Some Updates on My Findings

Keeping constant blogging is a habit which I think helps me a lot as I tend to forget some details of what I've done. Sometimes it makes me feel I do have progress so far as Blog acts as sort of milestone for the steps I've taken. 

Ok, back to the main topic: I need to record down some of the facts I've discovered recently during December 2010. Please be noted as I might have to use some IT jargon but I'll try my best to elaborate to make it easier for all.

Case 1: How to install Windows OS (Windows 7 for instance) in a Mac machine with Mac OS

To make things easy, those who are interested can check out the steps in http://www.simplehelp.net/2009/01/15/using-boot-camp-to-install-windows-7-on-your-mac-the-complete-walkthrough/. However please be patient in case you experience trouble after step 12 where as mentioned Windows screen should appear...... The truth is it wouldn't for new Mac models as I noticed (same for new MacBook). All you have to do is extra effort - Download respective graphic card's driver (some script used for operating system to communicate with the respective device) from  http://support.apple.com/kb/TS3173. I would advice to get the drivers ready (download, unzip & store in thumb drive, plug into Mac's USB port) before you even start installing Windows.

Case 2: How to make dated printers (especially HP model) work with Windows 7 (both x86 & x64)

For your information, x86 actually means 32bit version while x64 is 64bit version of Windows. Most of the Windows 7 which comes bundled with new machine (notebook or PC set from branded manufacturer) recently are under x64, thus we need to find solution to include printer driver for x86 Windows 7 machine in the network which needs to share the printing feature.

I believe there are lots of people also looking for approach to rectify this issue as some printer manufacturer (eg. HP) doesn't seem to have any intention to provide respective printer driver which meant for Windows 7 for dated models. I've learned the solution in hard way as I spent hours of effort searching for answers around the web but none of the solutions mentioned help.

At last I tried something new: I downloaded the driver meant for previous Windows OS (XP for instance, but make sure you know which version, example if Windows 7 x64 then you need driver for x86 & vise versa) & perform additional driver support setting under printer properties (somewhere at the middle of the option list when you right click the printer icon). It takes time to complete but the way it really work makes it worth the waiting as you may perform add printer at other machines which running different Windows version.

Case 3: How to connect notebook / PC to LCD / Plasma TV via VGA cable
Usually this is a simple task where you just need an ordinary VGA cable (the one used to connect LCD monitor to the CPU, usually the connectors at both end is in blue color) and plug it to PC / notebook & TV (most of the newer flat screen TVs have this feature build-in). Once done you might need to do some simple setting at PC / notebook side where you need to specify the output destination (refer user manual if you're using a notebook which usually is a simple function keys combination, else for PC do read the instruction provided with the display card / motherboard). For some TV models you might also need to do some extra settings so read the TV user manual, but generally it should be able to auto-detect the input source & display the identical screen view on PC / notebook.

However there are chances you might stuck at no display on the TV screen. In this case check if the connection is loose or not. Next is make sure you've selected the right channel on the TV which matches the input signal respectively. Last but not least see if the VGA cable is still operating. In case all attempts fail, you may try to search for help via the web. Go to the manufacturer's website, tech forum & electrical appliances outlet for more details.


I guess this will be the last post I wrote for this year so I'll just wrap it up here for now & I wish all the best venture in coming year 2011! See you soon :)

Revise of My Work so Far

Source: peterborough.library.on.ca

Time really flies as the time when I sort of setting resolution during end of last year, within glimpse another year end arrived. Let's review what I've achieved so far......

Well it seems my clients network doesn't expand too much but fortunate there are added 3-5 loyal customers whom are pleased with my service. I wish to say many thanks :)

Any bad moments? Sure it does as if not it is not call life, right? I've met 1-2 clients whom I really can't work along with so have to let it go. Hope they find other source for their issue resolution.

Any major attempt? So far no as I've yet to finish what I've planned last year (starting an online 2nd hand IT device re-selling service). Right now I'm still working at client's website development so my current plan is the project shall start once I've finished the orders on-hand.

Any big changes or improvements? Yup as I've gained many experience on solving odd cases. Sometimes you really can't imagine this is the way to do it......

Any plans ahead? Of course as I'm working on some compliment gift for clients ahead for the coming Chinese New Year. Meanwhile I will spend some time on studying photo touch up effects (some have very cool visual effect from what I've seen from the magazine, hope to try out soon).

Anything else? Well I guess up-keeping the blog should be another constant task for me. I'm glad there are viewers (thanks to my friends) whom will constant following what I'm doing. I'll do my best to keep it on-going :)

Since Xmas around thew corner, I wish all Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!!!

I Need to Spare Some Own Time

Since I started the IT support role job, phone calls coming in. It seems to be a good sign, but what make me feel unpleasant is the time when calls arrive. Sometimes it can be 12.00am......

I can't say nothing if I'm working for a crucial 24x7 tech support firm, but what I'm doing now is normal working hours office support. Even household clients I still think something can leave it till tomorrow morning. Not to say I refuse to help, but I really hope clients can also respect my rest time so that I can be well prepared to serve tomorrow. (maybe I need to apply additional charges for such calls)

So I've decided to come out a standard call-answering session: I'll answer calls starting from normal office hours during working days (normal Monday - Friday, 8.30am - 6.00pm). Usually I'll still answer calls until 9.00pm which mostly for schedule arrangement earliest by tomorrow.

For weekends & non-working days (public holidays) I'll still answer calls during office hours if I'm at local, if not usually I'll acknowledge clients on advance basis. For the rest of the time please SMS or e-mail me as I'll look into the request & make the best arrangement to solve the issue.

My Money is MIA (Missing in Action)......

Just happened 2 days ago, I went to one of the RHB bank branch to withdraw money via ATM. FYI, I'm using other bank's ATM card, thus it will go through MEPS for 2 banks to perform the fund transfer. However after I've selected desired amount & waiting for cash note from the ATM, nothing came out......

What I did next is I go to the respective ATM which is same with ATM card & notice the previous missing amount was deducted from my account even I've yet received the cash earlier. What is this all about?

Without hesitation, I immediately rushed to nearest bank to clarify the issue. The bank teller informed me to go to the respective RHB bank to report the case...... Ok, so I went to RHB again & they asked me to fill in report form. Once done the in-charge personal said it usually takes about 4 weeks for investigation & refund...... 4 weeks?

All I can say is luckily the amount was not big so I used another ATM card to withdraw money. I think MEPS is not that reliable after all, I'm not sure if others experience similar situation before or not. Just pray I can claim back my money later......

New Experiment with MacBook

This is something not very common which you might get into: Learn to install Windows on a MacBook. Frankly I've no idea how to do it as I've never done this. I guess it is a great opportunity & right timing to explore new knowledge :)

 

MacBook (picture obrained from bindapple.com)

What I've done is do some homework (which is search the internet). Well, as usual, the lead is rather blur as there are many different approaches suggested online. But I've learned 1 crucial key factor: You'll need something call BootCamp which is a CD/DVD provided during the purchase of the MacBook. So far what I was informed from the web it is very difficult to locate the download source for this material, prepare for a shocking price if you ever consider to buy it......

Luckily after the inspection, it seems the issue is caused by a malfunction HD (quite usual for a 4 years old machine). All the while the machine can boot XP directly (settings at BIOS is done previously), thus what I need to do is replace the HD, re-install the Windows & recover the drivers for all the built-in devices (eg. webcam, soundcard, VGA, USB ports...)

However it seems the BootCamp I obtained from several sources (even the ones downloaded from Apple) are not working when I reach the state to install the drivers. Seems like this is a very tricky problem...... At last the user managed to provide the correct CD for the Boot Camp. During the process, I noticed 2 things:

1. The DVD ROM of MacBook is quite choosy. Why? Coz it might run the disc inserted in selective manner...... (sometimes it might get you to think could it be the disc spoiled?)

2. Driver installation for MacBook running Windows is rather simple. All you need to do is install BootCamp & let it do the magic while you can go find something to eat & drink......

Conclusion, although the process doesn't go smooth as I thought, it is still a fruitful session as I've learned something new. BTW, nice job to Apple for creating such convenient stuff like BootCamp :) (thumbs up if they can make it accessible in more common manner)

How to Create Your Own GIF Image

This is not a trick actually...... Just a simple online application which you can use to create GIF image (those image you saw that can change by itself). Allow me to introduce the PICASION

All you have to do is go to this URL http://picasion.com/upload-pictures/ (it is free, no form filling nor application required) and follow the steps:

1. Select the pictures / photos you wish to apply in the respective column (do click Add more picture in case you want to add more than 3 pics)
2. Select the size (default is 300px wide) and replacement speed (default is normal, but can consider quite fast)
3. Click the Create animation button to generate the desired GIF (it might take a while if the files are big)
4. Click Save this animation to download the final work to your PC/Notebook
5. In case you got another GIF in mind or you want to re-do with another setting, just click Upload more button

Enjoy!!!

New Idea on Mind

I have been quite busy lately thus forbidden the blogging for almost 1 month plus. Anyway I guess busy is not a solid reason so I need to carry on what I've promised myself & my friends :)

So what should I share this time? Just had a tea session with my secondary friends recently and the chatting topic picked up ways to earn more money (I guess it is quite usual for people among our age). Well, life is never easy unless we put in effort at the right place during the right time. It is fortunate if you can earn money while working on field you're interested at, hopefully I can achieve such goal soon.

Currently I'm focusing on photo touch-up skills which I think will help to expand my current business as it will be an add-on value feature which can attract more clients. Also I've just updated the company's profile for official purpose. It is just a 10 pages document which mainly covers types of service available, I tend to put it simple & direct just to save all parties time.

So far there are 2 parties offering business opportunities, one is providing IT support on outsource manner, the other one I'm not so sure but sounds like nothing relates with IT...... I've not in touch with the contact person for almost 2 years thus I need more details on what kind of business model offered before making any further action.

BTW, just had the 1st hand-on experience with Ipad from a friend where we tried out the games installed. Seems like Ipad is a fun device but a bit costly for me so don't think will get one at the moment. Until next time, gotta plan for a quotation......

Sharing Experience with Newly Bought GPS Unit

Actual Unit Set (Pic courtesy from Kevin)

I've heard & tried with several types of GPS but never own one so far until recently. 

FYI, this unit as shown above is from China (yep, seems very common nowadays) with PAPAGO software pre-loaded. The map version stored is 100415 which released around April 2010. So far I've been using it for a few times after 3 weeks, I guess it is time for me to write the review:

Hardware Specification:

-SIRF Atlas 4 Duo Core

-4.3" Touch Screen

-Support MicroSD expansion

-Build-in 2GB / 4GB (price varies)

Software Specification:

-WINCE platform

-M3GPS PAPAGO ver. X5.2 GPS (multiple language support including English, Chinese, Malay)

-Support Malfree Maps (2D Map, 3D Map w building, various POI, lane assist, junction view)

-Maps include Malaysia, Thailand (certain region), Singapore & Brunei

-Support MP3 format

-Support MP4, Flash, AVI, RMV (certain version) format. Advice file size does not exceed 150MB

-Build-in 6 games

-Support JPEG format

-Support TXT text format

-Contain Camera Detecting Alarm

Here are some of my findings:

-Satellites detection in open area is very fast (usually around 30 seconds)

-The re-calculation rate is consider quite fast

-Speed Camera detection response according the plotted location in map

-The 3D map layout is suitable for me as it displays the road layout in a more realistic approach

-Since it supports Malfree maps, it means there is no cost when using the map. Also I've tested where it is very easy to upload new map in future

-Warranty for GPS unit is 1 year (including screen defect)

However I've also notice some issues:

-Difficult to view the screen under strong light as no screen shield is provided

-Route advised might not be accurate. I've experienced the GPS guided me to the junction but actually there are straight passage available. Also I've reached places which doesn't match the map. I believe the problem is due to the map plotted & expect it can be improve during the coming new map

-Sometimes the voice description is confusing

-Some POI is not updated. Problem can be solve by adding new POI or wait for new map

To share my experience, I feel it does help a lot when I try to reach new places. I've used it to travel to Malacca, Klang & Ampang which I'm not familiar with. Overall the result is pleasing. However it leads to another problem - You can't memorize the route properly as you concentrate to the GPS instructions & the road condition but missed out the key landmark structure (which I used to learn the route). I guess nothing is perfect :)

For those who consider to occupy the unit, you may contact me to know further regarding the price & units available. Ok, let me see where I wanna go next......

NEW UPDATE: 5' Model is ready now. Do contact me for further detail

Doing Some Mix & Match Lately

FYI, I like the taste of Honey-Milk, a drink consists of the mixture of both mentioned. In order to fulfill my passion of understanding more, I make my 1st move in getting the 2 ingredients (bought milk yesterday, while honey today) & hoping to make it my own so I can enjoy it whenever I want with the convenience & affordability.

Initially I thought it will be very easy as it sounds simple: mix the two. How hard will it be? The truth is - You never know until you tried. It seems I need some time to perform more experiment to master the correct or at least the ideal portion of both. I am not sure if the temperature plays a role as well or not. Will try my best to explore more so wish me luck, OK?

Some Simple Trick You Can Use When You Can't Open Certain Websites

I guess this is a good topic to share after a long break (I think is almost 3-4 weeks since my last tech-related post :P). Here goes:

Ever experienced situation where you fail your attempt to access certain websites, such as forum, blog or other info spot which might seem HARMFUL under the government jurisdiction? I am not trying to pinpoint anything but I hope as a wised Internet user, we all should have the rights to see and/or hear thoughts from groups besides the general publicity.

So how to access websites in a more open manner? If you are a Streamyx user, you might be familiar with the general Streamyx DNS IP : 202.188.0.133 or 202.188.1.5 (I guess I'm not the only one who is so used to it) which you might need to set in the modem router or your PC/notebook. You might ask again what is DNS? Well in short DNS (Domain Name Service) is the server which stored lots of IP addresses for most of the websites. When we type in the address of a website, the request will be send to a dedicated DNS server & a matching session occurs. Once there is a hit, the result will be send back with the link to the place where the website is stored so we can open & see the content as what we are doing daily. For more detail do go for Wiki :)

So why we can't open certain websites using Streamyx DNS? It is obvious they have implemented some sort of filtering mechanism which prohibits user to access unwanted content. So the easy way (with some minor IT tech skill) is: change the DNS IP.

Do go to this site for more detail:

http://www.joomlaspan.com/technology/blazing-fast-and-free-public-dns-servers.php

You may try any one of those mentioned. For your information, there are lots of free DNS service available out there, however be noted that they might also block certain websites which contain harmful info. Until next time, Happy surfing!

Anyone wants to get a new Altec Lansing Speaker set?

For those interested, don't miss this opportunity where you may find the desired set with attractive price! Do read the info below for more detail:

Those who want to purchase, please contact Simon Lau via mobile or e-mail.

New Item!!! Low Price Present Wrapper

I've just obtained 2000+ present wrapper. Please refer photos displayed as below:

Many designs for you to choose

Approximately 13 designs available. Quantity for each design differs

Standard size for each present wrapper is 76cm x 51.5cm

Please be noted minimum order quantity is 20pcs. Please contact me to find out the stock available.

Latest Display on All 3 Budget Photo Albums

I am please to show the photo capture for all 3 sizes for budget album as follow:

For your information, I am using my own travel pictures to be place in the album creation :)

4" x 6" Album

 Cover (Front & Back)

For medium size album, you can have a more pleasant photo layout arrangement:

 8" x 8" Album

 Cover (Front & Back)

For best photos display result, 8" x 12" will the your choice. Using photos as background creates a very nice atmosphere as below:

8" x 12" Album

Cover (Front & Back)

Hope you like the sample albums display. If you're interested to find out more, please check my previous related posts or contact me :)

My Website was Hijacked!!! @o@

Due to standard procedure, I usually visit my company's official website at least 4-5 times a month to ensure it is ok.

Weird thing happened yesterday where I noticed the main page was displaying the outdated format. I can still recall I've uploaded new information 2-3 weeks ago, so how come? Immediately I tried to access the content via FTP but it keeps prompting incorrect password...... This sure doesn't look good.

The time was 12.30am when I sent the e-mail to the hosting company. Then I just wait for luck,after all what can I expect during midnight?

I guess good luck hasn't forgotten me as I received prompt reply from the support personal within 5 minutes! With his kind assistance, I gained full access to my website again :) Just wanna say thanks to the great support offered. It makes me feel I wanna serve in similar way as well (not to say stay till midnight no sleep......). Just hope with such kind service, clients should be grateful & acquire our service more.

Further updates on Customized Budget Album

FYI, I'm gonna make my own album (8" x 8") soon as I'm passing the photos to the artist shortly :) The result should be ready within 1 week & as usual I'll snap the photos for all viewing so do look forward!

Photo Album is ready!

Glad to inform all that the photo album is ready for order NOW! Please check the details below:

3 Types of size available. Each consists of 18 pages (excluding the cover page)

1. 4" x 6" (10 x 15cm) Size Album, approx. 40 pictures max -                                   Market Price RM 39.00

2. 8" x 8" (20.5 x 20cm) Size Album, approx. 80 pictures max -                               Market Price RM 129.00

3. 8" x 12" (30.5 x 20cm) Size Album, approx. 150 pictures max -                           Market Price RM 179.00

In my next post I will place more template (background design) for your choice. All you have to do is provide the photos in digital form (CD/DVD or thumb drive which will be return once done) and mention the album size & template you want, which photos you want as cover & back as well as in large display scale. Our designer will assist on the rest :)

Although I've mentioned the price above, it is still possible for offering discount if you have multiple order (multiple albums in different size). Currently I'm catering clients at PJ & KL area, meanwhile outstation clients can also contact me as I will arrange posting (additional charges required).

Thank you & have a nice day :)

New Item on the shelf: Budget Photo Album

My life seems a bit busy recently due to more confirmed projects. Meanwhile I'm also offered with some co-operative business opportunity: Budget Photo Album.

FYI, client can select the desired photos and save it in CD/DVD or thumb drive for later editing. Of cource for best results, the photos should be taken in high quality display ratio. So far there is no much involvement from client side on the design part based on current arrangement as all the decision is made by the artist who perform the editing. Thus I've managed to discussed with the business owner and he agreed to allow clients to perform some basic template selection.

Meanwhile I'll proceed with snapping some display photos on the album sample & will post it shortly at this blog & the company's website soon. Those who are interested can contact me for further info.

New Blog Spot: JoyMak2010 is formed

It is a great pleasure to announce that I've created a new blog called joymak2010.

So far my current blog (makaround) carries few topics which consists of IT, leisure and personal interest. I guess it is time to do a proper category separation, thus I'll place my leisure and personal interest topics on the new blog space in the future.

As you might notice, the new blog is using the beta blogspot template system which appears more attractive & stylish. For those who has the same interest in creating own blog corner, do try out the new system :)

Fake & Real Facebook Login Page: Do spread the news

Notice the top pic is the fake login page, the bottom is the real page (according to the news)

Just received a post from a friend at Facebook where news stated there are fake Facebook login page with very close similarity tend to confuse users.

According to the news, the fake page will obtain user's detail on user name & password (aka phishing). This info allows the criminal to access user's account, change settings and pretend as user him/herself & perform potential crime or fraud. Such act will cause user lose access to their account forever & accused on things they didn't do.

I hereby hope those who read this post to act more caution in future & spread this info to others for public benefit. Below is the Chinese version of the news (copied from Facebook post):

最受欢迎的社交网站Facebook证实有黑客将矛头对准它的用户群骗取他们的密码。

黑客使用网钓(Phishing)的手法，模范Facebook网站的设计设立了冒牌Facebook网站，骗取用户输入自己的密码。在获取密码后，黑客就可登录用户的Facebook账号，然后再将这个冒牌Facebook网站的连接发送给其他的朋友再进一步骗取他们的密码。就这样一传十，十传百的传播开来。

有鉴于此，Facebook 决定采取行动，一旦发现形迹可疑的账号(例如发送大量讯息给其他朋友等等)就会向用户确认身份。如果发现账号已经被黑客所控制，甚至会终止账号。除此之外，Facebook 发言人也劝告用户必须时时小心，确保自己所登录的是真正的Facebook网站才输入密码。

What I might Buy in PC Fair

PC Fair, a common term for all IT fans in Malaysia which held 3 times yearly where you have the chance to obtain some good IT offers. Some said the local fair is nothing but a chance for manufacturer to obtain cash by selling not so advance tools, yet you might get what you want within your budget. Although it used to be very crowded, I still like to pay visit when I'm free. 

The next PC Fair event should be held on April 2010 and will be a 3 days function as usual. So what might be the good bargain you can get? Let me comprise my favourite here:

1. Notebook / Netbook

Most of the participating notebook manufacturers offer attractive deal like new model with advance features & extended warranty period. If you plan to buy a notebook @ netbook, don't miss this chance.

2. LCD / LED Monitor

The price offered might not differ much, but chances you might get more freebies where you are not offered usually. The only drawback is you need to carry the big box & walk the distance......

3. Speaker set with sub Woofer

All the branded manufacturers display their products at the dedicated corner with extreme loud boom boom sound...... For the sake of your ears, make sure you don't spend too much time there :)

4. Antivirus

Promotions offered target on group users such as family pack which consists 3-5 users with low price.

5. Data Storage Device (Thumb drive, flash card, mobile hard disk etc.)

Some brands offer simple contest & lucky draw.

6. Digital Camera

Attractive offer with low price & lots of useful freebies, eg. memory card, spare battery, tripod......

Of course there are other accessories with low price as well, so make wise choice & enjoy shopping!

Great Mission Accomplished: Recover Unbootable Windows 7

Just received a PC unit which unable to start last Sunday night. Based on the info provided, my initial thought was the graphic card might be causing problem. However after detailed inspection, it seems the system can start up till BIOS then remain black. 

That means several possibilities: The PC might be virus infected, the Windows 7 is crashed (coz can't even enter safe mode), the boot up segment is corrupted. After isolate chances of hardware faulty, I proceed with caution as Windows 7 is still very new & I believe not many has on hand experience on handling such case. 

After 2 days of technical research & attempt, the system is finally back to normal with all data & files remain intag (the just rectified unit is still next to me when I wrote this post). However I must admit the remedy process took hours & is a hassle journey. To keep it short, it requires you to have a Password Reset Tool as the system was locked after corrupted (lucky still able to access), a Recovery Tool to generate new start file, and finally Windows 7 Repair Tool to run a detail repair sequence.

So next time if anyone of you need my help on similar situation, do let me know (Charges may be applied though :) )

3 Cases

 

It has been quite busy weeks since Chinese New Year where I am glad to be in more business tasks. However I also experienced couple of odd IT cases. I hereby finalized in 3:

1. A notebook was handed to me before CNY where client complained the system tend to hang quite frequent if left unattended. Since client has nothing important to backup, thus I proceed to recover it to its default factory condition & tested it for few hours. The result seems fine so I passed it back to the client. However not for long the client mentioned the same problem occur. This time I observed the incident myself where Vista hang just after 20 minutes...... Hmm, where could be wrong? The best conclusion I managed to find (and agreed by client) is that probably the notebook used to reside in the room with 1 house use stand fan thus the heat generated by the Duo Core system can't dispersed properly. 

Solution? I advised client to allow me to deliver the unit back to the service center for detail inspection since the unit is roughly 1 year.

2. One of the P4 machine declared motherboard faulty. After replacing it with one new motherboard with similar chipset, it seems fine overall until I noticed 1 weird thing - There was no sound even I'm sure I've installed the sound driver properly. This is very rare as it is very seldom new component not working for the 1st time (in Chinese it is called "衰 SUI" if you experienced it). I tried many approaches to rectify the issue but no vail. Finally thanks to internet I managed to find the solution, the problem was cause by the Registy setting in Windows. The way to solve it was quite tricky & messy but gladly it works at the end where I managed to deliver it back to client on time.

3. I was handling a brand new Belkin N router. I'm sure I made the correct approach where I did my reading before I start operate it. So far I noticed the new model is different from the previous kind where the auto detect & configuration feature is no longer available. The new one requires you to follow the step by step setting using the CD provided. However this is also where I was stuck - The process keeps failing in the initial stage where it keeps stating it can't detect any successful network connection between the notebook & the router. I've double checked the brand new network cable & confirmed it is under good state. So what else could be wrong? 

After 1 hour plus of trial, I declared "this is it" & decided I need further testing with this unit. The result of testing was pleased as I managed to proceed to the last setting process & makes the wireless network worked as plan. Suddenly I realized something could be the cause of the issue. The notebook I was using earlier is a Windows 7 which carries mild but not less security restrictions compared with Vista.

I am glad to have chances to deal with these cases where once again I gained more knowledge & realized some new facts. I'm sure I know what to do in future if similar incidents happen again (at least I can pretend to act like pro :) ).

CNY Conclusion

 

Yesterday was the last day of the CNY celebration. As conclusion, I had a slightly different CNY compared with previous years. I met many old friends, old colleagues, relatives & attended special events as well. 

Some incidents happened during the period inspired my thoughts. I'll prefer to skip the elaboration but to the point: Sometimes it is frustrating where you know what you're doing is correct (or the best resort) but others denied it and proceed to the worse.

I guess I've yet reached the best form of persuasion. For now all I can do is to accept it with open heart & hope I can advance to another level soon.

Personal Thoughts on Apple New Tool, IPad

 

Apple IPad (Pic Source: TechRepublic)

IPad, for sure this is a hit topic among IT users & many business owners. You may find lots of analysis & comments on the internet about this new toy from Apple after its official announcement by Steve Jobs, the soul representative of Apple about 2-3 weeks ago. 

So what can you expect from IPad? For sure nice touch screen interface to allow friendly interaction (as usual for Apple), larger screen display compared with IPhone, mobility and as always, a very attractive introduction price for only $499 at U.S. Wow, that's a hot deal......

Where might you find its appearance? Most IT users expect to use it within meeting as a replacement for notebook / netbook. Users can use it to give basic presentation, share meeting minutes & other document, update & sync documents in instance (it allows wireless connection), bring as eBook / PDA / Internet Browser during travel......so on. A pool among IT managers was made and 7 out of 12 support IPad and believe to be able to rool out shortly (Source: http://blogs.techrepublic.com.com/hiner/?p=3755&tag=nl.e101)

Ok, enough for good stuff, is there any drawback on IPad? Well, there are also critics commented where IPad is just another enlargement version of IPhone thus not much techical improvement on the tool except bigger screen. Also same as IPhone, Apple still appointed AT & T as the telco company which offers internet package for IPad at U.S. As usual, it only supports application developed by Apple and currently there are not much apps available to cater IPad properly, even if they have you need to purchase it from Apple Store. A major issue with IPad is that there are no common connection  port available (no HDMI, not even USB......), you need to purchase dongles at Apple Store to use card reader & USB devices. So that means you need to stick to only 16-64GB storage space with no expansion, no camera, 10 hours max battery and limited multitasking abilities. (Source: http://blogs.techrepublic.com.com/10things/?p=1324&tag=nl.e101)

So, any conclusion? I guess Apple need to do lots of improvement on IPad in order to draw more attention, only then people might gain more interest and consider to get one.

Know the Performance of Your Streamyx Connectivity

Ever wonder if your Streamyx is running on actual speed? Ever experienced slow internet connection? There is just a simple method to know the extimate performance of the Streamyx. Allow me to elaborate further:

First, you need to logon to www.tm.net.my (I know, your internet might be slow like snail, but you need proof to launch report, right?) There should have 3 huge buttons for selection (up till date 27.01.2010) as shown in pic below:

The main page for TM Net

Just click the middle one written Streamyx. A new page should be loaded in a while. Look for the button named "Speedometer" and click it to proceed (refer pic below). FYI, speedometer is the data download & upload test which will roughly show the quality of your internet connection.

Look for the Speedometer Test button located at the lower right corner of the page

A new window column displaying sort of meter bar should appear after this. Now, click the button "Start" located at the center as shown in picture below:

Press the Start button to execute the test

Some animation will appear displaying some sort of data transfering is running. Best advice is stop all other internet activities which might affect the outcome of the test result (eg. torrent download, video streaming like PPS & Youtube, VOIP session, file downloading, Instant messaging / web chatting like Live Messenger).

The total time of the test is about 2-3 minutes (depending on the speed of the connection). Finally the result will show you the extimated performance of the Streamyx connection (refer to pic below):

 

Display showing the test result. You may re-do the test by pressing Test Again button

Write down the result for Download Speed & Upload Speed. For example, the Streamyx package I signed up is 512kb, so by seeing the result obtained which shows 517kbps for download, it is considered as good connection quality. If you obtained result which is lesser than 90% of the promised speed (eg. below 922kb for 1MB/1024kb package), you may contact TM via dialing 100 for assistance. Do provide them the info on speedometer test result to ease their time to solve our problem.

Hope this helps.  

Facebook Alert! (This should be real)

Screenshot captured from Facebook. Source: www.facebook.com

I've heard about the news from some of my friends where Facebook, the famous online social network website is going to change the game plan: From FOC to $4.99 per month! I guess those who run this program will sure earn hell a lot if this is real. Imagine one person pays about $5 per month, then multiply by 12 for 1 year, then times the approximate amount of users around the world...... 

Just when I was still wondering if this is real or not, I've just received re-post message from my friend on Facebook as below:

All See Here !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! ATTENTION ALL FACEBOOK FRIENDS: WARNING! Do NOT go into, or open, the group "We're against the $4.99/mth charge for Facebook beginning June 30th, 2010" The group has a VIRUS in its link. Per Snopes, FB is NOT planning to charge, AND the virus IS real. Please RE-POST to warn your friends.

This is sigh of relief as I believe Facebook can still gain profit from its usual commercial & third party applications without ever considering the monthly fees. Btw for all the rest out there, do pass this virus alert message to others as such manipulating act is very unconsidered & shouldn't be allowed at all.

2010 Chinese New Year Calendar for Download

Greetings.

I've just created a simple calendar for this coming Chinese New Year theme. It was set in A4 size and saved in JPEG format. All are welcome to download and print it out for use. Hope you all like it.

I hereby wishes all a Prosperous & Happy Chinese New Year. May all success in the Year of Tiger :)

Something About Car MP3 Modulator

Ever used a Car MP3 Modulator? FYI, I've been using it for quite some time. To me, it is a very convenient tool for use to play music & songs you desired (sort like you're the DJ for your own radio station where you can enjoy real non-stop music). I like the design that comes along with a wireless remote control which ease to select music/song. Also the price is quite cheap nowadays (lowest price in KL is about RM16).

You need to do some homework before buying the modulator. Here are some tips to help:

1. Select the model which allows you to set the desired FM channel. There are models with 6-8 pre-fixed FM channel for use. But as you may noticed for Malaysia, most of the FM channel are occupied by radio stations so there are a great chance where the pre-fixed channels might run out of service. It is best to get the one which allows you choose the FM channel without limitation (although there are still chances you might face interference with the car next to you which using a modulator as well).

2. Opt for the one which not only plays MP3 file but Wave as well.

3. Get the modulator which can attach not only thumb drive but SD/MMC card as well. However I've never tried to put 2 storage medium at the same time to see if it will work. Check the pic below for detail:

You may noticed there are 2 input holes which meant for SD/MMC card & thumb drive

4. Be sure you know the limit of the modulator. For usual models, the max storage device it can recognize is 4GB. This means you can't plug a 8GB thumb drive and screaming "Why it can't play the song?"

5. Do not alter the angle of the modulator too often. Most of the models allow user to adjust the unit angle for better display, however it is not advisable to change it too often as this may spoiled the internal cable connection.

6. Check the fuse condition if the modulator failed. You can open the case usually by twisting it in anti-clock direction to release the cap on top. You may notice there is a fuse embedded inside where you can easily pour out (make sure you catch it before it reach the floor). Check the pic below:

Check the fuse to ensure it is still ok (the fine copper line in the fuse is still attached & not broken)

7. Do not switch the volume in the modulator to the max. The sound quality projected in max usually is distorted (disturbance scratching voice). Best is to set it to medium level.

Last but not least, make sure you unplug the modulator & keep it in safe place before you turn off your car engine and leave your car everytime. Enjoy!

New Year 2010: What I've accomplished last year & what I planned to do next

2009......What a happening year. I've witnessed & experienced lots of good stuff where I've never tried before. I've also place myself on new position to start my own business which I've planned for some time.I met lots of new people & make new friends, view things from a totally new perspective and learned new info.

Ok, so what will I do next? Lets list all in proper order:

1. Add new module in my company's website - As mentioned earlier, a subsequent company website for Chinese viewers is on the way. I'll be creating an Items For Sale session as well. Also for interested viewers, don't miss out the chances to obtain great freebies soon!

2. Explore new tools which will be the next trend - I've just tried out the installation of Windows 7. The new OS is definitely my favorite as it offers great features & ease of use. Meanwhile there are still other tricks such as how to fine tune it to the optimum performance which I need to explore.

3. Continue my blog - I feel pleased & appreciate those who spared time & support my blog. I'll carry on my effort so do stay tune :)

To be frank, I have a strong feeling where 2010 will be a great year as my head start is smooth and fascinating. Wishing all the very best & good luck in venturing 2010!