it does lack some of the awe inspiring transition clips some of the Xbox and PS3 consoles can perform. What it lacks in power it makes up for in a new creative way to play console games.

The dude abides.

Stop Sending PS3 Ebay Auctions to Digg

2006-11-17T08:44:00.000-08:00

Dear Digg Submitters,

Please stop sending PS3 Ebay auction links to Digg. Yes, I know there are some people who sat in line for days and now want to make obsene profits. Yes, I know there are also bitter, pissed off consumers making fake bids and bidding auctions up to $15,000 to $99,999,999. It's not news.

Sincerly,

The Dude.

The Dude Abides.

Amazon ships Zelda Twilight Princess Nintendo Wii

2006-11-16T15:50:00.000-08:00

I recieved this email from Amazon.com today...

-----------------------------------------------

Greetings from Amazon.com.

We thought you'd like to know that we shipped your items, and that this
completes your order.

You saved an additional $0.17 with Amazon.com's Pre-Order Price Guarantee!
The price of the item(s) decreased after you ordered them, and we gave you
the lowest price.

Also, our Pre-Order Price Guarantee hasn't ended yet: if the price of the
item(s) decreases again between now and the release date, we will issue you
a refund for the difference.

You can track the status of this order, and all your orders, online by
visiting Your Account at http://www.amazon.com/gp/css/history/view.html

There you can:
* Track your shipment
* View the status of unshipped items
* Cancel unshipped items
* Return items
* And do much more

The following items have been shipped to you by Amazon.com:
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Qty Item Price Shipped Subtotal
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Amazon.com items (Sold by Amazon.com, LLC):
1 The Legend of Zelda: Twili... $49.82 1 $49.82

-----------------------------------------------

This might get here by Sat :)

Walmart Tells PS3 Fan to GET OUT!

2006-11-16T11:51:00.000-08:00

Wal-mart up to new tricks as it makes PS3 customers wait outside for the launch of the PS3 on Friday @ 12:01 AM. So if you one of the brave who is about ready to head out or is already out waiting be aware.

Also the PS3 has a confirmed shortages at Wal-mart and other stores. It looks as Sony is not going to be up to the challenge to get the numbers out that they expected.

Original pics at: Flicr.com

Beward the Wii & PS3 Auction Wars

2006-11-13T05:53:00.000-08:00

&

With the release of either console coming this week, we have noticed a trend with the market that can be examined from the latest release of the Xbox 360 to previous consoles. As the shortages were finally realized and people become increasingly hostile and bitter the auction wars began.

As soon as consoles were posted for sale on Ebay and other popular auction sites as well as private message boards the flames began. People who did not get their favorite console for personal enjoyment were pissed off. Not just upset, I mean down right “I hate this crap and want to do something about it”. So it began, they would flame the forums and raise the auction prices with phony bids to express their displeasure. They were especially hostile to the ones who got 3+ consoles and were raking in thousands of dollars from people just because they “knew the system” or “knew a guy, who knew a guy, at Best Buy.”

So I predict we will have much of the same, as we have previously seen with the release of the Wii across the pond in Japan. Unless stricter regulation is done to limit and create a sense of fairness this is going to be a rough week with the release of BOTH the Nintendo Wii and Sony Playstation 3.

Along that note I was lucky to receive a pre-order, but will NOT be selling it no matter how much they go for. I hope others do the same and avoid the greed.

The dude abides.

Buyer Beware: Sony Customer Support Woes

2006-11-07T15:34:00.000-08:00

My $600 dollar 200+ lb. Paper Weight Story...

--------------------
I am posting this not to bitch about Sony, but to let people know so they can be better prepared to avoid have a $600 dollar 200+ lb. paper weight on their TV stand.

Skip to the end for picture!
--------------------

Ok, so I go to sit down this weekend to watch some of my favorite TV shows I had TiVo’d this week and when I clicked to turn on my TV the damn thing wouldn’t work. I was like “huh” this isn’t happening so I checked all the cables made sure the outlet was working and I tried it again. The only sign of life I could see was the blinking stand by light on the TV set. It was doing it to spite me I tell you “blink,” “blink,” “ha ha,” “blink,” “blink,” “sucker,” and this almost drove me to toss the set out the window (except for the fact that I cannot lift it by myself.)

So I do what any good person would and I Google the model number to see if I hit a wrong setting, or left it in sleep mode. And this is when my nightmare began…

…there are several unhappy customers with the same problem I am having.

And even a website devoted to finding a solution:
http://www.pechorin.com/m/2004/03/09/Sony_Trinitron_display_malfunction_HELP-210431.html

One customer was lucky enough to get Sony to pay for his repair AND labor costs:

“First of all, Sony DID pay all of my repair costs, parts and labor. I had to stay on the phone for an hour and go through about 6 different levels of customer service. I told them that I was reading all of the complaints on the Internet about this particular model and that I knew they had made a defective TV with this brand, so I wasn't going to quit until they fixed it at their cost. They hemmed and hawed, saying it was out of warranty. Then they agreed to pay for parts. After listening to me tell them that a 1-year old set that I paid $600 for should not be broken, that Sony is a billion-dollar corporation, and that I was reading hundreds of examples from people who had experienced the exact same problems with this set, they finally agreed to fix the set at their cost, which they did.

I took it to a service technician they suggested, who turned out to be a jerk, but I can live with that. I took a week to fix it, and I had to stay on Sony the entire time, especially when they tried to say they were only paying for parts, but they did eventually pay for the entire thing.

Just so you know, the technician told me that this TV is defective. The boards are bad. It's the A and C boards. They go out after 6 months to a year. He said the best thing you can do is to turn off your TV after watching it (don't leave it on all day or night). And to expect the boards to go bad even after replacing them. He also said Sony is aware of the problem. Sony tried to tell me they would have put this info on their web site if that were the case, but, obviously, their own recommended service technician says differently”

A bit ridiculous that someone should have to FIGHT for a repair on such an investment.

The best suggestion I found was:

“The picture tube in the Trinitrons from year “X” (insert the year your TV was made here) are crap and am lucky it lasted as long as it did. Solution: What until the sun has set, put the television into your vehicle (make sure the suspension can handle the load), find a business that has dumpsters large enough to accommodate a piece of s**t that large, and gently put the TV into the bottom of the dumpster by hurling that 800 dollar raping (compliments of Sony) with enough force to insure it reaches terminal velocity before it reaches the steel floor of the dumpster. Quickly leave the scene, curse profusely all the way home, and swear to never buy anything from Sony again”

So I make my attempt to contact Sony Support… I would have had a better time banging my head against the wall first so the headache I had when I was done didn’t feel as bad.

Great I tell them two things and they tell me I need service… DUH! I would not have contacted your to find that out.

By this time I was fuming… getting the same cookie-cutter answer… ERRRR!

This was my breaking point… So I decided to follow through and let people be aware of this kinda of crappy service. But he did say “I’m sorry for the inconvience about the TV.”

Your sorry, then why don’t you help me fix this damn POS that weighs over 200 lbs. They expect me to drive this 1 hour and then PAY to have someone fix it.

My phone conversations were not much better… I kept getting similarly the same answers and no one would acknowledge what the problem was or agree to pay for the repair / labor. This TV was only 1 yr and 15 days old when it broke a few days ago…

I used to be a Sony faithful owning a DVD player, Digital Camera, and several other pieces of equipment. NOT ANYMORE, I was going to buy one of their high end MiniDV cameras, but won’t do it risking another meltdown from faulty equipment.

Here is a final pic of the monster:

Suggestion: Digg please add “rumor” section!

2006-11-02T12:58:00.000-08:00

In a recent post of mine “I suggested that Digg consider adding a rumor section to their frontpage. I have always been a long time reader, but find it would be a considerably easier to sort through some of the news articles if I could sort out the rumors. Heck, I could be off my rocker with this one, but this seems like a legitimate request. Since my last request was buried because of an inaccurate title I thought I would try again to get the work out on this.

This issue is a nexus of confusion as I love to dance on the wild side and get my hands on as much information as possible to make educated decisions, and this involves reading the rumors as well. It helps to feel where the industry is going and being able to sort out those who tend to be “soothsayers” and those who have the know by being in the right place at the right time, or have the ability to connect the dots properly to anticipate the next move.

Keep the rumors, just clear up the news! Vote to add a Digg Rumors.

Here are some examples of articles recently from the Digg.com frontpage:

http://www.digg.com/gaming_news/Rumor_Best_Buy_Wii_Inventory_Numbers
http://www.digg.com/tech_news/Digg_s_Adelson_Brushes_Off_Acquisition_Rumors
http://www.digg.com/tech_news/Google_Re_Org_Rumors_Streamlining_Ad_Business
http://www.digg.com/apple/Video_iPod_Patent_Pictures_and_Touch_Sensitive_Bezel
http://www.digg.com/apple/50_inch_Apple_monitor_in_early_2007
http://www.digg.com/apple/Full_Screen_iPod_iPhone_Confirmed_by_Extremely_Well_Informed_Apple_Exec

Firefox 2.0: Fasterfox update / work-around

2006-10-29T21:35:00.000-08:00

EDIT: As of Oct 30, 2006

Firefox (Tony Gentilcore) recenlty updated Fasterfox to version 2.0 :) WOOT!

This can be downloaded here: https://addons.mozilla.org/firefox/1269/

********************************************************
Only use the following if you are using 1.5.* and below:

After I updated to Firefox 2.0 one of my favorite add-ons was not working, but after some searching I found this simple work-around to update the file so that it works with Firefox 2.0 at least until a current version is updated.

by coreying , Oct 25, 2006

- Save the xpi Installer on your disk
- open fasterfox-1.0.3-fx.xpi with Winzip etc (you could also rename the .xpi extension to .zip and open it with Windows 'Compressed (zipped) folders')
- Extract and then edit the file install.rdf (with notepad etc)
- Search for "1.5.0.*"
- Change that to "2.0"
- Save the file, then add it back to the fasterfox-1.0.3-fx.xpi file.
- Drag & drop fasterfox-1.0.3-fx.xpi into the "Add-on-Manager"
- Restart Firefox

Info on Fasterfox:

--------------------------

Performance and network tweaks for Firefox.

Fasterfox allows you to tweak many network and rendering settings such as simultaneous connections, pipelining, cache, DNS cache, and initial paint delay.

Dynamic speed increases can be obtained with the unique prefetching mechanism, which recycles idle bandwidth by silently loading and caching all of the links on the page you are browsing.

A popup blocker for popups initiated by Flash plug-ins is also included.

--------------------------

The dude abides.

Digg to add new topic section "Rumors"

2006-10-29T07:48:00.000-08:00

As a longtime follower of Digg.com I have noticed on several occasions stories making it to the frontpage without any shred of truth in them but the "excitement" and crowd pleasing introduction of new "rumors." As it's nice to sort through and see whats not so accurate (without burying them), I think its also still great for people to speculate because it all does possess a sliver of truth within its knowledge.

However, I am asking that a new category be created for Digg.com called "rumors/speculation" or something of the effect to help clean up some of the confusion and allow the sorting of the topics and information to be readily available and easy to use. Digg is a great resource to hop on and check the current happenings, and the news as if you were chatting with a buddy at the proverbial "watercooler" or at a Starbucks before you headed back to work. This community has kept the interest of myself and others by providing this information and allowing users to share their input.

To the Digg community, keep up the great work!

Some references on the frontpage of Digg.com:
http://www.digg.com/gaming_news/Rumor_Best_Buy_Wii_Inventory_Numbers
http://www.digg.com/tech_news/Digg_s_Adelson_Brushes_Off_Acquisition_Rumors
http://www.digg.com/tech_news/Google_Re_Org_Rumors_Streamlining_Ad_Business
http://www.digg.com/apple/Video_iPod_Patent_Pictures_and_Touch_Sensitive_Bezel
http://www.digg.com/apple/50_inch_Apple_monitor_in_early_2007
http://www.digg.com/apple/Full_Screen_iPod_iPhone_Confirmed_by_Extremely_Well_Informed_Apple_Exec

Woot! I got my Wii-order in! (Nintendo Wii Preorder)

2006-10-27T07:32:00.000-07:00

-------------------------------------
UPDATE: For more info on the Wii Release check here:
Wii release day info
-------------------------------------

This morning I was checking Toysrus.com when I realized that they were not allowing Nintendo Wii preorders from their website so I decided to check Amazon.com. I had already signed up to receive “notification” when this item was to be released, blah, blah, blah.

Ok, Long story short. When I was checking the site a button popped up to “Preorder This Item” where the notification box on the right hand side usually exists. So I thought it was my imagination so I refreshed the page and the button was gone, but now I was curious. So I sat for a few minutes did a few searches and checked again. Sure enough it popped up and this time I put it in my cart and checked out. Woot! I got my preorder.

Only thing I can figure is Amazon is doing two things. 1) They are re-releasing preorders for people who have canceled, and I got lucky or 2) They are administering a slow leak of new preorders, and I got lucky!

Either way it rocks!

Here is a pic from my email confirmation from today!

The dude abides.

Conspiracy Theory 5324.05

2006-10-25T21:46:00.000-07:00

This comes on the wake of the news that Sony Computer Entertainment Europe Limited and Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. had filed suit against Lik-Sang.com claiming that Lik-Sang infringed its trade marks, copyright and registered design rights by selling Sony PSP consoles from Asia to European customers.

Ok, so deep within this dismay I can detect a hint of what’s brewing under the surface. With all this information coming on the eve of the launch of both the new Sony Playstation 3 and the Nintendo Wii one cannot help but be at least a bit skeptical that Sony may have used it keen business sense to take down one of the largest Nintendo Wii presale sites (at least a main one continuously taking preorders), and boosted interest in the PS3 by keeping its name in the media. So in actuality this is just a keen ploy to boost the PS3 sales and diminish the impact the impending release of the Nintendo Wii may have on the PS3.

So be it what it may this is a win-win for Sony because even if they get an injunction to least a few week it will be enough time to succumb to the onslaught of orders for PS3’s.

Bah, it just feels like dirty politics to me.

The dude abides.

Google Provides Tools for Success

2006-10-19T13:49:00.000-07:00

After becoming one of the early adopters of Gmail I have not been dissatisfied with the support and development of Google's products. Recently I have begun exploring some of features Google's has to offer such as Docs & Spreedsheets, Adsense, and Calendar. There seems to be a common theme among all of the innovations... making things easier to do and being convenient. I have chosen to write this article primarily in the Google Docs and copy it over to my blog when finished.

Google Docs.Is a veristle program that allows simple word processing online. I found some of the best functionality of this program is the ability to store documents online and allow other users to access this document and alter it. This provides for a limitless workspace and backup for documents. You can access your work files while you are on the road and not have to worry about having the right program to open the documents. As a test to this I decided to begin typing this at home and then am now currently retrieving and editing this document from the Chula Vista Hotel in Wisconsin Dells, WI. I have had no problem with accessing or editing the document. Although versatile this program does lack some of the necessary bells and whistles of a larger more cumbersome office suite such as MS Office. Though for whats its purpose is and the many uses for this its excellent solution for jotting down some quick notes on the road, at home, or wherever you have internet access. This is also a great way to bridge distance for brainstorming with others by sharing your documents.

Google Adsense. As I became more interested in blogging and archiving some of my thoughts online and sharing them with others I decided to explore for pure curiosity sake the use of Google Adsense. As an alternative supplement to any website this is great solution. First, you have the control on location and type of advertisement media on your site. This is great because you can put as much or as little as you would like on it. Second, compared to other alternatives Adsense is far easy to manipulate and setup than a lot of other similar products. If your looking to get rich off of this then it might not be the best solution for you, but it can be feasible if you get enough traffic and interest generated. Finally, if your looking at generating a small revenue enough to pay for hosting costs than this can be a viable solution.

Google Calendar. This new feature provides another avenue to have a public calendar system that you can sync or share with other people and that you can import some of the more common types. I currently have used it to import my iCal calendar data files into and it worked Ok. Its does not display some of the data as clean as you would with iCal or if you would have entered the data directly into Google calendar. Although following in true Google fashion this product provides some of the generally consistent features. It allows you to share data with others, have access to your calendar anywhere with internet access, and allows you to have streamline product that is easy to use.

So overall these Google products feed the need for on-demand convienience and plays to an on-the-go audience. What is remarkable though is Google continued commitment to providing easy to use products that don't have all the excess baggage or bloat. I have used them all and can say that each serves a specific purpose and can be very valuable if you are a small business, working on class project, or some other avenue that needs collaboration without spending big bucks on a corporate system. I would encourage everyone to try them yourself and see if you might have a need.

The Dude Abides.

One Small Step

2006-10-13T22:20:00.000-07:00

Here are few ways to help each other out and get noticed. When you read or pass through a blog/website you find interesting leave a link back to your website, add a comment, and try to click on few ads. It’s a win/win situation that helps everyone involved. With millions of people out there creating the news and posting it live using the internet as a medium why not recognize and expand the blogosphere.

I try to make it a personal habit to click a few ads from other people sites to give them a little thanks for doing their part. If you post your website below as a comment I will try to visit it and pass along the same curtseys.

The dude abides.

10 Reasons to enjoy TiVo

2006-10-01T20:09:00.000-07:00

10. You never have to watch another commercial again!

9. Tell the wife/husband you’re cleaning / working but record the shows to watch them when their not looking

8. Season Pass Manager gets every episode of my favorite show

7. VCR’s are for the weak, TiVo has more space and an easy to use interface

6. Watch one show and record another

5. You can watch you’re TV shows when you want to

4. Avoid the channel surfing by watching what you want when you want it

3. Save your shows on DVD for later viewing

2. You never have to miss a play when you can pause live TV

1. Leaves me more time to do things I like… like watch more TV / Sports

The Dude Abides.

When OLD is NEW!

2006-09-21T12:43:00.000-07:00

It seems that one trend that never dies is the revival of old items. The micro-trends might pass like a plane in the night, but the macro-trend of bringing back, that which is considered “old school”, will never die.

That is why I write this article about the next generation of video game console the Nintendo Wii (originally dubbed Nintendo Revolution). I must say I have not owned a Nintendo console since the original NES game system. Don’t get me wrong I have visited many of my friend’s houses who have owned the N64, GameCube, and various other protégés of the early system. I have been more of a Playstation fan and have enjoyed the solid titles Playstation had to offer owning the Playstation and PS2.

What now draws my attention to the soon-to-be released Nintendo Wii the most is the ability to play old or classic games from the now outdated systems of the past. I can picture myself sitting at home and once again playing the original Zelda or Mario Bros game without going through the pain staking activity of blowing on the game and then with laser precision trying to get it to settle just right in the console so that I maybe able to play (oh the joys of the classic NES).

One thing I have noted that have also been persuaded me to go back to Nintendo is the huge price disparity between it and its competitors. Microsoft’s Xbox 360 debuted at a whopping $299 and $399 for the basic and premium versions. Granted what you are getting is a powerful micro-computer in a box with a hard drive and the ability to play games. The Playstation 3 has been rumored to be coming out with a price tag around the same $499 and $599 for the console unit but does tote the ability to play Blue-Ray disc capabilities.

Personally I am looking for a console that can provide me the opportunity to play some of the current games, and have the opportunity to download and play classic games reliably for a small fee. So once again the old adage that “Old is New” still rings true in the world. I sit eagerly awaiting the release of the Nintendo Wii and the ability through Virtual Console to play the wicked fun classic games.

The Dude Abides.

Stock Review: Apple Computer Inc (AAPL)

2006-07-25T02:47:00.000-07:00

It would be wise to watch this stock in the next few as Apple readies itself to release their new line of Mac Book Intel based desktop computers.

Some supporting reviews:

ML upgrades Apple

Merrill Lynch today updated its rating on shares of Apple Computer from Neutral to Buy with a price target of $72, saying the risk-to-reward ratio of the company's stock has recently improved.

In supporting the upgrade, analyst Richard Farmer offered clients eight examples of why he believes shares of the Mac maker are once again attractive.

In addition to increased confidence in the potential for Mac market share gains and waning iPod deceleration, Farmer believes the overhang from the company's stock options investigation is starting to diminish.

"Our sense has been that potential Apple shareholders were understandably hesitant to buy stock with the stock option timing investigation seemingly open ended," he told clients. "Although there is not yet definitive conclusion to the investigation and we offer no legal opinion on the substance of irregularities, we think the statement [...] by Apple management (that financial restatement is not anticipated) suggests risk is lower."

Farmer also said that while the potential for an iPod phone is not news, its financial impact is not part of consensus estimates. "The fact that management publicly alluded to it (albeit indirectly) on the conference call reinforces the possibility that its introduction could be near enough to influence consensus estimates within the next 12 months," he said.

With the mobile phone market set to possibly approach 1 billion units in 2008, the analyst believes every 1 percent share potentially captured by Apple could produce as much as $3B in incremental revenue, assuming Apple sells the phones for around $300.

"Cracking the phone business won’t be simple given the complexity of the business model and ecosystem but we see iTunes as a key asset that can create differentiation for consumers as phones and other mobile media devices (like iPods) converge over time," Farmer told clients.

Among the analyst's other top reasons to own shares of Apple are the imminent arrival of the company's strong back-to-school and holiday quarters, a nearly completed Intel transition, upcoming margin expansion and a shift in focus by the Street towards Apple's fiscal year 2008 (supporting valuation).

Retrieved from:
http://www.appleinsider.com/article.php?id=1900

Saying it's about time for a second-half rally, analysts for UBS Investment Research on Thursday raised their price target on shares of Apple Computer to $80 while maintaining a Buy rating on the stock.

iPods numbers a relief, Macs can grow

In an earnings follow-up note to clients, analyst Ben Reitzes said Apple's sale of 8.1 million iPods last quarter came as a "relief" and that he believes Mac momentum can continue to build in upcoming quarters.

"While concerns over iPod sales ran high going into the quarter, Apple sold approximately 8.1 million iPods in 3Q06 (compared to our lowered estimate of 7.8 million units) representing about 32 percent growth year-over-year and a sequential decline of only 5 percent," Reitzes wrote. "Apple also stated that it remains extremely excited about future iPods in the pipeline and our checks in the supply chain are pointing in that direction as well."

The analyst noted that solid Mac and iPod sales were offset somewhat by weaker than expected sales in the company's other categories, such as music, accessories and software. However, he believes investors "will be pleased" with these solid iPod and Mac sales because they tend to carry more "value" than the other categories.

Raising estimates

In order to reflect the improved product mix and higher margins announced by Apple on Wednesday, Reitzes raised his earnings-per-share (EPS) estimates through fiscal year 2007.

"We believe our revised estimates are more consistent with the [third quarter 2006] trends, which reflect solid growth and profitability," he said.

Apple's fourth fiscal quarter

For Apple's fourth fiscal quarter of the year (ending September), Reitzes maintained his revenue estimate of $4.63B based on 26 percent year-over-year revenue growth. However, he increased iPod revenues while lowering revenue expectations from the company's "other" categories.

The revised estimate factors in 34 percent iPod unit growth year-over-year to 8.6M units and Mac unit growth of 17 percent to 1.45M units. The analyst expects Apple to earn about 49 cents a share for the quarter with gross margins of 28.4 percent and operating margins of 11.6 percent.

Fiscal year 2007

Looking ahead to fiscal year 2007, Reitzes raised his yearly EPS estimates by 10 cents to $2.65 to reflect gross margins of 28.4 percent and operating margins of 12.9 percent. The estimates factor in sales of 52.9 million iPods and 6.7 million Macs.

"We believe that prospects for share gains with Macs are getting even stronger with a new operating system (OSX Leopard), a 3 month plus delay of Microsoft’s Vista and strong acceptance of new Intel Macs," Reiztes told clients.

New iPods and likely iPod phone

While the analyst believes Apple’s iPod and Mac product roadmap should help drive growth in the coming quarters, he continues to believe the company may choose to enter new consumer markets over the next twelve months, including the cell phone market.

"We still expect new video iPods to be released in time for the holidays with higher capacities and bigger screens," he said. "We expect new iPod nanos to be released by the end of the current quarter with larger capacity video iPods to be released in the December quarter."

Of all of Apple's new product opportunities, Reitzes is particularly excited about an Apple branded cell phone due to its potential to capitalize on the 800M+ unit per year global cell phone market. However, he warns that such a product may not materialize until the first half of 2007 at the earliest given some complex intellectual property issues in the mobile phone industry.

"Building on success with iTunes, we believe Apple could create a phone that allows for the easy loading of content (music, video, contacts, photos and more) by docking to a PC or Mac," the analyst told clients. "In addition, Apple could take advantage of its retail distribution to sell the product and create powerful revenue stream of post-sale accessories."

Retrieved from:
http://www.appleinsider.com/article.php?id=1898

The dude abides.

Creative blabber

2006-07-25T02:12:00.000-07:00

That which we ponder drives what we know causing the friction in our mind which develops the thoughts that surround our being. Born from a spark in an instant miracle it grows with rapid evolution. The metamorphosis of which transverses and folds upon itself to form clarity and vision. A spectacle none have ever really seen. A greatness and wonder which spins the world and yet we do not acknowledge the process of which for what it is. A thought.

The dude abides.

Caribbean Cruise

2006-07-08T08:12:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow we depart for a week long cruise in the Caribbean stopping at Cococay (Bahamas), Charlotte Amalie (St Thomas) and Philipsburg (St. Maarten). I am looking forward to this excursion as it will be my first cruise and I am hoping for a relaxing and entertaining time.

Stay tuned for a detailed review of our adventure:

Mariner of the Seas, East Caribbean Cruise, Royal Caribbean

The dude abides.

Traffic Today

2006-06-13T08:58:00.000-07:00

Today’s topic of discussion is traffic. Why does it always seem that 90% of traffic slow problems are because of people who do not want to yield or play well with others. When driving North on Interstate 41 today I was posed with a situation where a two lane highway needed to merge down into one lane. As the lines of cars slowed and began to merge into a single lane there resided those cars that chose not to follow the norm and decide to put their own purpose ahead of everyone else’s. This occurred when cars began to speed down the lane that was closing and then at the final seconds attempt to merge into a lane of cars who had followed directions and merged already.

I bring this to your attention as no surprise it is “the few bad apples that ruin the bunch.” In regards to those people who attempt to squeeze every last second out of the road and endanger other in an attempt to get to their destination a few minutes earlier. Why is it that this situation cannot be resolved and continues to happen even after examination and understanding? Is it our primordial human nature to be highly competitive and fast moving creatures who value nothing but our own time.

This I believe is a rhetorical question for even if 99.99% of everyone obeyed the traffic laws and was courteous that .015% would always ruin it for the rest…

The Dude Abides.

Stock Review: Google Inc (Goog)

2006-05-19T12:39:00.000-07:00

Google is poised to make some strong moves in the market over the next 3-5 years and should be watched closely. The stock has grown over the last few years since is IPO and with the roll out of several new Google products tends to continue to do well. Keep this stock on your radar screen if you are looking for a solid performer who has yet to reach it’s full potential.

Yahoo! Summary of Google Inc.
http://finance.yahoo.com/q?s=goog

The Dude Abides.

The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown

2006-05-19T12:32:00.000-07:00

So seeing this craze hit the world I decided to plunge into the depths of what I might call an obsessive quest for truth or a plain quest for adventure, and decided to read Dan Brown’s The Da Vinci Code. I must say I was rather skeptical at first, but after settling down with the book a few times I became hooked. The action and adventure never seemed to end and the plot had enough twists and turns to keep even the most hard core fanatic well fed. Baring from the fact that I did not read this book looking to find more history or try to uncover any of the secrets of the world it left me with an open mind.

Not to ruin it for anyone who has not read the book I will give you a taste of what you are missing. The book opens in a hotel scene with Robert Langdon a Harvard symbologist who is visiting France for a lecture the next day. It is late and his awoken from his sleep because of restlessness, but is summoned to meet a strange, but important visitor at his door. The stranger informs him that there has been a murder at the Louver Museum and thus begins the tale of The Da Vinci Code.

The book moves rather quickly and will frequently shift points of view after a chapter and follow another characters plot. You tend to get the perspective of 4 main plot developments that are all interwoven into the fabric of fiction. First you have Robert Langdon the Harvard professor and Sophie Neveu French Cryptologist and granddaughter of Jacques Saunière later on joined by Leigh Teabing, grail fanatic and advid historian. Second you follow the developments of Silas who does the bidding work of Opus Dei to discover the Keystone first. Third you explore the interactions of Opus Dei head Bishop Aringarosa. Finally you experince the adventure from the pursits of French police captain Bezu Fache.

Once you being reading you may want to clear your schedule because this book reads fast and keeps your interest looking for the next turn in the plot. I found that if I began reading before bed that I needed to find a good spot to put it down or else I would have been up all night.

Today is the opening of the movie, which I will be going to see tomorrow, and I hope it plays just as well as the book read. It has some great actors and I am looking forward to seeing it.

The Dude Abides.

Kudos of the Week

2006-04-15T17:07:00.000-07:00

Kudos goes out to Royal Caribbean http://www.royalcaribbean.com/. My wife and I purchased a cruise for July 9, 2006 for the Eastern Caribbean. Recenlty I noticed that the price of the cruise dropped on their website from $1499.00 to $1399.00. So I decided to call up and see if I could get our cruise for the same price. Within being on the phone for 5 minutes I had saved $200 off our cruise and was thoroughly impressed with the kind, helpful and understanding customer service. So I would like to give them a kudos for doing good business.

The Dude Abides.

Converting a disbeliever… #2

2006-03-30T22:55:00.000-08:00

Volume #2
Shipping and Delivery

March 24, 2005
–Placed Order on Apple.com with an estimated ship date of March 30, 2005

March 27, 2005
-My MacBook Pro was packaged and ready for shipping

March 28, 2005
-The MacBook Pro was shipped from SHANGHAI CN with an estimated arrival date of Friday March 31, 2005 and I can’t wait its like Christmas night is going to last for 3 days, and I can’t help but obsesivly look at the Fedex tracking website to see where the package is…China… then Ankorage, Alaska… then Indianapolis, Indiana. Crikes I can almost sense how close it is and its moving very fast.

March 29, 2005
-After getting up in the morning and checking the new updated tracking info I was dumbfounded. The info said it made it to Appleton, WI during the night and it was going to be out for delievery TODAY! This was amazing as I had not anticipated that it would be here any sooner than Friday afternoon.

March 29, 2005 (2:30pm)
-I went to the mail sorting center to claim my prize and to see what awaited me. When I arrived I was surprised to see how small and compact the packaging actually was. It was packed in a rather thin box. So with a smile from ear to ear I picked up my package and headed back to my office for the afternoon. I couldn’t resist so I began opening the package... It was finally here!

Converting a disbeliever… #1

2006-03-30T22:52:00.000-08:00

Volume #1
Picking a Model and Ordering

After working on PC computers for the last 12 years I have recently purchased on of the new MacBook Pro’s. I wanted to experience what it was like to work on one of those “other” computers. After much hesitation I decided I would give it ago and decide to swap out my PC laptop for a portable Mac. After watching the market after the December holiday season and listening to the suggestions of others I decided to wait until the MacBook Pro (MBP) was readily available before making the switch as I wanted to begin my work on one of the new Intel Mac “InteliMac.”

So I eagerly browsed the online store to determine exactly what model I would be purchasing. One think I new for certain was that I wanted to have 1GB of ram and make sure that it was fast enough to last me 3 – 5 years down the road. After taking into account the cost difference between the 1.82ghz and 2.0ghz MBP I decided I would not need the faster processor as the primary functions initially would be internet and word processing. I would later on choose to add programs for web development such as Adobe CS and Dreamweaver to the mix (reason I wanted 1 GB of ram). So now that I found out what model I was going to order next thing to do was to see what the best price was for what I would be getting. I reviewed site after site and found some coupons online, but mostly only for Amazon.com or directing me to some Ebay auction. After looking into it I decided to order through Apple.com as I would be eligible for the educators discount as I work for a University. So I placed my order on Friday morning and eagerly awaited its arrival.

iReview of the Apple iPod

2006-03-30T22:48:00.000-08:00

After searching and not finding an MP3 player that satisfied my need for a good user interference, ease of use, and good functionality after much research I settled on the Apple iPod. After making the original investment of $300 for the 30gb 5th Gen Video iPod I could not be happier.

Installation:
The installation of this device on Windows XP was seamless it was a plug-and-play device that required limited technical knowledge to get it up and running. I did already utilize iTunes for downloading songs so the integration was virtually seamless to begin downloading songs to the iPod from my current library. So in regards to installation this device is a 5/5.

Getting Songs:
As stated above getting my songs onto this device was very simple and I would encourage those who can download and run iTunes to integrate your songs from your home library onto your computer. The iTunes software allows for very easy access to your songs that you have on CD’s and downloading them to your iPod. When using iTunes you just pop a CD in the drive open the program and check/uncheck what songs your want to download and then hit the “import CD” button to rip the songs to your HD library. However, if you don’t use iTunes it can be a little more difficult but still possible. In regards to getting songs I would give it a 4/5.

Ease of Use:
The biggest thing you will need to get used to is how sensitive the wheel on the front of the iPod is. After a few uses I quickly became acclimated with the functionality and use of the hardware menu. The menu has its quirks and does not appear to confusing, a suggestion would be to setup your setting from the beginning and look at the menu to understand what is available and what settings you can tweak to your liking. So for use, flexibility and understanding I would give this a 4/5.

Accessories:
I have yet to get to in-depth with accessories for my iPod at the moment, there seems to be a broad selection available from third party companies (not affiliated with Apple). One work of caution I will offer is read the box carefully to make sure the accessory is compliant with your version of the iPod. Many of the products available are not current an up-to-date with the newer version of the iPod especially the 5th Generation Video iPods. 3/5

Video Functionality:
After downloading a few video Podcasts to check how it would look on the tiny screen that comes with the iPod. I downloaded a high def podcasts “MacBreak” and watched a few episodes. The resolution was good for a small screen I was impressed with the clarity of the images and how smooth the video played. There was no skipping of the images and everything flowed well. When examining a lesser quality podcast you did notice that watching such a small screen for a prolonged period of time would get annoying and put some strain on the eyes. Other than that I love the ability to be able to see the CD art for songs that are currently playing on the iPod. This is a great introductory feature that I expect we can see improvements on in the future.

Aesthetics:
The iPod looks great. It is sleek and continues to sport Apple’s industrial design that it is well known for. The screen on the video iPod is large enough to watch a podcasts or short movies, but might not do so well if you were going to try to watch a full-length feature film. The click wheel on the iPod does take some getting used to, but once you get it down you will be moving right along. I would have to give looks 5/5.

Cons:
One of the first things that you will notice about an iPod is that you need to keep a redundant data storage of the same information. All this means is that you will need to keep a copy of the music on your hard drive of your computer as well as on the iPod and that you can’t delete it off your computer. This is because of the propoetery feature of the iPod that does not allow you to remove songs off an iPod onto another device (i.e. computer, laptop, other MP3 player, etc). Many will find this a waste of space and uncessary. Scratches the iPod is very prone to getting scratches especially on the back metal cover and the video screen. I am not sure if it is the coating that is used, but no matter how careful you are expect to see some as soon as it comes out of the box. Along with that I would say go out and get yourself a nice iPod cover as soon as possible. After only having the iPod a few months I can honestly say that this is one of the few products that I have used that is completely worth every penny that I have paid for it.

Additionally I asked a colleague of mine to write up her review as to get two sides of the story:

iPod Review from Jocelyn C.

Initially shelling out the money that my iPod cost, was a big decision. I would 'order' my iPod online, and then delete it from my cart. This took place for 6 months. Once I finally did purchase my iPod, it was one of the better electronic decisions that I ever made. I use my iPod 5 times a week at the gym, and really haven't gone back since.

Here's the things I've learned about iPods thus far . . . if you get a CD, you pretty much just put it on your iPod and never touch the CD again, so I personally suggest just buying the CD on iTunes, as you can make it a play list and burn it onto a CD if you really feel the need. Besides, I find they're often cheaper. Next, invest in all things iPod. I wish that I could plug my iPod into everything, my office computer, a car dashboard, etc. So I recommend buying those conveniences like the iTrip, the Bose iPod Stereo, etc. Finally, I have a 20 Gig iPod, and I don't use anywhere near all of it. Even if you put every CD you owned on your iPod, I'd bet you still wouldn't listen to it. So, when considering buying an iPod, really think of how much space you actually need.

One parting comment, I've had 2 sets of iPod head phones crap out on me since the beginning of August. Perhaps that is because of my frequent use, but I'd say they're headphones just aren't amazing.

Big Brother IS Watching

2006-02-03T08:01:00.000-08:00

It seems as today’s day and age becomes more advanced we seem to loose our identities (figuratively and literally speaking as identity theft increases in part because the world seems to operate on digital code more than human interaction). When we put our faith in technology we loose the trust that we once had in people. People who should have can not earn it because they do not get the face time with others.

Currently we have an interesting situation that was brought upon in part because of the September 11th attacks on the World Trade Center. The current White House administration has enacted a presidential order allowing domestic surveillance without the use of warrants. Thus, theoretically bypassing the checks and balances of our judiciary system allowing for a broader “interpretation” of the law. This poses much concern for the generally public because it seems to grossly infringe upon our first amendment rights. All things being equal one can not place a necessity on homeland security, but it would be logical to assume that if the process of acquiring a warrant to perform domestic surveillance was not working as fast as it needed to that we develop a new system to approve the necessary warrants. Instead the government chose to bypass completely the reason we require warrants and allow domestic surveillance without requiring a warrant. It boggles my understanding of why such government that would is in place to protect oneself would choose to take such backwards steps in meeting such a need.

I do believe that the intentions of such a presidential order were in fact necessary and possibly needed. However, I can not agree with the methods and current state of such a policy. It is not those with good intentions that will abuse the scope and method of this, but government agencies who will not expose this “loophole” to administer domestic surveillance while bypassing the necessary means of regulation.

As always I never claim to be an expert on any topic, but I will post my opinions on several issues and welcome any current info.

The Dude Abides.

Coffee and Reality Quote

2005-12-20T22:53:00.000-08:00

"The whole purpose of places likes Starbucks is for people with no decision making ability whatsoever to make six decisions to buy just one coffee… short / tall… light / dark… caf / decafe… low-fat / non-fat… etc cetera. So people who don’t know what the hell they’re doing… or who on earth they are can, for only $2.95… get not just a cup of coffee… but an absolutely defining sense of self." You've Got Mail (movie quote)

LIFE:
In life there are a multitude of decisions that need to be considered. Often the biggest and most important ones come on a whim and force us to choose a direction almost solely based on intuition and gut. Those that can not learn to make a choice either way will be left without what they want.

COFFEE:
Hmm sometime choosing the right cup of coffee can seem like a defining moment in ones cultural awakening. If you an avid shop dweller then you have already found your calling. No matter if it’s anything from a tall regular with sugar and milk to a fancy medium white chocolate mocha with a small whip on top one can find comfort in tradition. It’s like wearing a comfortable pair of pajamas and feeling warm inside. This progression to self-realism may not be instantaneous and in some cases may require several experimental trips to trips to local coffee local. But when you find your “Zen” cup you’ll know.

The Dude Abides.

Coffee #1

2005-12-11T21:16:00.000-08:00

Coffee… what delicious nectar come from the roasted beans of Brazil, Kenya, Tanzania, Mexico, Costa Rica, Jamaica, and Hawaii. This common morning pastime finds it place in many locations and customs. Used as a popular neutral meeting ground its used as “lets meet over coffee.” As a contemporary pick-up line coffee can be just as comforting as a late night drink.
However, my passion lies in the great comfort I get from experiencing good company and a good cup of java. Always a great feeling to share stories, adventures and current happenings while sipping the liquid caffeine. Its my favorite smell to enter a coffee establishment that emanates the fresh aroma of coffee grounds. Its such a relaxation sensation to indulge in a great cup of joe.
When looking at what one feels like consider the many variations and intricate ordering that can take place when placing your coffee order.

-Order the size of your coffee. Stick to the terms small, medium or large for brewed coffee and single, double or triple for espresso drinks.

-If you want a decaf coffee, ask for decaf early and often.

-Most coffee shops allow you to add your own cream and sugar, if not, order black (nothing), sweet (extra sugar), light (lots of cream), dark (just a little cream), extra light, extra sweet or regular (regular amount of cream and regular amount of sugar).

-For espresso drinks, specify the type of milk you'd like: soy, lowfat, whole or nonfat.

-The most important part of your order is how you want your milk. If you want no milk at all, you want an espresso. If you want just a little milk and a dab of foam, you want a macchiato (mock-e-ah-to). A lot of foam and a little milk is a cappuccino. Mostly foam is a dry cappuccino and all foam is an extra-dry cappucinno. A lot of milk and a little foam is a latte, while a lot of milk and no foam is a flat latte. Brewed coffee with steamed milk is an au lait. An espresso with whipped cream is a Con Panna.

-Go ahead and splurge on a flavoring. Chocolate (or mocha), vanilla and hazelnut are the most popular.

Tips
Lattes and Cappuccinos are usually 160 degrees. This is the perfect foam temperature, ordering it hotter or cooler will effect the quality of the foam.
A decent coffee shop tip is a dollar. If you are pouring your own coffee, you can tip less. If you are getting a frozen drink or ordering for the office, tip more.
All coffee servers know the terms small, medium, large, single, double and triple. Don't be afraid to use them, even at Starbucks.
For perfect foam, order your cappuccino with 2% milk.

Ordering tips borred from: How To Order a Coffee http://wiki.ehow.com/Order-a-Coffee

The Dude Abides.

Social In-Security.

2005-11-04T08:19:00.000-08:00

As a member of the next generation whose future income will support the boomers and thus relinquish any doubt that by the time I choose to retire there will be no or severely limited social security money available feels a slight injustice.

However, I have been unable to determine the exact degree of my anger due to the problem not having enough publicity or lack of factual numbers. So it is my quest to determine what I can find out to see exactly if the rumors are true or a malicious media ploy to distract and outrage today’s youth.

But if this is the case that based on the current and future projected claims of social security that the funding will run dry by the time I choose to retire I would rather know sooner than later so I may plan alternatively.

Why can I not have the choice to subsidize the future of others when the money that was supposed to be protected, saved and invested to fund future generations has been spent and squandered by those who it will not affect because they will have taken their piece of the pie. Why not allow us the opportunity to forfeit what we have contributed thus far and allow us to save how we would like to save or at least offer a secured fund that can not be touched for purposes other than it intended use.

The Dude Abides.

Welcome to the wonderful world of technology.

2005-11-02T09:18:00.000-08:00

Today’s topic of discussion the ever present argument of PC vs. Mac… While I have always owned several PC units and have built more than I can count I still have to say each has their own unique benefits. So let’s tackle what we know.

Software:

Although Mac computers have the edge on easy and usability there is just no contest in the amount and quality of software available for today’s PC users.

Macs’ however do have their niche and have a lot of specialized software that has dramatic improvements over the PC version (an example of which is Adobe Photoshop).

Parts / Maintenance:

Umm. PC thousands of websites to order new and used parts to upgrade, demolish, and overhaul home users PC computers.

Mac… very little for upgrading and allowing users to customize their hardware compared to a PC.

System Stability:

Ok. No contest the other way. Since most of the home computers today will be running some version of the goliath Windows operating system it is apparent that we would have a stable system that would rival the Mac OS. However, this is not true as Windows has continually failed to produce such a stable system as the Mac OS.

Mac users are spoiler with the reliability and stability of the Mac OS most recently Mac OS X Tiger. The every functioning and easy to use software has no equal at this point. Mac users will swear once you go Mac you never go back and I would tend to agree.

Speed / Performance:

As time wears on the delineation seems clear and clear that PC’s are just down right faster than Mac computers. As the PC broke the 1 ghz barrier Mac was there with a system that could compete with demands of today’s increasing hungry software. The PC has far surpassed the performance standards of the Mac computer. Along with this goes the comparison dollar for dollar your get a lot more bang for your buck with a PC than a Mac.

So if performance and speed are what your looking for hands down PC computers are the solution to your answers with today’s AMD dual 64 chips that have double the processing power and a huge FSB.

Overall:

Well in general I can say that there is never a clear winner and Mac users will continue to buy Macs and PC users will continue to shred their old units and easily replace parts to keep up with the rapid changing technology cycle that has no end.

I will continue to harvest my PC and upgrade when needed to stay on the tail end of the tech curve. This will allow me the chance to have higher than necessary minimum requirements to run some software programs and games while increase the speed to not appear to crawl upon startup.

However, secretly I will shop around to find that perfect used Mac machine to place in my home office to use for “special” projects and to be able to have a reliable computer for my wife who would prefer the easy point and click never see the blue screen of death reliability of a Mac than a PC.

So we should all relish the fact that it’s not an even fight, and never will be. There are to many unique qualities to each side to crown a distinct winner. So we can happily let both win their respective categories and get back to searching the web for the next purchase or hardware upgrade.

The Dude Abides.