Archive for the 'computers' Tag

Software Secrets Part II: Linux version

It seems that a few fellow Linux users are back to watching this site, so I thought I’d once again share software I use and enjoy, especially little-known software. Only this time, it’ll be distinctly Linux (specifically Ubuntu) flavored software. If that’s your thing, read on! (continued)

Share Your Little Software Secrets

I primarily use Linux (specifically, Kubuntu Linux) as my main computing platform, so most of the software I could recommend might be of little use to the majority of readers (except for my advice: give Linux a try, without doing anything permanent to your computer, with a LiveCD. You might like it). That said, there are some cross-platform or Windows-only tools that I’ve grown to love, and I thought I’d share. I’d also like to hear your suggestions for little software programs or tricks that make your life easier. (continued)

System76 - A Class Act

Several years ago, I bought a Koala Mini from System76, a company that sells PCs running Ubuntu Linux. The system is hooked up to my TV, and functions admirably as my media center. However, a few months ago the cpu fan died, the system overheated, and it would continually overheat after about 5 minutes powered on. The system was far past warranty, and my specific model had been discontinued by the manufacturer, so I figured I was out of luck. I was wrong: System76 fixed my system free of charge– I didn’t pay for labor, shipping, or the new cpu fan. I certainly didn’t expect a free ride, but I was happy to see their dedication to excellence. So I just thought I’d post about it, for those who might be considering a pre-installed Linux system.

TF2: MMORPG without the hassles?

So, in a recent RPG.net post, someone was looking for a MMORPG that didn’t have the leveling grind and the obsession with new equipment. After some thought, I responded that my current gaming fixation, Team Fortress 2, might be exactly what he’s looking for. How is a first-person shooter a good substitute for a massively multiplayer online roleplaying game? Read on to find out. (continued)

Game Crazy

Maybe it’s the changing season, but lately I’ve been a little crazy about games; traditional or video, single or multiplayer, games have been on my mind and in my hands. The biggest time sinks? Portal, Team Fortress 2, Magic: the Gathering, Super Mario Galaxy, Changeling: the Lost, and Hex Hex.
Is anyone else feeling the gaming urge?

Code Sharing — Play a Random File on Linux

Some random geekery: I wrote this bash script a long time ago, but its served me well so I thought I’d post it on the vast Internet, in hope that maybe someone else may someday get use out of it. Google, don’t fail me now! Anyway, my linux bash script to randomly select a video file and play it follows below.
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Taking the Plunge

My hard drive crashed this weekend. Or, I should say, one of my hard drives crashed. You see, for several years now, I’ve been dual-booting Windows and Kubuntu Linux. My Windows drive was the one that crashed (I did recover the data, see after the cut), and… I’m thinking of not going back. Right now my system is booting only Linux, and it feels nice. Read on for crash experiences, my joy that my favorite windows programs run in Linux, and thoughts on computing.
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Wasting Time, Lesson Two

Did you know that some psychologists have started diagnosing a condition often referred to as “information addiction” or “Internet addiction” as a psychological disorder? I don’t think I’m there (no 40 hour long marathon online gaming sessions for me, thank you), but I DO read a lot online. Especially my two favorite news sites, SlashDot and Digg. (continued)

I know where I’ll buy my next Laptop

I’m a big fan of the Ubuntu Linux operating system. Among other reasons, it’s easy to use, and all the programs are free– Word, Excel, Powerpoint, Photoshop, you name it– they have open-source equivalents that kick butt and are easy and painless to install for free. Now, a company called System76 is offering Notebooks and Laptops with Ubuntu pre-installed and with full hardware technical support. Go Linux! If you’re shopping for a new computer, think of them.

I made the Switch

This blog is now running on Wordpress! The practical upshot is the software is much more modern, extensible and powerful.

The downshot is all your passwords are messed up, and there may be formatting things to correct in comments. If you need a new password, just e-mail me. I think you’ll like it when you log-in to write a new story.