Software (yes, I know, with some exceptions) can mostly be written anywhere.
If that were true, then how come there is a need for H1Bs? Why not just outsource the work?
No, there must be some value loss from outsourcing, otherwise they wouldn't need to bring people into the US and have exiting workers here train them.
The cynical part of me keeps coming back to an after-hours conversation with someone who used to work in my former employer's HR department. They'd mention how much flak companies get by using outsourced employees and the backlash of "costing American jobs". Using H1-B visas to acquire employees, you can still say that you haven't sent jobs overseas and that you're keeping jobs "home, where they belong". Add mandatory Stars and Stripes lapel pins and you get something that people can advertise for you and bring in Made In America money. Even better, they don't have to pay as much for H-1B employees as they do for locally-hired staff and, when those staff start asking about becoming long-term employees, the employer can end their contract, bring someone newer to replace them, and show a nice drop in costs for their quarterly department meetings.
It's one of the reasons why H-1B quotas fill so quickly in certain sectors. It was intended to fill short-term gaps or when a specific set of skills can't be filled normally. Realistically, it's clear they're not all being used as intended.
If you actually were blind, your screen reader software (assuming it's Windows, it would probably be JAWS) would be handling the sound, not the website. While there are some places that use sound clips (like authentication pages that require you to read a garbled series of letters and numbers to register on forums), many sites depend on the user using third-party applications to access their site. In any case, since the website you're commenting on is a personal web page, and not a web presense for a business, it isn't the sort of site the ADA is being used on.
Extra Credit: I used JAWS on the site, and I could get around it just fine with the monitor shut off.
Myth of Hypocricy of a person commenting on screen reader accessibility while his website lacks embedded sound clips: Busted.
Either the employee misunderstood, or the policy has changed. Here's what Apple has to say:
Should Apple reduce its price on any shipped product within 10 calendar days of shipment, you may contact Apple Sales Support at 1-800-676-2775 to request a refund or credit of the difference between the price you were charged and the current selling price. To receive the refund or credit you must contact Apple within 14 business days of shipment.
Local selection is fairly slim, and I was strapped for cash. I was hoping I would be able to get by with the cheap one. Mistakes happen. I'm human. As for the peripheral problem, the salesman told me that such adapters would be out soon. That's what I get for listening for salesman.
Speaking as someone who works with trying to get lots of accessibility devices to communicate (for the blind and visually impaired, but similar principles apply), one of the main problems is deciding on a standard, followed by making sure it works with those that won't adhere to said standard.
Case and point: I recently got a cellphone, so that someone else could have their phone back. I shopped around for a while and settled for one that would be free after rebate. I had it for a few days, and returned it for a more expensive one. First, the phone had an odd number layout, so I had to relearn the key mapping (the keys were part of a curve, instead of straight across). Second, I use a laptop to connect to the Internet, and I occasionally use a cell phone adapter to do it. The phone I bought was incompatible with the connector, and the phone's manufacturer had no immediate plans to make one.
Those two reasons, as well as several other factors, prompted a return.
If the cell phone companies would agree on a single interface, it would make the compatibility much easier to implement. Not only that, but the TTY devices need the information to implement all the various brands and models of cell phones. The possibility's there, but there's not much of a chance it'll happen anytime soon.
Sure do, because there are some things that a laptop can't do for me right now.
1. It's easier to bring a synced PDA of information to do quick errands than it is to enter said info into a laptop. As in, I'm more likely to use a grocery list ina PDA that fits in my hand than bring the iBook.
2. I don't tend to install many applications beyond the included suite. So far, the only things I've installed on my PDA since I got it are: an enhanced calculator, an eBook reader, and a couple of text games. If I need a full office-program or media apps, then I bring the notebook computer.
As for paper/pencil, I tend to lose the pieces of paper easily, whereas I'm more likely to pay attention to a piece of electronics gone missing. Yeah, the PDA also won't handle a bunch of the accessibility functions that the iBook does, but for me, it's easier than lugging a several-pound book or relatively large notebook while on the go.
Over the last year or so, I've become increasingly interested in Mac OSX. I have been able to try it on other people's machines, and I like it. However, a few things stand in the way to me becoming a Switcher (I have a Linux server, as well):
1. Games. Yes, I know some of them are cross-platform, but many of the games come onto WIndows first, and many don't expand to other platforms. I tried working with WineX and VirtualPC. WineX still has a way to go before being able to let me toss Windows, and VirtualPC on Mac, keeping me from installing new versions of DirectX and so on. If any of you have experience or advice in the matter, share the wealth.
2. Device support. I'm talking more than just printers and such. I've been experimenting with various accessibility devices, and those that want to interact with a computer only support Windows. I haven't seen much accessibility applications/devices for Linux or Mac. In this case, I'm talking more about JAWS and the like.
Once I can get over the above two things, I'll be jumping off Gates's ship faster than a chronically-depressed lemming.
From what I've used of OS X, it's not quite slow. I find most slowdowns are specific to an application. Of course it'll chunk a bit when it's processing a huge Photoshop file, but I find navigation and basic apps (word processing, 'Net access, and such) to work as expected. There are occasional slowdowns, but it's nothing worse than I find on PCs at different speeds.
Each point-level of OS X has gave significant speed boosts. I've seen 10.2, and just about everything works as expected. There's a bit of slowdown playing Warcraft 3, but it's more of a power management issue than it's an OS X issue. It's all depends on how fast "Fast Enough" is. Personally, I see no use for a 2.x GHz processor. It seems like overkill. Yet I know people who whine about having anything less than 50 fps on a game, or above certain rendering times in Photoshop. It's more of a perception of speed, then actual throughput.
I'm a big fan of OS X and Linux. I have issues with Windows. (Who here doesn't?) But I can't understand how quickly people are shooting down the product before it's been reviewed. Yes, it doesn't have the same aesthetic value of the Powerbook, or Mac OS X, or even the steady following of Apple afficianados.
But I still give Porsche Design GmbH and VPR credit for trying to bring some of the Powerbook functions to Windows users who, for whatever reason, don't want to Make The Switch. I would love to pick up a Powerbook, but driver support for accessibility devices and applications is not on par with Windows. I am holding off any significant judgement until I read some in-depth reviews. Until then, I'll wait for a model to show up in my local Best Buy store. I can mess around it and make an informed decision based on my personal experience. If it's good, all the power to them. If it's garbage, no harm done (except for wasted materials/labor).
From the posts that I've read, there are some misunderstandings about the intentions of the book and the ADA.
First, a bit of background on what I've learned over the past few years. I was born with a few visual defects, but I could still get around with a good set of glasses. Over the years, my vision has steadily degenerated, partly from the stiffening of the eye muscles, partly from a bad accident in my younger years. Now I can't see out of one eye, and only see a monochrome image in 20 degrees of vision, where a normal person can see about 120 degrees.
My second year in college, I became friends with someone who was completely blind. He's an excellent writer, and has publications in a few magazines (don't recall which, though). However, when his printer's error light started blinking one night, he called me on the phone and wanted me to fix it. It was out of paper, but because the printer was old, it wasn't telling the computer what the problem was*. He couldn't fix the machine because it wasn't telling him what was wrong. All he knew was that he hit print and nothing was happening.
As for some of the comments about forcing standards on people's creativity, consider many of the real-life standards from the ADA. When you go to a major store such as a shopping mall or a Wal-Mart, how often do you see several handicapped parking spaces or a small ramp on the sidewalk on the sidewalk? Those are the kinds of adaptations the ADA covers. The people who design the blueprints have standards they adhere to to make the building accessible, so they do it in the beginning. It's not like companies make them do it unwillingly, but they just do it.
In a response to someone who said that disabled people shouldn't complain because they get fat disability checks: I'd love to hear how you define "fat". I get a disability check because of my visual problems and Asperger's Syndrome. I get ~$170 a month. My rent is around $650, but is subsidized down to around $200. Given that I also have to pay for utilities, transport, food, Internet access, and other basics, how do you explain how I shouldn't have to worry? I want to work, but the last 10 jobs I interviewed for were turned down for other people. I don't want people to bend over backwards to accomodate for me. I want to live independantly.
Overall, the comments on this article are interesting to read. Some people understand that this about reasonable acomodation. Others feel this is about requiring people to crimp their writing styles for people they may never meet. It's not about that. There's a difference between making Internet portals and information archives accessible and making Sally's "This Is A Picture Of My Cat" page universally accessible. Businesses have handicapped parking spaces and ramps. Your house probably doesn't.
*Before anyone jumps on how the guy should've had a better printer, many of the people I worked with don't have the latest tech because they cannot afford the new computers. Thus, they get help from an agency that trains them in adaptive technology. Most of the computers they give people are whatever people donate to the agency or are found in second-hand sales. They get funding from the government and independant donations. Think of things like this when you complain about paying for taxes
Here's a Cnet article dated back to 4/2000. If you want to relive those glory days (err, day, night, something), click here. (Requires Java) I thought the idea was pretty good, at the time. My mother broke my Gameboy playing that a few years back. She was that into it. Now she plays a whole bunch of Tetris clones online. And she thinks I'm bad with RTCW and NWN... =)
the San Diego-based startup raised a $40 million second round from investors including AOL Time Warner... In addition, with such a combination, a neighborhood with many 802.11-equipped cable boxes could become one large wireless network in which each house serves as a node. Theoretically, then, one could surf the Net and receive cable TV just by being within the confines of the network.
Time-Warner Cable recently sent out cease/desist notices to people sharing bandwidth with WiFi, but they're working on putting WiFi in their own devices?
Part of me understands that the potential for revenue is there with a company-sponsored(controlled) wireless network. Another part is confused by said company's act of stopping other people doing something similar on their own.
I would be interested in it if I already didn't put down the money to make my own 802.11b network. I ahven't received a letter yet because I made an effort to secure it. I just hope that, if TWC implements this network, it doesn't require or force users to use their proprietary network. I'd hate to have the time and money I put into my network to be unusable with RoadRunner.
When I saw Minority Report recently, I remember John Anderton being bombarded by ads. Another series came to mind when I was reading it: Futurama. Specifically, the episode where it starts with the gang going online with VR goggles and, just as they see the pretty digital effects, they're swarmed by lifesize pop-up ads. They have to literally fight their way through, punching and kicking the OK buttons.
They weren't high-resolution holograms with customized messages, but it still had the feeling of being smothered by commercials that I felt in Minority Report. I enjoyed the actual plot of the movie, but the deja vu of overactive commercials gave me a laugh.
You want a site to fix this in under 24 hours? Just tell them that you're blind and that their site won't let your blide-enabeled web-browser in.
Dreams of ADA lawsuits start dancing in their heads. It works really well for government sites, and moderatly well for medium sized corporations.
Actually, Job Access For Windows (JAWS) is made for blind people to access common computer applications, such as Internet Explorer, Netscape, Outlook Express, Eudora, and so on. The problem doesn't come with the browser itself, but rather the coding habits of the page designer. Screen Reading programs cannot interpret Shockwave or Flash with much success (requires specific code in the document), many proprietary HTML tags that are specific to IE cause problems if the page is viewed with other browsers.
As for suing for compatibility, there is already a class-action lawsuit against AOL in the works (no link, heard it from someone who specializes in teaching blind people how to use computers). We specifically tell visually impaired users to not use America Online. JAWS has problems reading multiple windows, and the few times it changes emphasis, the user often has no audible indicator of what's going on. America ONline is well aware of the problem, and while the adaptive software developers try to keep up with the changes, accessibility online is something that is difficult to enforce, especially for companies who host outside the country.
Finally, there is an attitude amongst several developers that I have talked to that there are not enough bind people to justify making accomodations. "If they want to read it, they'll get someone to read it to them." Sadly, that's a quote from a website designer from a few months ago. Slapping lawsuits on people who don't comply won't solve the problem. If you want the Internet to be fully accessible, make some changes to how Internet content is created. Even if you just find a way to tell them, it is a start.
Likewise. My monitor was wobbling, and the windows were rattling. I checked some the regional earthquake websites, but nothing was listed. Then again, it was only a few minutes after it happened. I would've blamed it on the washing machine if it was running. But I don't do laundry this early.
It would certainly make purchasing an Xbox a bit more appealing. Mind you, this would put a lot of Xbox hopefuls in the same boat when Sony announced they can make PS2 chips cheaper. Perhaps too little, too late. From several articles that are indicating waning Xbox sales and other hits against the Xbox, perhaps the price cuts will help people look past the Xbox's faults. A few more killer apps wouldn't hurt, either.
After reading about how Lycoris was available pre-installed on a laptop, I checked the prices on Pricewatch and found the laptop is available, with the same refurbishing configuration, for about $650 pre-shipping (shipping adds $20-$30, depending on the store). With a free DL from a FTP site, you can save some money and do the install yourself. Not only does this save money , but users can recreate the article for themselves, if they wanted. I understand the extra money goes to supporting the OS, but even if you went out and bought the software, you would save more than $80.
Thinkpad 600e $650
Laptop Shipping $20
Lycoris distro $29.95 or $39.95
Lycoris Shipping $7.95 vis FedEx
Total: $717.90 (assuming All discs are purchased from company)
If it works well enough to be a Windows replacement, I would be more than willing to get it. However, I'll hold off until a few more reviews of it come out. It certainly beats having to pay Microsoft anywhere from $100-300 just for the operating system.
According to Microsoft's Windows XP Embedded Sys. Req. page, only the database version of XP Embedded doesn't require Internet Explorer. I have no doubts that the modular aspect of XP Embedded allows IE's removal, but also consider that, technically, these are two seperate oprating systems. Microsoft might reply with a similar statement. It looks like a cheap cop-out for Microsoft, sure. This might just end up being another weapon to use in the anti-trust case. The problem will be figuring out who it will best serve.
After reading the web page, it looks like it wants to be several things at once.
Wirelessly access files, applications and/or data...New Windows CE.NET operating system from Microsoft And a touch display panel.
It's not so much a wireless monitor but a PC-integrated PDA. It runs Remote Desktop via 802.11b to your PC and uses a stylus to manipulate data on the monitor. Besides, how many monitors use PCMCIA cards? Also judging from the hardware inside (206 MHz, 128 meg SDram, 2Mb video card), it gives an impression of a 13" wide iPaq. If given the choice, I would stick with a notebook. Sure it's heavier than the 2+ lbs. monitor, but more current generations of laptops can handle much more than this monitor. If you really wanted to buy this for the desktop broadcasting, add an 802.11b and run your favorite remote desktop.
It'll Be Good, If The Pilot Can Handle It.
on
When Looks Can Kill
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· Score: 1
A pilot wearing the helmet can look out the side of the cockpit, spot an enemy plane and then lock the missile's guidance system on the target before launching the weapon--all within a few seconds.
Not having to aim a plane at a target can save time when engaging enemies at high-speed. However, the article didn't address just how much of the aircraft's information would be displayed in the HUD. If there is too much going on, it could cause undue distraction or confusion while the pilot coordinates the data. On the other hand, if it only puts immediately pertinent information on the display while locking onto a target, then the look-and-shoot technique may help to change how airborne combat works. I know that pilots are specially trained to fight the way they do, but I wonder how much time and money will be needed to retrain the air pilots. On top of that, just how many planes will this system installed on it? As long as some of the fundamentals remain the same, the reteaching of pilots could be streamlined significantly. Hopefully, the system will be sophisticated enough to reduce the possbility of friendly fire or miscalculated targets. If not, one bad news story about bad targeting can bring the AIM-9X project down in short order. If it works out, great.
After reading this article, an old saying comes to mind:
Those in glass houses should not throw stones.
I have worked with Windows XP, as well as several versions of Linux, for more than a year now. From my experiences, some of the concepts you propose in this comment should be addressed, in the interest of fairness:
1) It is the buggiest, most unstable operating system ever created for IBM PC (c). It is not hard to see why.
Where I work, our mail server runs on Slackware Linux. It has been running non-stop (barring a large-scale blackout 6 months ago) for over a year now.When it did lose power, it took less than 5 minutes to get the server up and running, with no long-term damage. We have not had the server's security compromised, and several attempts at running port sniffers and virus outbreaks have found no holes.
An online friend of mine works in an insurance company that runs IIS on the servers. He complains to me about regular crashes on the server when a notable email virus is released. On top of that, several Administrative functions that have existed for several versions of Novell Netware and Linux are still not available to Windows users, including: cleaner user directory administration, third-party integration into network environments (he regularly gets "reminded" by Microsoft that everything would work better with their much more expensive software), and potentially costly support outside the company.
Most linux developers lost their saving throw versus pathetic nerddom a long time ago. You'll find them huddled in their parent's basements, living on candy bars and Captain runch. You wouldn't let these feebleminded boys ow your lawn, so why should you allow them to design your operating system?
Saving throw versus nerddom? Personally, making a reference to D&D alone would make one guilty of nerddom. Not that there is anything wrong with being knowledgeable about obscure things. My "nerddom" is helping to pay my bills and help the people I work with do more than just stare blankly at their monitors. As for letting them on people's lawns, many people let me into their homes to help them learn about personal computers, whether it be Windows, MacOS, or Linux. As for designing operating systems, please explain the designers of Windows XP, who need extensive knowledge of several coding languages, networking protocols, and hardware functionality. By your apparent definition, they can be just as nerdy as Linux users.
Look at the calender, people. The year is 2002, not 1979. Nerdly losers are, well, losers. There will be no golden pocket protectors for this decade's foul crop. Distributing your source code for free is just an indication that you realize how much it sucks, have accepted the aforementioned suckage, and are moving on to your next job at Denny's.
Right about now, I feel the morbid urge for the above-mentioned Anonymous Coward to read the subtitle for Slashdot: News for Nerds, Stuff That Matters. This was intended to be an information source for people with tech jobs or tech interests stay informed about current technology developments, as well as geek culture. If you hate geekdom so much, then please tell me why you feel the need to skulk around where you don't like to be. As for source code, have you tried designing software for Windows? Have you found out in the middle of a project that several key elements that you were working on are not available before you buy $200+ licenses for the permission to use Microsoft's source code? Open source gives programmers the opportunity to innovate without having to worry about expensive license/legal fees and they know that their work won't be absorbed into a large corporation that will not even acknowledge their work. I prefer using open-source "suckage" than using proprietary software that I can never truly create with because of legal boundaries.
But there is something you can do about it. Visit your local computer store today and buy a licensed copy of Windows XP, the most innovative operating system ever created.
Tell this to the hundreds of people that I hae helped since the OS came out. Windows XP gets rid of the 9x kernel, which many programs were dependant one. Look at how many programs have a 95/98/Me version and a NT/2K/XP version. This is because the fundamental level of the two forms of operating system work differently. Yes, this is where nerdly knowledge comes in. But this geekly info help companies not make several-million-dollar software acquisitions, only to find out that their proprietary database and design software do not work with XP. Then tell the users that the layout of the operating system. Sure, you can just scoff and tell them to learn to adapt. But try telling this to several dozen people, who can tell your next-in-command that you're not being helpful enough.
It's hard to get help when your operating system is created by a bunch of teenagers who can't even match their socks or get a date.
One of the main "nerds" involved with Linux is Linus Torvalds. He's more than 30 years old, married, and has two kids. According to the pictures, his socks seem matched enough. On top of that, where do you think he got two daughters from? So it's not like he hasn't dated.
But when you're using Windows XP, customer service will gladly help you with any problem you may encounter.
Tell you what. Try reading this, and tell me tech support will be glad to help anyone's problems. This is also assuming that tech support knows what your problem is. Have you tried supporting a customer whose only contribution is complain that "it doesn't work" and then whine at you that they can't play solitaire? Do that for hours at a time for several dozen users, and try to remain "glad and helpful".
Remember, linux is only "free" if your time is of no value.
Linux is "free" because there are no site licenses, expensive over-the-shelf distributions, and because you can download it for free. It also isn't restricted by programming and distribution licenses. On top of all of that, try rummaging through SLashdot about some of the lawsuits and gaping security holes Microsoft products have. Then try the same for the various Linux products. The read will do you good.
Also, linux is only secure if your computer is not connected to the internet.
Three letters for you: IIS. Need I say more?
Give up your futile, sexually repellent nerdisms and return to the company that started it all.
Sexually repellant? What stereotypes are you basing all of this on? I have been dating a lovely woman for about a year now. She has yet to complain. We'll leave it at that.
Usually, I blow the low-rating comments off. They're modded down for a reason. But every once in a while, someone talks without researching what they say. I'm guilty of it at times, yes. When I do, I make an effort to make amends. Given this, I took the previous page or so to give you information with which to better inform you of the other portions of the Operating System industry. You seem to really like Windows XP. Good for you. You found something that works well with what you have. However, from past experiences, upgrading any operating system will not go as planned every time. You don't blame the user, the computer, or even the operating system. Technology is not flawless. With that in mind, make sure you have a balanced view of all the sides involved before jumping onto a pedestal. Remember that, before you throw that rock, that your glass house is made of Windows. Windows can break.
After rumamging through Google for a while, the best estimate to where the article is Here. However, it gives a DNS/Server Down error. It may have already been/.ed by the people who originally read the article. Then again, I could be wrong. If GameFu is citing the right source, the above URL is where the news site for Nikkei MicroDevice should be. Maybe it will be up in a few hours.
In any case, the new chip might not help benefit people who've already bought a PS2, but the technology used can help lessen the cost of making the PS3, as well as open up possibilities for backwards compatibility. Sure, it would have been great if the new chips came out sooner. However, not every advance is made at the best possible time. Look on the bright side: it can still offer a chance to help the PS2's potential. It'll be interesting to see what they do with the new chip.
Slashdot Mirror
Software (yes, I know, with some exceptions) can mostly be written anywhere.
If that were true, then how come there is a need for H1Bs? Why not just outsource the work?
No, there must be some value loss from outsourcing, otherwise they wouldn't need to bring people into the US and have exiting workers here train them.
The cynical part of me keeps coming back to an after-hours conversation with someone who used to work in my former employer's HR department. They'd mention how much flak companies get by using outsourced employees and the backlash of "costing American jobs". Using H1-B visas to acquire employees, you can still say that you haven't sent jobs overseas and that you're keeping jobs "home, where they belong". Add mandatory Stars and Stripes lapel pins and you get something that people can advertise for you and bring in Made In America money. Even better, they don't have to pay as much for H-1B employees as they do for locally-hired staff and, when those staff start asking about becoming long-term employees, the employer can end their contract, bring someone newer to replace them, and show a nice drop in costs for their quarterly department meetings. It's one of the reasons why H-1B quotas fill so quickly in certain sectors. It was intended to fill short-term gaps or when a specific set of skills can't be filled normally. Realistically, it's clear they're not all being used as intended.
Reading The Friendly Article should not be summarily banned.
For those who don't know why: http://www.russianspaceweb.com/elektro.html
If you actually were blind, your screen reader software (assuming it's Windows, it would probably be JAWS) would be handling the sound, not the website. While there are some places that use sound clips (like authentication pages that require you to read a garbled series of letters and numbers to register on forums), many sites depend on the user using third-party applications to access their site. In any case, since the website you're commenting on is a personal web page, and not a web presense for a business, it isn't the sort of site the ADA is being used on.
Extra Credit: I used JAWS on the site, and I could get around it just fine with the monitor shut off.
Myth of Hypocricy of a person commenting on screen reader accessibility while his website lacks embedded sound clips: Busted.
Eye On MOGs It would've been a lot easier if the OP had it in the actual article, but there it is.
Should Apple reduce its price on any shipped product within 10 calendar days of shipment, you may contact Apple Sales Support at 1-800-676-2775 to request a refund or credit of the difference between the price you were charged and the current selling price. To receive the refund or credit you must contact Apple within 14 business days of shipment.
I'm not sure which one is right, though.
Local selection is fairly slim, and I was strapped for cash. I was hoping I would be able to get by with the cheap one. Mistakes happen. I'm human. As for the peripheral problem, the salesman told me that such adapters would be out soon. That's what I get for listening for salesman.
Case and point: I recently got a cellphone, so that someone else could have their phone back. I shopped around for a while and settled for one that would be free after rebate. I had it for a few days, and returned it for a more expensive one. First, the phone had an odd number layout, so I had to relearn the key mapping (the keys were part of a curve, instead of straight across). Second, I use a laptop to connect to the Internet, and I occasionally use a cell phone adapter to do it. The phone I bought was incompatible with the connector, and the phone's manufacturer had no immediate plans to make one. Those two reasons, as well as several other factors, prompted a return.
If the cell phone companies would agree on a single interface, it would make the compatibility much easier to implement. Not only that, but the TTY devices need the information to implement all the various brands and models of cell phones. The possibility's there, but there's not much of a chance it'll happen anytime soon.
1. It's easier to bring a synced PDA of information to do quick errands than it is to enter said info into a laptop. As in, I'm more likely to use a grocery list ina PDA that fits in my hand than bring the iBook.
2. I don't tend to install many applications beyond the included suite. So far, the only things I've installed on my PDA since I got it are: an enhanced calculator, an eBook reader, and a couple of text games. If I need a full office-program or media apps, then I bring the notebook computer.
As for paper/pencil, I tend to lose the pieces of paper easily, whereas I'm more likely to pay attention to a piece of electronics gone missing. Yeah, the PDA also won't handle a bunch of the accessibility functions that the iBook does, but for me, it's easier than lugging a several-pound book or relatively large notebook while on the go.
1. Games. Yes, I know some of them are cross-platform, but many of the games come onto WIndows first, and many don't expand to other platforms. I tried working with WineX and VirtualPC. WineX still has a way to go before being able to let me toss Windows, and VirtualPC on Mac, keeping me from installing new versions of DirectX and so on. If any of you have experience or advice in the matter, share the wealth.
2. Device support. I'm talking more than just printers and such. I've been experimenting with various accessibility devices, and those that want to interact with a computer only support Windows. I haven't seen much accessibility applications/devices for Linux or Mac. In this case, I'm talking more about JAWS and the like.
Once I can get over the above two things, I'll be jumping off Gates's ship faster than a chronically-depressed lemming.
Each point-level of OS X has gave significant speed boosts. I've seen 10.2, and just about everything works as expected. There's a bit of slowdown playing Warcraft 3, but it's more of a power management issue than it's an OS X issue. It's all depends on how fast "Fast Enough" is. Personally, I see no use for a 2.x GHz processor. It seems like overkill. Yet I know people who whine about having anything less than 50 fps on a game, or above certain rendering times in Photoshop. It's more of a perception of speed, then actual throughput.
But I still give Porsche Design GmbH and VPR credit for trying to bring some of the Powerbook functions to Windows users who, for whatever reason, don't want to Make The Switch. I would love to pick up a Powerbook, but driver support for accessibility devices and applications is not on par with Windows. I am holding off any significant judgement until I read some in-depth reviews. Until then, I'll wait for a model to show up in my local Best Buy store. I can mess around it and make an informed decision based on my personal experience. If it's good, all the power to them. If it's garbage, no harm done (except for wasted materials/labor).
"How do I get this freakin' duck away from me!?"
Kudos to those who get the reference. IN any case, this game's getting bookmarked. It'll be fun to tinker with.
First, a bit of background on what I've learned over the past few years. I was born with a few visual defects, but I could still get around with a good set of glasses. Over the years, my vision has steadily degenerated, partly from the stiffening of the eye muscles, partly from a bad accident in my younger years. Now I can't see out of one eye, and only see a monochrome image in 20 degrees of vision, where a normal person can see about 120 degrees.
My second year in college, I became friends with someone who was completely blind. He's an excellent writer, and has publications in a few magazines (don't recall which, though). However, when his printer's error light started blinking one night, he called me on the phone and wanted me to fix it. It was out of paper, but because the printer was old, it wasn't telling the computer what the problem was*. He couldn't fix the machine because it wasn't telling him what was wrong. All he knew was that he hit print and nothing was happening.
As for some of the comments about forcing standards on people's creativity, consider many of the real-life standards from the ADA. When you go to a major store such as a shopping mall or a Wal-Mart, how often do you see several handicapped parking spaces or a small ramp on the sidewalk on the sidewalk? Those are the kinds of adaptations the ADA covers. The people who design the blueprints have standards they adhere to to make the building accessible, so they do it in the beginning. It's not like companies make them do it unwillingly, but they just do it.
In a response to someone who said that disabled people shouldn't complain because they get fat disability checks: I'd love to hear how you define "fat". I get a disability check because of my visual problems and Asperger's Syndrome. I get ~$170 a month. My rent is around $650, but is subsidized down to around $200. Given that I also have to pay for utilities, transport, food, Internet access, and other basics, how do you explain how I shouldn't have to worry? I want to work, but the last 10 jobs I interviewed for were turned down for other people. I don't want people to bend over backwards to accomodate for me. I want to live independantly.
Overall, the comments on this article are interesting to read. Some people understand that this about reasonable acomodation. Others feel this is about requiring people to crimp their writing styles for people they may never meet. It's not about that. There's a difference between making Internet portals and information archives accessible and making Sally's "This Is A Picture Of My Cat" page universally accessible. Businesses have handicapped parking spaces and ramps. Your house probably doesn't.
*Before anyone jumps on how the guy should've had a better printer, many of the people I worked with don't have the latest tech because they cannot afford the new computers. Thus, they get help from an agency that trains them in adaptive technology. Most of the computers they give people are whatever people donate to the agency or are found in second-hand sales. They get funding from the government and independant donations. Think of things like this when you complain about paying for taxes
Here's a Cnet article dated back to 4/2000. If you want to relive those glory days (err, day, night, something), click here. (Requires Java) I thought the idea was pretty good, at the time. My mother broke my Gameboy playing that a few years back. She was that into it. Now she plays a whole bunch of Tetris clones online. And she thinks I'm bad with RTCW and NWN... =)
Time-Warner Cable recently sent out cease/desist notices to people sharing bandwidth with WiFi, but they're working on putting WiFi in their own devices?
Part of me understands that the potential for revenue is there with a company-sponsored(controlled) wireless network. Another part is confused by said company's act of stopping other people doing something similar on their own.
I would be interested in it if I already didn't put down the money to make my own 802.11b network. I ahven't received a letter yet because I made an effort to secure it. I just hope that, if TWC implements this network, it doesn't require or force users to use their proprietary network. I'd hate to have the time and money I put into my network to be unusable with RoadRunner.
They weren't high-resolution holograms with customized messages, but it still had the feeling of being smothered by commercials that I felt in Minority Report. I enjoyed the actual plot of the movie, but the deja vu of overactive commercials gave me a laugh.
Actually, Job Access For Windows (JAWS) is made for blind people to access common computer applications, such as Internet Explorer, Netscape, Outlook Express, Eudora, and so on. The problem doesn't come with the browser itself, but rather the coding habits of the page designer. Screen Reading programs cannot interpret Shockwave or Flash with much success (requires specific code in the document), many proprietary HTML tags that are specific to IE cause problems if the page is viewed with other browsers.
As for suing for compatibility, there is already a class-action lawsuit against AOL in the works (no link, heard it from someone who specializes in teaching blind people how to use computers). We specifically tell visually impaired users to not use America Online. JAWS has problems reading multiple windows, and the few times it changes emphasis, the user often has no audible indicator of what's going on. America ONline is well aware of the problem, and while the adaptive software developers try to keep up with the changes, accessibility online is something that is difficult to enforce, especially for companies who host outside the country.
Finally, there is an attitude amongst several developers that I have talked to that there are not enough bind people to justify making accomodations. "If they want to read it, they'll get someone to read it to them." Sadly, that's a quote from a website designer from a few months ago. Slapping lawsuits on people who don't comply won't solve the problem. If you want the Internet to be fully accessible, make some changes to how Internet content is created. Even if you just find a way to tell them, it is a start.
Btw, I was in Southern Maine.
It would certainly make purchasing an Xbox a bit more appealing. Mind you, this would put a lot of Xbox hopefuls in the same boat when Sony announced they can make PS2 chips cheaper. Perhaps too little, too late. From several articles that are indicating waning Xbox sales and other hits against the Xbox, perhaps the price cuts will help people look past the Xbox's faults. A few more killer apps wouldn't hurt, either.
If it works well enough to be a Windows replacement, I would be more than willing to get it. However, I'll hold off until a few more reviews of it come out. It certainly beats having to pay Microsoft anywhere from $100-300 just for the operating system.
According to Microsoft's Windows XP Embedded Sys. Req. page, only the database version of XP Embedded doesn't require Internet Explorer. I have no doubts that the modular aspect of XP Embedded allows IE's removal, but also consider that, technically, these are two seperate oprating systems. Microsoft might reply with a similar statement. It looks like a cheap cop-out for Microsoft, sure. This might just end up being another weapon to use in the anti-trust case. The problem will be figuring out who it will best serve.
Wirelessly access files, applications and/or data...New Windows CE .NET operating system from Microsoft And a touch display panel.
It's not so much a wireless monitor but a PC-integrated PDA. It runs Remote Desktop via 802.11b to your PC and uses a stylus to manipulate data on the monitor. Besides, how many monitors use PCMCIA cards? Also judging from the hardware inside (206 MHz, 128 meg SDram, 2Mb video card), it gives an impression of a 13" wide iPaq. If given the choice, I would stick with a notebook. Sure it's heavier than the 2+ lbs. monitor, but more current generations of laptops can handle much more than this monitor. If you really wanted to buy this for the desktop broadcasting, add an 802.11b and run your favorite remote desktop.
Not having to aim a plane at a target can save time when engaging enemies at high-speed. However, the article didn't address just how much of the aircraft's information would be displayed in the HUD. If there is too much going on, it could cause undue distraction or confusion while the pilot coordinates the data. On the other hand, if it only puts immediately pertinent information on the display while locking onto a target, then the look-and-shoot technique may help to change how airborne combat works. I know that pilots are specially trained to fight the way they do, but I wonder how much time and money will be needed to retrain the air pilots. On top of that, just how many planes will this system installed on it? As long as some of the fundamentals remain the same, the reteaching of pilots could be streamlined significantly. Hopefully, the system will be sophisticated enough to reduce the possbility of friendly fire or miscalculated targets. If not, one bad news story about bad targeting can bring the AIM-9X project down in short order. If it works out, great.
Those in glass houses should not throw stones.
I have worked with Windows XP, as well as several versions of Linux, for more than a year now. From my experiences, some of the concepts you propose in this comment should be addressed, in the interest of fairness: 1) It is the buggiest, most unstable operating system ever created for IBM PC (c). It is not hard to see why.
Where I work, our mail server runs on Slackware Linux. It has been running non-stop (barring a large-scale blackout 6 months ago) for over a year now.When it did lose power, it took less than 5 minutes to get the server up and running, with no long-term damage. We have not had the server's security compromised, and several attempts at running port sniffers and virus outbreaks have found no holes.
An online friend of mine works in an insurance company that runs IIS on the servers. He complains to me about regular crashes on the server when a notable email virus is released. On top of that, several Administrative functions that have existed for several versions of Novell Netware and Linux are still not available to Windows users, including: cleaner user directory administration, third-party integration into network environments (he regularly gets "reminded" by Microsoft that everything would work better with their much more expensive software), and potentially costly support outside the company.
Most linux developers lost their saving throw versus pathetic nerddom a long time ago. You'll find them huddled in their parent's basements, living on candy bars and Captain runch. You wouldn't let these feebleminded boys ow your lawn, so why should you allow them to design your operating system?
Saving throw versus nerddom? Personally, making a reference to D&D alone would make one guilty of nerddom. Not that there is anything wrong with being knowledgeable about obscure things. My "nerddom" is helping to pay my bills and help the people I work with do more than just stare blankly at their monitors. As for letting them on people's lawns, many people let me into their homes to help them learn about personal computers, whether it be Windows, MacOS, or Linux. As for designing operating systems, please explain the designers of Windows XP, who need extensive knowledge of several coding languages, networking protocols, and hardware functionality. By your apparent definition, they can be just as nerdy as Linux users.
Look at the calender, people. The year is 2002, not 1979. Nerdly losers are, well, losers. There will be no golden pocket protectors for this decade's foul crop. Distributing your source code for free is just an indication that you realize how much it sucks, have accepted the aforementioned suckage, and are moving on to your next job at Denny's.
Right about now, I feel the morbid urge for the above-mentioned Anonymous Coward to read the subtitle for Slashdot: News for Nerds, Stuff That Matters. This was intended to be an information source for people with tech jobs or tech interests stay informed about current technology developments, as well as geek culture. If you hate geekdom so much, then please tell me why you feel the need to skulk around where you don't like to be. As for source code, have you tried designing software for Windows? Have you found out in the middle of a project that several key elements that you were working on are not available before you buy $200+ licenses for the permission to use Microsoft's source code? Open source gives programmers the opportunity to innovate without having to worry about expensive license/legal fees and they know that their work won't be absorbed into a large corporation that will not even acknowledge their work. I prefer using open-source "suckage" than using proprietary software that I can never truly create with because of legal boundaries.
But there is something you can do about it. Visit your local computer store today and buy a licensed copy of Windows XP, the most innovative operating system ever created.
Tell this to the hundreds of people that I hae helped since the OS came out. Windows XP gets rid of the 9x kernel, which many programs were dependant one. Look at how many programs have a 95/98/Me version and a NT/2K/XP version. This is because the fundamental level of the two forms of operating system work differently. Yes, this is where nerdly knowledge comes in. But this geekly info help companies not make several-million-dollar software acquisitions, only to find out that their proprietary database and design software do not work with XP. Then tell the users that the layout of the operating system. Sure, you can just scoff and tell them to learn to adapt. But try telling this to several dozen people, who can tell your next-in-command that you're not being helpful enough.
It's hard to get help when your operating system is created by a bunch of teenagers who can't even match their socks or get a date.
One of the main "nerds" involved with Linux is Linus Torvalds. He's more than 30 years old, married, and has two kids. According to the pictures, his socks seem matched enough. On top of that, where do you think he got two daughters from? So it's not like he hasn't dated.
But when you're using Windows XP, customer service will gladly help you with any problem you may encounter. Tell you what. Try reading this, and tell me tech support will be glad to help anyone's problems. This is also assuming that tech support knows what your problem is. Have you tried supporting a customer whose only contribution is complain that "it doesn't work" and then whine at you that they can't play solitaire? Do that for hours at a time for several dozen users, and try to remain "glad and helpful".
Remember, linux is only "free" if your time is of no value.
Linux is "free" because there are no site licenses, expensive over-the-shelf distributions, and because you can download it for free. It also isn't restricted by programming and distribution licenses. On top of all of that, try rummaging through SLashdot about some of the lawsuits and gaping security holes Microsoft products have. Then try the same for the various Linux products. The read will do you good.
Also, linux is only secure if your computer is not connected to the internet.
Three letters for you: IIS. Need I say more?
Give up your futile, sexually repellent nerdisms and return to the company that started it all.
Sexually repellant? What stereotypes are you basing all of this on? I have been dating a lovely woman for about a year now. She has yet to complain. We'll leave it at that.
Usually, I blow the low-rating comments off. They're modded down for a reason. But every once in a while, someone talks without researching what they say. I'm guilty of it at times, yes. When I do, I make an effort to make amends. Given this, I took the previous page or so to give you information with which to better inform you of the other portions of the Operating System industry. You seem to really like Windows XP. Good for you. You found something that works well with what you have. However, from past experiences, upgrading any operating system will not go as planned every time. You don't blame the user, the computer, or even the operating system. Technology is not flawless. With that in mind, make sure you have a balanced view of all the sides involved before jumping onto a pedestal. Remember that, before you throw that rock, that your glass house is made of Windows. Windows can break.
After rumamging through Google for a while, the best estimate to where the article is Here. However, it gives a DNS/Server Down error. It may have already been /.ed by the people who originally read the article. Then again, I could be wrong. If GameFu is citing the right source, the above URL is where the news site for Nikkei MicroDevice should be. Maybe it will be up in a few hours.
In any case, the new chip might not help benefit people who've already bought a PS2, but the technology used can help lessen the cost of making the PS3, as well as open up possibilities for backwards compatibility. Sure, it would have been great if the new chips came out sooner. However, not every advance is made at the best possible time. Look on the bright side: it can still offer a chance to help the PS2's potential. It'll be interesting to see what they do with the new chip.