Saturday, August 07, 2004
Saturday Tech News Blog
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Click To Purchase Livestrong Bracelets 8-7-04
What Is... Information for New Users Mac newbies can about using the Finder, the window that your computer starts to. at the Apple web site. Advanced users can read about Expose, iChatAv, Mail, Fast User Switching, and more. MSN Hotmail Upgrades MSN Hotmail has a new and free antivirus protection available for their customers and the upgrade also includes other fixes previously discovered. Visit the MSN web site for the upgrade download and information. Office 2004 For $149 Learn if you can qualify for a discount on the latest version of Office 2004 for Macs by visiting the Mactopia web site. If you are a student, educator, or are involved with education (home school), you can purchase this software for a great price. Microsoft Releases SP2 to Computer Makers Microsoft released a press bulletin announcing the release of Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2) to computer manufacturers on Friday. You can learn more about the update or how to enable automatic update to insure that you receive SP2 as soon as it becomes available. We would encourage you to choose the option to be prompted before installation of updates; that leaves you the options of waiting to install the update in the event that there are bugs still remaining in the patch. If you are working behind a router with updated firmware, and if you are using an updated version of AVG, and you have been checking for spyware with Spybot S&D and AdAware, and have Zone Labs free firewall activated, have all the latest MS updates, and you have stopped using Internet Explorer except when necessary (and then with the settings on high), and have XP's built-in firewall enabled, then you are safe as you can get and have taken all our advice, doesn't it feel good! So if the previous run-on sentence describes you, wait until the SP2 fix has been out for seven to fourteen days, then update. Yahoo New Toolbar Yahoo has released a new anti-spy toolbar, but it is still in a 'beta' version even though Yahoo has released it for public use. According to CNET, there are still some bugs to be resolved before users can rely on this tool to prevent pop-ups that can cause security issues. So try the toolbar, just don't depend on it to protect you and your computer from hack attacks from pop-up ads. Security Flaw Report by CNET Might Effect Windows and Mac: Open-Source Users Are Already Covered For open-source users that have been visiting this web site on a regular basis, the big news from CNET late Friday regarding six vulnerabilities in common code that can effect them will not impact you because you already have the patch is in place. Windows and Mac users should read this article, and PC users should take the advice offered above. Apple users should exercise care when opening any link or attachment that is received through e-mail. All of the above advice should be utilized on a regular basis to avoid the heartache and frustration of an intrusion into your computer. Have Fun, Learn, Help With Show Notes We aren't trying to get out of the task of helping Leo with his show notes, but if you would like to contribute to the notes for Tech Guy on KFI, then listen to the show for the Wiki password of the week from 12-3pm PDT live in LA on 640AM or on the Internet. Leo will answer questions from callers on all things with a chip, and Leo teaches us a new trick every week. Help Us Too If you have a tip to share with the readers of this web site and would like to contribute, we will be happy to publish your information with attribution if requested (upon verification and with some limitations, of course). RP's Problem RP: E-mail me more info please! It sounds like frame-drop, but it may be another issue. Look at Thursday's news for particulars I need to help with the problem. Thanks.    Please visit our other site: www.californiafairsandfestivals.com
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Friday, August 06, 2004
Friday Tech News Blog
Thursday, August 05, 2004
Thursday Tech News Blog
Visit Mulitpleplatforms.com for the story links and more tips.
Mozilla Updates Flaws
Mozilla.org has announced new
versions of Mozilla, Firefox, and Camino in response to the recently
discovered security issues. Mozilla is urging all users to update to
the new browser patches to avoid compromising your computers integrity.
Security Advisories
Secunia issued a plethora of advisories today for the following systems
and browsers: Debian, Mandrake, Fedora, SuSE, Gentoo, and Opera. Additionally,
they issued a confirmation for Mozilla/Firefox, but the story above
supersedes the advisory.
Microsoft Stalls on SP2
Is there an echo in here? In what seems to be a repetitive and routine
announcement, Microsoft has again delayed issuing the long-awaited
Service Pack 2 update. CRN reports that MS has found problems with the update not only in
third-party software applications, but in their own software also. So
update your Mozilla browser, stay current with your anti-virus
programs, check for spyware weekly, and do not hold your breath until
the MS finally releases SP2, you might hurt yourself.
Download RC2 of SP2
After digesting the information above, if you are an IT professional,
or just someone who likes to be the first on the block, you can
download Release Candidate 2 (RC2) of Window’s XP Service Pack 2 (SP2)
at the Microsoft Download site. A word of advice, do not try this on your main
computer or use Virtual PC just in case!
Safari Deluxe
Safari users can enhance their browsing experience by following a tip
from the Tech Guy on KFI from a show on 5-23-04. Leo advised Safari users to download Safari Enhancer; the application enables the debug menu and allows for greater freedom
to Safari users when making choices on appearance, imports, search engines, and more. The User Agent feature allows you to have the Safari browser appear to servers as another browser, for instance you can choose to have Safari appear as a Windows IE 6 browser; this can help you fool sites that only allow Windows users access (it doesn’t always work, it depends on the sophistication of the site visited, etc.).
Here Today, Gone Tomorrow
The iPhoto update issued by Apple on Monday is no longer available according to a report in MacSlash. No explanation from Apple has been extended at this time.
Yellow Dog Linux Release
MacCentral reports that Yellow Dog Linux 4.0, first release candidate,
is available from YDL.net/. This operating system is designed for
“PowerPC-based computers”, that means Macs to the rest of us. It has
been tested with most Apple computers according to the report from MacCentral.
For Yellow Dogs, Red Dogs, Golden Dogs, Black Dogs, Brown Dogs, well
you get the idea:
Please visit our other site: Californiafairsandfestivals.com
Wednesday, August 04, 2004
Sneak-a-Peek at our Web Site
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out. Bracelets are currently back-ordered, but the LAF will accept orders and ship them ASAP. We have joined Lance’s Peloton and have contributed more than $100 to the LAF since this web site was born in April. Please join us and show your support by clicking on the yellow button above and Livestrong.
G4/TechTV-Canada. The crew started taping shows this week and the show will air in Canada soon. Lucky for us, we have cousins in Toronto, but they only have a VCR, no TiVo!?
| Questions or problems regarding this web site should be directed to contactus@multipleplatforms.com/.
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Wednesday Tech News Blog
Visit Mulitpleplatform.com for story links and more tips.
Keep Kids Safe Online
Keeping your loved ones away from questionable content is a challenge every parent faces. Microsoft Security has a list of recommendations to assist you in the process of protecting children from material not suitable for viewing. There are a number of other tools for protection available including Google’s filters for searching as we reported on last week.
I Can See Clearly Now
If you are finding it difficult to read text with Windows XP, you may be able to avoid a trip to the optometrist; Clear Type is a feature of XP and it may ease the strain on your eyes. Even if you already have Clear Type activated, you can tune it to your individual preference. To learn more, visit the Microsoft Setup and Maintenance Tips site.
Phishers New Lure: Presidential Election
The new bait being used by Phishers to lure a new catch to their net is the election campaigns of the major parties. According to a report from CNET, donors should exercise caution and confirm that the link they choose to donate from is truly a legitimate web site for their respective candidates. You should also make sure that any web site you will exchange sensitive information with has a URL address that begins with an https as opposed to http (note: no ‘s’). Hypertext Transfer Protocol is a mouthful, so we use the acronym, http and Hypertext Transfer Secure is the address you want to see to insure that you are engaging in a secure transactions.
Lance Armstrong Foundation Update
Our link to the Lance Armstrong Foundation will connect to an https address when you choose to make a purchase from the store. The Sixth Commemorative Package that includes a Yellow Jersey with the number ‘6’ is available, but these will sell out quickly so order one today or risk missing out. Bracelets are currently back-ordered, but the LAF will accept orders and ship them ASAP. We have joined Lance’s Peloton and have contributed more than $100 to the LAF since this web site was born in April. Please join us and show your support by clicking on the yellow button above and Livestrong.
Free Tunes From Apple
Future Leaders of The World are here, and you can download their single Let Me Out free from Apple. This free download is available for multiple platform users from the Apple iTunes Music Store.
He’s Ba-a-c-ck!
Leo Laporte is back in the saddle again and taking questions from TV viewers on G4/TechTV-Canada. The crew started taping shows this week and the show will air in Canada soon. Lucky for us, we have cousins in Toronto, but they only have a VCR, no TiVo!?
Linux World Revolves Around San Francisco
The open source users from around the world have migrated to the City by the Bay to plan, plot, and prognosticate about the future of all things not Windows. Big announcements are expected from Redhat and others during the event according to reports from LinuxWorld.com/.
Fair and Fun
Today is the perfect day to begin planning for the weekend and you can find all the fairs and festivals in California by visiting your one-stop shop for fun, California Fairs and Festivals.com/. We have the details, descriptions, directions, and web site addresses for the great fairs and festivals in the Golden State of California.
Note to RP
Yes I can, it would help to know how much ram you have, is the problem occurring all the time or just when you try certain tasks, and the size of hard drive to confirm my suspicions.
Our Favorite Book
Keep Kids Safe Online
Keeping your loved ones away from questionable content is a challenge every parent faces. Microsoft Security has a list of recommendations to assist you in the process of protecting children from material not suitable for viewing. There are a number of other tools for protection available including Google’s filters for searching as we reported on last week.
I Can See Clearly Now
If you are finding it difficult to read text with Windows XP, you may be able to avoid a trip to the optometrist; Clear Type is a feature of XP and it may ease the strain on your eyes. Even if you already have Clear Type activated, you can tune it to your individual preference. To learn more, visit the Microsoft Setup and Maintenance Tips site.
Phishers New Lure: Presidential Election
The new bait being used by Phishers to lure a new catch to their net is the election campaigns of the major parties. According to a report from CNET, donors should exercise caution and confirm that the link they choose to donate from is truly a legitimate web site for their respective candidates. You should also make sure that any web site you will exchange sensitive information with has a URL address that begins with an https as opposed to http (note: no ‘s’). Hypertext Transfer Protocol is a mouthful, so we use the acronym, http and Hypertext Transfer Secure is the address you want to see to insure that you are engaging in a secure transactions.
Lance Armstrong Foundation Update
Our link to the Lance Armstrong Foundation will connect to an https address when you choose to make a purchase from the store. The Sixth Commemorative Package that includes a Yellow Jersey with the number ‘6’ is available, but these will sell out quickly so order one today or risk missing out. Bracelets are currently back-ordered, but the LAF will accept orders and ship them ASAP. We have joined Lance’s Peloton and have contributed more than $100 to the LAF since this web site was born in April. Please join us and show your support by clicking on the yellow button above and Livestrong.
Free Tunes From Apple
Future Leaders of The World are here, and you can download their single Let Me Out free from Apple. This free download is available for multiple platform users from the Apple iTunes Music Store.
He’s Ba-a-c-ck!
Leo Laporte is back in the saddle again and taking questions from TV viewers on G4/TechTV-Canada. The crew started taping shows this week and the show will air in Canada soon. Lucky for us, we have cousins in Toronto, but they only have a VCR, no TiVo!?
Linux World Revolves Around San Francisco
The open source users from around the world have migrated to the City by the Bay to plan, plot, and prognosticate about the future of all things not Windows. Big announcements are expected from Redhat and others during the event according to reports from LinuxWorld.com/.
Fair and Fun
Today is the perfect day to begin planning for the weekend and you can find all the fairs and festivals in California by visiting your one-stop shop for fun, California Fairs and Festivals.com/. We have the details, descriptions, directions, and web site addresses for the great fairs and festivals in the Golden State of California.
Note to RP
Yes I can, it would help to know how much ram you have, is the problem occurring all the time or just when you try certain tasks, and the size of hard drive to confirm my suspicions.
Our Favorite Book
Tuesday, August 03, 2004
Tuesday Tech News Blog
Please visit Mulitpleplatforms.com for the links to these stories and more.
Mozilla Users Need Update
Secunia Security reports a Highly Critical alert for Mozilla and Netscape users and recommends switching to Mozilla 1.7.1/. The issue with the at-risk browser involves a “integer overflow within the SOAPParameter object’s constructor”. Go to Mozilla.org to download Mozilla 1.7.1/.
Backup Solution
The most talked about and least practice topic today is virus and spyware infection and prevention, subjects that rightfully receive much attention. If you are the victim of a virus, your life will be restored to a state of normalcy far quicker if you backup your important data on a regular basis. Norton Ghost is a tool you can use for this less than glamorous task and you can read about the recent improvements in PC World. If you use Ghost, you can be up and running after eliminating the virus instead of banging your head against the monitor because all your documents, pictures, and songs are lost.
Update for iPhoto
Apple has released an update for iPhoto 4 that corrects some minor problems. Mac users can click on the Apple on your Tool Bar and choose Software Update and your computer will automatically check Apple for an update.
PowerBook Problems
MacFixIt is reporting on a warping issue that seems to be plaguing some PowerBooks. New PowerBook owners might want to visit the site for recommendations on keeping cool.
RealNetworks Targets Linux
Linux operating systems get a new choice from RealNetwork with the release of audio and video playback software according to a report in CNET. RealNetworks states that Novell and Red Hat releases will include the new software.
Next Please: iTunes For Linux
CrossOver Office 3.1 from CodeWeavers could give Linux users a ticket to ride on the iTunes music train according to a report from CNET. The software should be available to the public by the end of the year.
http://news.com.com/Startup+to+make+iTunes+sing+on+Linux/2100-1041_3-5293915.html?tag=alert
Please visit our other web site: California Fairs and Festivals.com
Mozilla Users Need Update
Secunia Security reports a Highly Critical alert for Mozilla and Netscape users and recommends switching to Mozilla 1.7.1/. The issue with the at-risk browser involves a “integer overflow within the SOAPParameter object’s constructor”. Go to Mozilla.org to download Mozilla 1.7.1/.
Backup Solution
The most talked about and least practice topic today is virus and spyware infection and prevention, subjects that rightfully receive much attention. If you are the victim of a virus, your life will be restored to a state of normalcy far quicker if you backup your important data on a regular basis. Norton Ghost is a tool you can use for this less than glamorous task and you can read about the recent improvements in PC World. If you use Ghost, you can be up and running after eliminating the virus instead of banging your head against the monitor because all your documents, pictures, and songs are lost.
Update for iPhoto
Apple has released an update for iPhoto 4 that corrects some minor problems. Mac users can click on the Apple on your Tool Bar and choose Software Update and your computer will automatically check Apple for an update.
PowerBook Problems
MacFixIt is reporting on a warping issue that seems to be plaguing some PowerBooks. New PowerBook owners might want to visit the site for recommendations on keeping cool.
RealNetworks Targets Linux
Linux operating systems get a new choice from RealNetwork with the release of audio and video playback software according to a report in CNET. RealNetworks states that Novell and Red Hat releases will include the new software.
Next Please: iTunes For Linux
CrossOver Office 3.1 from CodeWeavers could give Linux users a ticket to ride on the iTunes music train according to a report from CNET. The software should be available to the public by the end of the year.
http://news.com.com/Startup+to+make+iTunes+sing+on+Linux/2100-1041_3-5293915.html?tag=alert
Please visit our other web site: California Fairs and Festivals.com
Monday, August 02, 2004
Monday Tech News Blog
Please visit Mulitpleplatforms.com for the links to these stories and more.
Apple CEO OK After Surgery
Apple CEO Steve Jobs is recovering from surgery required to remove a cancerous tumor from his pancreas. The surgery was described as successful by Jobs in an e-mail sent to Apple employees and the CEO stressed this is not the ‘normal’ pancreatic cancer and his chances of recovery are excellent, according to a story carried by dotmac.info. We chose this source among hundreds because of their positive approach to the headline and story.
PC Freeware We Can Recommend
TweakUI is freeware we can recommend based on the source and prior use. This cool tool allows you to make tweaks to XP that you can’t normally perform using plain-old Windows XP. You can download this tool at the Microsoft Download site.
Linux for MS Users Site
MozillaQuest is a cool site we found that has a compilation of articles to help Windows people utilize Linux in their computer environment. The site contains some material that is dated, but overall it can help Microsoft users start to migrate towards a multiple platforms environment.
Quickly Launch Spell Check
If you use Microsoft’s Word: mac v.X, you can launch Spell Check quickly by using the F7 key. If you want to launch the Find and Replace function, use the F5 key.
Gentoo and Connectiva Updates
Secunia Security has issued update advisories for Gentoo (1,2) and Connectiva (1,2) regarding sox, samba, and mplayer flaws that were discovered last week. Visit Secunia for the update information.
Mozilla Announces Bounty Program
In an effort to be proactive, Mozilla.org is offering a reward program for anyone that identifies a critical security flaw in the Mozilla family of products. The staff will judge and award a $500 cash prize in this new program underwritten by Linux software maker Linspire, Inc.
Office 2004 for Mac-Free Trial
If you are still undecided about Office 2004 for Mac, you can try it free for 30 days. It has received positive reviews from experts like Leo Laporte, The Tech Guy on KFI, and from MacWorld Magazine.
Halo Demo
Windows users can try a free demo of Halo available at the Microsoft Downloads Center. You can try the multiple-player experience with this demo, unlike some other trial versions.
Tips for WEP Passwords
What is WEP? WEP is the acronym for Wired Equivalent Privacy and it is considered the ‘older security protocol’. The Apple Support site has tips for Multiple Platform users for selecting a WEP password that will work for all the computers on your network.
AirPort Express Assistant is Not for Window 2000
If you are a Windows 2000 user and you have purchased an AirPort Express, visit the Apple Support site to learn about using the AirPort Admin Utility for configuring the Express.
Please visit our other site: Californiafairsandfestivals.com
Apple CEO OK After Surgery
Apple CEO Steve Jobs is recovering from surgery required to remove a cancerous tumor from his pancreas. The surgery was described as successful by Jobs in an e-mail sent to Apple employees and the CEO stressed this is not the ‘normal’ pancreatic cancer and his chances of recovery are excellent, according to a story carried by dotmac.info. We chose this source among hundreds because of their positive approach to the headline and story.
PC Freeware We Can Recommend
TweakUI is freeware we can recommend based on the source and prior use. This cool tool allows you to make tweaks to XP that you can’t normally perform using plain-old Windows XP. You can download this tool at the Microsoft Download site.
Linux for MS Users Site
MozillaQuest is a cool site we found that has a compilation of articles to help Windows people utilize Linux in their computer environment. The site contains some material that is dated, but overall it can help Microsoft users start to migrate towards a multiple platforms environment.
Quickly Launch Spell Check
If you use Microsoft’s Word: mac v.X, you can launch Spell Check quickly by using the F7 key. If you want to launch the Find and Replace function, use the F5 key.
Gentoo and Connectiva Updates
Secunia Security has issued update advisories for Gentoo (1,2) and Connectiva (1,2) regarding sox, samba, and mplayer flaws that were discovered last week. Visit Secunia for the update information.
Mozilla Announces Bounty Program
In an effort to be proactive, Mozilla.org is offering a reward program for anyone that identifies a critical security flaw in the Mozilla family of products. The staff will judge and award a $500 cash prize in this new program underwritten by Linux software maker Linspire, Inc.
Office 2004 for Mac-Free Trial
If you are still undecided about Office 2004 for Mac, you can try it free for 30 days. It has received positive reviews from experts like Leo Laporte, The Tech Guy on KFI, and from MacWorld Magazine.
Halo Demo
Windows users can try a free demo of Halo available at the Microsoft Downloads Center. You can try the multiple-player experience with this demo, unlike some other trial versions.
Tips for WEP Passwords
What is WEP? WEP is the acronym for Wired Equivalent Privacy and it is considered the ‘older security protocol’. The Apple Support site has tips for Multiple Platform users for selecting a WEP password that will work for all the computers on your network.
AirPort Express Assistant is Not for Window 2000
If you are a Windows 2000 user and you have purchased an AirPort Express, visit the Apple Support site to learn about using the AirPort Admin Utility for configuring the Express.
Please visit our other site: Californiafairsandfestivals.com
Sunday, August 01, 2004
Sunday Tech News Blog
Please visit Multipleplatforms.com for the links to these stories and more tips.
Understanding Windows Registry
Sometimes the only way you can remove spyware and viruses is to make changes to the Registry File. Before you attempt this task, learn more about the issue by visiting the Windows support site. You should always create a backup of the registry before making changes, or you risk loosing a lot of time and data. You can make changes to this file, but take the necessary precautions or you might pay a high price in aggravation and anxiety.
Outsourced! Ouch!
Before yesterday, I was the only person helping Leo Laporte with the show notes, but he converted the show notes to a Wiki web page. What’s a wiki? We didn’t know much about them until we visited Wikepedia; but the bottom line is, you can help with notes now too. Leo gives out a password throughout the program that allows you to contribute to the show notes. Speaking of Leo, he’ll be answering questions from 12-3 pm PDT live on KFI AM 640 in L.A. and on the internet, From 3-4:30pm he will be taping calls for future shows. It would be a good time to pose a question to the Tech Guy and then you can listen to your call later this month.
Shortcut for Mac Mail
If you want to use the Find and Replace feature in Apple e-mail, highlight the text from your message that contains the words that will be replaced. Then use command-F to open the Find/Replace dialogue box. You can replace a word, phrases, or a file.
More Apple Shortcuts
Panther users can scroll through your open applications quickly by using shift-F3. Each time you use the command, you will move to the next open document or application.
Site for Linux Newbies and Pros: Desktop-Linux.Net
We found a good site for open source newbies, Desktop-Linux.Net The site gives the describes itself as a ‘site is dedicated to the use of GNU/Linux as a desktop OS and is geared towards newbies and experienced users alike’. This is a cool site, check it out at Desktop-Linux.Net.
PC Build Progressing
This PC is one of the easiest builds we have done thanks to a nice case, and motherboard combination. The directions for the pair make this build easier than most in that the entire design is user-friendly. You do not have to be a geek to build your own PC, but once you have it’s okay if you start to feel like one! We will start publishing the directions this week, sorry for the delay.
Please visit our other site:
California Fairs and Festivals.com
Super 8 - Great NYC rates!
Understanding Windows Registry
Sometimes the only way you can remove spyware and viruses is to make changes to the Registry File. Before you attempt this task, learn more about the issue by visiting the Windows support site. You should always create a backup of the registry before making changes, or you risk loosing a lot of time and data. You can make changes to this file, but take the necessary precautions or you might pay a high price in aggravation and anxiety.
Outsourced! Ouch!
Before yesterday, I was the only person helping Leo Laporte with the show notes, but he converted the show notes to a Wiki web page. What’s a wiki? We didn’t know much about them until we visited Wikepedia; but the bottom line is, you can help with notes now too. Leo gives out a password throughout the program that allows you to contribute to the show notes. Speaking of Leo, he’ll be answering questions from 12-3 pm PDT live on KFI AM 640 in L.A. and on the internet, From 3-4:30pm he will be taping calls for future shows. It would be a good time to pose a question to the Tech Guy and then you can listen to your call later this month.
Shortcut for Mac Mail
If you want to use the Find and Replace feature in Apple e-mail, highlight the text from your message that contains the words that will be replaced. Then use command-F to open the Find/Replace dialogue box. You can replace a word, phrases, or a file.
More Apple Shortcuts
Panther users can scroll through your open applications quickly by using shift-F3. Each time you use the command, you will move to the next open document or application.
Site for Linux Newbies and Pros: Desktop-Linux.Net
We found a good site for open source newbies, Desktop-Linux.Net The site gives the describes itself as a ‘site is dedicated to the use of GNU/Linux as a desktop OS and is geared towards newbies and experienced users alike’. This is a cool site, check it out at Desktop-Linux.Net.
PC Build Progressing
This PC is one of the easiest builds we have done thanks to a nice case, and motherboard combination. The directions for the pair make this build easier than most in that the entire design is user-friendly. You do not have to be a geek to build your own PC, but once you have it’s okay if you start to feel like one! We will start publishing the directions this week, sorry for the delay.
Please visit our other site:
California Fairs and Festivals.com
Super 8 - Great NYC rates!
