Archive for the ‘hardware’ Category

Windows Memory Diagnostic

Monday, December 5th, 2005

The Windows Memory Diagnostic tests the Random Access Memory (RAM) on your computer for errors. The diagnostic includes a comprehensive set of memory tests. If you are experiencing problems while running Windows, you can use the diagnostic to determine whether the problems are caused by failing hardware, such as RAM or the memory system of your motherboard. Windows Memory Diagnostic is designed to be easy and fast. On most configurations, you can download the diagnostic, read the documentation, run the test and complete the first test pass in less than 30 minutes.

There’s this as well: Search Microsoft-related sites using Google.

Broadband – Cable or DSL?

Friday, June 24th, 2005

Broadband National Inc. provides more than 30,000 customers with broadband and telecom services nationwide at the lowest prices available�.guaranteed! The Broadband National Inc. system enables you to compare all of the top broadband providers of DSL, cable Internet, T1 lines, VOIP, and integrated T1 lines in one user-friendly location. The system works similar to Expedia, Lending Tree, or Orbitz �only for broadband and telecom services. You can purchase your broadband services on-line or speak to an “unbiased” broadband / telecom consultant for assistance.

Our service is provided FREE of charge with a goal of providing unbiased advice and recommendations regarding all of your broadband and telecommunication options. This service is paid for via partnerships with the 40 telecom and broadband service providers that want to compete for your business including Comcast, Earthlink, SBC Yahoo!, Covad, Speakeasy, and ITC Deltacom. You will pay less by using the Broadband National Inc. system as this is a more cost effective way for broadband companies to sell their services. Broadband National Inc. has saved customers on average 34% off of their current broadband and telecom expenses.

Broadband National Inc. solutions include high-speed Internet service such as DSL or cable internet, VOIP, Mobile Phones, Point to Point, data and integrated T1′s, local / long distance, and Frame Relay. Broadband National Inc. recommends the most reliable and cost effective Internet or telecom solution that is best for you – eliminating any incentives to up-sell services that may not be required.

Speed Report today with cable:
Download speed : 4159388 bps, or 4061 kbps.
A 507.7 KB/sec transfer rate.
Upload speed : 504977 bps, or 493 kbps.

SBC/Yahoo DSL claims:
Upload Speed 128 to 384 Kbps
Download Speed 384 Kbps to 1.5 Mbps

Current SBC Yahoo! DSL Express Package promotion of $14.95/month is appealing when compared to $39.95/month for cable. Distance from the Central Office is probably a huge factor against DSL.

Well Made Interactive Tutorials

Monday, March 7th, 2005

I was searching for information on how to release and renew an IP address in Mac OS X. I found this nicely done tutorial from Mahernet and more than 60 others in the following categories:

  • Windows: Understanding Packet Loss and Latency
  • Windows: Determining the Make and Model of a NIC
  • Windows: Using Diagnostic Tools to Troubleshoot
  • Windows: Reinstalling Device Drivers
  • Windows: Checking and Renewing the IP Address
  • Windows: Configure TCP/IP
  • Windows: Removing/Replacing TCP/IP Stack
  • Windows: Identifying Resource Constraints (IRQ) Conflicts
  • Windows: Determining Avaliable IRQs
  • Macintosh: Basic Skills
  • Macintosh: Verifying Minimum System Requirements
  • Macintosh: Troubleshooting

Cool Tools – The Beast

Tuesday, January 11th, 2005


The Beast is the most powerful flashlight SureFire has ever produced for civilian sale. Utilizing a xenon-fill high-intensity discharge (HID) arc lamp, it puts out 2000 lumens of blinding white light � 120 times the light output of a typical two D-cell alkaline flashlight.

Only 85 Beasts are being offered for sale to private citizens. No kidding, at $2900.00 a pop, I don’t imagine they are flying out the door.

Counterfeit Kyocera cell-phone batteries

Friday, December 3rd, 2004

Cell-phone hand grenades!

Some Kyocera cell phone models may contain a counterfeit lithium-ion battery which has the potential to overheat, catch fire or burst. Models include Kyocera 3200 Series, Kyocera X400/KE400 Series and the Kyocera Slider Series (SE44/SE47).

Today, I submitted a request for a new cell phone battery for my Kyocera SE47.

Cool Tools – Petzl Tikka Plus LED Headlamp

Friday, November 19th, 2004

So I’m not easily embarrassed and I work alone and I don’t mind looking like I just emerged from a cave. Bottom line is that this cool tool provides hands free light.

Petzl Tikka Plus LED Headlamp from REI

Switch lets you select from four lighting levels to meet your needs: low, medium, high, bright strobe

Four LED bulbs provide even lighting throughout your field of view, with no blank spots in the beam

Ratcheting swivel head aims light where you need it

Top 10 list of supercomputers

Monday, November 8th, 2004

The Top 10 include machines from the United States, United Kingdom, Japan and China.