What's New

January 29, 2012

Software favorites:
Another batch of beta updates for my favorite Graphics editor. GraphicConverter moves ever forward. As usual, developer has been busy updating this application. Here's more than a dozen updates for a product that's always getting better. All the updates are free for those who own a license (for the most recent version). If you need a powerhouse converter, editor and browser for your graphics, grab a copy of GraphicConverter - You won't be disappointed.

GraphicConverter:
Thorsten Lemke (of Lemkesoft) completed work on several updates over the past few week. I recently saw/downloaded the following updates: 7.6.2 (b416). GraphicConverter is an image converter and editor. A fantastic piece of shareware that is well worth the price (~$40.00). I use it to convert image formats into web standard formats, to create and edit image maps and other graphics. I've been singing GC's praises for many years now, and I'm not sure I would do without it. The best part about GC is it's author. Thorsten Lemke is completely committed to his customer base. Constantly and Continuously responding to customer recommendations and bug reports. GC is a dynamic, evolving, application. Always on the cutting edge, an absolute must in any web developers tool box. At a fraction of PhotoShop's cost, this photo editor puts a huge wrench in your toolbox.
<http://www.lemkesoft.com/content/162/new-functions-and-versions.html>

With this software update, I've updated my Software Favorites page. It's primarily dedicated to web publishing for the Mac user. Not meant for the professional, It's my hope that home users and hobbyists will find it useful. It's a listing of applications that I find useful in publishing my web pages.
<https://www.robsworld.org/myfavs.html>

My Handwriting as a Font!
</rave>Now that's pretty awesome. I ran across a forum thread the other day. Someone on one of the Mac forums I subscribe to was wondering whether anyone knew how to transform their own handwriting into a font. As it turns out, there is a website that'll do that for you. Yes - They actually take your handwriting and transform it into a font for your computer. Now that's pretty awesome. I love fonts, and I've got plenty of them on my computer. Having my own handwriting as a font sounded too good to be true, so I checked out the website.

The website walks you through the seven step process in a pretty straight-forward manner. First you have to download some blank templates. Then you hand write your version of the characters into this template and it serves as the basis for your personalized font. Once you've got a perfectly filled in template, you scan it and save it as a JPG. It took me numerous tries to get it right, but I eventually managed to complete the template. I couldn't get all the characters correct on a single template, so I partially filled out six templates. From that collection, I used GraphicConverter to cut and paste a perfect copy. Once you've got a perfect copy, you upload it to their website. After a preview, you pay $9.95 for the basic font, and download it from their website. I had a bit of trouble with the website, but after paying for the font, I went back to the website (had to open a new browser window) and found my font waiting to be downloaded.

I downloaded the font, and double-clicked to install it on my Mac. Now I've got an awesome new font that I can use for notes and letters. If you ask me it's pretty cool. So cool I had to tell everyone I know.</rave>
<https://www.robsworld.org/myfont.png>
<http://www.yourfonts.com/>

Awesome Veggie Burgers!
Yes, I'm serious about that title: The other day (the 27th of Jan, 2012), Kim served up an awesome lunch for this hungry coder. If the last time you tried a 'Veggie Burger' was back in the 90s, you need to give it another try. I remember when Kim and I first tried to eat those early 'Veggie Burgers'. Man oh man were they terrible. Back in the 90s we gave it a try. The veggie burgers back then were terrible. The flavor was horrid, the texture was cardboard, and they were dry. Cooking them basically created an inedible hockey puck-like object. Something you'd sooner slap with a stick than put in your mouth. Thankfully, things have changed.

A growing boy needs protein, but not necessarily 'meat' or 'fat'. A vegetarian lifestyle isn't mandatory to enjoy the benefits of a low fat diet. Kim and I try to vary our diet between meat and no meat. We try to eat vegetarian for every other meal. We're not religious about it, but we realize that the vegetarian diet is better for us. It's far lower in fat, and meat these days is loaded with chemicals, drugs and hormones that we'd rather avoid. Thankfully those early days of the vegetarian lifestyle are merely memories. Now, we find that the stores are packed with great tasting nutritious choices in the frozen food aisle.

</rave>One of our favorites is the 'Grillers Original' by MorningStar Farms. MorningStar has been making veggie burgers for some time, and they certainly know what they're doing. As a matter of fact, the 'Grillers Original' is so good, I had to tell all my friends. The burger is made with 'Textured vegetable protein' which consists of wheat gluten, soy protein concentrate, and water. It may not sound appetizing at first, but forget the ingredients and try one for yourself. The flavor, texture, color, and aroma are all amazing. If I didn't know better, I'd swear it's made with beef. Kim's heading back to the store today - My request? More of these delicious burgers!</rave>
<http://www.morningstarfarms.com/morningstar-farms-grillers-original.html>

Updates to the Tollgate Crossing website:
I participate in some community focused events, but haven't found the time to serve on any boards, so I do what I can to help the people who live in my neighborhood. Volunteering with our local neighborhood watch, and supporting our community by maintaining the Tollgate Crossing website, mailing lists and online bulletin boards. The Tollgate Crossing website is focused on the Tollgate Crossing community, with a few links to the Neighborhood Watch website. Over the last couple of weeks I managed to make a couple of updates to the website.

Bulletin Boards: A new feature / website - It's not linked directly through a header link, but I recently created a new website / feature for the residents of Tollgate Crossing. The new website is a series of online bulletin boards. A place where residents can discuss community related issues, share ideas, buy or sell items, etc. This bulletin board software is new to me, but I'll do my best to set up some categories and manage the forums.
- Bulletin board rules: As with the new Bulletin Boards, this new page isn't linked directly to the rest of the 'Tollgate Crossing' website. An essential feature. A precaution if you will. Just a reminder that everyone should act in a civilized manner. Hopefully I won't need to reference the 'rules' any time soon.
Welcome: The website's opener. A page containing an introduction to our community website. Here you'll find all the latest news and announcements. I rearranged the banners a bit - It's something I do to indicate a change in the content.
- I updated the banners for our next Metro District (28 Feb, 2012) meeting. Meetings are normally held every fourth Tuesday of the month.
- I added a badge advertising a new feature/website I recently started up. I created a new 'Tollgate Crossing bulletin board' site for all our residents. The badge reminds people to sign up for the new feature.
- I removed the banner indicating that the 'Tollgate Crossing' website has moved.
Events: A detailed listing of upcoming and recurring events in and around Tollgate Crossing. Here is more detailed information regarding some of the events you may have read about on the 'Welcome' page. It's also a place to look for long term/recurring events.
- I updated the information regarding our next Metro District (28 Feb, 2012) meeting. Meetings are held at the community club-house.
- I removed a paragraph/some information regarding the recent website/mailing list migration. Tollgate Crossing is now hosted by a new company.

If you are a resident of 'Tollgate Crossing' (in Aurora, Colorado), you might want to check out the website, mailing lists or bulletin boards. They're loaded with information about our community, provide multiple venues for communications, community interaction and interactive ways to stay connected in Tollgate Crossing. If you'd like to help out by being a moderator, provide feedback, or help me with my coding efforts, please let me know. I'm open to your suggestions.
<http://www.tollgatecrossing.org/Welcome.html>

Southeast Aurora Neighborhood Watch website:
I participate in some community focused events, but haven't found the time to serve on any boards, so I do what I can to help the people who live in my neighborhood. Volunteering with our local neighborhood watch, maintaining the Southeast Aurora Neighborhood Watch website and mailing lists. The South East Aurora Neighborhood Watch serves the residents of South East Aurora by providing information and close ties with the local Police Department in order to help keep the residents safe and neighborhoods crime free. Over the last week I made a couple updates to the Neighborhood Watch website.

Current: A web page dedicated to the most recent news, announcements and information.
- I updated an announcement for our next Neighborhood Watch meeting. The SouthEast Aurora Neighborhood Watch is having a meeting on the 2nd of Feb, 2012, and everyone's invited. In addition to our normal information and updates, this meeting will feature a briefing about wildlife in the area by Mary Ann Bonnel of Aurora's Natural Resources and Open Space department. If you live in the SouthEast Aurora area, please let your friends know about the meeting. We hope to see you and all your neighbors at our next meeting.
Events: A listing of upcoming and recurring events in you Southeast Aurora Neighborhood. Events sponsored by or relevant to our Neighborhood Watch.
- I updated a paragraph about our next NW meeting. The date of our next meeting is 2 Feb, 2012. This meeting will be held at Fox Ridge Middle School. If you have an idea about future topics to cover, please let our Head Area Coordinator (Judy Van Meter) know. See the Neighborhood Watch website for more details.

If you are a resident of Southeast Aurora, you might want to check out our Southeast Aurora Neighborhood Watch website (Serving the following communities: Tollgate Crossing, Sorrel Ranch, Wheatlands, Beacon Point, Southshore, Tallyn’s Reach, Saddle Rock - North, Serenity Ridge, Black Stone and Heritage Eagle Bend). If you're concerned about the safety and security of your community, you might want to join our group, or subscribe to one of our mailing lists to receive periodic alerts, updates and information.
<http://www.southeastaurora-neighborhoodwatch.org/Welcome.html>

Unskippable DVD Previews:
</rant>The other day (the 26th of Jan, 2012), I popped a movie into my Blu-Ray player (A Samsung BD-P3600). The DVD took a few seconds to spin up, and then the previews began. After getting a drink, some utensils, and a napkin from the Kitchen; I figured I'd be able to sit down, eat my dinner and relax while I watch a movie... So much for my plans. The distributor, production company, or movie studio had other plans for me. Their plans involved a series of advertisements for some upcoming features. I am willing to watch previews, but I prefer to watch them when I want. I typically set aside time, go to the Apple Trailers website, or watch trailers directly on my Apple TV in order to get some ideas of what I might want to watch in the coming months.

What followed was a series of previews - I'm not sure how many, because I soon became so enraged that I completely forgot what movies they featured and how many there were. After sitting down to watch the movie, I noticed that another preview was playing (I'd already missed one while getting my dinner ready). I picked up my Logitech Harmony remote and psychologically prepared myself to do battle with the advertisers, marketing geniuses, studios, distributors and all manner of shills who insist that I watch these trailers. I pressed the 'Chapter skip' button - No! How about the 'Fast Forward' button? - No! Argghh, how about the 'Menu' key? Maybe I can just go to the menu? - No! Wait a second. How about the 'Disc Menu'? - No! The 'Title Menu'? - No! You will watch these previews 'Slave!' At this point I tried the 'Stop' button. No! That didn't work either. Are you kidding me? I can't even stop the previews? So there I sat, for approximately 15 minutes. Vainly trying to get past the infernal previews. Cursing the company that produced this DVD, the movie studio, Netflix, the distributor; anyone who had anything to do with the production and distribution of the movie. I have no doubt that it affected my enjoyment of the movie, and it made me wonder why these sick sadistic bastards feel it's necessary to force the previews upon their customers?

This attitude, this ethic, this ridiculous industry treats their customers like caged animals, like thieves, like criminals. Is it any wonder why the American public hates the MPAA, the RIAA, the movie industry in general? We may like the movies, but many would rather steal from these companies than subject themselves to the idiocy of their abusive marketing practices: Forced black-outs, ridiculous release schedules, encryption, security devices, Blu-Ray keys, pricing policies, forced previews, inappropriate advertising to minors, exclusive deals, you name it. This industry deserves our collective ire. They just don't get it. As a matter of fact, their practices seem calculated to make us HATE them. It's almost as if they want people to illegally download their content...</rant>

After I cooled down a bit, I went online trying to find the guilty culprits who'd just ruined my evening. While I could find any info that would help me pin the blame where it truly belonged (I suspect 'Focus Features/NBC Universal' studios), I did find a couple tips about skipping the previews. Apparently (according to numerous websites/sources), you can try a couple of techniques I hadn't tried. Press 'Stop' twice, followed by 'Play'. Or, press 'Stop' three times, followed by 'Play'. I'm not sure this would have worked on the disc in question. Pressing 'Stop' once didn't work. I may have mashed the button numerous times, but I can't remember at the moment. Those particular memories are shrouded by a veil of hate and disgust, which prevents me from clearly recalling the specific details. I'll try these techniques the next time I'm subjected to forced previews.
<http://www.hackingnetflix.com/2010/04/how-to-skip-to-the-trailers-commercials-on-dvds-and-bluray-discs.html>
<https://www.robsworld.org/whatsnew/wn2009/wn2009_jul.html#homeentertainmentcenter>
<http://villing.com/articles/advertising/unskippable-dvd-previews/>
<http://trailers.apple.com/trailers/>

What to do about that crappy Seagate BlackArmor 110 NAS:
Back in July of 2010, I purchased a new hard drive. I purchased this drive as a replacement for a hard drive attached to my router. I had a Western Digital (500GB) hard drive attached to my Time Capsule. The drive was attached via USB, and it had some problems staying connected to the network (it still does). USB isn't the best choice for a Network Attached Storage (NAS) device. I was using the WD drive as a NAS, but it wasn't performing very well in that role. I decided to upgrade to a drive with Ethernet connectivity.

I chose a Seagate BlackArmor 110 NAS to fill the role - as a NAS device. As previously mentioned, it connects via Ethernet (with max connection speed of 1GB), and the drive has a speed of 7200rpm; making it quite snappy as a server/storage device. Way faster than USB, but nowhere near that 'theoretical' speed of 1GB. It also has two USB 2.0 ports, so you can connect other devices (hook up a printer for shared printing, or another hard drive for server backup). In addition to it's storage capabilities. The drive came with some software and server capabilities. Unfortunately, it didn't have any AFP support, and the drive came preformatted in FAT32 windows disk format. I would have preferred the Mac's HFS+ or even ZFS.

I was using it to serve up files on my local network, and it worked fine for a while. The SMB connection worked fine at first. It even allowed remote access (using a web based interface). Using the web based management software, I was even able to set up daily back-ups using the WD drive; which I connected to the NAS via USB. I moved all my iTunes files over to this server, and I added many videos, photos, and text files. Adding this drive bumped up my storage capacity to a total of 4.28TB! This particular drive received quite a few positive reviews, and I was happy with it until...

<rant>Less than six months later, the drive had stopped serving up shares. it had become a crippled drive. I couldn't mount any of the shares to my desktop using bonjour, SMB or CIFS. When I mounted shares using NFS, I could see the data, but I couldn't move, delete or affect the data. While I was initially very happy with the device, I was quite disappointed with the customer support. I did everything I could think of to get the device working again, a friend with a Windows machine even helped me with a factory reset, restoring the drive to it's initial configuration state. When I turned to Seagate for support, they were less than helpful. While they initially answered my email requests for support (a few exchanges of email towards the end of Nov, beginning of Dec, 2010), they eventually claimed "At this time neither e-mail or chat support is offered for Black Armor 440/420/220/110 NAS units for issues like this." I don't get it, they initially engaged in some half-hearted attempts to troubleshoot this drive via email, but eventually referred me to telephone support - Which of course 'Costs Money'. $14.99 per incident. It's a small price, but that's not the point. Due to my schedule (at the time), I couldn't manage telephone support.

I struggled with the drive for weeks. Eventually, I came to suspect that the problem was due to Apple software changes/updates, something which changed the SMB protocol. I thought there had been some changes to my OS which adversely affected my ability to properly connect to SMB shares. I wasn't the only one having issues with SMB connectivity (see the links below). Thankfully there were a few people helping me troubleshoot the issue. I even posted my problem on Apple's discussion boards, filed a BUG report (with Apple), and sought help from the 'Samba' developers community. One individual was particularly helpful. William Brown of Adelaide University in Australia was the one who held my hand to guide me through the mysterious maze of NAS. After numerous email exchanges, hours of troubleshooting, and countless attempts to get my drive back in ship shape, we finally came upon some success.

I was able to mount the shares (to my desktop) using NFS (using manual unix command line commands). I was even able to drag and drop files across the network. So, while the thing was working, the solution was sub-optimal - It wouldn't automount, and every time I rebooted or logged out, I had to manually remount the share and turn spotlight indexing back on. Eventually, I purchased a new hard drive (a Buffalo Technology LinkStation Pro Duo 4 TB (2 x 2 TB) RAID Network Attached Storage LS-WV4.0TL/R1 (Black)) to act as my NAS. This week (9 Dec, 2011), Apple finally got back to me with the results of their troubleshooting. What did Apple have to say about the bug report that I filed? "Engineering has determined that this issue originates with the samba software you are using. The samba software on that box is broken, and you need to update it. We are closing this bug since our engineers are aware of the issue and will continue to track it." O.k. That's kind of slim on details, and it really doesn't help. I've done everything I could to update the software on that unit. It simply refused any update I tried to feed it. I tried, a friend tried. We tried updating it using the Mac OS, restored it to the factory default condition and tried to update the software using Windows. It still wouldn't update. It was/is a brick. I can't do much of anything with it.

Seagate disaster update: As of January, 2012, the Seagate Drive remains a brick. I loaned it to a friend thinking he might get some use out of it. He never tried to integrate it into his network and eventually returned it without so much as powering it on. When I got it back (2nd week of Jan, 2012), I once again tried to get the thing working. I connected it to my network, and my network recognized it as an IP assigned device. At first I couldn't get the 'Black Armor Discovery' software to work under Lion (Mac OS 10.7.2), so I had to download a new version of the device's discovery software. After the new discovery software recognized the device, I clicked on the 'webpage configuration' button. Unfortunately, I couldn't configure the drive at all. I couldn't access the web interface, and the following error was displayed: "XML error: no wixnas object found!"

After reading through numerous forum entries, It seems apparent that the drive is dead. The controller software is toast, and nothing I do will restore the OS on the drive. The worst part is the fact that Seagate doesn't provide any 'factory reset' software for Mac users, so I can't even attempt a factory reset. I couldn't get the drive to mount any shares to my network, and I couldn't contact the drive using SMB or NFS. I even tried 'resetting' the drive using the hardware reset button. I pressed the reset button on the bottom of the drive; waited for the drive to reboot, then attempted to reconnect it to my network. Once again I 'discovered' the drive using the 'Black Armor Discovery' software. Unfortunately, nothing I did would allow me to see the attached drive.

Eventually, I called Seagate warranty service. Despite the fifteen minute wait to speak to a warranty rep, I already had a 'case' number from my previous efforts to get this drive working (and that was no fun - see above); so that sped things up ever so slightly. After explaining my sad story, the customer rep agreed to issue a return authorization. After an initial attempt to perform a 'self' return option (I couldn't find/buy an anti-static bag, and the only package of foam packing material I could find cost ~$20.00), I opted to have Seagate send me a replacement drive and a package in order to return the defective unit. That cost my $9.95, and now I'm waiting for Seagate to send me a new hard drive and shipping materials to return the bad drive. I'll post another update after I receive the replacement drive.

The bottom line lesson? In my opinion; Mac users should never purchase or use Seagate drives. The software doesn't work properly on Macs (despite their claims to the contrary), and their warranty support is less than helpful.</rant>
<http://forums.seagate.com/t5/BlackArmor-NAS-Network-Storage/NAS-220-XML-error-no-wixnas-object-found/td-p/82190>
<http://discussions.apple.com/message.jspa?messageID=11861795>
<http://discussions.apple.com/thread.jspa?messageID=12766940>
<http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Network_File_System_(protocol)>
<https://www.robsworld.org/blackarmorupdate.png>
<https://www.robsworld.org/mycomputer.html>

January 21, 2012

Case Sensitivity people - Get a Clue!
<rant>Another example of how case sensitivity is a very important and often overlooked aspect of modern programming. Since changing my boot drive to a case sensitive volume, I've encountered numerous instances and examples where sloppy coding / programming has resulted in an inability to run, launch or execute programs and code. What is case sensitivity, and why does it matter? Well - First of all, I don't claim to know much about coding, but I'll do my best to explain a rather complex issue in what I hope will be simple terms...

Case sensitivity in programming is similar to case sensitivity in written language. There's a difference between upper-case letters and lower-case letters. Sometimes the difference is trivial, and sometimes it can make a huge difference. Take for example, the following case: us vs US - In this case, one can see that the word 'us' (multiple people) is clearly different than the abbreviation US - the United States. In many computer and scripting languages, these case differences make a difference, while some operating systems don't care about the case used by a program. Case Sensitive files systems allow users to save, store, and refer to programs, code and files while respecting case sensitivity. Many computers have been using case sensitive file systems since the late 80s. Case sensitive file systems are fully supported on all Unix/Linux, Mac and even Windows operating systems.

Unfortunately, the Windows file system didn't always support case sensitivity (they started supporting it with Windows NT (that was back in 1993)), and some software developers (Adobe is one of them) refuse to update their code to make it case sensitive. Making code case sensitive is not a difficult chore, but it does require some time to check for errors and change the case sensitivity (i.e. change MYFILENAME.DAT to MyFileName.dat) to correct or account for errors that might occur on case sensitive systems.

Another example of why case sensitivity matters occurred to me this weekend. While I was trying to update some maps for my Garmin Nuvi. I bought a new Garmin device lately, and I went to update the maps on that device. Updating the maps required a trip to the Garmin web site, and the use of a browser 'Plug-in'. I made it to the web page without any problems, but then I had to use the plug-in. For some reason, the plug-in wasn't working. My browser wasn't able to tell the website which Garmin device(s) I owned, and I couldn't update the maps using the plug-in. The web page reported that I needed to update my Garmin Communicator plugin. O.k. It's been a while since I updated any maps, and my plugin could easily be out of date.

I downloaded and installed the new plugin. Or so I thought... I checked the proper directory, the old plugin was still there. I downloaded and installed the plugin manually. That didn't work. I tried re-installing the old plugin. That didn't work. I downloaded another copy, manually unzipped the plugin, manually installed it. I did everything I could to get that plugin working. Finally, I turned to the 'nets and started doing some searches. I immediately found hundreds of reports where Mac users were having problems with this latest plugin. For some reason, there were hundreds of Mac users who couldn't get the plugin to work. At the same time, there were numerous replies and reports of users with identical system configurations who weren't having any problems.

That's when I noticed the name of the plugin... GarminGPSControl.plugin - That's when it hit me - I'll bet this is some sort of Case Sensitivity issue. I then refocused my searches and soon discovered the real cause of the plugin problem - Would you like to guess? If you guessed that it must be a case sensitivity issue, then you guessed correctly. Case Sensitivity people - It make a huge difference. If you're going to use a case sensitive coding program or scripting, then you'd better make damn certain that you follow the case sensitivity requirements for that language. I found forums that confirmed the case sensitivity problem, and a link to a patched plugin; named 'GarminGpsControl.plugin' Oh my god, it was that simple? The name of the plugin wasn't following case sensitive coding conventions! Yup. I downloaded and installed the patched version, and suddenly, the plugin worked. I was once again able to update my maps, and communicate with the Garmin website.

GarminGPSControl.plugin ≠ GarminGpsControl.plugin

Since my problems with the Garmin Communicator plugin (the 20th of Jan, 2012) began, Garmin has released an update to the Communicator plugin. After downloading the newest Mac version. I took care to dissect the 'Install Communicator Plugin 4.0.1.mpkg' installer package from this latest update. I wanted to be sure I wasn't installing another case insensitive plugin over the top of the 'patch' I'd just installed. After drilling down through the layers of this installer (Using the 'show package contents' command), I finally found the actual plugin - Named 'GarminGpsControl.plugin'. Due to the fact that the plugin had proper case in it's name, I 'assumed' the plugin complied with proper case sensitivity rules. Assuming is sometimes risky business, so I made a backup of the patched 3.0.1.0 plugin. Then I ran the installer for this update. Afterwards, Safari restarted, and I navigated to the Garmin plugin test page: <http://www.garmin.com/products/communicator/test/>

Guess what? The new plugin 'GarminGpsControl.plugin' (version 4.0.1.0) works fine. No case sensitivity issues/problems. This isn't just a Windows vs Mac issue. Or a Windows vs Linux issue. This is a rather simple issue. If you're a programer, scripter, or coder, make sure you adhere to case sensitivity rules when you're working on modern computing platforms... i.e. Anything built after the mid 90s. Case sensitivity is an important issue affecting all cross-platform coding and scripting. Stop torturing the end users with your sloppy coding, or disdain for a coding 'fact of life'.</rant>
<http://www.codinghorror.com/blog/2005/12/the-case-for-case-insensitivity.html>
<https://forums.garmin.com/showthread.php?t=21888>
<http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Case_sensitivity>
<https://forums.garmin.com/showpost.php?p=115537&postcount=20>
<http://developer.garmin.com/apps/CommunicatorPlugin/3010/>
<http://www.garmin.com/products/communicator/test/>

Time to get a new Garmin:
<rave>Back in 2007, Kin and I purchased our first GPS navigation unit. That portable unit fits in the palm of your hand, and it comes with a windshield mounting kit, FM traffic update antenna (the traffic updates are now free!), MP3 player, SD card slot (for display of photos), and travel guides. In my opinion, the portable GPS is the best way to go. You can move it from one vehicle to another, use it in a rental (don't pay 'their' price for GPS), use it in the house, take it on vacation, hiking, biking, boating, anywhere you go. If you get the in-dash built in kind, you're stuck. You can't yank it out of the dash, it's gone when you sell the vehicle. You can't take it hiking, biking, or move it to another vehicle. Oh yeah, and then there's the problem of updates. Who's going to update the maps? Your dealership? Right, can you imagine how much that might cost? Anyway - In my opinion, a portable GPS is the way to go.</rave>

Our Garmin Nüvi 350 was an awesome purchase. Kim and I used it in many of our vehicles. The Nüvi 350 was Made by Garmin (discontinued in July of 2008, but still available on Amazon for appx $45.00), and it's still working - nearly 5 years later. Unfortunately, it's starting to show it's age. Scratched up and causing some network issues as it disconnects from the network on occasion, this device is ready to take some time off. Needing (more like wanting) a new GPS, I stopped at my 'Consumer Reports - Buying Guide 2012' (The magazine is well worth the subscription) to get some idea of what to look for. There are way to many devices, features and makers to start from scratch. I started with the manufacturer. Garmin gets most of the top marks, it's a brand I like, I'm familiar with, and it's software is compatible with my Mac. With that settled I had to sort through the remaining features in order to narrow it down some more... Well - The 350 only has a 3.5" diagonal display, and I've had some difficulty reading it. O.k. a bigger screen. Let's go bigger, but not so big that it obscures my vision or becomes too heavy for a suction cup... O.k. Let's get a 5" display. Now for the other features - We definitely want a GPS that calls out the actual street names. I can't stand it when the old GPS says "Turn left in 1.8 miles" What street is it talking about? Wouldn't it be nice if it said "Turn left on Colfax in 1.8 miles"? How about some lane assist? Navigating an unfamiliar urban landscape is tough enough with a GPS; when you end up in a complex interchange, it's easy to make a wrong turn - Hopefully some lane assist will help with that. Other features we wanted: Traffic updates, alternate (detour) routing, lifetime maps, speed limit display - I'm so tired of stretches of highway where there's no signs for miles! What the hell is the speed limit? O.k. Those are the must haves; now it's off to the 'nets to do some comparisons.

I went straight to a 'GPS feature comparison' link, found some Garmin models, and sorted by the 5" feature. That's the main thing for me. After a bit of cross-indexing and comparisons, I narrowed it down. We didn't need or want any blue-tooth phone connect capability. My phone is already allows me to make hands free calls. I don't need to route it through my Garmin, thank you. We don't need voice command either. I'll program the unit before I start driving. So this feature is for those people who can't pull over or pick their destination before they start driving? Give me a break. It didn't take long to find our GPS. In no time at all, I'd narrowed the search down to a couple of units. Skip that 2012 model, it's definitely going to cost more - for no particular reason! That left one option - The Garmin Nuvi 1450 - Throw in the 'Lifetime' Maps and Traffic (outstanding features) and you've got it. The Garmin Nuvi 1450LMT. The 'Lifetime' maps and traffic features are awesome. No need to pay extra for these features, now they're included in the cost of the device - at a considerably reduced cost!

How much does this new device cost? Well, if you check the Garmin web site, they'll try to tell you that the suggested retail price is $239.99, but that's a year old model. Well, like flat scree televisions, point and shoot cameras and ink jet printers, GPS devices have revision cycles in the range of a few months. That's right, new models are released constantly. If you wait one year, you can find some excellent deals. This outstanding device (number 7 in that Consumer Reports guide) is a steal at $139.98. The lifetime traffic and maps features are really awesome. The lifetime maps feature (or a paid lifetime subscription) gives you access to the newest map information as soon as new content is available. You can download the new data to your device (a single Garmin GPS unit) four times per year. The new Garmin is up to date, and ready to go for that next big vacation, or just driving around downtown Denver. It's a Big city!
<http://www.garmin.com/us/maps/numaps_lifetime>
<http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/index.htm>
<https://www.robsworld.org/garmin_nuvi350.png>
<https://www.robsworld.org/nuvi1450_large.png>
<https://buy.garmin.com/shop/shop.do?pID=87481>
<https://buy.garmin.com/shop/shop.do?pID=31655>
<http://www8.garmin.com/updatemaps/>
<http://www8.garmin.com/traffic/>

Software favorites:
Another batch of beta updates for my favorite Graphics editor. GraphicConverter moves ever forward. As usual, developer has been busy updating this application. Here's seven more updates for a product that's always getting better. All the updates are free for those who own a license (for the most recent version). If you need a powerhouse converter, editor and browser for your graphics, grab a copy of GraphicConverter - You won't be disappointed.

GraphicConverter:
Thorsten Lemke (of Lemkesoft) completed work on at least seven additional updates over the past few week. I recently saw/downloaded the following updates: 7.6.1 (b398), 7.6.1 (b399), 7.6.1 (b403). GraphicConverter is an image converter and editor. A fantastic piece of shareware that is well worth the price (~$40.00). I use it to convert image formats into web standard formats, to create and edit image maps and other graphics. I've been singing GC's praises for many years now, and I'm not sure I would do without it. The best part about GC is it's author. Thorsten Lemke is completely committed to his customer base. Constantly and Continuously responding to customer recommendations and bug reports. GC is a dynamic, evolving, application. Always on the cutting edge, an absolute must in any web developers tool box. At a fraction of PhotoShop's cost, this photo editor puts a huge wrench in your toolbox.
<http://www.lemkesoft.com/content/162/new-functions-and-versions.html>

LinkedIn spam?
</rant>You just can't escape from this scourge of the internet era. The latest round of trouble with spammers involves LinkedIn. Personally, I don't like LinkedIn. I think that some of their policies stink - to say the least (see my Mar 6th, 2011 rant). This rant isn't about LinkedIn. This rant is about spammers who pretend to be LinkedIn. To be more precise, it's about spammers who want you to think their email came from another LinkedIn member.

On the 16th of Jan, 2012, I received another piece of spam disguised as a message from another LinkedIn member. I've never been a LinkedIn member, and I don't want LinkedIn sending me any messages - None. (see my Mar 6th, 2011 rant). I'm not entirely surprised by the fact that spammers want me to think they're another LinkedIn spammer. After all, everyone is on LinkedIn; right? (see my Mar 6th, 2011 rant). This particular forgery got me excited, agitated, irritated. I almost did the wrong thing. I almost clicked on the 'Adjust your message settings' link. Then I cooled down a little. As I said earlier. I've never been a LinkedIn member, and LinkedIn doesn't send me any messages (see my Mar 6th, 2011 rant). Armed with this information, I knew that the Subj: Stop spamming me! was designed to get a reaction.

I checked the raw source of the message, and imagine my surprise! The URLs in the message didn't refer to any LinkedIn sources. They pointed to a compromised website. Too bad for "Mother's Pride Kids" <http://www.malwareurl.com/listing.php?domain=motherspridekids.com>. The website has been compromised/taken over by hackers. It's been listed on numerous blacklists, has been known to host malware, and now I'm getting forged spam contain URLs which link to their website. By the time you read this, they (administrators of the 'motherspridekids.com' domain) may have cleaned up their act, but that won't stop the hackers and scammers. They'll find another computer, website, email account. One that doesn't have strong password protection or appropriate verification procedures. They'll be back again, to peddle their crap, their scams, their trojans and viruses, using someone else's computer, account, domain. So - The lesson? Once again "Don't click on links unless you know where they lead. If you'd like to check the status of a URL before you click on it, use the URL listed above.</rant>

The good news? My new hosting service (I moved all my domains in Dec, 2011) offers numerous ways to cut down on the amount of spam I've been receiving: Account and user level filtering, SpamAssassin block/black list filtering, domain keys, SPF filtering (not turned on), BoxTrapper (not turned on) and other methods. Given the header characteristics of this particular type of spam, I can easily block it at the server. The next time 'LinkedIn' comes knocking - my server will say "No thanks Spammer!"

If you ever need any help hunting down a spammer, don't hesitate to ask for my help. I'm willing and eager to help. Just drop me an email. I'd put the email address here, but this message is posted online, where spammers could scrape the email off my web page. Damn those spammers!
<http://www.malwareurl.com/listing.php?domain=motherspridekids.com>
<https://www.robsworld.org/disguisedaslinkedin.png>
<https://www.robsworld.org/index2.html#fightingspam>
<https://www.robsworld.org/whybother.html>

January 15, 2012

Updates to the Tollgate Crossing website:
I participate in some community focused events, but haven't found the time to serve on any boards, so I do what I can to help the people who live in my neighborhood. Volunteering with our local neighborhood watch, and supporting our community by maintaining the Tollgate Crossing website, mailing lists and online bulletin boards. The Tollgate Crossing website is focused on the Tollgate Crossing community, with a few links to the Neighborhood Watch website. Over the last month I've had considerable free time. As a result, I attended an HOA meeting and made several updates to the community website:

Bulletin Boards: A new feature / website - It's not linked directly through a header link, but I recently created a new website / feature for the residents of Tollgate Crossing. The new website is a series of online bulletin boards. A place where residents can discuss community related issues, share ideas, buy or sell items, etc. This bulletin board software is new to me, but I'll do my best to set up some categories and manage the forums.
- Bulletin board rules: As with the new Bulletin Boards, this new page isn't linked directly to the rest of the 'Tollgate Crossing' website. An essential feature. A precaution if you will. Just a reminder that everyone should act in a civilized manner. Hopefully I won't need to reference the 'rules' any time soon.
Welcome: The website's opener. A page containing an introduction to our community website. Here you'll find all the latest news and announcements. I rearranged the banners a bit - It's something I do to indicate a change in the content.
- I updated the banners for our next Home Owner's Association (14 Feb, 2012) meeting. This upcoming/particular meeting is the Annual members/election meeting. There are two vacancies on the board, and electing new members to these open seats will be the primary goal of the 14 Feb meeting. If you would like to run for the open seat, please contact the HOA management as soon as possible. Our HOA management has already distributed electronic copies of proxies for this election (In case you can't make it to the meeting in person). Additional proxies will be distributed by USPS. Don't forget to vote (in person or by proxy). If we don't get a quorum of 25% of the home owners in the vote, we'll have to re-accomplish the election - at our expense!
- I added a banner advertising a new feature/website I recently started up. I created a new 'Tollgate Crossing bulletin board' site for all our residents. The banner introduces the new site/feature.
- I added numerous links to the new feature/website. They're scattered all over the main / welcome page. Hopefully the word will get out. Hopefully people will find this new feature useful.
Events: A detailed listing of upcoming and recurring events in and around Tollgate Crossing. Here is more detailed information regarding some of the events you may have read about on the 'Welcome' page. It's also a place to look for long term/recurring events.
- I updated the information regarding our next Home Owner's Association (14 Feb, 2012) meeting. Don't forget to show up and vote at this annual members / elections meeting. If you can't make it, please give your proxy to someone who will be there.
- I updated a paragraph/some information regarding the recent website/mailing list migration. Tollgate Crossing is now hosted by a new company.
- I added a paragraph with details regarding the newest feature / website for residents of 'Tollgate Crossing'. Just in case you didn't know - I've created a series of 'Tollgate Crossing' bulletin boards. They're open for business, waiting for residents to start some conversations. Sign up today. It's free, helps enhance communication in our community and provides a perfect way to get info and stay up to date on all the recent happenings in Tollgate Crossing. If you'd like to help out by acting as a moderator, please let me know.
Info: A page of links, phone numbers, email addresses and other information pertinent to the residents/community of Tollgate Crossing.
- I updated email contacts for our Metro District and HOA managers. The Metro District management company underwent a recent merger, and as a result their email addresses changed. I don't know whether the old addresses still work, so I went ahead and updated all the contact info I could find. In the case of the HOA manager, I updated the contact information (email address and phone number (with extension number)) as a matter of policy. During our latest HOA meeting (10 Jan, 2012), one of the residents (not me) expressed extreme difficulty contacting our HOA manager. I've had the same problem and expressed my concerns regarding their preferred method of contacting our HOA manager. As a result of the numerous complaints I've heard, I decided to update the HOA managers contact information. I'm now providing direct contact information. If you have any problems contacting our HOA or Metro District managers, please let me know.

I updated links to, and posted updated Meeting Minutes from Metro District meetings. Added meeting minutes from the following date: 2011-09-27. If you'd like to read meeting minutes from 2010 or earlier, please contact me.

Site-wide changes: The website was migrated to a new hosting provider during December of 2011. If you notice any issues or problems, please let me know.
- I removed all the 'Made with a Mac' badges from all the pages. They really aren't necessary, and only serve as a distraction from the content of the site.
- I also updated the contact paragraphs at the bottom of every page. I hope to update these contact paragraphs one more time, but I have to conduct some spam related testing first.
- I updated numerous contact email addresses across the website. The Metro District management changed their email address, and I updated the contact address for our HOA manager.

Southeast Aurora Neighborhood Watch website:
I participate in some community focused events, but haven't found the time to serve on any boards, so I do what I can to help the people who live in my neighborhood. Volunteering with our local neighborhood watch, maintaining the Southeast Aurora Neighborhood Watch website and mailing lists. The South East Aurora Neighborhood Watch serves the residents of South East Aurora by providing information and close ties with the local Police Department in order to help keep the residents safe and neighborhoods crime free. Over the last month I've had considerable free time. As a result, I made a few updates to the Neighborhood Watch website.

Current: A web page dedicated to the most recent news, announcements and information.
- I posted a new announcement for our next Neighborhood Watch meeting. The SouthEast Aurora Neighborhood Watch is having a meeting on the 2nd of Feb, 2012, and everyone's invited. If you live in the SouthEast Aurora area, please let your friends know about the meeting. We hope to see you and all your neighbors at our next meeting.
- I removed an old article about the SouthEast Aurora Neighborhood Watch. The article concerned an article in the Aurora Sentinel. I also updated the Identity Theft article/presentation posted at our website.
Events: A listing of upcoming and recurring events in you Southeast Aurora Neighborhood. Events sponsored by or relevant to our Neighborhood Watch.
- I added a new paragraph about our next NW meeting. The date of our next meeting is 2 Feb, 2012. This meeting will be held at Fox Ridge Middle School. If you have an idea about topics to cover, please let our Head Area Coordinator (Judy Van Meter) know. See the Neighborhood Watch website for more details.
Site-wide changes: The website was migrated to a new hosting provider during December of 2011. If you notice any issues or problems, please let me know.
- I removed all the 'Made with a Mac' badges from all the pages. They really aren't necessary, and only serve as a distraction from the content of the site.
- I also updated the contact paragraphs at the bottom of every page. I hope to update these contact paragraphs one more time, but I have to conduct some spam related testing first.

Netflix Launches in U.K. & Ireland:
Recently (9 Jan, 2012), Netflix announced the arrival of Netflix in the United Kingdom and Ireland. The fine residents of these nations may now watch Netflix content through the 'Watch Instantly' streaming service. Using a variety of internet connected devices, residents of the U.K. and Ireland will enjoy tens of thousand of hours of great films and television 'programmes'. Streaming is available starting on the 9th of Jan, 2012. This raises the number of countries where Netflix is available to 47. With more than 20 million streaming members, Netflix really has captured the digital content delivery market in a way that assures them a very prosperous future. Netflix offers an unbeatable entertainment experience with many films and shows available in hi-definition and with Dolby® Digital Plus 5.1 sound. Why do I write these brief snippets about Netflix? Well, because I use their service, I love their service (despite a recent price increase and some less than desirable legal practices), and I'm convinced you would too. If you haven't given it a try yet, you really owe it to yourself. It's not for everyone, but it sure does work for me. My wife and I watch a lot of movies (and TV shows) over the course of a month. No one offers as many titles, available on so many devices, for as little as Netflix. The customer service is excellent, and the plans flexible enough to cover all the bases.
<http://netflix.mediaroom.com/index.php?s=43&item=434>
<http://www.netflix.com>

Software favorites:
Another batch of updates for my favorite software application. GraphicConverter moves ever forward. As usual, developer has been busy updating this application. Here's another batch of updates for a product that's always getting better. All the updates are free for those who own a license (for the most recent version). If you need a powerhouse converter, editor and browser for your graphics, grab a copy of GraphicConverter - You won't be disappointed. In addition to the GC update, I also downloaded updates for three of my favorite cataloging applications and one of the best code editing applications available for the Mac.

GraphicConverter:
Thorsten Lemke (of Lemkesoft) completed work on at least ten additional updates over the past week. I recently saw/downloaded the following updates: 7.6(b393), 7.6(b394), 7.6.1(b396). GraphicConverter is an image converter and editor. A fantastic piece of shareware that is well worth the price (~$40.00). I use it to convert image formats into web standard formats, to create and edit image maps and other graphics. I've been singing GC's praises for many years now, and I'm not sure I would do without it. The best part about GC is it's author. Thorsten Lemke is completely committed to his customer base. Constantly and Continuously responding to customer recommendations and bug reports. GC is a dynamic, evolving, application. Always on the cutting edge, an absolute must in any web developers tool box. At a fraction of PhotoShop's cost, this photo editor puts a huge wrench in your toolbox.
<http://www.lemkesoft.com/content/162/new-functions-and-versions.html>

DVDPedia:
DVDPedia is a great little application for cataloging and displaying your movie collection, and I'm running version 5.0.2 It's list of features is impressive, and it keeps getting better with every update. The database is capable of generating statistics, you can keep track of multiple collections, you can easily add titles by typing the name of the movie or you can scan the barcode (using your iSight camera or a barcode reader) right off the movie box (it then searches the internet, and displays choices). It has customizable HTML export capabilities, a 'borrowed' feature with address book integration, the ability to play movies in full screen mode, and many more features which make an awesome addition to your software library. I use DVDpedia to generate HTML listings of my movies and movie reviews.

The 5.0 upgrade was a paid upgrade/new version of the software (The new version only runs on Intel architecture machines and it requires Leopard or better as an OS). This version has been over a year in the making with lots of changes big and small to make the programs even better. What's new? Lots of new search sites including Wikipedia, Freebase and Doghouse, the Pedias' own media server built by and for Pedia users. New custom fields for broader cataloging options: TV series for DVDpedia, comics for Bookpedia and board games for Gamepedia (I may have to buy a copy now) as well as new custom fields including dedicated date fields, check boxes and multi-value fields. A 10-star rating system with half-stars; click twice on a star to make it a half. Swipe gestures for the CoverFlow and Add/Edit window to move back and forth as well as pinch-to-zoom in the Grid view. A new filter feature for the Details view and Statistics to quickly find entries with that same value. And much, much more… Below are links to some of the pages I created using this software.
<https://www.robsworld.org/iphonemoviecollection/index.html>
<https://www.robsworld.org/mymovies/index.html>
<https://www.robsworld.org/reviews.html>
<http://www.bruji.com/version5.html>
<http://www.bruji.com/dvdpedia/>
<http://doghouse.bruji.com/>

CDPedia:
CDPedia is a great little application for cataloging and displaying your music collection, and I'm running version 5.0.2 It's list of features is impressive, and it keeps getting better with every update. The database is capable of generating statistics, you can keep track of multiple collections, you can easily add titles by typing the name of the artist, album, or track. You can scan the barcode (using your iSight camera or a barcode reader) right off a jewel case (it then searches the internet, and displays choices), or you can import lists of music from iTunes. It has customizable HTML export capabilities, a 'borrowed' feature with address book integration, and many more features which make an awesome addition to your software library. I use CDPedia to generate HTML listings of my music.

The 5.0 upgrade was a paid upgrade/new version of the software (The new version only runs on Intel architecture machines and it requires Leopard or better as an OS). This version has been over a year in the making with lots of changes big and small to make the programs even better. What's new? Lots of new search sites including Wikipedia, Freebase and Doghouse, the Pedias' own media server built by and for Pedia users. New custom fields for broader cataloging options: TV series for DVDpedia, comics for Bookpedia and board games for Gamepedia (I may have to buy a copy now) as well as new custom fields including dedicated date fields, check boxes and multi-value fields. A 10-star rating system with half-stars; click twice on a star to make it a half. Swipe gestures for the CoverFlow and Add/Edit window to move back and forth as well as pinch-to-zoom in the Grid view. A new filter feature for the Details view and Statistics to quickly find entries with that same value. And much, much more… Below are links to some of the pages I created using this software.
<https://www.robsworld.org/iphonemusiccollection/index.html>
<https://www.robsworld.org/mymusic/index.html>
<http://www.bruji.com/version5.html>
<http://www.bruji.com/cdpedia/>
<http://doghouse.bruji.com/>

Bookpedia:
Bookpedia is a great little application for cataloging and displaying your book collection(s), and I'm running version 5.0.2. It's list of features is impressive, and it keeps getting better with every update. The database is capable of generating statistics, you can keep track of multiple collections, you can easily add titles by typing the name of the author, book, or isbn number. You can scan the barcode (using your iSight camera or a barcode reader) right off the book cover (the application searches the internet, and displays choices). It has customizable HTML export capabilities, a borrowed feature with address book integration, and many more features which make an awesome addition to your software library. I use Bookpedia to generate an HTML listing of my favorite books.

The 5.0 upgrade was a paid upgrade/new version of the software (The new version only runs on Intel architecture machines and it requires Leopard or better as an OS). This version has been over a year in the making with lots of changes big and small to make the programs even better. What's new? Lots of new search sites including Wikipedia, Freebase and Doghouse, the Pedias' own media server built by and for Pedia users. New custom fields for broader cataloging options: TV series for DVDpedia, comics for Bookpedia and board games for Gamepedia (I may have to buy a copy now) as well as new custom fields including dedicated date fields, check boxes and multi-value fields. A 10-star rating system with half-stars; click twice on a star to make it a half. Swipe gestures for the CoverFlow and Add/Edit window to move back and forth as well as pinch-to-zoom in the Grid view. A new filter feature for the Details view and Statistics to quickly find entries with that same value. And much, much more… Below are links to some of the pages I created using this software.
<https://www.robsworld.org/books.html>
<http://www.bruji.com/version5.html>
<http://www.bruji.com/bookpedia/>
<http://doghouse.bruji.com/>

BBEdit:
This gem was missing from my 'Favs' page for some time. I removed it back in May of 2007. I had decided that Dreamweaver met all my needs. Things have changed. Due to problems with Adobe products (in general), I've decided it's time to bring BBEdit back into the fold. I purchased a new version of BBEdit in October of 2011 (through the Mac 'App Store'). At a discounted introductory price of ~$40; one thing has changed - They've lowered the price to a more manageable target. The full version (through the App Store/and their online store) is only ~$50.00. That's a lot better than their historical pricing of more than $100.00 for the full version. Other notable changes (made to comply with App Store requirements). Command line capability is not included in the version purchased through the App Store. You can download and add that capability outside the App Store. Additionally, the ability to save changes to files that you don't own has been removed from the App Store version. Advanced users can also work around this limitation. In my opinion, the minor changes are well worth the more than 100 new features coupled with the amazing drop in price!

BBEdit is a high-performance HTML and text editor for the Macintosh, and I'm running version 10.1.1. It's designed and crafted for the editing, searching, transformation, and manipulation of text and code (several different flavors of code/languages). BBEdit provides a vast array of general-purpose features which are useful for a wide variety of tasks, and includes many special purpose features which have been specifically developed in response to the needs of Web authors and software developers. It's an absolute must for any HTML author, code developers and hardcore Mac enthusiasts. My needs for BBEdit no longer revolve around HTML editing. While I still use BBEdit for some of my HTML coding, I primarily use it for plaintext editing. It's ability to search, find, compare, replace text and handle documents is simply unparalleled.
<http://www.barebones.com/support/bbedit/updates.html>
<http://www.barebones.com/products/bbedit/>

With these software updates, I've updated my Software Favorites page. It's primarily dedicated to web publishing for the Mac user. Not meant for the professional, It's my hope that home users and hobbyists will find it useful. It's a listing of applications that I find useful in publishing my web pages.
<https://www.robsworld.org/myfavs.html>

January 8, 2012

Another example of how Adobe sucks!
<rant>While I must admit that Adobe makes some very useful products, their support and coding sucks. How can a company that makes these really useful and technically precise tools, fail so miserably when it comes to support and coding control? After a recent run in with Adobe Acrobat Reader, I've come to the conclusion - 'Adobe Sucks'. That pretty much sums it up. They're great at taking great products which once belonged to other companies and making those products suck. They're great at neglecting their customers, failing to update actually coding discrepancies, and allowing the release of crappy code.

With that said, I have some disappointing news... Adobe (the developers of Dreamweaver, PhotoShop, Acrobat and many other products) has let me down again. The first time I came to curse their name was when I discovered that Dreamweaver CS5 wouldn't run/install properly on a case sensitive disk/file system. That's when I originally realized what a mess their code was. The case sensitivity issue cropped up again when I tried to print a pdf document. A friend sent me a pdf document. He had completed a form using Adobe's Acrobat product, and emailed the completed form to me. I couldn't save the completed form, because that would just be wrong. Why should anyone be able to save this form? After all, I hadn't paid for the rights to do that! O.k. what about printing the form, surely I should be able to do that right? No - Wrong!

My copy of Adobe Reader (10.1.1 for the Mac OS) would not let me print the form. No error message popped-up, no restriction was apparent. Clicking the print button simply generated no response from the software. Selecting print from the file menu had the same negative response. No printing for you! That just didn't seem right. So I opened the document in Apple's 'Preview' application. While Preview allowed me to print a copy of the document, the fonts were all messed up... Why would Adobe prevent me from printing the document? Do they honestly expect me to just stare at the document on my computer monitor? Do they realize I could make a screen capture and print that? Perhaps they just want me to be miserable.

I went on the 'nets and did some searching. I tried to figure out why I couldn't print my document. It didn't take long. I soon figured out why the printing problem was plaguing my pdf... It's because Adobe won't update their products to work on computers using 'Case-Sensitive' file systems. Case Sensitive files systems allow users to save, store, and refer to programs, code and files while respecting case sensitivity. Many computers have been using case sensitive file systems since the late 80s. Case sensitive file systems are fully supported on all Unix/Linux, Mac and even Windows operating systems.

Unfortunately, the Windows file system didn't always support case sensitivity (they started supporting it with Windows NT (that was back in 1993), and some software developers (Adobe is one of them) refuse to update their code to make it case sensitive. Making code case sensitive is not a difficult chore, but it does require some time to change the case sensitivity (i.e. change MYFILENAME.DAT to MyFileName.dat). Until Adobe lets go of the old DOS file system mind set, these programs (Does this problem actually affect al of Adobe's products?) will not run properly.

I have two copies of Adobe Reader on my Mac. One copy is installed on my Lion (Mac OS 10.7) partition. That OS installation is installed on a Case Sensitive formatted drive. As a result, that copy of Adobe Reader doesn't work properly (So far I've noticed that it won't print). My other copy of Adobe Reader is installed on my Snow Leopard (Mac OS 10.6) partition. That OS installation is installed on a Case Insensitive formatted drive. As a result, that copy of Adobe Reader (and other Adobe products) works properly. I can use it to print.

So now I have two applications (that I know of) that won't work on my case-sensitive volume? Dreamweaver CS5 and Acrobat Reader. The original design of these products didn't include case sensitivity in it's library components, and that legacy decision has been carried forward into the latest versions of the software. Macs didn't use case-sensitivity back when these programs were initially released (in the early 90s). They didn't implement case sensitivity at that time, and their products were ported to Windows a couple of years after releasing the Mac versions. In order to maintain an unchanged code base and compatibility with the Windows operating systems, Macromedia and Adobe chose not to implement case sensitivity. As a result, to this day Dreamweaver and Acrobat Reader fail to execute/launch properly on case sensitive volumes.

Why do these applications fail? When application resources look for files with a different case name than the case of the actual file (or the path to its location) the application crashes or fails to launch with error messages. For example, if an application is looking for a resource with a file path of: /frameworks/Xerces.framework/Versions/A/Xerces and the resource is actually located at: /frameworks/Xerces.framework/versions/a/xerces then the application will fail to launch or function. This is an easily correctable programing problem. Someone needs to re-code the calls for dynamic libraries and resources. The developers/programmers don't need to do very much in order to make the software work on a case sensitive volume, all they need to do is correct the resource calls so that they have the proper case. It is possible to manually fix the problem by renaming all the affected resources. I could manually create case appropriate symbolic links to all the affected resources, but that's not my job! It's Adobe's!

As a result of this issue (which is ENTIRELY Adobe's fault and responsibility to fix), I must caution every Mac user who's considering a purchase of Dreamweaver CS5 or Adobe Acrobat/Reader. These applications are NOT compatible with standard Lion installations (or any volume/file system that uses case sensitivity). There are many reasons to format your drive as a case-sensitive volume, and Adobe's refusal to update their code libraries in order to correct case-sensitivity errors is just another sign of a company that's failing their customer base.</rant>
<http://a-fink.blogspot.com/2010/06/adobe-and-case-sensitive-filesystems.html>
<http://whydoeseverythingsuck.com/2009/09/is-adobe-falling-apart.html>
<http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adobe_Dreamweaver>
<http://www.adobe.com/products/dreamweaver/>
<http://dearadobe.com/top_rated.php>

D&D updates:
Our meeting on the 10th of Dec, 2011 marks the party's return to Whillip, and the first chapter in their next adventure. With our heroes return, there are sure to be many administrative tasks and chores to attend to; but I'll do my best to keep it lively and keep it moving. Stay tuned for the exciting and continuing adventures of the H.A.L.L.O.W.ed Knights.

3rd Edition Campaign:
I updated the date of our next meeting - Our next meeting will take place on the 7th of January, 2012. That's tonight. The holidays are over and I'm sure everyone is eager to get the show on the road. Ready to level up, power up, and research the next adventure. Our last meeting was one person short, but I'm pretty sure everyone will attend tonight's meeting. Who knows, maybe I'll finally be able to update our 'group photo'. The last time I did that was nearly a year ago. The "3eCampaign" page is the first stop for information on the campaign that I'm currently running. Here you'll find information regarding our next meeting, some notes, and an index of web pages and documents that are important to our campaign. You can also check out the latest group photo.
<https://www.robsworld.org/3ecampaign.html>

The Journal index:
Here is the index for all the party's journal entries. Each time the party starts a new adventure, I start a new journal page - With the end of their 8th adventure, I updated the content of this page. As the new adventure begins, a new journal page is created, and a link is posted on this index page. If you'd like to read about some of party's previous adventures, this is the page you'll want to visit.
<https://www.robsworld.org/ajournal.html>

The Adventurers journal:
The tale of our adventurers. A series of journal entries from various party members. This document contains details of their encounters. Victory, defeat, desire and glory. Here is the tale of The H.A.L.L.O.W.ed Knights, a group of adventurers who set forth from Whillip, seeking fame, fortune and the defeat of evil in these lands.

Thanks to some input from Lee, I was once again able to post an update for our meeting on the 10th of December, 2011 . The party is currently back in Whillip. Having completed a recent adventure, they're currently resting, recuperating and training for their next adventure. Check out the details in our 10 Dec 2011 journal entry. I also finalized and closed out the old journal.
<https://www.robsworld.org/ajournal09.html#dec10_2011>
<https://www.robsworld.org/ajournal08.html#nov12_2011>

Who's Who?:
I updated the "Who's Who?" page; updating some broken links to Gregor and Jusarian. I also entered a new entry for Conrad Heider, a priest at the church of Tempus. The "Who's Who?" page is a listing of characters, both player characters and non-player characters.
<https://www.robsworld.org/3ewhoswho.html>

Where Now?:
With the party preparing to embark on a new adventure, I find myself updating some geographic/location links. This week I updated some links for various places around the realms. Including links to the party's Inn. I also updated a 'Legally speaking' paragraph at the bottom of the page. Where Now?" is a listing of various places the party has visited or researched.
<https://www.robsworld.org/wherenow.html>

These updates follow our meetings on the 10th of Dec, 2011; our last meeting of 2011. You can keep up to date with our adventures by continuing to visit "Rob's World!" for all the latest campaign info. If you're enjoying the story of our adventurers, I encourage you to write me and let us know. Perhaps you've got an idea you'd like to share, some criticism or praise. Either way, it'll be earnestly appreciated.
<https://www.robsworld.org/3ecampaign.html>

Wacky Winter Weather!
The weather this year has been a bit wacky. At least it seems so in this corner of Colorado. On the 4th of January, 2012, we had some unseasonably warm weather. The temperatures got up into the high 50s. On the 5th it was even warmer. As a matter of fact, so warm it felt like summer. With the temperature reaching the high 60s (68 according to the Volvo's thermometer) we set record highs for this time of year. The snow was melting so fast it seemed as if there might be flooding. What the heck? I thought it was winter. The warm weather didn't last too long though. On Saturday (the 7th of Jan, 2012), the temps dropped down into the freezing range, and we had snow. On Saturday we got approximately 1.5 inches of the white fluffy stuff. Talk about some wacky weather! What's your weather been like this year? Is it just as weird where you live?
<http://www.accuweather.com/en/weather-news/recordshattering-warmth-in-the/59928>

Software favorites:
Another batch of beta updates for my favorite Graphics editor. GraphicConverter moves ever forward. As usual, developer has been busy updating this application. Here's twenty more updates for a product that's always getting better. All the updates are free for those who own a license (for the most recent version). If you need a powerhouse converter, editor and browser for your graphics, grab a copy of GraphicConverter - You won't be disappointed.

GraphicConverter:
Thorsten Lemke (of Lemkesoft) completed work on at least twenty additional updates over the past few weeks. I recently saw/downloaded the following updates: 7.5.1 (b381) and 7.6 (b385). GraphicConverter is an image converter and editor. A fantastic piece of shareware that is well worth the price (~$40.00). I use it to convert image formats into web standard formats, to create and edit image maps and other graphics. I've been singing GC's praises for many years now, and I'm not sure I would do without it. The best part about GC is it's author. Thorsten Lemke is completely committed to his customer base. Constantly and Continuously responding to customer recommendations and bug reports. GC is a dynamic, evolving, application. Always on the cutting edge, an absolute must in any web developers tool box. At a fraction of PhotoShop's cost, this photo editor puts a huge wrench in your toolbox.
<http://www.lemkesoft.com/content/162/new-functions-and-versions.html>

Apple TV problems (round four):
<rant>On the 17th of November, 2011, Apple released an Apple TV (2nd generation) Software Update 4.4.3; and I've had nothing but problems since. In October of 2010, I bought one of the new (2nd Generation) Apple TVs. After some initial problems integrating it into my network (One old Apple TV, one new Apple TV, one malfunctioning Network Attached Server, and one abused light switch!), that new AppleTV was running like a champ in our living room. ...until Software update 4.4.3.

This new software update (Apple TV Software Update 4.4.3) came shortly after a series of iOS 5.0 updates. This particular update brought Netflix support to viewers in Mexico and addressed an audio output issue. While this software update was released on the 17th of November, I didn't notice it until the 1st of Dec, 2011. Kim and I were on vacation, and we didn't get back until the 28th of Nov. Since the AppleTV checks once a week, I didn't notice the update until the 1st of Dec. After installing the update I began experiencing some major issues (when it comes to streaming). There are several titles in my Watch Instantly queue that I simply couldn't watch. The list of affected title may seem relatively small - unless you're the trying to watch your favorite episode of: Star Trek The Next Generation, Star Trek Enterprise, South Park, others? These titles were in my 'recently watched' queue before the update, but there were other titles as well (two movies and a few television shows), and those titles are unaffected. I can watch the titles with no problems on my Roku, my iPad 2, my iPhone, my BluRay player, even my computer.

After some initial troubleshooting efforts, I called Netflix and spoke with a technician/customer service rep. We went through a series of troubleshooting steps in an effort to fix the problems. Unfortunately, we couldn't get it fixed. Any time I tried to playback some specific titles, I was thwarted with the following error: "Netflix is currently unavailable. Try again later. Go to http://www.netflix.com/support for more information." The Netflix technician provided all the/my details to their AppleTV troubleshooting team, and I sincerely hope they find the cause and a solution for this odd problem. In the mean time... I thought I found a workaround... I did some searches on the internet, and I found reports of similar problems. In some cases the problem was resolved by changing the DNS servers used by the affected AppleTV. So, I fired up the AppleTV. Navigated to the 'General –> Network settings –> Configure' options on my Apple TV. I then selected 'Manual' and proceeded to change the DNS settings from 10.0.1.1 (the default used in my DHCP automatic configuration). After moving past the IP and Subnet settings (click "Done" for each) I changed the DNS to google's DNS IP address: 8.8.8.8.

Unfortunately, as of 18 Dec, this 'solution' seemed to be causing just as many problems as the original issue. After less than three days, the AppleTV was once again failing to connect for Netflix streaming. I could stream Netflix on my other devices, and the AppleTV had no problems accessing YouTube and other internet streamed content... I checked the 'Nets again - This time I found articles which indicated that the Google DNS servers aren't a good choice for the AppleTV. Apparently, they don't cache local domain routing paths in quite the same way as your local ISP. Packet routing also takes a bit longer than normal, this all amounts to delays in streaming and could result in the AppleTV not being able to initiate a Netflix stream. That's what happened to me. Once again, I found myself unable to stream Netflix content. I switched the DNS settings back to automatic, allowing the AppleTV to use the same DNS as my router.

That fixed everything for a couple of days. Everything was working properly on the 29th. I was able to initiate Netflix streaming without any problems. Switching DNS servers back to my COMCAST DNS (primary: 75.75.75.75, secondary: 75.75.76.76) worked until approximately the 30th of Dec, that's when I started experiencing the same issues. Maybe the problem isn't my network configuration or DNS settings. Maybe it truly is the AppleTV?</rant>

Update: Problems with my AppleTV persisted after switching DNS services back and forth. I thought maybe it was a matter of latency with the servers. Something was preventing the streaming of 'specific' shows/content, and I wasn't quite sure what the issue was. By the 30th of December, 2011, I was starting to think it was some sort of DRM or licensing issue. Who knows! Well; on the 1st of January, I happened to check for AppleTV software updates - Lo, and behold. A software update was available (I wonder why it didn't tell me?). Software update 4.4.4 had been available since 15 Dec, 2011. So I downloaded and applied the update.

While I was waiting for the update to download and install, I checked the 'nets for information about this particular update... According to Apple: "Apple TV software version 4.4.4 includes general performance and stability improvements, including a fix for an issue that displayed an error when playing some video content." Wow! Did Apple really release a patch for the specific problem I've been encountering?

Only time will tell - and it has. After applying the update, I immediately attempted to play the affected content. The shows (Star Trek The Next Generation, Star Trek Enterprise, Southpark) all streamed without issue. Now that's weird. I'm going on one week with no recurrence now. Perhaps that particular patch was intended to correct the issues I experienced?

If you're experiencing similar problems. Specific titles 'blocked', slow or incomplete playback, other streaming issues; you may want to consider a complaint directly to Apple as opposed to Netflix. Thankfully, Netflix has an 'AppleTV' 'team' that troubleshoots problems specific to the AppleTV. They took my information and forwarded it to Apple. Perhaps our complaints (the Netflix technician indicated that numerous users had called to report problems) were actually heard!?
<http://www.macobserver.com/tmo/article/problem_with_netflix_on_apple_tv_2_maybe_its_dns/>
<http://support.apple.com/kb/HT4448>
<http://www.apple.com/appletv/>

Upgrading some office equipment:
Recently (back in September of 2011), I updated my operating system (on my Desktop Mac and two laptops) to Mac OS X Lion. While I'm loving the new OS, I'm finding out just how little some companies care about their Mac customers. One of those companies is Epson. The Lion OS was announced back in Oct of 2010, and Apple had already started working with developers to incorporate new standards and changes into drivers, applications and second party products. Apple has made every effort to provide all the supporting materials, and coding support to developers and manufacturers, so they can update their products. Apple wants manufacturers and developers to provide software, services and products that are compatible with the latest Mac operating system.

<rant>The problem? Some developers and manufacturers just don't give a damn. They operate on such a slim margin that they won't take the time and effort (which costs money) to update, upgrade or check their software in order to make it compliant with the new OS standards. Epson is one of the companies that can't seem to take the time or effort necessary to make sure that their products work properly. I've always enjoyed the performance of Epson printers (and scanners), but I've always found their software lacking. Buggy, non Apple-like, bloated and difficult to use...

When I upgraded to Lion, I found that my Epson printers were no longer visible over my network. The only computer that could see the printers was my desktop Mac. The printers (An Epson Artisan 800 and an Epson Stylus Photo R200) are directly connected to my desktop Mac, but they should be visible to all the computers on my local network. They were before my OS update. After the update, the laptops can't see the printers. Can't see them at all. No matter what I do (I spent approximately 5 days troubleshooting the issue), I couldn't get my laptops to see these Epson printers. I tried all the remedies suggested at their website. I reinstalled the 'non-lion' software and drivers. Reinstalled all the software, reconfigured my network to share the printers. Nothing worked; despite the double-talk on the Epson support forums/website.

Their software/products just aren't fully compatible with Mac OS X Lion. I gave it some time, hoped and waited for Lion updates. They never came, Epson never addressed all the problems that Mac OS X Lion customers were having (and they still haven't to my knowledge). Their solutions were insincere, impractical and ultimately, designed only to placate requests for assistance without admitting a true lack of support or concern. As a result, I turned to a different manufacturer. Brother - Their printers have often been lauded for their Mac support, and I needed a Laser printer. So, this time around, I chose Brother. </rant>

I bought a new Brother HL-2270DW printer. A wireless laser printer with Duplex printing. It took me very little time to set up the printer (less than one hour). Now all my Macs can see the printer. The resolution (for a laser printer) is quite awesome (2400x600), the contrast impressive, the duplex printing outstanding, and the cost per page? (TN450 toner cartridge - appx $50.00 / 2,600 pages per cartridge = $0.02 per page) Awesome! That sure beats the cost of Ink Jet ink (with the multiple ink cartridges it's almost impossible to get an accurate cost per page. Averaging the cost of each cartridge (black + five colors) against the number of pages per cartridge; I came up with a per page cost of approximately $0.15 per page. That's pretty high. The speed (28 ppm) is a bit slower than my Epsons (avg 30 ppm), but given the cost to operate the laser printer, I think I can live with the slightly slower print speed.

In addition to the new printer, I also bought another hard drive. I bought a new Toshiba Canvio 3.0 external 500GB portable drive. This small laptop sized drive is very portable, but I've tethered it to my network down in the basement. I don't have much need for a 'take it with me' type of storage device. This external drive is meant to replace a Western Digital that has all but reached it's end of life (it's appx 3 years and 9 months old - on a three year warranty). I've got the new Toshiba drive hooked up to my network by way of a new USB hub. The hub is connected to my TimeCapsule router. Attaching a USB hub to my TimeCapsule provides room for expansion and seems to have resolved some connectivity issues. I've still got the Western Digital connected to my network, but it's still exhibiting some problems and I think it's affecting my network. I've already transferred all my data to the new drive, so I'm good to go in that regard. If the Western Digital continues to cause/experience problems, I'll disconnect it, wipe it and send it off to the big old hard drive graveyard in the sky? As a result of these new acquisitions, I updated the 'My Computer' page.
<http://forums.dpreview.com/forums/readflat.asp?forum=1017&message=3954947&changemode=1>
<http://www.brother-usa.com/printer/modeldetail.aspx?PRODUCTID=HL2270DW>
<https://discussions.apple.com/thread/3144283?start=0&tstart=0>
<https://www.robsworld.org/hl2200seriesbrochure.pdf>
<https://www.robsworld.org/mycomputer.html>

I'm not a Spammer!
</rant>You just can't escape from this scourge of the internet era. I recently (during the month of Dec, 2011) moved all my domains (robsworld.org, vaessen.name, vaessen.net, vaessen.ws, tollgatecrossing.org, and one other) to a new hosting service. One of the reasons I moved? Spammers! Spammers broke into the server of my former web host. They compromised his server and started sending spam. In addition to the server compromise, they also installed some nefarious scripting - to facilitate their spamming. In addition to this spam activity, the servers were also brought low by a DDoS attack! All of this information comes to me by way of the server administrator; as such it's veracity/accuracy cannot be verified, but it certainly makes for a good 'Bogey Man' story. The big bad spammers compromised the servers and crashed it with a DDoS attack!

The sad story of spammers making my life hell doesn't end there. Oh, no, not all - Now that I've moved my webpages, mailing lists and email to a new server, I find that scourge of nasty spammers is indeed universal. Not only did my previous host suffer from spam issues, my new host appears to be infected with a 'DarkMailer' direct mailer script. The SpamHaus and COMCAST blocking services both indicate that a block of IPs run by the new hosting service may be compromised by this same 'DarkMailer' scripting/trojan, but my new hosting provider won't confirm or comment on this issue. All they admit to is 'a problem account' on the 'shared server'. They admit that the 'problem account' was the reason that the email server became blocked. Something is causing their mail servers to continually get listed on various black/block lists, and all they do is change the server IP and/or request de-listing by the various black/block listing services... This doesn't do much to help me, as I'm forced to endure continual delisting delays while COMCAST, Hotmail/MSN, Yahoo, AOL and others bounce my email. Six, seven, eight? times now I've been affected by this spam listing problem.

The latest round of black listing; which occurred over the New Year's holiday caused me some serious problems - My new webhost had a minimal staff on during the holiday, and one of the technicians made a rather large mistake. She mistakenly thought that a spam message intended for me, was evidence of me sending spam. She SUSPENDED my account. For a brief period of time (appx 2 hours), I was completely unable to send email, update web pages, access my web pages (all my sites were taken off-line), or make any changes to my account settings. Correcting the problem was made more difficult by the fact that they weren't answering their phones (due to the short staff/holiday manning). In order to get my account reactivated, I had to 'School' them on how to read the header of an email message. I had to explain why an email intended for me couldn't possibly be evidence of me sending Spam!

Thankfully, the outage was brief, and the technician on duty was responsive in re-activating my account. She credited my account with one month of free service for the inconvenience. Unfortunately, even with that mix up was cleared up, some of my domains were still using blacklisted IPs. As a result, I still couldn't send email (from the affected domains) without getting blocked by COMCAST and some other email services. Any time I send email to COMCAST email addresses (with any domain other than robsworld.org), I get a bounce message indicating that the email server I'm using is on a black/blocklist, and COMCAST won't deliver it. My new hosting service is either ignoring the root cause of the problems; or, due to legal issues/concerns, they're not admitting that they have a problem. Either way it sucks - Once again spammers are making my life hell!!</rant>

Update: As of 3 Jan, 2012. My email services have been fully restored. No more blacklisting. The webhosting service (they also handle my email needs) has finally reconfigured all my domains to use an IP that isn't being blocked by the Brightcloud blacklisting service (used by COMCAST and other ISPs to block spam from customer inboxes). The IP that was being blacklisted? 216.120.237.222. It's currently not listed, but then again, it looks like it's reputation was reset on the 6th of Jan, 2012. I'm just glad that my domains have been configured to use a different IP.
<http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dark_Mailer>
<https://www.robsworld.org/index2.html#fightingspam>
<https://www.robsworld.org/whybother.html>

MacUpdate Promo - What a bargain!
There are two sites worth visiting if you own a Mac. MacUpdate and c|net's Downloads page (they absorbed the Versiontracker/TechTracker pages). They're software update sites. Keep an eye on one or both (I subscribe to the MacUpdate rss feed, and use the c|net 'techtracker' service/software), and you'll know when your copy of 'Circus Ponies NoteBook' is ready for an update. Not only can you find all the latest software releases, you can engage in conversations with developers and other Mac users. Both sites are essential resources for owners of any Apple computer. <rave>One of the best things about the MacUpdate site? Their promotional offers. Teaming with the software development community, MacUpdate offers a continual stream of discount Shareware. The prices are amazing - Most discounts run 30 - 50%, and they often offer bundles. A large number of titles for a huge discount. On the 21st of Dec, 2011, I took advantage of such an offer. Here are the titles from the bundle I purchased:

**MacUpdate Promo Bundle**
Application	Version	Normal $
TechTool Pro (my copy was out of date/not Lion compatible)	6.0.3	$99
Folder Synchronizer (I'm using it to sync some D&D files)	4.1.0	$40
iClip (Installed, but I haven't used it much)	5.0.2	$9
Labels & Addresses (Installed, but I haven't started using it)	1.6.2	$29
Hear (Installed and using it, but I'm not convinced of it's value, and it's buggy)	1.1.1	$19
Postbox (Installed, and tried it out, but I won't be using this software)	3.0.2	$16
Mac DVDRipper Pro (Installed, but I haven't started using it)	3.0.2	$19
TotalFinder (Installed and I'm using it constantly. I like many of the features)	1.3.2	$18
Back In Focus (Installed, but I haven't started using it)	1.0.2	$99
Font Pack Pro - Master Collection (Installed, but difficult to use - Can't easily view or install the 6,200+ fonts)	1.0	$300
NeverWinter Nights 2 (Won't work on a 'Case-Sensitive Mac/Hard Drive)	1.23.1765	$19
	Total retail	$667
Huge savings through MacUpdate (92.5% discount!)	Bundle cost	$49.99

The bundle contained a few pieces of software that I really wanted, and the rest align with some future plans. If I had bought all this software one piece at a time, it would have cost me more than $600.00. With the MacUpdate promo bundle, I saved 92% over the standard retail price. That's a HUGE saving, and MacUpdate has deals this hot quite frequently. If you're looking to buy a software title (for your Mac), don't forget to check MacUpdate for a discount, and always look for (google search) a discount code.</rave>
<http://download.cnet.com/new-mac-software/?tag=rb_content;main>
<http://www.macupdate.com/>
<http://www.mupromo.com/>

Jammin' in January:
Here's a list of some of the music I recently acquired. Where do I get all this stuff? Well, I used to find/discover a lot of free (actually free) music by visiting several of the new music web sites (Pandora, 3hive.com, musicalfamilytree.org) and several other music blogs (Analog Giant, Brooklyn Vegan, Fluxblog, Gorilla vs. Bear, etc) out there, and listening to a few different music podcasts. Used to... Now? Now (As of Oct of 2010) I subscribe to an online music streaming service called MOG, and I've recently (as of Sep 2011) started using eMusic 'Radio' stations for music discovery. Combined together, these two services provide full-play access to more than 23 million tracks! (11m on MOG, 12m on eMusic (as of Sep 2011)) Two fantastic ways to discover music, and no need for illegal downloads or pirated tracks. I occasionally use a few of the other methods (music blogs and podcasts), but MOG and eMusic now serve as my primary Music Discovery sources.

Artists want you to hear their music - If you like it, you'll buy it, or maybe you'll buy some concert tickets. The major labels want you to pay for their product - letting you hear it for free is contrary to their business model. Well, guess what? I won't buy it unless I can listen to it first. The major labels are killing themselves with their restrictive distribution and dissemination policies. If you like new music, you can do a web search to find your favorite artists web site, a new music web site, or an archive of free music. Free music is available - Legally! Don't believe the major labels propaganda - Not all free music is illegal. You can legally download or listen to all sorts of music for free. I download most of my music from a couple of commercial sources (eMusic and iTunes), but I occasionally download tracks (legally) from various websites, newsgroups and blogs in order to satisfy my craving for music.

Here's a listing of some of the music I legally downloaded - and paid for!

eMusic monthly downloads:
Every month I download ~50 tracks from eMusic.com. This month (January of 2012) I managed to download a good number of tracks; 59 tracks at the low cost of $22.99. I'm paying a $19.99 monthly fee, so that makes the tracks even cheaper (~$0.39 / track). Unlike some music outlets, eMusic doesn't have any DRM and they don't insert unique track id's into the ID3 tags. Their terms of service are consumer friendly; eMusic allows you to burn as many CDs as you like and copy downloads to an unlimited number of your computers and portable MP3 players. At less than $.50 a track (I'm currently paying $19.99 for $22.99 worth of downloads per month). eMusic offers a really good value for your download
dollar. iTunes and Amazon still charge more. eMusic offers more music for your money, and the variable bit rate recordings make for exceptionally high quality recordings.
* Heyday 1979-83 (Disc 1) - The Embarrassment: (23 songs) A MOG discovery. It's garage Rock. Raw, unbridled, rough around the edges. The production on this compilation (Here is disc 1 of the compilation) is o.k. Here you'll hear several cuts from this forgotten bands earliest efforts. Reminiscent of Buzzcocks or early Replacements, here are jerky guitar riffs and frantic drumming. Listen once, twice, three times and it starts to grow on you.
* Janglin - Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros: (13 songs) Psychadelic rock meets gospel and soul. Reminds me of 'T. Rex' and 'Velvet Underground'. Bring's you back to the 70s with a party attitude and a loose jangly folk sound.
* Wild And Free - Ziggy Marley: (12 songs) Ziggy Marley really has a great Reggae sound. His father would be proud, we're all happy. The music is great, keeping the positive vibe going with some great jams man!
* Human's Lib - Howard Jones: (11 songs) A favorite from the 80s. Recommended by MOG while looking for music that brought me back to my musical roots. This certainly did that. The moog music certainly takes us back to the 'New Wave' revolution of the early 80s.

These are some of the items I added to my music collection during this month. Since revamping my music collection back in September of 2005, I've been slowly adding, revising and updating the collection. If you have a comment, question or correction regarding my music collection, please don't hesitate to send me an email. Please keep in mind that my collection isn't for sale, and I'm not interested in giving you any copyrighted materials. I'd rather not go to jail for music piracy. :-)
<https://www.robsworld.org/music.html>