The time is here to get a new Computer

Technology Grade 5

Look closely and you can see the USB 3.1 Type C port.
(Copied from Alienware.) 

Skylake, the code name for Intel's long awaited 6th generation processor is finally, officially here. Not just on paper but actually available on computers available for purchase right now. In addition to the availability of Skylake, several other advancements have been released in concert. Not to say that Skylake was the key to all of the other advancements, it just made sense to have all of them released at approximately the same time.

As I had eluded to in my  post titled "2015 is the year to buy a new PC" Not only did Skylake get released but DDR4 memory, PCI Express SSD's and usb 3.1 type C are all now available at the same time (Windows 10 missed the party by 2 months). What this has led to is computers that boot to the desktop in 10 seconds with lightning fast response and faster data transfer speeds. All of this leads to more productivity and better gaming.

So how does all of this affect you, the user? Not only is Skylake 10%-15% faster than the previous generation, it also has higher energy efficiency, so you're getting faster performance while using less energy. Now let's talk about storage speeds. That 10 second boot time that I mentioned earlier had more to do with the PCI Express SSd's that are now shipping with most computers that have the capability. The PCI Express based drives that are currently available are 3 to 4 times faster than the previous generation.

As I had stated in January, this is the year to buy a new computer. Whether you want to get the previous generation and save yourself a few dollars or go all out on the bleeding edge of technology and speed, you won't be disappointed. If you are in the market for a new PC this is what you should be looking for. Right click on the windows button/logo on the desktop of any computer - click on system - from there, you will be able to determine what processor is in the computer.  The first number after i3-, i5- or i7- has to be a 6. This number is how Intel annotates the different generations. The easiest upgrade to spot is the USB 3.1 type C connector. The memory and  SSD drives are a bit more complicated to confirm and if you're shopping that information should be readily available.

I highly recommend always buying from a trusted or reputable source, especially if you're looking into getting a high end system. Always try to get at least one second opinion on a unit before making a final decision and never shy away from asking about the type of technology being used in the computer that you are interested in. Search for model numbers using your phones. Its holiday season so try not to fall prey to the impulse buy. Feel free to post any questions you might have in regards to picking a system or deciding what to get, I will ensure that I respond accordingly with my recommendations and opinion. 

House of Cards binge follow up

Technology Grade 1

When Netflix decided to do HoC, they signed for the first 2 seasons. Season 1 and 2 were written at the same time. That being said, I do think that season 3 was a bit rushed. Too much happening and not enough story and details to intrigue the audience. In reality, I feel that they had sufficient material in the first ten episodes to complete the season, the next 3 episodes should have been a part of season 4. 

House of Cards isn't about politics nor relationships. It's about power and that dynamic changed at the end of season 2 when Frank achieved what he ultimately wanted. Season 3 is about the struggle to keep the power. More than that, it was about the people surrounding Frank wanting a piece of that power as well. Netflix wanted season 3 to hit as hard as season one and two but in the end they tried too hard. I dare to say they might have jumped the shark but only the future will tell.

House of Cards binge has commenced

                                                              Technology Grade 1

It has Begun

Season one run time is a total of 661 minutes, which is 11 hours and 1 minute. Each episode has a minute and a half intro that can be skipped and at least 2 minutes of closing credits. This adds up to 45.5 minutes. Final season one run time is approximately 10 hours and 15 minutes.  I calculate that I will skip through a few scenes that are either filler or off-topic so that might get me down to 9 hours. Season two run time is 649 minutes. That’s 10 hours and 49 minutes. Subtract the 3.5 minutes and filler puts us at approximately 10 hours. Using the same math from season one puts me at nine hours for season 2 as well.

I Tweeted Netflix, asking what time I would be able to start streaming season 3. No answer so far. Will post an update if I do get an answer. Not focusing too much on the first few episodes. Trying to watch around the episodes as opposed to watching the episodes. It's hard to not  try to break down the episodes and explain some of what happens' but I am not a fan of spoilers. All I can say is aside from the fact that most of what happens is not possible, the story and cinematography is very detailed and enthralling.

One thing I will state. The use of technology in telling the story is very impressive and relevant in House of Card (HoC). The story brings to light a few things that are relevant in today's society, another great reason to watch this series. In my Media 101 class we watched Twin Peaks as an example of cinematography and storytelling.  In five to ten years HoC will be the twin Peaks of media classes everywhere.

R.I.P. Windows RT, another casualty in Microsoft's history

 Technology Grade 4 

Image used from http://pureinfotech.com

Microsoft has made what many of us in the tech industry, known to be true for a very long time official.  Windows RT is dead.  From its inception and subsequent release I tried to make sense of the move but for every pro there was a con.

When Microsoft released Windows RT, tablets was an emerging market that they needed to capitalize on. They  wanted to make up for lost time by releasing a limited version of Windows 8 that had a windows app store and utilized the same hardware that the available tablets were operating on. Unfortunately, their app store never gained traction in the app market and due to consumer confusion, this move hurt Microsoft's foray into the tablet market.

What Microsoft should have done was put more work into windows 8 at the time. If the resources that were used in the development of Windows RT was utilized to develop Windows 8 then the full version of Windows 8 would have had the capabilities to run on tablets. This statement is now verified to be true as not only is Windows RT dead, but the full version of Windows 8 is currently being shipped with all Windows based tablets.

Microsoft now seems to be moving in the right direction as they have started to unify their operating systems.  Windows phone, XBOne, tablets and personal computers will all be running Windows 10. It was always my hypothesis that Microsoft would have to unify their operating systems. In fact, they initialized this process with the X-Box 360 (XB360).

When they upgraded the operating system on the XB360 to the tiled interface, that was the beginning of their unification goal.  Stage 2 started with Windows phone and their transition to a tiled interface.  One can infer that Windows 9 is the bridge that connects Windows 10 to Windows phone and the XBOne, but I'm getting ahead of myself here. One of my upcoming articles will cover the upcoming Windows 10 release. Back to windows RT.

The Windows based app store never really matured and this was another reason why RT failed. Apple's iOS and Google's Android Operating systems were so mature at the time Microsoft started their app store that Microsoft would have needed to provide some sort of incentive for users and developers to create or port apps to their app store. As a result of this oversight, Microsoft lost market share in the lucrative app store business.

Microsoft seems to have seen the light and has started a rebirth that has coincided with the appointment of the new CEO Satya Nadella. Since he has taken over the reins at Microsoft there has been a lot of positive changes in their overall business plans. Putting the final nail in the windows RT coffin was another positive move in Microsoft's and more importantly Windows future.

House of Cards Binge 2015 preparation

                                                                       Technology Grade 1 

Got my days off for the House of cards weekend approved. I think I'll be breaking it down like this:

1. Watching  HoC season one on February 25th. Live blogging via twitter throughout and synopsis of season 1 via drslevy.blogspot.com
2. Watching season two on February 26th. Continued live blogging via twitter. Synopsis of season two and season three preview via the blog.
3. Watch season three on February 27th. Exact time to be decided.
4. Breakdown season three on February 28th. I'll try to keep the spoilers to a minimum and break it down from an expectation/directing and acting point of view.

I need to work on my refreshment list and itinerary for the 4 day event. I'm also thinking about hosting an XBOne party and have anyone that’s interested watch the seasons or at least the premier of season three with me. I'll check on that and post the details if it's possible. I'll definitely be using the XBOne to watch HoC as I can get away with watching it and watching or playing something else at the same time. I would welcome some ideas and suggestions from my readership. Also if the XBOne party mode can work, I'll be looking for people to join the party.  

Mega Technology Companies and the future

                                                             Technology Grade 5 

Microsoft, Google, Apple, Facebook and Amazon are the major technology players in today's society. When it comes to technology, the internet and social connectivity they are the pioneers of the future. The biggest key to these companies success so far is their ability to expand their businesses and brands to services and devices beyond what they are typically known for.

Microsoft has transformed their brand from being synonymous with software to being synonymous with every aspect of technology. Their biggest foray into the future of technology from a hardware point of view was when the original Xbox was launched in 2001. 14 years later Microsoft is still head to head with Sony PlayStation in the video gaming industry. They continue to innovate by buying Nokia, Skype and other companies to bolster their hold on their market share.

Google as a company isn't even 20 years old yet but has eclipsed many companies that have been around longer than they have. Google has done this by fostering the ingenuity and raw talent of their employees and engineers. They have a reputation for taking chances on new technologies and services. So far their tenacity and aggressiveness has paid off and they are a force to be reckoned with in the technology sector in all aspects.

Apple's contribution to technology and how electronics are viewed is unmistakable no matter how much you might hate or despise how Apple maintains a vice grip like hold on their ecosystem. They singlehandedly showed the entire pc industry that computers could be beautiful and even be viewed as art. We could hazard to say that without Apple, Microsoft might not have been pushed to make better software, Intel might not have pushed the boundaries of CPU technology as hard as they did. The late 90's and early 2000's was a P.C. arms race where Apple was always a target of technology companies of the time.

With the passing of Steve Jobs, Apple is in the midst of reinventing itself under the leadership of Tim Cook. Their aggressive stance has been softened during this transition but they are still a company that will always be at the forefront of technology. Microsoft is going through a similar transition with Satya Nadella succeeding Steve Ballmer as CEO of Microsoft but it is still early days in that transition.

Amazons claim to fame was online shopping. Established just two years before Google they have slowly gained momentum in the technology space with the Amazon Kindle devices and cloud services. Make no mistake, Amazon, under the leadership of Jeff Bezos is here to stay and continues to challenge the status quo of the online shopping experience and how consumers consume not just technology but the internet as well.

Facebook, the new kid on the block, claim to fame is the ingrained need that most humans have to communicate and interact with each other. Add the internet to this need and we have Facebook. The company started in 2004 by Mark Zuckerberg under a cloud of controversy in regards to whose idea it was to create a social networking site that still remains to this day. Facebook has yet to foray into the hardware side of the technology pie but it is early days still for them. Their online business has continued to grow and prosper and maybe they will never have the need to get into the hardware aspect of technology.

The digitalrevolution has borne fruit to these companies and others that haven't had as much influence on society as these five over the last 30 years. The future of technology is the increased blurring of the lines between the internet, hardware and software. All of these companies except for Facebook have one thing in common, the fact that they started in one sector and have successfully entered into another sector of technology increasing their market share and dominance in their primary market.

The digital age has given these companies the capability to grow and transform into these mega companies that continue to snatch up smaller companies that might pose a threat to them in the future. It slightly reminds me of the Bell System breakup based on monopolization of the telecommunications system at the time. Just from the monopoly point of view it can be visualized that any of the companies mentioned above could attain influence and capital to monopolize their business segment.

Imagine the possibility of a Microsoft/Google merger or an Apple/Facebook merger in the future. It may seem implausible today but this is a real possibility. The Weyland-Yutani Corp, also known as "The Company" from the Alien franchise or Skynet from the Terminator franchise are becoming more of a possibility as technology advances. The real question is that if this does happen, If these companies become so mega that they can't fail, will they use their power for good or bad.

2015 is the year to buy a new PC

                                                         Technology Grade 6 

When it comes to the technology that makes a computer possible there are several subsystems that are combined to make it a fully functioning device that is the future of technology and productivity. Every year there are faster and more efficient processors available. Graphics processing units continue to increase in performance as power requirements go down. This is just the tip of the iceberg, there is a lot more to the computer under the surface.

Memory (R.A.M.), storage (Hard drives and S.S.D.), data buses (S.A.T.A., U.S.B. and P.C.I.express), processors and operating systems are the primary building blocks of every modern computer. Due to the fact that each of these subsystems are designed and implemented by different governing bodies, the rollout of said components are usually never within the same time frame. When a few of these building blocks are updated within the same time frame, it's like a solar eclipse that rarely occurs. The last time a few of these were updated within a year of each other was in 2003 with DDR2 RAM, SATA, PCI Express and the introduction of 64 bit processing in consumer computers by AMD.

Sub-systems like the SATA interface only get redesigned and updated every two to three years and even though RAM speeds are always getting faster, major overhauls going from one memory interface to another like DDR2 to DDR3 and now DDR4 takes years to develop and then implement. On the software side of things, most people know that Microsoft only updates Windows versions once every few years. With the last major update being Windows 8 that was released in 2012.

This year has no less than six different subsystems that will be introduced to the computer ecosystem which will drastically increase performance while reducing overall power requirements. Memory interface will be moving from DDR3 to DDR4, SATA to SATA express, USB 3 to USB 3.1, Windows 8 to 10, PCI express 3 to 4 (Might be cutting it close for this upgrade due to the lengthy process of finalizing the specifications) and as usual, the bi-yearly intel processor upgrade. This is like six planets lining up within the solar system that is the computing galaxy. What this means to anyone in the market for a computer is better value for your money from a performance point of view along with a healthy dose of longer battery life, lighter laptops and a lower energy bill.

Let's look at the value and performance point of view. Processors are typically updated every six to eight months on average and every iteration gives better performance with lower power requirements so that is typical. Windows 10 will be released later this year that promises to increase performance by reducing the OS overheads and increasing performance on everyday tasks by streamlining how you interact with the OS. It doesn't hurt that it will be a free upgrade for anyone running a legitimate copy of Windows 7 and 8 so we don't have to worry about waiting for Windows 10 to be released. USB 3.1, PCI express 4.0 and SATA express data buses will allow data transfer speeds to skyrocket and in turn increase productivity. USB 3.1 has a pretty cool feature that will be very welcome in the computing world. the cable will be reversible on both the host and device side. In other words, you will never have to figure out which end of the cable is the right side as it will work regardless of which end is plugged into the device or computer. 

From an energy saving point of view, desktops as well as laptops benefit because lower power consumption leads to longer battery life without compromising performance. DDR4 will reduce power consumption by running at lower voltages and at the same time process data faster with higher clock speeds. The processor helps with reduced power consumption as well. Let's not forget about storage. As SSD prices drop it will become a more popular choice for consumer computers. SSD's typically consume an average of 50% to 80% less energy than traditional Hard drives, while at the same time increasing average data transfer rates by as much as 70% over traditional hard drives in certain circumstances.   

As opposed to what has been happening during the last ten years, which is one or two subsystems get updated at a time and everyone that buys a new computer reaps the incremental increase in performance. This year, several sub-systems will be upgraded within a short period of time which in turn will drastically increase the overall performance of future computers. Indeed, later this year is the time to buy a new computer. If you are considering finally replacing that Windows XP clunker chugging along on your desk, you will not be disappointed if you get something later this year with all the goodies that I mentioned above. Feel free to leave questions in the comments section or your own thoughts as to the validity of my statements. All opinions are welcome.

House of Cards Binge 2015

                                                         Technology Grade 1 

House of Cards (HoC) has earned a special place in my heart. A place where I reserve for television shows that have not only exceeded my expectations but have also inspired and motivated me. HoC story depth is so complicated and intertwined that I feel that you could watch the series over and over and still see sub plots that haven't been utilized yet. I don't have a lot of time to watch and rewatch the shows and movies that gives me motivation and peace of mind but I do enjoy the time that I find to relax and unwind watching the shows that I love.
HoC is one of those shows that I have binge watched when it gets released and I think what I'll do this time around is binge watch the first 2 seasons again just before the third season premiers and then binge watch the new season. I'll be planning how I'll complete the entire experience. The first step is getting the day before, of and after the new season premiers off. Next will be deciding what social media I will be utilizing to live blog aside from my blog of course. I'll see if I can get a Binge party going as well.
I'll follow up a few days or weeks before the new season, which starts on February 27th, with more details in regards to my plans. Hopefully Netflix doesn't crash in response to the high demand of HoC in release day. 

State of xbox one January 2015 - Week 2

                                                    Technology Grade 4

I've gotten so used to my monthly XBOne updates that I feel like I'm going through withdrawal right now. The last XBOne system update was released on December 1st, 2014. 12 days after the start of 2015 I haven't heard anything in regards to an upcoming update nor new features. There are a few things that might have created a combination of delays or even just one of these could be a good reason why we haven't seen an update yet.

The development team could still be recovering from the Christmas and new year's celebrations. If this is the reason, I'm not mad. If it were me the updates would be delayed as well. I'd still have one out before the end of January though so let's see what happens in  this regard.

Something to seriously consider is the fact that a majority of the Xbox executive team that ushered the XBOne into existence has either left Microsoft or have been reassigned under the leadership of Phil Spencer whose primary focus is gaming as opposed to the hub of the living room goal that the original team had. His influence is clear with the reduced focus on the Kinect as 2014 came to an end and the increased focus on the games available and interacting with friends while playing games. Will this change in direction also affect the quality and quantity of the updates availability! This is yet to be seen but it is something to ponder on.

Christmas day presents were a mixed bag as those that woke up to XBOnes and PS4s were presented with some coal in the form of down networks. Could it be that Microsoft is delaying the release of future updates to concentrate on security. The future of cybersecurity is blindingly bright and no one person, company or government is safe as we have seen in the last few weeks. It is pertinent that any company that depends on the stability of their network and the internet to maintain a customer base must ensure that their network is not only secure but robust and able to recover from attacks in a very timely manner.

I would love to hear from fellow XBOne fans in regards to what you think and how you feel about the past, present and future of the XBOne. As I've said before, maybe someone will eventually see my request for an adjustable snap window, especially for the TV app and make it a reality. You never know.

Week 1 2015 - What's Next in Technology

                                            Tech Grade 2

CES 2015 starts during week one in 2015 so I feel it's fitting to start the new year of with a discussion about what was a hit last year and what the future holds for technology.

For 2014 3D printing was one of the most talked about subjects in the future of technology and the unlimited potential that it has on the future in many industries.

As 2014 came to an end drones began to pick up momentum and is it coincidental that it is the increased focus on 3d printing and manufacturing that has spurred the done market for without being able to rapidly prototype designs then it is quite possible that drones wouldn't have tallymen of so quickly as a public segment. So how many different types of drones will we see at CES this year and what else will headline CES?

As 4K televisions come to market with less than 1% content availability, current generation television prices continue to plummet. Curved televisions aren't taking off as much as the manufacturers would like them to but will this be the year of curved screens. OLED televisions are still struggling to come to market. The P.C. market has finally begun to pick up after tablet sales cannibalized P.C. sales in 2013. Home automation and monitoring is also something to watch out for as companies like Nest, now owned by Google continue to gain traction in this market space. The internet of things is still lurking behind the scenes but enough of me ranting about random technology.

What are you expecting for the future of technology, particularly for 2015. I would love to read your thoughts and insights. Then at the end of the year we can review our thoughts and see who got it right or wrong.

State of XBOne September 2014

Technology Grade 4

With the surprise September update released at the end of August, a lot of questions and concerns that plagued the XBOne at launch have either been answered, addressed or in the process of being addressed. The one thing that can be said about Microsoft is that they are listening to their consumers and are addressing issues consistently and quickly.

3D movie playback – check, media playback from external hard drives – check, better access to connecting and sharing with friends – check, booting directly to TV mode option – check, etc, etc. Microsoft has settled into an average monthly update cycle for their console which has led to a device that is slowly becoming a multimedia power house. My synopsis on what Microsoft is attempting to do is that they want to be the hub of entertainment in the home. It doesn't matter what you want to do from an entertainment point of view, the XBOne can have you covered. What also helps is the adjustment of the pay wall under Xbox Live allowing for apps like Netflix and Amazon instant video to be used without a live account.

The XBOne might not be the most popular choice in consoles right now but Microsoft continues to give gamers and consumers alike, more reasons why they should pick the XBOne. The number and caliber of games available for the XBOne continue to grow and this will keep gamers interested.  To follow up on my XBOnefollow up post, Microsoft is slowly fleshing out its console. They started with a skeleton when the XBOne was released almost a year ago and they have slowly fleshed it out so next is for Microsoft to muscle up its console with even more features and options that consumers are looking for.

The real question here is “What feature do you want to see on the XBOne?” Think about it, ask about it and make it know because you can never say who else wants that feature as well and Microsoft seems to be listening. With that being said, when am I going to get my multi-sized snap window for the TV app? That’s what I’m waiting for. Anyone else looking for this feature? 

The Lab's 3D Printer is on its way

Technology Grade 7

After envisioning a 3D printer in The Lab early last year and setting a goal of having one by the summer of 2014. I have delivered on that promise Ladies and Gentlemen. With less than 24 hours of spring remaining I finally hit the ‘place order’ button on the first 3D printer for DRSLevy Labs Incorporated.

The printer that I decided to purchase was the Asterid 1000HB3D Printer. The final deciding factors were build volume and the heated printing bed made of Borosilicate glass. Along with the form factor, which was a boxed design vs an open build platform design were the deciding factors. I went over budget by $12 but that was primarily because of the $42 shipping fee. Can’t account for everything unfortunately.

I went over the details of my short short list which was basically the Asterid and the Solidoodle models based on price, print volume, form factor and feature set. There were two things that really stood out that allowed me to be comfortable with the decision I made. One was the heated bed. The fact that it was heated and was made of a material that would reduce the overall maintenance and calibration of the unit was a huge plus. Another was that the maximum build volume was over 100% greater than the comparable Solidoodle model. That being said or written, I can undoubtedly say that I know that the correct decision was made based on the criteria that I set for purchasing the printer. I will be posting updates once I receive the printer and start printing.

I want to thank the following people in no particular order except for my wife, Thato Levy, who has always encouraged and allowed me to do what I love most, Technology and always has words of encouragement or wisdom when needed. She above everyone else reserves my love and everlasting Thanks. Julian Stephenson, Nathaniel Stephenson, Nestor Galvan, Daniel Robles and Marco Miranda. Thank you all for your direct contribution and your future endeavors within The Lab.  This is the beginning of another chapter in my life that I hope will conclude in a book that everyone will one day want to read. 

3D printer short list (Tech grade 7)

3D printer short list (Tech grade 7)

I have short listed the 3D printers that I am considering. Some of the limiting factors that I have adhered to is low cost, largest print volume per dollar spent on printer and ease of setup. Since this is my first 3d printer, I didn’t want to go all out and get a $3,000 unit that I would end up using maybe once or twice a month depending on how things go. Over the last year the entry level 3D printer selection has grown to the point that there are multiple options for anyone to choose from based on what their needs are. 

We are truly on the edge of a new hardware revolution here. Similar to the PC revolution where computers went from these exorbitantly priced room filling devices that did things the everyday person didn’t understand to must have devices that people can’t do without today. Will 3D printers get to that level!!! Only time will tell but I am getting started now and here is my short list of 3D printers, of which I will be getting one this weekend:

1.       Asterid 1000S Desktop 3D Printer – I found this one recently. The price point and build volume is good and even though, the features are very basic, upgradable parts are readily available to add value and functionality when needed.

2.       Solidoodle 2nd Generation Pro – This is one of the front runners for my choice, The print volume is in the middle of the range that I have seen but the solidoodle printers have a good reputation from what I’ve seen online and the build quality looks very mature. To be honest, any of the solidoodle printers are a viable option, it really depends on how much I will be willing to spend.

3.       RigidBot 3D Printer – What I really like about this one is the fact that it was designed with expandability in mind. The print volume can be increased by swapping out specific parts, I found this one recently as well, it is on the short list but availability might be the deciding factor with this one as it is a new comer and currently not available.

4.       PrintrbotNew Simple Maker’s Kit – Last but not least is printrbot. It has the smallest print area but the price makes up for this fact. It’s also one of the more popular entry level 3D printers available and is definitely on the short short list.

These are the most viable units for me right now. What are your thoughts, suggestions and concerns? I would love to hear from everyone what they think of the printers/short list or the future of 3D printing in the comments section. 

Starter Blog Technology Grades

I came up with the idea to grade my blogs based on a 1-10 range that would indicate how tech savvy you would need to be to follow along. I am doing this because I will still be posting the higher level  tech stuff and want it to be clear that I don’t expect everyone to know what I’m talking about. The range is self-explanatory and if you get to a number that you don’t understand, then the previous one is your Tech Grade, so here we go:

Tech Grade 1 - What is Android and what can I do with it? (If you don’t know the answer to this question, you’re grade 1)

Tech Grade 2 - The tools I own consist of a flat head screwdriver and that other one that’s shaped like a plus or a cross. (If this is you then you’re a 2)

Tech Grade 3 - I click yes/accept to everything that pops up on my screen when I’m using my computer. (If you do this, you’re in trouble. I’ll do a post for this one really soon and you’re no more than a level 3)

Tech Grade 4 - When I bought my laptop/phone they said it would last {Insert manufacturers estimated run time here} but it never lasts that long. (If you don’t know why, you’re a 4)

Tech Grade 5 - If you know what net neutrality is how much it can affect you on a daily basis within the next few years then you belong here.

Tech Grade 6 - I've logged into my wireless router and setup my network ID and password a few times. (Welcome to Level 6)

Tech Grade 7 - I don’t call anyone to fix my technology issues unless I don’t have the time or I know a professional/colleague that can do it better than me. (I’m somewhere between 7 and 9 depending on the time of day)

Tech Grade 8 - I've corrected a few repair techs or product specialists in my lifetime. (I've actually did this a few times)

Tech Grade 9 - I used an Arduino micro controller to design my own lighting system for my desktop computer.

Tech Grade 10 - I got bored with the 3D printing software that was available for my printer so I created/designed my own. (Yeah, if you know how to do this, then what are you doing reading my Blog!!!! Seriously???)

Disclaimer: This list is not a singular universal range to determine how tech savvy everyone is but is just my interpretation of what I think that readers/followers of my blog would know in relation to their knowledge of technology.

Starter Blog evolution

“Technology for the everyday person.” This will be the mantra for the Starter Blog going forward. The reality is that there is a growing gap between people that understand how to utilize their technology to its maximum potential and people who struggle to use said technology.

I feel that I am uniquely positioned to help those who struggle with technology to at least bridge that gap. I will address issues that I feel impact technology and the widening gap that is separating the everyday person from the technology elite.

Devices like smart phones that so many of us possess but only a small percentage utilize over 50% of the features available that could potentially increase productivity and reduce frustration in many ways on a daily basis.

Please feel free to ask questions and leave comments on the Blog in regards to any subject matter or any issues you feel need to be addressed. 

FTP Server 2.0

I have decided to finally try to narrow down my Blog focus but that will be the subject of another post, for now I will continue to concentrate on the server and setting it up as an FTP server.

When I originally decided to switch to vsftpd it was on the basis that I would eventually learn how to administer this ftp server and in the process give everyone some insight into how to do this themselves. The reality is that most of the setup is via command line/terminal and if you don't know what that is then you are my target audience. 

For those of you who don't know what command line/terminal is click on the related word and you will find out. Today, everyone uses a GUI to interact with their corresponding OS. The command line continues to be the primary way that engineers, programmers, and hackers interact with their OS's at a level which allows them to access and create content.  

I want to limit and even eliminate the need for anyone utilizing my Blog having to use the command line/terminal to duplicate anything I do here. Of such, my search continues and I stumbled upon crushftp which does have a version for the three OS's used by over 99% of users today. Unlike filezilla that was only available for Windows as a server and vsftpd which is for unix based operating systems.

Unfortunately, when using linux, there will always be a time when you have to utilize the terminal interface to complete a task and crushftp is no different. Similar to vsftpd, I was able to successfully setup local assess and verify that it works but the remote access continues to be elusive. 

Another goal for my Blog is to complete these tasks/setups on a budget. Spending as little as possible is a real goal in every thing that I have accomplished so far. More out of necessity than just attempting to just because I want to. Crushftp is free to try for 30 days, there is a paid license fee that starts at $40 for home use. 

The goal is to setup remote access using crushftp before the 30 day trial is over and report back on it and that's only if I don't find another method that's simpler, quicker and cheaper. More updates to come, any thoughts and suggestions are welcome in the comments section.

Putting the Server to use update

My previous findings about utilizing FileZilla as a server for my FTP was a misguided and uneducated selection. Purely based on the fact that as the server, FileZilla only works on Windows computers and my Server is running Ubuntu/Linux. 

It took me about an hour to figure that out and then another hour to find another free way to setup an FTP server on a Linux computer. I found and installed vsftpd. I was able to get it setup and initialized for local access on my network. It gets really complicated setting it up for remote access which I have started and will try to finish by the end of this week.

It included signing up for a free DNS at no-ip.com and setting up port forwarding in my router settings. There are a lot of tutorials out there that give great step by step instructions but you really have to piece together the missing answers to questions that only you will have based on the fact that your ISP, Computer, Operating system version and luck in getting a free DNS will be different from everyone else. 

I will say that I am actually very happy with the amount of work I was able to accomplish in under 12 hours. I am an engineer but I did not study webdesign nor networking to this extent so from that perspective, I am learning as I go along. Will keep you all posted. 

Let's put the server to use!!!!!!!!

It's been quiet on my Blog I must admit, I've been busy with life and trying to think up some new ideas. One thing that has definitely not been getting any love is the server. Since putting it into commission a few months ago, I really haven't been using it for anything. 

I will start setting up an FTP server on the server for now, my library grows everyday, I have a need to move my files off of the cloud and have my own space (Thanks Danny for the donated storage). To start, I'll use FileZilla to setup the FTP. I'll chronicle the setup tomorrow. Stay tuned.

How to end a ten year relationship

If you clicked this link, thinking that it was about a physical relationship, it is but not the type you're probably thinking about. My relationship with Sprint PCS started approximately ten years ago and it was, as all relationships are in the beginning, awesome. It was cheap, reliable, all of my friends & family liked it and it fit my needs at the time. 

As time went by, as in all relationships, things changed. Sometimes for the good, like when they had the premier program is what I think they called it and I was able to upgrade every year as opposed to the industry standard of two years. Then sometimes for the bad like when they ended the premier program and decided to go with 4G WiMax instead of LTE. From a short term point of view, the decision to roll out with WiMax as opposed to LTE at the time meant that Sprint would be first to market with 4G speeds and technology. Ruling the beginning of the 4G era within the United States with their flag ship device the HTC Evo 4G (Which I owned and loved), not to be confused with the Evo 4G LTE. But once everyone else locked in on LTE which was the true next generation technology, Sprint's grasp on possibly being a power player in the wireless communication business within the United States really begun to slip. 

During all this, I was an avid believer in the dream that Sprint would pull through and even though they were not the cheapest solution anymore the service provided was not any worse than anyone else out there. the relationship continued to sour when SoftBank purchased Sprint and amplified the picture of discord and no clear vision of the future. To highlight the mayhem even more was the fact that carriers were beginning to think outside of the box in regards to contracts and phone upgrades.

This is where I get to the point where I unceremoniously dumped Sprint for another carrier that was able to meet my needs in not only technology, pricing and services but in the way they decided to give their customers the option to upgrade whenever they wanted in order to always have the latest technology in a fair and economical way. This breakup was well deserved as all friends and family that liked Sprint in the beginning, slowly migrated away, in truth I was the last to say Good Bye. It was not bitter, it was in frustration and pain that I had to end this long term relationship. 

3D Printing research

I've found two books that I've been reading over the last week. Learned a lot as far as the software and from concept to reality is concerned. There is basically three software stages. Modeling, Slicing and Fixup. The three separate process are sometimes combined in some way or form depending on the software being used and not all users and or software refer to the different stages as these names. 

I won't go into the details of each section as I am only concentrating on the basic knowledge and know how at this time. My ultimate goal is that anyone will be able to start reading my journey from start to finish and not feel over whelmed with the prospect of diving into 3D printing. Once I finish reading the books that I found. I will probably complete a short review on them and then my readers can decide if they want to use these books as I have. 

On another note, I have also rethought the printer picking process. I think I might get a used one as opposed to a new one for 2 reasons. 

1. It will definitely be cheaper. Early adapters out there that bout one early on and now want to upgrade will probably want to get rid of an earlier model.

2. By getting a used 3D printer, the previous user and support forums will have more tips and content for me to utilize while learning about 3D printing.

Finally, I want to close out today's post with a new 3D printer that I saw via my twitter feed this morning. The Micro might truly be the break out 3D printer of the year, meeting its kickstarter goal in just 11 minutes!!!! Can you say WOW? If they are able to deliver, they will definitely give Makerbot some real competition in the entry level 3D printing space. Santa might have a lot more requests for 3D printers next holiday season.