First things first: Your micro-rant, while cute and seemingly poignant is actually nothing but a simple troll. And while I realize it's best not to feed the trolls, not everything blatantly stupid should go unanswered.
When dealing with something as complex as economics, nothing is quite as simple as "So, how do you like it now?". Outsourcing of jobs from the United States to India doesn't just mean more money in India, period. What it actually means is less income in the United States to afford the products that many of these (outsourced) jobs in India were created to support.
Understand?
By moving a sizable portion of middle income generating positions to another country, we are not spreading any wealth; only distributing new vistas of poverty to our own people.
Do you get it?
Fewer dollars generated in the United States does not mean secure fiscal longevity for another nation. What it means is that when the United States becomes a middle classless society, India will go back to where they were before the mass corporate migration: one billion odd people struggling to find a place in the global economy.
You simply cannot build a solid economic base on cheap labour alone.
...try watching movies that don't spend 90-120 minutes tricking you into thinking you are getting substance over form. Hell, there are plenty of actual films out there that can easily whisk you away. Unfortunately, there are far more movies that are ready to hand you a bunch of CG and expect you to be entertained.
Want substance? Find substantial films. Want to feel cheated by expensive CG? Watch a Hollywood movie.
Aspiring teen musician's parents buy him/her a guitar.
Aspiring teen musician spends a year or so learning their favorite songs via tabs.
Aspiring teen musician learns to play really reall because of said tabs and begins to compose their own music -- becoming an actual musician in the process.
Record company eventually hears the once aspiring teen musician and signs them for a recording contract.
Record company now has a new talent in which to make more money.
What happens when we take out the tabs? Aspiring teen musician, flustered by never figuring out that their Guitar-God! was actually playing in drop-D gives up, shelves the guitar and goes back to smoking pot with all their friends -- ultimately, POSSIBLY robbing society of a creative artist.
Now... where's the real crime?
Obvious disclaimer: Contemporary pop mostly sucks, most "artists" are not really musicians at all, record companies don't give two shits about anything other than what's in their grasp at the very moment and I've done nothing more here than simplify and overstate the patently obvious.
On a closing note... Hey recording industry! When I play guitar, my middle finger is resting across the frets, it's aimed at you!
GoDaddy.com learned that some customers using the Apple Safari web browser were having difficulty accessing forwarded domain names. At this time, we have determined the issue is NOT related to a glitch in our service, but rather with a product supplied by one of our vendors. We are actively working on resolving this issue and expect it to be fixed shortly.
It doesn't actually look as though GoDaddy is blaming Apple as much as simply not knowing what the actual culprit is. A small, but possibly important, difference.
Well, the review was super froody! Yeah, you know Linux was mentioned and that was neat. I read it on a pretty modern webbrowser, but I suppose that IE would've been great, too.
The reviewer spent some time talking about things, which was cool in my book. At one point, I actually considered looking into one of the technical things mentioned, but didn't as it would've broken the flavor of the review.
All in all, it was a pretty fun review -- I had some laughs and a couple of good cries. For the DIY crowd, you could google the info yourself -- which, you'll probably do anyhow. But for the Suits who want to spend some money and not learn much (much less than say... the spec sheet: http://www.anthologysolutions.com/products/P400T_D ataSheet.pdf -- or even the basic breakdown: http://www.anthologysolutions.com/products/index.h tm ) then, hey give this rather cute review a shot!
Thanks for the darling review. I feel much peppier now. =/
Just to clarify: I never said anything about fearing Windows, only that most/.'ers hate it.
My primary point was the error in assuming that guerilla consumerism would force Microsoft into bankruptcy.
As for the DRM -- that is something else entirely. Unfortunately, most people simply do not understand why it should be a concrn. For them, I recommend putting away the video games for the evening and having a listen to Sean Kennedy. Not only is it entertaining, it's also good for you. =D
All that said, you are correct, sir. Only by consumers expressing their discontent to unfair EULA's, DRM and product crippling --erm encryption will the point ever be made. And cracking the Xbox does indeed prove both intent and capability.
Well that or simply force it into failure by not buying one. However, I fear it is very much like all American voters demonstrating their unhappines with the status quo by withholding their vote in the next primary: It's a great and solid concept that will never, ever happen. And I'll end up being just as guilty as the next guy there.
Personally, I'd rather see it broken and usable than not.
Yeah, I know this is/. and it's so very 7331 to device really ubercool ways of taking down the evil Redmond giant....
But enough already!
Look, it's reall simple... and I'm going to spell it out for you. Ready?
Microsoft makes a product (Windows) that, in most of its incarnations, basically blows. We all know that. Every day, I promote Linux to as many of my clients / customers as I can. I sell new and refurb boxes with (k)Ubuntu installed. I build low-mid range servers running Gentoo and occasionally a *BSD. I install Linux on everything I can... because I'm a geek.
Now, all that being said, the reason I get paid to install Linux on everything is because Microsoft continues to make a product (Windows) that, in most of its incarnations, basically blows.
However, they also make some other products, and some of them are actually pretty nice: mice, keyboards, and... gaming consoles. So, the question is: Since we hate Windows... we have to hate the Xbox (or mice, or keyboards, etc...)? If the answer is yes, then what about the PSy? Who do we hate more this week? Micro$oft or $ony?
Because... $ony installs rootkits on our computers... remember?
But we game (we're hanging in games.slashdot.org... right?)
So, which side do we choose? Because let's face it... you hate Microsoft and want to put them out of business (No more Xboxes, no more Windows... which means no more desktop games), and you hate Sony and don't want their rootkit installing shite, and if all that happens, then there'll only be Nintendo left and you'll hate them because they're monopolizing the gaming market.
So, here's my thing... You really hate Microsoft? Hate the part that matters and do something about it! Hate the OS, because it's insecure, because it's buggy, because it stamps out competition, innovation and growth. But do more than hate it... actively participate in offering a choice. Volunteer a little time and energy and package old PII's and PIII's w/ a light Linux and offer to assist an NPO in acclimating to it. Put your burner to good use and start burning Live/Install distros and passing them out to anyone even remotely interested. Simply put... get involved in a real way. Put the $400 you were going to spend on a 360 (to SHUT M$ DOWN, DUDE!) and buy a burning system and get to work!
But enough with this kind of psuedo-guerilla warfare talk. It's just a bit annoying. Because for every hundred of you that say something like... "Yeah, I'll install Linux on my Xbox 'cause it costs M$ money", one of us have actually done it... because we really are geeks. (And, because in a pinch, an Xbox running Linux makes a damn quick and easy backup server =D ).
And just to answer the question... yes, I do practice what I preach. My Stellar2 burns an everage of 150-200 discs a month (ranging from Live distros -- usually knoppix or Ubuntu, install discs and other OSS projects like OpenCD). And, if you'll look below, my sig is the truth... My Microsoft Partner rep does not like me... at all. Why? Because every month on the phone I ask her this question: What am I doing to help "win the war"? I'm putting the best OS I can into the hands of my clients. What are you guys doing to make that OS Windows?
Now, after a long and heated rant... I'll get back on topic with the actuall article and say this... Linux on a 360? Souns interesting... as soon as its possible, I'll try it. It'll be even nicer than Linux on the Xbox for one reason I can think of (outside of muscle & memory, of course): We can hook it up to a monitor this time!!!
Get to work, Bunny! I'm waiting to follow in your mighty big footsteps!
From my personal experience, it doesn't actually matter what distro you choose for a project roll out. What matters is:
1. Application/OS requirements (which might well stop the OS transition).
2. Knowledge of the hardware on the floor.
3. Understanding of the level of end-user experience (and amount of necessary hand holding that will be necessary).
Once those three items are in place, it comes down to the IT cat.
For a mixed floor, Ubuntu works great as it has absolutely beautiful hardware detection. Is that a solid? Not always. But, in my experience, majority rules and Ubuntu continues to prove reliable on varied hardware.
For a cloned floor (and/or older hardware), I really like Gentoo. Basic paired down install w/ my necessary builds on disc. Pull my entire necessary build list from the file server and you can be up and running pretty quickly (well... "quick" is obviously conditional... I mean let's face it, emerging X, KDE and OOo isn't a five minute process -- especially on a roomful of refurb 1GHz PIII Deskpro's). Of course, if it's a true cloned floor and you're starting from scratch, the time can be greatly cut down with a good imaged install.
On a serious budget, Puppy or DamnSmall works great. (Point of fact, I recently set up a local NPO w/ 8 old(er) 733 PIII Netvista's. After demo'ing three distro's they liked the light weight of Puppy. So, Puppy they got -- small, light and speedy).
My point here is that crowning a particular distro "king" of the office heap is sketchy at best. The high point of Linux is (in many cases) also it's low point: a staggering choice of distros. While it may be a hindrance in crowning a "Windows Killer", it's the same flaw that makes it very possible to eliminate Windows -- if you know your client requirements, hardware and end user base... you can pretty much facilitate a solid transition. Nothing's going to make that any easier...
Let's face it; when it comes down to installing and supporting a desktop change, it doesn't matter how nice the Ubuntu install process is for the guys over at ZDNet. It's we that get the desperate IM, call, smoke signal concerning the user's internet being broken, the fact that when they "click the blue thing, it pops an error saying "No" or whatever else the end-user doesn't understand.
All of that being said, Ubuntu is the distro that I include with all the end user systems I sell out of the shop -- new and refurb. Lets face it, most people still want Windows, but I'm finding more and more homes for Linux based PC's w/ my average family customer. And Ubuntu does make a pretty, full featured, one disc distro.
While I understand the point being made concerning Apple's mistake in pursuing only the hardware+software model; I feel the necessity of mentioning a couple of very similar products that crossed that barrier and failed.
[Preface: I also understand the fundamental argument of why the companies failed: lack of quality end-user software.]
Two companies, in particular, attempted to work the Microsoft model back in the nineties and failed misserably: NeXT & Be. (Ironic that both of those companies had not only ties to Apple, but to each other).
I remember when NeXT decided to move from the closed hardware model in favor of OpenStep that a great number of people were psyched. "This is going to kill OS/2 and that other one (Windows, 3.1)", a friend told me. Didn't happen.
When Be stopped making BeBoxes and moved to Apple hardware only, then followed with another move to X86 then moved to personal toy status, we saw it happen again. Was there a great wave of adoption to a better OS? No. Didn't happen.
In all fairness, I realize the cost of getting into the driver's seat w/ Openstep excluded a lot of potential users... but more so was the tricky installation due to driver support. So many devices, so many parts. And from a company that initially controlled it's hardware and built solid devices that... just... worked. Same w/ Be (especially in the, very short, days of riding on the Apple hardware train).
[A mid-post disclaimer: I love NS/OS. I regularly build white boxes running Openstep 4.2 for friends. An old used mobo w/ a 500 MHz AMD, 512 MB of ram , an old black Aptiva case and you've got a screaming good time -- and after doing it for years, I've got the install process and necessary driver set down to a very quick science. But, for a first time enthusiast, It's not a quick process. And I'd recommend a quick Linux install w/ Windowmaker for those wanting the look... but not caring about the "authenticity" -- especially considering the fact that for most people, it's nothing more than a novelty.]
Back on track now: This is exactly what many are saying here now. OSX rocks because it's hardware base is controlled. W/ only a handful of aftermarket, end user choices (outside of drives, memory and peripherals) -- it's a solid experience. Once opened up, that's not necessarily the case. God knows it isn't in the Wintel world.
All of that being said -- I agree that there's probably going to be a deal made w/ Dell, HP/Compaq, or even Lenovo. We'll provide the OS, you provide the hardware and the consumer can have a cheap(er) Mac that'll dual boot into Windows -- and the hardware vendor takes the risk of pissing off the redmond giant. My bet is on Dell... but I'm personally hoping it's not (My shop's bread and butter is dealing w/ cheap Dells and their awful hardware issues). I'm not sure how Apple would handle the initial transition -- maybe only allowing the developer's tools to work on Apple hardware? Might be possible. I realize a "patch" would soon be available in the usual places, but it might work as a middling solution.
Anyhow... like I said, a bit of topic, but just a thought for all the "just quit selling hardware" voices out there. It hasn't always worked in the past (for a multitude of reasons that aren't even listed here). Maybe it's in the plans, maybe not. We'll see when we see.
On a closing note... I'd love to get my hands on the X86 mini. God how I'm tired of paying through the nose for mid-power mini-itx mobo/CPU combos. =)
Many of us remember when owning a computer carried a personal responsibility to make sure you knew how to use the damned thing. Now that they've become ubiquitous, they're supposed to be our "little plastic pals that're fun to be with?" Eff that. My dog is fun to be with, my computer is a tool.
And like any tool... you should learn how to use it, otherwise you'll simply make a mess. Want the power of a darkroom but don't want to learn how to use it? Fine, CVS, Walgreens, etc... will be happy to develop your pictures.
Want to organize those photographs in a simple, easy to understand format? It's called a photo album. Little paper and plastic thing. Stick the photos inside and you can organize them to your hearts content.
It's funny. We complain about bloat. We complain about unnecessary software upgrades. We complain about everything... but then we want easy to understand, no thought required, mind reading technology that'll do our bidding without any technical understanding on our part. Well, at least John seems to (of course, the closest example to this has been on John's hit list for a decade now: Apple).
Count me out. Like many here, I got into computers back in the early 80's with an Apple ][ (many earlier, switch the machine to fit your experience). All CLI all the time, baby. By the mid-90's, I realized I was really missing pass-or-fail computing. So, I built a Linux box and have happily played in that sandbox since then.
As a society, we're dangerously close to crossing the ignorance border and never looking back. We buy technology and don't know how to use it. We take pharmaceuticals and don't know why. We consume everything that's put on our plate and never ask if we actually want (or even more: need) it. And then we want it simpler, quicker, now NOW NOW!
Here's a question, John. When my car breaks down on the side of the road... why can't I wave my magic faiery wand over it and make it run again? Oh, I guess because I never personally desired to know how a car works (mechanically speaking). Therefore, I acquire the responsibility of paying someone who does -- at least, as long as I want to drive a car. Simple choice, learn how it works (thereby learning what to do when it goes wrong) or accept paying a person who does. Nothing wrong with that -- keeps lots of little auto mechanic's kids in cozy winter wear during the cold months. It's a cornerstone of our society.
But do not stand around balling out the industry for making big, bloated, cumbersome software... and then turn and ask for something that fits your needs. It's that or learn how to code, compile and build it yerself. And John, I have a feeling that simply picking up a moron's guide to Photoshop'll be easier for you.
Okay, enough. I know Dvorak'll never read this and I should stop holding a conversation with him now. But before I do allow me to at least answer John's issue at hand:
Want to tackle the simpler points of Photoshop w/o Photoshop? There are plenty of products out there. Some will even hold your hand. But remember this, John: The difficulty of a system is comparable only to the ignorance of the end user.
I'm done with large bulky desktop replacements. Instead, I've been completely sucked in by ultra-portables.
I picked up a lot of Thinkpad X21's for resale in my shop, and my first thought when handling one was "How cute". After installing Ubuntu on the thing and playing around with it for about a month, I decided I'd had enough "big" and picked up a new NC4200 as my permanent portable.
1.8 GHz Pentium M, 1 GB 533 MHz DDR2, 60 GB HD, bluetooth, 802.11b/g, 10/100/1k networking, sd card, 12.1" screen and weighing in at around 3.9 lbs. And an external USB burner for when I need it. Man, that's all the portable power I need. Not to mention enough HD space to store (more than) a few flicks/tv shows for travel (perfect w/ a set of stereo bluetooth headphones).
I know, I know... different strokes. I'm sure that there's a fantastic market for 20" laptops -- and lots of people will be really happy with them. I'm just personally glad that the market isn't totally one sided. There's a good fit for everyone.
Now, if only someone'd come out with a wireless video glasses (a la i-glasses or Innovatek) so I could get a simulated 36"-72" screen... man, I'd be in absolute bliss!
Oh and while I'm at it, could I also have a pony to put in the backseat of my flying car?
I keep a Compaq Deskpro EN (1 GHz PIII, 512 MB, 20 GB HD) in the front of my shop as an open, public net device (well, with a donation jar on the SFF case;) ). Two things I can tell you:
1. It runs quick.
2. It runs solid.
On any given day, I get a host of questions (From How did you make Windows look like that? To How much does it cost?) and I've sold quite a few of them because of it (six to be exact). Almost everyone that's played with it loves it. And no one has ever said, "It feels sluggish."
All that being said, I'm generally a Gentoo guy, but Ubuntu makes a great selling point for the newbie linux crowd (easy fellas, I'm not calling it a kiddie distro)-- easy install, simple (and timely) updates, fantastic device detection and a perfect mix of apps (even includes Krita w/ the Kubuntu desktop package). It's exactly what a novice PC user expects -- insert disk, reboot box, answer some basic questions and then use your computer.
In fact, I'm picking up another lot of these little Deskpro ENs to sit below my gaming stations. Next month, I'll be hosting Linux "classes" so people realize that Linux can be a viable alternative.
Sorry so long winded an answer for a simple question... but allow me to recap: Yes, a 1GHz PIII is more than enough muscle for 5.10.
1.Live Linux distro of choice (Ubuntu & Knoppix are both good choices) for recovery as mentioned below many times. These are invaluable -- I also include a labeled Ubuntu Live disc w/ every consumer job I perform.
Winternals is not without it's merrit. Especially if you have a high volume of 2k/XP systems and are unfamiliar/uncomfortable with Linux.
2. USB keydrives. 1 GB's are very cheap now. No reason not to have a couple w/ at least one set up for quick boot/recovery on drive.
3. A larger monitor (as mentioned previously). 10-12 hours of staring at small screens makes me cranky. Even a 17" is a vast improvement (w/ minimal footprint increase).
4. Seperate workbenches are a must:
I've got a similar small workbench (5x4x5) specifically set for hardware work. That bench is for nothing but hardware installs, soldering work, etc...
My second bench (a 7' table) is set up for installs, troubleshooting, etc... It has a small desk (actually, an old 80's industrial printer stand) with a 19" monitor, keyboard, mouse, KVM and a small 5-port linksys 10/100 hub (that ties into the main network). I am able to perform 4 simultaneous install jobs at once. Greatly reduces workload.
5. A dedicated fileserver is a good idea. All it takes is a single job where the client insists (and is ready to pay) to have 100-200 GB of data backed up, for you to realize that shuttling data around on 1 GB keydrives is for the birds.
6. An older laptop or SFF desktop (1GB P III, 512 MB Ram is more than enough... and very affordable via ebay -- less than $100 for a SFF Compaq Deskpro EN) for rolling out patches -- eliminates the necessity of burining weekly updates. This reduces network clog, and greatly lowers bandwidth requirements. You could pull double time w/ your file server... but I prefer for each piece of equipment to have a single dedicated purpose (not to mention, downtime is greatly reduced when one of your boxes goes down).
7. Creature comforts. Whatever those may be.
That last part may sound silly, but it isn't. All it takes is to get slammed w/ 7 or 8 straight 14 hour days and you'll soon realize that a handful of 15 minutes breaks with something enjoyable is a sanity keeper. As my shop has a LAN gaming center along with the PC sales and repairs, I have a 27" TV behind the counter attached to several old(er) consoles (Genesis, Saturn and a Dreamcast). It works with the overall theme of the business... and I really appreciate a quick button masher during crunch times. Along with this goes decent speakers for music, a small fridge, a pair of comfy slippers and a pair of sneakers for a quick 15 minute walk at some point in the day.
I'm sure you'll figure out more things as time goes by (specific tools, a third station for console repairs or custom builds, magic fingers vibrating bed, etc...) The biggest thing is to maximize your space and be comfortable in it. I cannot stress this enough. If you're not comfortable, you cannot make your clients comfortable -- and if they are not comfortable, they won't come back.
Anyway... good luck and congrats on the increase in business. Every time a friend of mine comes in to town he bitches and moans and looks at my little shop with envy in his eyes. He's always fond of saying... "Yeah, doing it on your own and not shoveling it for the man. You've got it made".
Meanwhile, he's raking it w/ a major player, benefits, and all the toys he cares to buy (like a nice new convy Jag). Ah well, I guess it always looks better from the other side.;)
I live and run a PC Repair/Gaming shop in western New York (Chautauqua County, to be more specific). This area's main industry is grapes (as consumable food stuff, i.e. Welch's juice, jellies, etc...), ergo, there are a lot of farmer's here.
As of last year, most of the buyers began requiring the farmers to file their spray reports (records of fertilizers and pesticides) electronically. The means of filing differed between two major buyers -- one is via the web, the other via a spreadsheet and emailed. The web version - IE only (no mac's, no *nix, no alternative browsers). The other, an Excel spreadsheet that does not like opening in OOo.
(In all honesty, that has opened up a nice side service for my business...)
My point is not to detract from the tragedy that has befallen the victims of Katrina, only to point out that it is not uncommon for decision makers (who's very decisions effect a group's livelihood) to make unwise decisions.
I would be interested to see if there's an increase in sales of x86 laptops on ebay (or any used market) specifically for Mac users who need to file with FEMA. (Just as interesting would be to see if there's an increase in sales of Crossover Office).
<sarcasm> Maybe's there's grant money there for a study.</sarcasm>.
Damnit! I hate days out of the shop, I always miss the fun stuff!
Okay, here's my list (yeah, I know, I'm talking to myself in here. Nothing new there.).;)
1. Below the Root 2. Castle Wolfenstein/Beyond Castle Wolfenstein (non first person, adventure/stealth based -- thank you very much). 3. Starflight (as mentioned below) 4. Shenmue III (as mentioned below) 5. Gemstone Warrior 6. Moebius 7. SunDog 8. Karateka 9. Alternate Reality 10. Rescue Raiders
Most of these are games from my childhood (Apple ][ and C64) that I would love to see recreated w/ modern technology. Think of Wolfenstein played a bit like Splinter Cell, or Below the Root having a similar visual approach as D&D Heroes (specifically thinking of the snake/tree levels in D&D).
A few mentioned that what we need are not more past delving, but new concepts. I mostly agree. However, there are some great products from the past that continue to stand the test of time (content wise). As long as we're forced to relive old content... why not at least seriously dig into the way back bag?
Aw jesus... I'm taking the rest of the day off to play w/ my old//c.:D
1. Ubuntu does provide a build of wpasuplicant (latest version is 0.3.8, I believe), which provides WPA support.
2. When I have them. I picked up a lot of Thinkpad X21's (700 MHz PIII's) and a handful of NC4200's (1.8 GHz P4 Compaq subs). I'm down to the last of the 4200's right now and am searching for my next supply. Regardless of the OS installed (Linux or Windows), any laptop we sell is ready for war flight.
3. Not really. Our website is sorely out of date and doesn't currenty handle any commerce. I'm just beginning to focus on sales. If I can move another 5 to 10 units as quickly as this last lot... I'll look into the whitebook market. At this time, it's primarily EOL and rebuilding for local clients.
However, if you'd like some help moving in the right direction... I'd be more than happy to offer any assistance I can. Pop me an email at serviceATcompletepcDOTbiz.
Funny thing about all this... I just spent nearly an hour on the phone Friday w/ MS propoganda division. The nice lady on the other end of the phone was trying to make sure I had all the information I needed to help convert any Mac and any Linux clients over. Everytime I look at my MS Action Pack, I get a wee shiver down my spine. But I suppose it's good to have one foot in the shadows... if for no other reason than to bring it up on./;)
Nice site, btw. Love the "Got Evil" bags. Might have to pick one up for my wife.
I've got a Sales/Service/Repair/LAN Gaming shop in a small (>5k population) town. 18 months ago, I began a test. I sold two of my clients (an 80+ year old grandmother and a mid 40's professional) a custom built box w/ Gentoo installed. (Actually, the formula was a gentoo install w/ a dyndns service so that I could remotely update the system and install packages -- with their knowledge and consent, of course).
To this date, I have not had their system back in the shop.
Two months ago, I began selling low to midrange systems running (k)Ubuntu. The systems are built on Asus mobos and AMD Semprons (higher end CPU's available upon request). The distro detects and configures all devices on install... and auto detects just about every USB device I've thrown at it (from input devices (read gamepads) to scanners).
As far as application support. Crossover Office handles the needs for Photoshop, MS Office (not 2k3, yet...), Dreamweaver, Flash MX, iTunes, IE, etc...
And, using (k)Ubuntu, application installation is easier than ever with Synaptic. Open the app, click an application and install. No depencies, no mucking around w/ CLI's, no problem.
I'm also moving quite a few Thinkpad X21's w/ Ubuntu and Crossover office. At an average price of $350 for a preconfigured linux based thinkpad w/ all the snazzy little thinkpad keys working... they move well.
Anyhow... I just wanted to chime in with the obligatory "Hang on, it's getting there" remark.
You mean other than compiling said kernel and inserting it your boot location?
If you're waiting for an "off the shelf", vanilla 64bit PPC kernel... I've no idea. But I'd be shocked if Terra doesn't have something in the near future.
It's been awhile since I've played w/ Linux on a Mac (Gentoo on an old Lombard a year or so back), and I know that Ben's not releasing anything anymore... but I'd try the usual places (ppckernel.org).
Quick edit -- I'd also check the gentoo forums and see what's been cooked up over there. http://forums.gentoo.org - > Gentoo on PPC
It's not a small redeeming act. It's 750 million dollars worth of vaccine for children worldwide.
It's not one act. The Bill and Melinda fund have quite a few of these on their table.
In any other discussion, I would agree with many of your sentiments. Bill is a hardnosed business bulldog who will chew through anyone in his way. HOWEVER, millions upon millions of children will actually have a chance to make it past the age of 5 thanks to this donation.
Believe it or not, it's not always about right and wrong or morraly correct. These are easy debates for those with food on the table. Regardless of motive the final act is judged in and of itself.
C.S. Lewis examined this at length and I do agree. Do a harmful thing for a rightous reason - it's still a bad thing. Do a good thing for a bad reason... good has still been done.
Scream and cry to the blind gods above for truth all you want. They're deaf (if not dead) and we still have a mess to clean up.
I'll personally put all my Bill bashing to the side today and say this, "Good job, Mr. Gates. You may be an asshole, but you're an asshole that's done a few good turns."
Initially, I was a bit put off on the idea of Mos Def in the role -- mostly because David Dixon has always been my Ford Prefect. (I was turned on to the books as a kid after seeing the BBC tv series).
However, I enjoyed Mos Def in the Italian Job and am willing to give him a shot. As long as he can muster deranged detachment and an obvious desire for many drinks... I think he might be able to pull it off.
However, Zaphod must have two heads, Trillian must not be an idiot, Arthur must be bothersome, Marvin must bothersome (but not as much so as Arthur), and small furry creatures from Alpha Centauri must be real small furry creatures from Alpha Centauri.
Understanding that Disney is behind the wheel on this one, I'm not holding my breath for Adamsesque greatness, but I'm not jumping ship before it has sailed, either.
Slashdot Mirror
First things first: Your micro-rant, while cute and seemingly poignant is actually nothing but a simple troll. And while I realize it's best not to feed the trolls, not everything blatantly stupid should go unanswered.
When dealing with something as complex as economics, nothing is quite as simple as "So, how do you like it now?". Outsourcing of jobs from the United States to India doesn't just mean more money in India, period. What it actually means is less income in the United States to afford the products that many of these (outsourced) jobs in India were created to support.
Understand?
By moving a sizable portion of middle income generating positions to another country, we are not spreading any wealth; only distributing new vistas of poverty to our own people.
Do you get it?
Fewer dollars generated in the United States does not mean secure fiscal longevity for another nation. What it means is that when the United States becomes a middle classless society, India will go back to where they were before the mass corporate migration: one billion odd people struggling to find a place in the global economy.
You simply cannot build a solid economic base on cheap labour alone.
...try watching movies that don't spend 90-120 minutes tricking you into thinking you are getting substance over form. Hell, there are plenty of actual films out there that can easily whisk you away. Unfortunately, there are far more movies that are ready to hand you a bunch of CG and expect you to be entertained.
Want substance? Find substantial films. Want to feel cheated by expensive CG? Watch a Hollywood movie.
Aspiring teen musician wants to be Rock-God!
Aspiring teen musician's parents buy him/her a guitar.
Aspiring teen musician spends a year or so learning their favorite songs via tabs.
Aspiring teen musician learns to play really reall because of said tabs and begins to compose their own music -- becoming an actual musician in the process.
Record company eventually hears the once aspiring teen musician and signs them for a recording contract.
Record company now has a new talent in which to make more money.
What happens when we take out the tabs? Aspiring teen musician, flustered by never figuring out that their Guitar-God! was actually playing in drop-D gives up, shelves the guitar and goes back to smoking pot with all their friends -- ultimately, POSSIBLY robbing society of a creative artist.
Now... where's the real crime?
Obvious disclaimer: Contemporary pop mostly sucks, most "artists" are not really musicians at all, record companies don't give two shits about anything other than what's in their grasp at the very moment and I've done nothing more here than simplify and overstate the patently obvious.
On a closing note... Hey recording industry! When I play guitar, my middle finger is resting across the frets, it's aimed at you!
GoDaddy.com learned that some customers using the Apple Safari web browser were having difficulty accessing forwarded domain names. At this time, we have determined the issue is NOT related to a glitch in our service, but rather with a product supplied by one of our vendors. We are actively working on resolving this issue and expect it to be fixed shortly.
:|
It doesn't actually look as though GoDaddy is blaming Apple as much as simply not knowing what the actual culprit is. A small, but possibly important, difference.
That being said, I really hate their name.
Snort coke in one hole and valium in another.
That's beautiful. 8P
Mods didn't find it funny, but I did.
Well, the review was super froody! Yeah, you know Linux was mentioned and that was neat. I read it on a pretty modern webbrowser, but I suppose that IE would've been great, too.
D ataSheet.pdf -- or even the basic breakdown: http://www.anthologysolutions.com/products/index.h tm ) then, hey give this rather cute review a shot!
The reviewer spent some time talking about things, which was cool in my book. At one point, I actually considered looking into one of the technical things mentioned, but didn't as it would've broken the flavor of the review.
All in all, it was a pretty fun review -- I had some laughs and a couple of good cries. For the DIY crowd, you could google the info yourself -- which, you'll probably do anyhow. But for the Suits who want to spend some money and not learn much (much less than say... the spec sheet: http://www.anthologysolutions.com/products/P400T_
Thanks for the darling review. I feel much peppier now. =/
My primary point was the error in assuming that guerilla consumerism would force Microsoft into bankruptcy.
As for the DRM -- that is something else entirely. Unfortunately, most people simply do not understand why it should be a concrn. For them, I recommend putting away the video games for the evening and having a listen to Sean Kennedy. Not only is it entertaining, it's also good for you. =D
All that said, you are correct, sir. Only by consumers expressing their discontent to unfair EULA's, DRM and product crippling --erm encryption will the point ever be made. And cracking the Xbox does indeed prove both intent and capability.
Well that or simply force it into failure by not buying one. However, I fear it is very much like all American voters demonstrating their unhappines with the status quo by withholding their vote in the next primary: It's a great and solid concept that will never, ever happen. And I'll end up being just as guilty as the next guy there.
Personally, I'd rather see it broken and usable than not.
But enough already!
Look, it's reall simple... and I'm going to spell it out for you. Ready?
Microsoft makes a product (Windows) that, in most of its incarnations, basically blows. We all know that. Every day, I promote Linux to as many of my clients / customers as I can. I sell new and refurb boxes with (k)Ubuntu installed. I build low-mid range servers running Gentoo and occasionally a *BSD. I install Linux on everything I can... because I'm a geek.
Now, all that being said, the reason I get paid to install Linux on everything is because Microsoft continues to make a product (Windows) that, in most of its incarnations, basically blows.
However, they also make some other products, and some of them are actually pretty nice: mice, keyboards, and... gaming consoles. So, the question is: Since we hate Windows... we have to hate the Xbox (or mice, or keyboards, etc...)? If the answer is yes, then what about the PSy? Who do we hate more this week? Micro$oft or $ony?
Because... $ony installs rootkits on our computers... remember?
But we game (we're hanging in games.slashdot.org... right?)
So, which side do we choose? Because let's face it... you hate Microsoft and want to put them out of business (No more Xboxes, no more Windows... which means no more desktop games), and you hate Sony and don't want their rootkit installing shite, and if all that happens, then there'll only be Nintendo left and you'll hate them because they're monopolizing the gaming market.
So, here's my thing... You really hate Microsoft? Hate the part that matters and do something about it! Hate the OS, because it's insecure, because it's buggy, because it stamps out competition, innovation and growth. But do more than hate it... actively participate in offering a choice. Volunteer a little time and energy and package old PII's and PIII's w/ a light Linux and offer to assist an NPO in acclimating to it. Put your burner to good use and start burning Live/Install distros and passing them out to anyone even remotely interested. Simply put... get involved in a real way. Put the $400 you were going to spend on a 360 (to SHUT M$ DOWN, DUDE!) and buy a burning system and get to work!
But enough with this kind of psuedo-guerilla warfare talk. It's just a bit annoying. Because for every hundred of you that say something like... "Yeah, I'll install Linux on my Xbox 'cause it costs M$ money", one of us have actually done it... because we really are geeks. (And, because in a pinch, an Xbox running Linux makes a damn quick and easy backup server =D ).
And just to answer the question... yes, I do practice what I preach. My Stellar2 burns an everage of 150-200 discs a month (ranging from Live distros -- usually knoppix or Ubuntu, install discs and other OSS projects like OpenCD). And, if you'll look below, my sig is the truth... My Microsoft Partner rep does not like me... at all. Why? Because every month on the phone I ask her this question: What am I doing to help "win the war"? I'm putting the best OS I can into the hands of my clients. What are you guys doing to make that OS Windows?
Now, after a long and heated rant... I'll get back on topic with the actuall article and say this... Linux on a 360? Souns interesting... as soon as its possible, I'll try it. It'll be even nicer than Linux on the Xbox for one reason I can think of (outside of muscle & memory, of course): We can hook it up to a monitor this time!!!
Get to work, Bunny! I'm waiting to follow in your mighty big footsteps!
From my personal experience, it doesn't actually matter what distro you choose for a project roll out. What matters is:
;)
1. Application/OS requirements (which might well stop the OS transition).
2. Knowledge of the hardware on the floor.
3. Understanding of the level of end-user experience (and amount of necessary hand holding that will be necessary).
Once those three items are in place, it comes down to the IT cat.
For a mixed floor, Ubuntu works great as it has absolutely beautiful hardware detection. Is that a solid? Not always. But, in my experience, majority rules and Ubuntu continues to prove reliable on varied hardware.
For a cloned floor (and/or older hardware), I really like Gentoo. Basic paired down install w/ my necessary builds on disc. Pull my entire necessary build list from the file server and you can be up and running pretty quickly (well... "quick" is obviously conditional... I mean let's face it, emerging X, KDE and OOo isn't a five minute process -- especially on a roomful of refurb 1GHz PIII Deskpro's). Of course, if it's a true cloned floor and you're starting from scratch, the time can be greatly cut down with a good imaged install.
On a serious budget, Puppy or DamnSmall works great. (Point of fact, I recently set up a local NPO w/ 8 old(er) 733 PIII Netvista's. After demo'ing three distro's they liked the light weight of Puppy. So, Puppy they got -- small, light and speedy).
My point here is that crowning a particular distro "king" of the office heap is sketchy at best. The high point of Linux is (in many cases) also it's low point: a staggering choice of distros. While it may be a hindrance in crowning a "Windows Killer", it's the same flaw that makes it very possible to eliminate Windows -- if you know your client requirements, hardware and end user base... you can pretty much facilitate a solid transition. Nothing's going to make that any easier...
Let's face it; when it comes down to installing and supporting a desktop change, it doesn't matter how nice the Ubuntu install process is for the guys over at ZDNet. It's we that get the desperate IM, call, smoke signal concerning the user's internet being broken, the fact that when they "click the blue thing, it pops an error saying "No" or whatever else the end-user doesn't understand.
All of that being said, Ubuntu is the distro that I include with all the end user systems I sell out of the shop -- new and refurb. Lets face it, most people still want Windows, but I'm finding more and more homes for Linux based PC's w/ my average family customer. And Ubuntu does make a pretty, full featured, one disc distro.
Of course, real geeks roll their own.
If you're serious, email:
tburrell
@
completepc.biz
While I understand the point being made concerning Apple's mistake in pursuing only the hardware+software model; I feel the necessity of mentioning a couple of very similar products that crossed that barrier and failed.
[Preface: I also understand the fundamental argument of why the companies failed: lack of quality end-user software.]
Two companies, in particular, attempted to work the Microsoft model back in the nineties and failed misserably: NeXT & Be. (Ironic that both of those companies had not only ties to Apple, but to each other).
I remember when NeXT decided to move from the closed hardware model in favor of OpenStep that a great number of people were psyched. "This is going to kill OS/2 and that other one (Windows, 3.1)", a friend told me. Didn't happen.
When Be stopped making BeBoxes and moved to Apple hardware only, then followed with another move to X86 then moved to personal toy status, we saw it happen again. Was there a great wave of adoption to a better OS? No. Didn't happen.
In all fairness, I realize the cost of getting into the driver's seat w/ Openstep excluded a lot of potential users... but more so was the tricky installation due to driver support. So many devices, so many parts. And from a company that initially controlled it's hardware and built solid devices that... just... worked. Same w/ Be (especially in the, very short, days of riding on the Apple hardware train).
[A mid-post disclaimer: I love NS/OS. I regularly build white boxes running Openstep 4.2 for friends. An old used mobo w/ a 500 MHz AMD, 512 MB of ram , an old black Aptiva case and you've got a screaming good time -- and after doing it for years, I've got the install process and necessary driver set down to a very quick science. But, for a first time enthusiast, It's not a quick process. And I'd recommend a quick Linux install w/ Windowmaker for those wanting the look... but not caring about the "authenticity" -- especially considering the fact that for most people, it's nothing more than a novelty.]
Back on track now: This is exactly what many are saying here now. OSX rocks because it's hardware base is controlled. W/ only a handful of aftermarket, end user choices (outside of drives, memory and peripherals) -- it's a solid experience. Once opened up, that's not necessarily the case. God knows it isn't in the Wintel world.
All of that being said -- I agree that there's probably going to be a deal made w/ Dell, HP/Compaq, or even Lenovo. We'll provide the OS, you provide the hardware and the consumer can have a cheap(er) Mac that'll dual boot into Windows -- and the hardware vendor takes the risk of pissing off the redmond giant. My bet is on Dell... but I'm personally hoping it's not (My shop's bread and butter is dealing w/ cheap Dells and their awful hardware issues). I'm not sure how Apple would handle the initial transition -- maybe only allowing the developer's tools to work on Apple hardware? Might be possible. I realize a "patch" would soon be available in the usual places, but it might work as a middling solution.
Anyhow... like I said, a bit of topic, but just a thought for all the "just quit selling hardware" voices out there. It hasn't always worked in the past (for a multitude of reasons that aren't even listed here). Maybe it's in the plans, maybe not. We'll see when we see.
On a closing note... I'd love to get my hands on the X86 mini. God how I'm tired of paying through the nose for mid-power mini-itx mobo/CPU combos. =)
Is it too much to ask?
Yes it is, John.
Many of us remember when owning a computer carried a personal responsibility to make sure you knew how to use the damned thing. Now that they've become ubiquitous, they're supposed to be our "little plastic pals that're fun to be with?" Eff that. My dog is fun to be with, my computer is a tool.
And like any tool... you should learn how to use it, otherwise you'll simply make a mess. Want the power of a darkroom but don't want to learn how to use it? Fine, CVS, Walgreens, etc... will be happy to develop your pictures.
Want to organize those photographs in a simple, easy to understand format? It's called a photo album. Little paper and plastic thing. Stick the photos inside and you can organize them to your hearts content.
It's funny. We complain about bloat. We complain about unnecessary software upgrades. We complain about everything... but then we want easy to understand, no thought required, mind reading technology that'll do our bidding without any technical understanding on our part. Well, at least John seems to (of course, the closest example to this has been on John's hit list for a decade now: Apple).
Count me out. Like many here, I got into computers back in the early 80's with an Apple ][ (many earlier, switch the machine to fit your experience). All CLI all the time, baby. By the mid-90's, I realized I was really missing pass-or-fail computing. So, I built a Linux box and have happily played in that sandbox since then.
As a society, we're dangerously close to crossing the ignorance border and never looking back. We buy technology and don't know how to use it. We take pharmaceuticals and don't know why. We consume everything that's put on our plate and never ask if we actually want (or even more: need) it. And then we want it simpler, quicker, now NOW NOW!
Here's a question, John. When my car breaks down on the side of the road... why can't I wave my magic faiery wand over it and make it run again? Oh, I guess because I never personally desired to know how a car works (mechanically speaking). Therefore, I acquire the responsibility of paying someone who does -- at least, as long as I want to drive a car. Simple choice, learn how it works (thereby learning what to do when it goes wrong) or accept paying a person who does. Nothing wrong with that -- keeps lots of little auto mechanic's kids in cozy winter wear during the cold months. It's a cornerstone of our society.
But do not stand around balling out the industry for making big, bloated, cumbersome software... and then turn and ask for something that fits your needs.
It's that or learn how to code, compile and build it yerself. And John, I have a feeling that simply picking up a moron's guide to Photoshop'll be easier for you.
Okay, enough. I know Dvorak'll never read this and I should stop holding a conversation with him now. But before I do allow me to at least answer John's issue at hand:
Want to tackle the simpler points of Photoshop w/o Photoshop? There are plenty of products out there. Some will even hold your hand. But remember this, John: The difficulty of a system is comparable only to the ignorance of the end user.
I'm done with large bulky desktop replacements. Instead, I've been completely sucked in by ultra-portables.
I picked up a lot of Thinkpad X21's for resale in my shop, and my first thought when handling one was "How cute". After installing Ubuntu on the thing and playing around with it for about a month, I decided I'd had enough "big" and picked up a new NC4200 as my permanent portable.
1.8 GHz Pentium M, 1 GB 533 MHz DDR2, 60 GB HD, bluetooth, 802.11b/g, 10/100/1k networking, sd card, 12.1" screen and weighing in at around 3.9 lbs. And an external USB burner for when I need it. Man, that's all the portable power I need. Not to mention enough HD space to store (more than) a few flicks/tv shows for travel (perfect w/ a set of stereo bluetooth headphones).
I know, I know... different strokes. I'm sure that there's a fantastic market for 20" laptops -- and lots of people will be really happy with them. I'm just personally glad that the market isn't totally one sided. There's a good fit for everyone.
Now, if only someone'd come out with a wireless video glasses (a la i-glasses or Innovatek) so I could get a simulated 36"-72" screen... man, I'd be in absolute bliss!
Oh and while I'm at it, could I also have a pony to put in the backseat of my flying car?
I keep a Compaq Deskpro EN (1 GHz PIII, 512 MB, 20 GB HD) in the front of my shop as an open, public net device (well, with a donation jar on the SFF case ;) ). Two things I can tell you:
1. It runs quick.
2. It runs solid.
On any given day, I get a host of questions (From How did you make Windows look like that? To How much does it cost?) and I've sold quite a few of them because of it (six to be exact). Almost everyone that's played with it loves it. And no one has ever said, "It feels sluggish."
All that being said, I'm generally a Gentoo guy, but Ubuntu makes a great selling point for the newbie linux crowd (easy fellas, I'm not calling it a kiddie distro)-- easy install, simple (and timely) updates, fantastic device detection and a perfect mix of apps (even includes Krita w/ the Kubuntu desktop package). It's exactly what a novice PC user expects -- insert disk, reboot box, answer some basic questions and then use your computer.
In fact, I'm picking up another lot of these little Deskpro ENs to sit below my gaming stations. Next month, I'll be hosting Linux "classes" so people realize that Linux can be a viable alternative.
Sorry so long winded an answer for a simple question... but allow me to recap: Yes, a 1GHz PIII is more than enough muscle for 5.10.
1.Live Linux distro of choice (Ubuntu & Knoppix are both good choices) for recovery as mentioned below many times. These are invaluable -- I also include a labeled Ubuntu Live disc w/ every consumer job I perform.
Winternals is not without it's merrit. Especially if you have a high volume of 2k/XP systems and are unfamiliar/uncomfortable with Linux.
2. USB keydrives. 1 GB's are very cheap now. No reason not to have a couple w/ at least one set up for quick boot/recovery on drive.
3. A larger monitor (as mentioned previously). 10-12 hours of staring at small screens makes me cranky. Even a 17" is a vast improvement (w/ minimal footprint increase).
4. Seperate workbenches are a must: I've got a similar small workbench (5x4x5) specifically set for hardware work. That bench is for nothing but hardware installs, soldering work, etc...
My second bench (a 7' table) is set up for installs, troubleshooting, etc... It has a small desk (actually, an old 80's industrial printer stand) with a 19" monitor, keyboard, mouse, KVM and a small 5-port linksys 10/100 hub (that ties into the main network). I am able to perform 4 simultaneous install jobs at once. Greatly reduces workload.
5. A dedicated fileserver is a good idea. All it takes is a single job where the client insists (and is ready to pay) to have 100-200 GB of data backed up, for you to realize that shuttling data around on 1 GB keydrives is for the birds.
6. An older laptop or SFF desktop (1GB P III, 512 MB Ram is more than enough... and very affordable via ebay -- less than $100 for a SFF Compaq Deskpro EN) for rolling out patches -- eliminates the necessity of burining weekly updates. This reduces network clog, and greatly lowers bandwidth requirements. You could pull double time w/ your file server... but I prefer for each piece of equipment to have a single dedicated purpose (not to mention, downtime is greatly reduced when one of your boxes goes down).
7. Creature comforts. Whatever those may be.
That last part may sound silly, but it isn't. All it takes is to get slammed w/ 7 or 8 straight 14 hour days and you'll soon realize that a handful of 15 minutes breaks with something enjoyable is a sanity keeper. As my shop has a LAN gaming center along with the PC sales and repairs, I have a 27" TV behind the counter attached to several old(er) consoles (Genesis, Saturn and a Dreamcast). It works with the overall theme of the business... and I really appreciate a quick button masher during crunch times. Along with this goes decent speakers for music, a small fridge, a pair of comfy slippers and a pair of sneakers for a quick 15 minute walk at some point in the day.
I'm sure you'll figure out more things as time goes by (specific tools, a third station for console repairs or custom builds, magic fingers vibrating bed, etc...) The biggest thing is to maximize your space and be comfortable in it. I cannot stress this enough. If you're not comfortable, you cannot make your clients comfortable -- and if they are not comfortable, they won't come back.
Anyway... good luck and congrats on the increase in business. Every time a friend of mine comes in to town he bitches and moans and looks at my little shop with envy in his eyes. He's always fond of saying... "Yeah, doing it on your own and not shoveling it for the man. You've got it made".
Meanwhile, he's raking it w/ a major player, benefits, and all the toys he cares to buy (like a nice new convy Jag). Ah well, I guess it always looks better from the other side. ;)
I live and run a PC Repair/Gaming shop in western New York (Chautauqua County, to be more specific). This area's main industry is grapes (as consumable food stuff, i.e. Welch's juice, jellies, etc...), ergo, there are a lot of farmer's here.
As of last year, most of the buyers began requiring the farmers to file their spray reports (records of fertilizers and pesticides) electronically. The means of filing differed between two major buyers -- one is via the web, the other via a spreadsheet and emailed. The web version - IE only (no mac's, no *nix, no alternative browsers). The other, an Excel spreadsheet that does not like opening in OOo.
(In all honesty, that has opened up a nice side service for my business...)
My point is not to detract from the tragedy that has befallen the victims of Katrina, only to point out that it is not uncommon for decision makers (who's very decisions effect a group's livelihood) to make unwise decisions.
I would be interested to see if there's an increase in sales of x86 laptops on ebay (or any used market) specifically for Mac users who need to file with FEMA. (Just as interesting would be to see if there's an increase in sales of Crossover Office).
<sarcasm> Maybe's there's grant money there for a study.</sarcasm>.
Damnit! I hate days out of the shop, I always miss the fun stuff!
;)
//c. :D
Okay, here's my list (yeah, I know, I'm talking to myself in here. Nothing new there.).
1. Below the Root
2. Castle Wolfenstein/Beyond Castle Wolfenstein (non first person, adventure/stealth based -- thank you very much).
3. Starflight (as mentioned below)
4. Shenmue III (as mentioned below)
5. Gemstone Warrior
6. Moebius
7. SunDog
8. Karateka
9. Alternate Reality
10. Rescue Raiders
Most of these are games from my childhood (Apple ][ and C64) that I would love to see recreated w/ modern technology. Think of Wolfenstein played a bit like Splinter Cell, or Below the Root having a similar visual approach as D&D Heroes (specifically thinking of the snake/tree levels in D&D).
A few mentioned that what we need are not more past delving, but new concepts. I mostly agree. However, there are some great products from the past that continue to stand the test of time (content wise). As long as we're forced to relive old content... why not at least seriously dig into the way back bag?
Aw jesus... I'm taking the rest of the day off to play w/ my old
3 answers ;)
./ ;)
1. Ubuntu does provide a build of wpasuplicant (latest version is 0.3.8, I believe), which provides WPA support.
2. When I have them. I picked up a lot of Thinkpad X21's (700 MHz PIII's) and a handful of NC4200's (1.8 GHz P4 Compaq subs). I'm down to the last of the 4200's right now and am searching for my next supply. Regardless of the OS installed (Linux or Windows), any laptop we sell is ready for war flight.
3. Not really. Our website is sorely out of date and doesn't currenty handle any commerce. I'm just beginning to focus on sales. If I can move another 5 to 10 units as quickly as this last lot... I'll look into the whitebook market. At this time, it's primarily EOL and rebuilding for local clients.
However, if you'd like some help moving in the right direction... I'd be more than happy to offer any assistance I can. Pop me an email at serviceATcompletepcDOTbiz.
Funny thing about all this... I just spent nearly an hour on the phone Friday w/ MS propoganda division. The nice lady on the other end of the phone was trying to make sure I had all the information I needed to help convert any Mac and any Linux clients over. Everytime I look at my MS Action Pack, I get a wee shiver down my spine. But I suppose it's good to have one foot in the shadows... if for no other reason than to bring it up on
Nice site, btw. Love the "Got Evil" bags. Might have to pick one up for my wife.
...well mostly, not.
I've got a Sales/Service/Repair/LAN Gaming shop in a small (>5k population) town. 18 months ago, I began a test. I sold two of my clients (an 80+ year old grandmother and a mid 40's professional) a custom built box w/ Gentoo installed. (Actually, the formula was a gentoo install w/ a dyndns service so that I could remotely update the system and install packages -- with their knowledge and consent, of course).
To this date, I have not had their system back in the shop.
Two months ago, I began selling low to midrange systems running (k)Ubuntu. The systems are built on Asus mobos and AMD Semprons (higher end CPU's available upon request). The distro detects and configures all devices on install... and auto detects just about every USB device I've thrown at it (from input devices (read gamepads) to scanners).
As far as application support. Crossover Office handles the needs for Photoshop, MS Office (not 2k3, yet...), Dreamweaver, Flash MX, iTunes, IE, etc...
And, using (k)Ubuntu, application installation is easier than ever with Synaptic. Open the app, click an application and install. No depencies, no mucking around w/ CLI's, no problem.
I'm also moving quite a few Thinkpad X21's w/ Ubuntu and Crossover office. At an average price of $350 for a preconfigured linux based thinkpad w/ all the snazzy little thinkpad keys working... they move well.
Anyhow... I just wanted to chime in with the obligatory "Hang on, it's getting there" remark.
You mean other than compiling said kernel and inserting it your boot location?
If you're waiting for an "off the shelf", vanilla 64bit PPC kernel... I've no idea. But I'd be shocked if Terra doesn't have something in the near future.
It's been awhile since I've played w/ Linux on a Mac (Gentoo on an old Lombard a year or so back), and I know that Ben's not releasing anything anymore... but I'd try the usual places (ppckernel.org).
Quick edit -- I'd also check the gentoo forums and see what's been cooked up over there. http://forums.gentoo.org - > Gentoo on PPC
Good luck.
One in five republicans are corporate apologists.
;)
One in five democrats are bed wetting knee biters.
One in five pop musicians can actually play an instrument.
One in five teenage anarcho-punks actually know who Peter Kropotkin was. (That one's a bit of a stretch.)
My point is that these types of obtuse generalities provide no real usable information.
Of course, when you take my first pointless example... maybe they do.
MS hasn't released an update for the Mac in years. If memory serves correctly*, I believe the last Mac release was IE 5.2.
;)
* I don't have many Mac clients anymore (maybe 5 or 6 out of 60ish), and those I do all use Safari/Firefox/Camino.
Of course... real geeks use lynx/links.
It's not a small redeeming act. It's 750 million dollars worth of vaccine for children worldwide.
It's not one act. The Bill and Melinda fund have quite a few of these on their table.
In any other discussion, I would agree with many of your sentiments. Bill is a hardnosed business bulldog who will chew through anyone in his way. HOWEVER, millions upon millions of children will actually have a chance to make it past the age of 5 thanks to this donation.
Believe it or not, it's not always about right and wrong or morraly correct. These are easy debates for those with food on the table. Regardless of motive the final act is judged in and of itself.
C.S. Lewis examined this at length and I do agree. Do a harmful thing for a rightous reason - it's still a bad thing. Do a good thing for a bad reason... good has still been done.
Scream and cry to the blind gods above for truth all you want. They're deaf (if not dead) and we still have a mess to clean up.
I'll personally put all my Bill bashing to the side today and say this, "Good job, Mr. Gates. You may be an asshole, but you're an asshole that's done a few good turns."
flying car.
Where else would it be?
Initially, I was a bit put off on the idea of Mos Def in the role -- mostly because David Dixon has always been my Ford Prefect. (I was turned on to the books as a kid after seeing the BBC tv series).
However, I enjoyed Mos Def in the Italian Job and am willing to give him a shot. As long as he can muster deranged detachment and an obvious desire for many drinks... I think he might be able to pull it off.
However, Zaphod must have two heads, Trillian must not be an idiot, Arthur must be bothersome, Marvin must bothersome (but not as much so as Arthur), and small furry creatures from Alpha Centauri must be real small furry creatures from Alpha Centauri.
Understanding that Disney is behind the wheel on this one, I'm not holding my breath for Adamsesque greatness, but I'm not jumping ship before it has sailed, either.