Significant Decline in Spam-Have You Noticed?

"In October Commtouch reported an 18% drop in global spam levels (comparing September and October). This was largely attributed to the closure of Spamit around the end of September. Spamit is the organization allegedly behind a fair percentage of the worlds pharmacy spam. Analysis of the spam trends to date reveals a further drop in the amounts of spam sent during Q4 2010. December's daily average was around 30% less than September's. The average spam level for the quarter was 83% down from 88% in Q3 2010. The beginning of December saw a low of nearly 74%."

Start the New Year right- Linux in 2011?

The majority of the computing world "grows up" on Windows, of course, since Microsoft's operating system still holds by far the largest share of the market. Not everyone stays there, however.
Growing numbers, in fact, are switching to Linux every day, and for good reasons. How do you know when it's time to switch to Linux? Here are just a few (mostly) serious signs.
1. You're Tired of Paying for Software

You wake up one day and realize you're tired of paying for an operating system that's more bogged down with bugs than most alpha builds are. What, exactly, are you paying for here? Then, of course, there's also all the antivirus software you have to buy to keep it running. With Linux, on the other hand, countless developers around the world are working around the clock to keep the 100 percent free operating system at the head of its class.
2. You're Tired of Upgrading Hardware
If you find yourself upgrading perfectly good hardware just because resource-hungry Windows demands it, you might be using the wrong operating system.
3. You're Tired of Malware

Your older hardware probably still is fundamentally pretty good; too bad there's all that malware dragging it down. Thanks for sharing that love, Windows! Note to Microsoft: a stronger permissions system would have been a lot better, just FYI.
4. You've Seen One Too Many Patch Tuesdays

You've experienced your share of Patch Tuesday repair efforts, and they aren't getting any more fun. In fact, they're getting worse. It wouldn't be so bad if you didn't know how long the bugs had been there, flapping in the breeze, before they finally got fixed.
5. You Don't Have the Time

Who among us doesn't enjoy spending hours at a time scanning for viruses and spyware and defragmenting? Well, probably all of us don't enjoy that, actually. Then, too, there's all that unplanned downtime. Don't we have other things to do?
6. You Like Speed

If Windows' boot speed were faster, when would you make your coffee? Right. Sadly, that argument doesn't quite cut it anymore.
7. You Like Sharing

Your business associate in Berlin tried to send you an .ODP file--based on the international standard file format--but PowerPoint wouldn't read it properly. So much for interoperability.
8. You Don't Actually Love Internet Explorer

It's no accident Internet Explorer's market share is slipping, and vulnerabilities are a big part of it. Then, too, there's the monoculture effect making it all worse.
9. You Want to Be in Control

It's no longer fun waiting to see when Microsoft will fix bugs, or what new features it will come out with. You're ready to start driving changes like that yourself.
10. You're One of a Kind

Though it can be altered in very small, superficial ways, Windows can't hold a candle to Linux when it comes to customizability. Are you just another face in the crowd? Of course not, and Linux recognizes that.
Is Linux perfect? Certainly not. But it is a lot better than Windows in so many ways. Isn't it time for you to finally make the switch?
Follow Katherine Noyes on Twitter: @Noyesk.

4000 Hits on the Blog!

Today at the end of 2010 marks the 4000th hit on Tekkie G's....
Keep telling others about it and I will try to keep posting the good stuff as I have time!

Weather Warning Two Feet Of Snow!!!

Just a little humor along your way today!

Malwarebytes won't start due to infections.....

If this is your problem go into Program Files and rename the mbam.exe file to something else...this will "trick" the virus/spyware into thinking it is not a spyware deletion program....then it should start for you...

Now you should Create a New Restore Point to prevent possible reinfection from an old one. Some of the malware you picked up could have been saved in System Restore. Since this is a protected directory your tools cannot access to delete these files, they sometimes can reinfect your system if you accidentally use an old restore point. Setting a new restore point AFTER cleaning your system will help prevent this and enable your computer to "roll-back" to a clean working state.

The easiest and safest way to do this is:

• Go to Start > Programs > Accessories > System Tools and click "System Restore".
• Choose the radio button marked "Create a Restore Point" on the first screen then click "Next". Give the R.P. a name, then click "Create". The new point will be stamped with the current date and time. Keep a log of this so you can find it easily should you need to use System Restore.
• Then use Disk Cleanup to remove all but the most recently created Restore Point.
• Go to Start > Run and type: Cleanmgr
• Click "Ok"
• Disk Cleanup will scan your files for several minutes, then open.
• Click the "More Options" Tab.
• Click the "Clean up" button under System Restore.
• Click Ok. You will be prompted with "Are you sure you want to delete all but the most recent restore point?"
• Click Yes, then click Ok.
• Click Yes again when prompted with "Are you sure you want to perform these actions?"
• Disk Cleanup will remove the files and close automatically.

Homegroup Issues..still having them?

Remember:
All Windows 7 computers must have same WORKGROUP name
Must have boxes ticked that you want to share.
Must have File Sharing and Printer Sharing turned on.
And......then turn off all computers...unplug modem and router and reboot
all from start again...modem first till lights all flash...then router....then computers....
You should be networked.

Total Lunar Eclipse 12-20-2010

Gmail’s Free Calling -A Real Deal!

Gmail’s Free Calling Extended Through 2011

Back in August Google announced free phone calls from their GMail phone client for the rest of 2010. Today they’ve announced the free calling will be extended through out all of 2011–free phone calls in the US and Canada all year long.
If you’re not already using Gmail’s voice and video chat, grab a copy of the extension here to get started. All users in the US and Canada can call anywhere within the two countries for free or enjoy low international rates when calling other countries.
Free Calling in Gmail Extended Through 2011 [The Official Gmail Blog]

More Win 7 Network Problems Solved

If you have done everything you can think of to get the Homegroup going here is a couple more to do....

Make sure these services are set to automatic....here's how


Windows 7 Services In order for the HomeGroup networking feature to be working, there are certain Windows services that need to be enabled and running. If you used a program to disable services or manually disabled them, it may be causing the problem.
The services that need to be turned on are listed below:

• DNS Client
• Function Discovery Provider Host
• Function Discovery Resource Publication
• Peer Networking Grouping
• HomeGroup Provider
• HomeGroup Listener
• SSDP Discovery
• UPnP Device Host

You can turn on the services by clicking on Start and typing in “services” and then clicking on Services.

In the Services dialog, double-click on the service and make sure the Startup type is set to Automatic and click Start to turn on the service.

Fix Picture- Free Online Picture Editor-Check It Out!

HERE

FixPicture.Org is a FREE online website utility for digital camera owners.

It's the fastest way to resize and convert your pictures and images.
You can apply rotation, and some effects like greyscale, sepia, blur, ...

Santa Claws - Enjoy!

ADBLOCK PLUS.....Regain control of your internet!

Tired of annoying ads on your webpages--install this gem into Firefox as an add on and you will have
less to deal with...it is simply amazing....here is the scoop right from the AdBlock Page:

Adblock Plus: Save your time and traffic

Annoyed by adverts? Troubled by tracking? Bothered by banners? Install Adblock Plus now to regain control of the internet and change the way that you view the web. You can also choose from over forty filter subscriptions to automatically configure the add-on for purposes ranging from removing online advertising to blocking all known malware domains.

"Adblock Plus in just over 1 Minute" screencast kindly provided by ProCasts.co.uk
Watch in high quality (Ogg video)
Watch on YouTube
iPhone version

Last Pass acquires XMarks

In our efforts to bring you expanded, go-anywhere access to your data, we're excited to announce that LastPass has acquired Xmarks! It's a great opportunity that not only ensures the survival of the Xmarks add-on, but will also enhance our mission to provide the best data-syncing tools out there.

Xmarks, formerly known as Foxmarks, provides the world’s leading browser add-on for cross-browser bookmark sync that has successfully grown to over 4.5 million users syncing more than 1 billion bookmarks across 5 million computers. Xmarks has become an integral part of the browsing experience for millions of users, and you can rest assured that we will continue to expand the service in the coming months. (Courtesty of the Last Pass gang!)

Get it....use it.....and never hafta remember a password again!

Giggle with the Goats-Happy Holidays!

The Reason for the Season

How to make photo calendars for free for Christmas!

HP let's you do it on their website...

you can add photos from your computer-upload them to the site and create wonderful
calendars and then print them-either by the month at a time or the whole set of 12 all ready to wrap and give...

very fun site-be sure and check on "free" when you get there and it will give you the templates available....

GIT IT HERE

Patty Cake Cats-Just for fun today

Have fun, take a break and enjoy the kitties

CLICK HERE

Recover data from a browser crash-here's how

One of the most annoying things about the Web is its uncanny ability to stop working right after you have spent five or more minutes filling out a long form with contact information and other data.
It never fails—you go to apply for a job, so you enter your entire resume and a glowing cover letter in a long data form, hit the send button and hold your breath as the little progress bar slowly moves the right…only to grace you with the page cannot be found error.

For Firefox and Chrome users, this common occurrence need not ruin your day. A miraculous add-on, aptly called Lazarus, can recover all form data with a simple right click.

Ok, so it’s not exactly a rising-from-the-tomb-after-being-dead-four-days kind of miracle, but Lazarus does auto-save all data typed into Web forms when it is installed in a compatible browser. Once installed, it sits on the right of the address bar, patiently waiting for a form to crash.

When you lose data from a form, you can go back to the form, right click in the data boxes, and choose from several of Lazarus’ autosaves from that particular form. In our test, we wrote in a form, backspaced one word and right-clicked in the form. Lazarus gives us the option to restore the word we backspaced:

In Firefox, the program works flawlessly. At one point, we even unplugged our router after filling in a form, then hit the submit button. Of course, the page timed out. To make sure Lazarus worked as described, we then restarted the computer. When we reconnected to the internet and navigated back to the form, the data was easily recovered with Lazarus.
The Chrome version of Lazarus is still in Beta testing. It works well with data forms, but it would not work to recover any of the residual dropdown menus or selection boxes. Hopefully these will work when the program emerges from Beta.
Lazarus for Firefox is available from Interclue’s Web site. Lazarus for Chrome is available from the Chrome Extensions Page. There are no plans to launch an add-on for Internet Explorer in the near future.

Google Flight Tracker

Using Google To Track A U.S. Flight
You can use Google to check the status of a U.S. flight by typing the name of the airline followed by the flight number. For example, to see the status for United Airlines flight 134 search for "United 134."

On the resulting page click on the fboweb.com link and you'll see a flight tracker with your flight info.

Heres' the flight tracking info you'll get (using flight United 134):

FlightID: UAL134 (Commercial Jet)
Status: ARRIVED
Owner: UNITED AIR LINES INC.
Radio Call: UNITED
Type: B772 (Boeing Company Model 777-200)
Origin Apt: SFO SAN FRANCISCO INTERNATIONAL
Dest Apt: ORD CHICAGO O'HARE INTL
Departed: 11:24 AM PDT (1824Z)
Original ETA: 04:37 PM CDT (2137Z)
Actual Arrival Time: 04:47 P

You can also use Google to see delays and weather conditions at a particular airport by typing the airport's three letter code followed by the word "airport." For example, San Francisco International Airport updates can be found by searching for "sfo airport."

Kernel? What is it?

Have you ever heard this term?  Well, it is becoming more prominent nowadays when there are many developers writing new "kernels" for the systems.  Simply put it is the "front-end" of all operating system types.
Without it nothing will start.  Hence in type a kernel of grain or plant seed-without it the plant will not begin or grow.....here's the technical explanation:

The kernel is the essential center of a computer operating system, the core that provides basic services for all other parts of the operating system. A synonym is nucleus. A kernel can be contrasted with a shell, the outermost part of an operating system that interacts with user commands. Kernel and shell are terms used more frequently in Unix operating systems than in IBM mainframe or Microsoft Windows systems.
Typically, a kernel (or any comparable center of an operating system) includes an interrupt handler that handles all requests or completed I/O operations that compete for the kernel's services, a scheduler that determines which programs share the kernel's processing time in what order, and a supervisor that actually gives use of the computer to each process when it is scheduled. A kernel may also include a manager of the operating system's address spaces in memory or storage, sharing these among all components and other users of the kernel's services. A kernel's services are requested by other parts of the operating system or by application programs through a specified set of program interfaces sometimes known as system calls.
Because the code that makes up the kernel is needed continuously, it is usually loaded into computer storage in an area that is protected so that it will not be overlaid with other less frequently used parts of the operating system.
The kernel is not to be confused with the Basic Input/Output System (BIOS).
Some kernels have been developed independently for use in any operating system that wants to use it. A well-known example is the Mach kernel, developed at Carnegie-Mellon University, and currently used in a version of the Linux operating system for Apple's PowerMac computers.

Happy Holidays To All Tekkie G Bloggers!

Android for HTC D2- Froyo 3.2 data connection problem solved

You have to set the APN server properly....this is the whole problem everyone is having with
getting Android to connect to the internet via the SD Card.

Here is the list of APN Providers> Click HERE



Find your provider and enter all the info into the Wirelss & Networks>Mobile Networks>Access Point Names--if it is blank just go through all the buttons and enter the name-mms-mmswc-etc etc and you will be online in no time....also go back and
set the Network Mode to GSM ONLY....

For those of you who use T-Mobile US here is the instructions:
Look in your Settings - Wireless & Networks - Mobile Networks - Access Point Names section. Is there anything in it? If not, add this entry:

Press Menu button (the button in the middle)
Press New APN
Press Name, type in T-Mobile and then press OK
Press APN, type in epc.tmobile.com press OK
Press Back Button three times (the fourth button from the left)
Click on Mobile Networks to turn it off, then click it again the turn it on.

Happy Androiding!

Google Docs- Git 'em and Use 'em......free!

With literally thousands of free templates, online usability, and storage in "the cloud" how can you go wrong with Google Docs.....
Fully compatible with MS Office, Open Office etc.....download, upload, save and store, edit, transform....the features are limitless.....

All available within your Gmail page- with 7 GBs of storage and growing ya gotta get going....

Info here directly from the Google Team

• spreadsheets and presentations online
• Share and collaborate in real time
• Safely store and organize your work
• Control who can see your documents
• Read user examples
• Get started

1 of 6

Create documents, spreadsheets and presentations online

Create basic documents from scratch or start from a template.
You can easily do all the basics, including making bulleted lists, sorting by columns, adding tables, images, comments, formulas, changing fonts and more. And it's free.
Upload your existing files.
Google Docs accepts most popular file formats, including DOC, XLS, ODT, ODS, RTF, CSV, PPT, etc. So go ahead and upload your existing files.
Familiar desktop feel makes editing a breeze.
Just click the toolbar buttons to bold, underline, indent, change font or number format, change cell background color and so on.

Windows 7 Starter Edition / Home Basic-Background Changer

By default the Windows 7 Starter and Windows 7 Home Basic editions do not include the Personalization features such as change desktop background and Desktop Slideshow.

Therefore use this little program Oceanis Change Background Windows 7

Get it HERE

Instructions here:

2. Open the downloaded ZIP file and extract the Oceanis_Change_Background_W7.exe file to your desktop, then run it to install it.
NOTE: You will be prompted to restart the computer to finish installing this program.

3. When your computer restarts, you will see this as your desktop background. Click on the Oceanis Change Background Windows 7 shortcut to change your desktop background. (see screenshot below)

4. Browse to the images that you want to use and check (select) a image, or more than one image to have a desktop slideshow. Select the Picture position for how you want the images displayed, and any desktop slideshow settings if you selected more than one image. (see screenshots below)
NOTE: These options are just like the default ones in the other editions of Windows 7 here that are now being allowed by this program by Oceanis for the Windows 7 Starter edition.

5. When done, click on Save changes. (see screenshots above)

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone

Canon Printers using Ubuntu Linux

Just an FYI....you can download the .deb files (linux printer drivers) from the European Canon site not the US site...why? who knows...

anyhow, get the .deb files then go ahead and unzip them to your desktop in Ubuntu....double click on the "common" file first and get it installed...then the one that says "filter"....linux requires "dependencies" so ya hafta do it in that order...

then go into system>administration>printing and "add" the printer...it will search for it and find it and then just let it search for that driver whole setup you just installed....and viola it will search it out and get it ready for you!  Easy, and works great....

Microsoft 25th Anniversary

November 20, 1985

"Microsoft Windows extends the features of the DOS operating system, yet is compatible with most existing applications that run under DOS. Windows lets users integrate tasks they perform with their computers by providing the ability to work with several programs at the same time and easily switch between them without having to quit and restart individual applicatications. In addition, it provides a rich foundation for a new generation of applications." 
Version 1.0 dubbed Interface Manager


This from ZDNet:


Windows 1.0, which could only support tiled (not overlapping) windows, included standard desktop features such as MS-DOS Executive (DOS file manager), Calendar, Cardfile, Notepad, Terminal, Calculator and Clock; utlilities including Control Panel, PIF (Program Information File) Editor, RAMDrive (for managing memory cards designed to beat the PC's 640KB memory limit), Clipboard and Print Spooler. There was even a game, Reversi. In a 'special introductory offer', Windows 1.0 came with Windows Write and Windows Paint and cost $99.
The minimum system requirements for Windows 1.0 now seem impossibly quaint: MS-DOS version 2.0; two double-sided floppy disk drives or a hard disk; 256KB of memory or greater; a graphics adapter card.

YOU'VE COME A LONG WAY BABY!!!

"Beta" could be a boo boo....

Are you looking to install software that has the title "beta" connected with it...my humble opinion is to steer away from it until the final version is perfected....

Many have tried the beta version of something and it has had ill effects....it simply is put out to the public to "try" or test the software...it will have bugs and can crash your computer.....

Beta is short for Beta-Test....which is exactly what it means....a test, or trial period to give folks a chance to try the software which is fully functioning...

Let the tech junkies wing it with this stuff..you keep to the "stable" versions of anything and you won't go wrong....

Open Office-Great Alternative to the "Other One"....

It reads and writes and does everything the "other one" does....and can even read and write to "the other one's" file system...and save it too!

What is it? The great Open Office ....get it now without hesitation...

HERE

Something to Invigorate You!

FOR THOSE OF YOU WHO ARE BORED SITTING AT YOUR COMPUTER TODAY!
(Turn down the music as its kinda eerie)

"android.process.media has stopped" error

If you are using Android on your smartphone from an SD card make sure the SD card is at least a Class 4 card.....it seems alot of errors are coming from running a card on your phone that is way too slow to run the programs for these faster processors on the little toys....

Check out the card and see if you see a circle with a number on it in the upper corner somewhere....Class 2 is generic and no good...get yourself a Class 4 and you are off and running again!

HTC HD2 Phone Issues-This could be your problem!

Is your HTC D2 smartphone freezing up and you have to remove the battery repeatedly????  Well, I have one and have found the answer to this whole problem!
HTC shipped out Class 2 SD cards with the some of these phones and Class 2 is very, very slow reading and writing...basically junk...so when you install programs to the SD card it will freeze up when you try to access them alot of times.....thus the phone freezes and you have to restart it- very frustrating!

Here's the info to get it exchanged from HTC directly:

HTC has recently acknowledged an issue with the 16GB SD card that shipped with the US T-Mobile HD2. T-Mobile issued an internal bulletin to this effect and provided a US number (888.356.2375) to call to arrange to have the SD card replaced, from Level 2 to a Level 4 SD card. Alot of HD2's had the Level 2 card installed and this card was found to cause the phone to freeze. The Level # is indicated by a circle with a numeral in the middle of it. Usually on the upper right hand side of the SD card. When you call the number HTC provided they will want you to have the HD2 in front of you with IMEI and S/N ready.
They want you to send the 16 GB card back and they will replace it or else give them your credit card # and they will charge you some ridiculous price like 88.00 to send you a new one and when they receive your old one they will revoke the charge....my recommendation....send the old one in with the info they send you on email and be sure and backup your data on that card and format it before sending back to HTC.  They said 2-3 weeks for replacement. 

I am always on the prowl for things to make our tech life easier!

ShoutOut-Talk to Text on Android and IPhone

Well, today I have my TMobile HTC D2 running both Kumar's Premium Rom and Android (running from a folder on my SD card)....it is really awesome!
One program that runs great on the Android is this which I just installed so am telling you about it....get it and install it and have voice to text for free!  Here's the scoop:

ShoutOUT

ShoutOUT is a full-featured messaging app with voice dictation. Speak your Facebook and Twitter status updates on iPhone or address your contacts on Android and Brew by voice—there's no faster way to create and send messages.
ShoutOUT allows you to send and receive text messages at your convenience, and is especially useful when you're on the go, and don’t have two free hands for typing.

A Complete Messaging Application

• Inbox and outbox
• Voice addressing on Android and Brew
• Pop-up notification on Android that reads your texts out loud
  and announces the name of the sender
• Status updates for Facebook and Twitter on iPhone
• Headset support on iPhone

Key Features

• High accuracy speech recognition
• Fully automated, real-time transcription—see results in seconds
• SmartWord™ editing—see alternatives to transcribed text

Privacy

ShoutOUT speech recognition is fully automated—the transcription that appears on your handset is created with no human intervention whatsoever. ShoutOUT does not upload your contacts to any server.

Full Product Info:

   http://shout-out.mobi

Back It Up - Don't Delay

Here is a free program to back up all your important files....please do it onto an external drive ASAP or else one day you may have "the crash" everyone dreads.  Here' the info: 

DOWNLOAD


FBackup^4.5 has a simple interface and guides you through the process of defining a backup job using a friendly wizard that asks you:

• Where do you want to store the backup (the destination).
• What do you want to backup (the sources).
• How do you want to run the backup (using full backup that zips the files, or mirror backup that doesn't zip them).
• When do you want to run the backup (you can schedule it to run automatically or run it manually).

Once a backup job is defined, you can run it manually by pressing the Backup button (or F6), or if you add a scheduler it will run automatically. FBackup can easily back up sources from local drives (including USB connected drives) to destinations such as USB/Firewire connected devices or mapped network locations. It creates either standard zip files (when using "full backup"), or exact copies of the original sources without any compression (using "mirror backup"). The best thing about this freeware backup software is that it protects your data for free.

Main Features

It’s free for personal and commercial purposes.
FBackup is a backup software free for both commercial and personal use. This means that you can save some money by not having to buy another backup program.
Automatic backups.
You define a backup job, set it to run automatically, and forget about it. FBackup will automatically run the backup at the scheduled date, so you have the benefits not only of having your data protected, but you'll also save precious time.
Backup with standard zip compression.
When using "full backup", the sources will be archived using standard zip compression. FBackup uses ZIP64 compression, which means that it can create zip files over 2GB in size. Also, you can password protect your backup zip files.
Exact copies of files.
If you don't want to have the files stored in one zip file, FBackup can make exact copies of the backup sources using "mirror backup". Since FBackup will also back up empty folders, you can use this backup type to create in the destination a "mirror" copy of the original files. So it's not only a file backup software.
Run actions before/after backup.
For each backup job, you can define an action to execute before or after the backup. For example, you can select "Clear backup" before the backup runs, so that all the previous backed up files will be cleared before loading the new ones. As an after-backup action, you can set it to stand by, log off, hibernate or even shut down the computer once the backup has successfully finished.
Easy to use.
The two main functions of a backup program are the backup and restore operations. FBackup makes them easy for you by offering friendly wizards. You start a new backup wizard, select "what," "where," "how," and "when" to backup, and the backup is ready to run. If you have to restore files, you'll open a restore wizard and it will ask you "where" you want the files to be restored.
Automatic updates.
FBackup automatically checks for updates weekly, so you'll know when a new version is released. The option to check for updates can be disabled, but we recommend that it is enabled so that FBackup will be up-to-date.
Multiple backup destinations. By default, your backups will be stored on the local Windows partition. To be sure you have a secure backup, we highly recommend you to store the backups on other destinations supported by FBackup (such as an external USB/Firewire drive, or on a mapped network drive). This way, if your computer suffers a hardware failure, you'll have your data safe on an external location.
Backup plugins.
You can load plugins for backing up or restoring specific program settings or other custom data (like game saves, email data, etc.). Once loaded in FBackup, these plugins will list the sources needed to be backed up for that particular program in "Predefined Backups." You can see a list of all the available backup plugins here: Free Backup Plugins.
Backup open files.
If a file is in use by another program at the time of the backup, FBackup will still be able to back up that file, because it uses the Volume Shadow Service that Windows provides. So, as long as you're using Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 2003 Server, Windows 2008 Server or Windows 7, FBackup will back up those open files. As an example, you will be able to back up your Outlook emails and settings without closing the program first.
Multi-language.
You can choose a language for the user interface from the languages currently supported. If you want to help us translate the website or its interface into another language, you can do so by visiting the Languages page.
FBackup is a free data backup software, it is not recommended for full system backup (disk image backups).

"Flashing" your Phone- HTC D2 (not Euro but US)

For those of you with this phone here is another great Rom from Kumar the developer...I have used it for months and keep getting the updated version and each one works great on the phone....
Get it HERE
In earlier posts I have set the instructions for "flashing" your phone and what you need to do first so search this blog for that...don't "brick" it but do "trick" it into
working at its best for you!  Happy Autumn to all Tekkie G readers!

Wubi - Run Ubuntu from a folder on your hard drive

The .exe called Wubi (windows ubuntu installer) is a very handy tool...with it you can install the latest Ubuntu or other distros to a folder on your hard drive and use
Ubuntu etc. without harming your Windows installation...it installs just like another program on the drive-or other partition you point it to....give it a try today as I have and run Ubuntu from the startup screen
Download the latest Ubuntu 10.10 and Wubi is already on the .iso file-burn to a CD with IMGBURN...click on the "Wubi" icon and hit the button "install inside Windows"- pick your partition-add your user name and password- let it install then reboot hit "Ubuntu" on the startup page (you will see windows and ubuntu-your choice) the installation will finish the install and super, duper you are running the latest and greatest Ubuntu to date!

If you decide you don't want Ubuntu anymore just go into Add/Remove programs and click uninstall Ubuntu...but you won't cuz it is a great system!

SD Adapter Card keeps saying "read only" when you try to format

Simple fix more than likely....if you are using an adapter for your  mini sd card.....
check and see if the switch on the side is set to closed...or write protected...if it is just slide it..reinsert it and
viola...you should be able to now format it and be off and running!

MEEGO..go 'n get it!

What is it????  MEEGO 1.1
An itty bitty OS for Netbooks....runs super fast and good.....write to a USB or SD Card and have fun!
Get it HERE

Use Win32DiskImager to write it to the drive....HERE

BidSauce-Penny Auction....Beware....read further

For those of you who like to do online bidding and win something for almost nothing, this site is out there....but from the facts on SiteJabber I would highly recommend staying away from this one....
Here's the reviews   CLICK
Keep safe in the Web World.....

Chrome 7 Stable Version is Released

Google has released Chrome 7 stable version  and fixed over  800 bugs on the three major platforms: Windows, Mac and Linux.
Google has notably improved the management of HTML5 language tipped to become a standard, by using a new algorithm for analyzing web pages. Indeed, the API allows HTML5 File sites and web applications to “read” the contents of local files.
In addition, the new version of  Chrome 7 now  fully supports AppleScript (for Mac OS X) and a new management window to list the blocked sites while preventing them to create or modify cookies.
This version of Chrome also allows users to upload entire folders from their computers, rather than select only one file at a time. However, this feature relies on HTML5, still very few websites use this option now.
In addition, a dozen security vulnerabilities have been corrected, including five classified as “critical.”
Customers who already have Chrome on their computer will automatically receive the update, while those who wish to purchase this version can be downloaded on the main Google site. The download takes only a few minutes.

It's Freezing.....is your ITHING having problems???

HOW TO UNFREEZE YOUR IPAD....

The first step to learning how to reboot or reset an iPad involves identifying the sleep/power button. When holding the iPad in portrait mode (longer in vertical direction), the sleep/power button is on the top of the device.

Next, you need to hold this button down for approximately 3 seconds. After holding the button for a few seconds, the iPad's screen will dim and you will see a red slider button that says "Slide to power off" next to it.

To reboot the iPad, slide the red button (it will have a white arrow on it) from left to right. After you have slid the button over, the iPad will begin the shut down process.

Be patient as this might take a few seconds for the iPad to properly shut down. Do not attempt to do anything else with it during this time.

If you wish to restart your iPad after resetting it, wait 10 seconds with the device off prior to turning it on. This process should eliminate whatever sluggish performance or frozen screen you were experiencing.

How to unfreeze or reset an iPod Touch

To reset iPod touch, press and hold the Sleep/Wake button and the Home button at the same time until you see the Apple logo show up on the screen:

How to unfreeze or reset an iPod Classic

1. Toggle the Hold switch on and off. (Slide it to Hold, then turn it off again.)
2. Now press and hold the Menu and Select buttons until the Apple logo appears, which may take about 6 to 10 seconds. You may need to repeat this step.

Notes:

• If you are having problems resetting the iPod, go ahead and set it on a flat surface. Then make sure the finger pressing the Select button is not touching any part of the click wheel. Also be sure that you are pressing the Menu button towards the outside of the click wheel, not near the center.
• If the above mentioned steps do not work, then you can try connecting your iPod to a power adapter and plug the power adapter into an electrical outlet, or connect the iPod to your computer. Make sure the computer is turned on and isn’t set to go to sleep.

How to reset an iPod Nano (1st, 2nd, and 3rd Generation)

This one is similar to how you would do it for an iPod Classic:
1. Toggle the Hold switch on and off. (Slide it to Hold, then turn it off again.)
2. Now press and hold the Menu and Select buttons until the Apple logo appears, which may take about 6 to 10 seconds. You may need to repeat this step.
You can also reset an iPod Mini in the same way as the above steps.

How to reset or unfreeze an iPod Shuffle

1. First , eject your iPod shuffle from iTunes, if you have it connected.
2. Then remove the iPod shuffle from the USB dock.
3. Move the switch that is on the top of the iPod shuffle to the off position.

Note: When iPod shuffle is off, the green stripe by the switch is not visible.
4. Wait 5 seconds.
5. Move the switch back to the on position so green stripe will be visible in either position.
And that’s it! Hopefully, now that you know these steps, you don’t have to keep taking out the battery to unfreeze your iPod! Any comments or questions, make sure to write below! Enjoy! Source: Apple Support

Become a Maverick!

Live on the edge...with Maverick Meerkat now out!  Ubuntu10.10 HERE
The best Ubuntu yet-available for desktops, laptops, netbooks...and free.

Boot time of 8.6 seconds.....yee ha! Linux Rocks It Again

For those of you out there who have not jumped into the Linux world you oughtta give it a try....the new distro
Ubuntu 10.10 is out and here's the link to a laptop boot of 8 seconds.....

Check it out HERE

FoxTabs...very cool feature for Firefox

Have all your Top Sites on one panoramic view...or several different layouts...your choice....
Get FoxTabs HERE for Firefox and give it a try.

Online Photo Editing Tool

Check this one out....if you have a photo you want to remove something from....
WEBINPAINT
Quite nifty and thrifty too!

You Stuck? Need some Antifreeze

When you find your system running at 100% of the CPU and it comes to a halt, for whatever reason....
download and use this little program....it will halt all system processes but the bare mininum and allow you
to kill the villians off and restore things again.
Get Antifreeze HERE

Antivirus Removal Tool

For those of you who no longer want to use Panda Cloud or are having problems with any antivirus program for that matter you will need this removal tool to get rid of all the files in the registry.  Add/Remove programs does not uninstall everything sometimes which can be a real nuisance!

Get AppRemover HERE
It is free and works just great to remove any antivirus program from your computer.

Linksys Router Setup Info-How to

If you have a linksys wireless router here is the easy way ....
You don't need to install the software that comes with it...here is how to do it...

Once you get the modem up and running then plug in the router- with power plug....wait till all lights come on and are blinking...

then open up your browser window- type in the address bar "192.168.1.1" and hit enter...put in "admin" and "admin" which is the default entry to get into the router...
then go into basic wireless settings and set your SSID name (whatever you want to call it), wireless security and set it to WPA Personal- TKIP and put in your password....save settings....viola..you are internet secure.

Firefox toolbars gone missin'..get 'em back this way

While you have the browser open hit the "Alt" key and they will appear again...then go into "view" and
click which bars you wish to have open-navigation, menu etc.

Firefox Sync...good alternative for Xmarks

Get it HERE

Here is the scoop right from the Sync page:

Stay in Sync With Your Firefox

Why Sync Up?

Get Up and Go

Doing online research from the office, only to see itʼs time to head home? Now you can go back to your opened tabs and search history in an instant from any PC. Your Firefox is as you left it, no matter where you log in.

Backup Your Info

All your settings, passwords, bookmarks, and other customizations are saved in a more universal way, not tethered to a single machine. If you replace a device, you donʼt lose your Firefox.

Security

Your information is encrypted so only you can access it when you enter a Secret Phrase. Firefox puts security as a top priority and syncing is no exception.

* Note: The initial sync after you create an account may take some time to complete. Upon the initial sync completion, you will be able to access your data from other computers and devices.

End of the Road for Xmarks

Sorry to say the fabulous Xmarks is going to be out of service by January 2011 due to lack of funding....
It has been a great feature in Firefox....

PDF Converter...if you need it here it is and its free

free PDF converter

for Windows 7, Vista, XP, 2008/2003/2000 Server (32 and 64-bit)
DOWNLOAD

3.97 MB

Freeware. Lightweight. No nags.

doPDF is a free PDF converter for both personal and commercial use. Using doPDF you can create PDF files by selecting the "Print" command from virtually any application. With one click you can convert your Microsoft Excel, Word or PowerPoint documents or your emails and favorite web sites to PDF files.

Here is the page with the whole "how to" if you are interested......

Easy BCD...just what it says .....easy.....

Next question...what in the world is BCD anyhow......"boot configuration data"....it is what makes the operating system boot into the system files...without it your computer is just dead in the water.....this program just helps it along and you can "tweak" the entries to your liking....very handy tool!

• Boot into XP/Vista/7/Ubuntu/OS X and more!
• Boot from USB, Network, ISO images, Virtual Harddisks (VHD), WinPE, and more!
• Repair the Windows bootloader, change your boot drive, create a bootable USB, and more!
• Rename entries, set default boot target, change BCD timeout, hide the boot menu, and more!
• Create your own custom boot sequence, hide drives on boot, backup and restore configurations, and more!

EasyBCD is used and recommended by Microsoft, PC-World, PC-Magazine, Softpedia, PC-Welt, and hundreds more! Don't get left out – download it today, it's free!!  (courtesy NEOSMART technologies)
DOWNLOAD

Internet Explorer 9 Beta is out for you to try.

I am using it now and then and it seems fast for sure.  Am just giving it a whirl while it is beta version to
see what modifications they come up with.....

If you want to try it here's the link
Get it Now

Windows Media Player Plugin for Firefox- Latest Version

In order to play some video files in Firefox which are Windows related you must have this plugin installed
in the browser....

Download HERE

Close all browser windows so it can completely install.

Lookout Mobile Security for your Smartphone

Another feature....it has a GPS feature....just in case you misplace your phone?  How many have done that?

It will locate it within a few yards and send you an email and you can view the location of your lost phone also on a map....

pretty nifty program....and of course FREE....

Get it HERE

System Recovery Options for Windows 7

These two links will give you the ability to download the system recovery disks for Windows 7
They are torrent files so make sure you have a torrent downloader installed...such as Vuze.
Our friends at NeoSmart have provided these links on their webpage..... get 'em there by clicking on the highlighted link......

Windows 7 - 32 Bit (X86) Recovery ISO

Windows 7 - 64 Bit (X64) Recovery ISO

Burn these files with IMGBURN and then boot from startup to the CD.....

How to start Wireless Zero Configuration using Windows Vista

For those of you who are having a time getting this to work in Vista here is the fix.....
To start Wireless Zero Configuration in Windows Vista you need to log in as an Administrator.

1. Click on Start and Control Panel
2. Select Administrative Tools and then Services
3. In the Services box scroll down the list of Services (Local) until you find the one labelled Wired AutoConfig and double click it.
4. In the Wired AutoConfig Properties (Local Computer) box change the Startup type to Automatic
5. Click on Start and once the service has started click on OK
6. Now find the service labelled WLAN AutoConfig and double click it.
7. In the WLAN AutoConfig Properties (Local Computer) box change the Startup type to Automatic
8. Click on Start and once the service has started click on OK
9. Go to File and Exit to close the Services window

Checkin' out the Ram

One simple way is this
Check the system settings to make sure the RAM is okay. (In Windows, press and hold the Windows button and press the Break/Pause button on the upper-right of the keyboard. The RAM amount should appear in the lower part of the menu.) The system settings will probably say less than the amount you installed, e.g., 0.99 G for 1 G of RAM.

Bynamite....see who knows what about you!

Control Which Advertisements You See in Chrome and Firefox

Find out how Internet advertisers see you, and take back control of your info.

They're Watching

The Internet is filled with advertisers that constantly collect information about you. What they know about you can get creepy, especially when they use that knowledge to bug you about things you don't like.
*Available for Firefox and Chrome only

Take Control

You should always be in control over what advertisers know about you - you should be able to see it, change it, and delete it. If they won't give you control, they shouldn't use your information.

Get Yours

When you have control over how advertisers view you, you hear about things you're actually interested in - rather than bad guesses based off of that thing you bought for your mom.

An Amazing Clock....check this out!

THE WORLD CLOCK

Click on the link and find out world statistics as they happen...amazing!

Printing with Peppermint Ice

Well, now here's a trick....since Peppermint Ice is set up for cloud printing can it be done?   Of course, with a little savvy.....

here's how:

Go the "software manager" and install "cups"  (type this in the "search" box)
this will install all the repositories (software) for the printer properties you need....

then go into the search bar again in the software manager and type "system-config-printer-gnome"
this is the GTK interface which allows "Printing" to show up in the "Preferences" tab on the start menu...

now click on "Printing" (once you get this whole mess installed)--click "add" to add the printer (which you will have plugged into the USB and turned on by now)

it will search for the printer driver...likely pull up your manufacturer..click on that...let it search some more...you will see the magic happen....gotta love Linux....the driver will appear and just install it...print a test page and off you go.....

and they said it could not be done........

"Sudo" the Linux Judo....read on....

Best Practices with sudo on Linux
Sep 2, 2010, 20 :04 UTC (0 Talkback[s]) (2863 reads)
(Other stories by Yvo Van Doorn)

"Many Linux users are familiar with sudo these days. Ubuntu has done a lot to popularize sudo by enforcing its use in place of encouraging users to use su to switch to the root account to install software and perform other administrative tasks. But there's much more to sudo that users and admins should know.
"What many users aren't aware of is that sudo can be used to execute commands as any user, not just the root user. In the hands of a skilled admin, sudo can be used to set up fine-grained permissions to provide users with access to perform a few administrative tasks without giving away the keys to the kingdom. Let's look at some of the best practices for controlling system access with sudo while still allowing users to be productive."

Complete Story
Related Stories:
sudo apt-get install sl is Fun!(Jul 16, 2010)
Easy Redirection of Sudo Output(Jul 06, 2010)
Setting the record straight on sudo(Apr 06, 2010)
The Perils of Sudo With User Passwords(Feb 26, 2010)
How to add users to /etc/sudoers(Jan 07, 2010)
Microsoft Patents Sudo?!!(Nov 11, 2009)
By design security issues with linux default limited accounts (Ubuntu's sudo is not secure)(Jul 18, 2009)
What Happens When You Run "sudo rm -rf /" (video)(Apr 10, 2009)

Maverick Meerkat is coming October 10!

For you Ubuntu Fans...get ready.....the full production of Meerkat is on the way....

I am testing it right now and it is SUPER....
Here's the latest from OMG Ubuntu....

Software Centre

One of Ubuntu’s most defining additions is undoubtedly the Ubuntu Software Centre and Alpha 3 sees the maverick market place refine itself.
UI changes we saw in Ubuntu 10.10 Alpha 2 have begun to take hold in Alpha 3 particularly with the new look store front housing feature and ‘new’ apps.
The new ‘tweet this app’ feature is also working, letting you share your love of an app with you entire social buddies via Gwibber.

History

Whilst on the subject of the Software Centre be sure to pay heed to the much-improved ‘History’ side-pane entry.
You can browse all installations, removals and upgrades by day or search. Right-clicking on an entry gives quick access to removal options.

Sound Applet

It’s one of the more controversial parts of the new Meerkat desktop - some people love it, some people loathe it.
Either way it’s going to be there and, for fans of it, Alpha 3 brings a chorus of improvements including a working scrubber, working controls and the first steps towards playlist support.

Rhythmbox

Share your fave tracks with your friends directly from within Rhythmbox. Similar to the software centre’s tweet button you can tweet a link to your fave tracks via Rhythmbox.
Users can then click on the link to be taken directly to the track in the UbuntuOne Music Store.

Shotwell replaces F-Spot

Shotwell replaced F-Spot as the default image management application.

Time for a change

The new look indicator-clock has added a nice new calendar widget and preferences pane for easy configuration.

Messaging Menu

A neat left-aligned triangle overlay denotes running messages,and message counters are now rendered with a nice rounded background

Netbook Edition

As we told you a little while back, Banshee is now the default media player for Ubuntu 10.10 NBE and Alpha 3 sees the netbook interface for it enabled by default.
Evolution Express and netbook-friendly versions of both contacts and calendar are also present.
The new ‘Unity’ interface is continuing to evolve at lively pace so the changes from Alpha 2 are considerable: new launchers, new applets, new apps.
Netbook bound Indicator-Network has received additions in both the settings window, mobile wizard and the passphrase dialogue

Finally…

Much more has been updated, tweaked and added to Ubuntu 10.10 Alpha 3 than is possible to cover here. Whilst some changes take place on the surface many more take place underneath.