Laptop on the Go

Just the other day I was in class and realized that I had forgotten to write a paper that was due for the class I had next. I quickly pulled out my computer and started to type up a rough overview of the movie we had watched in class. About twenty minutes into my paper the teacher said that the class was over. I had only complete about half and needed to go from one side of campus to the other. So I reluctantly put my computer to sleep and quickly run to my next class. I ended up not finishing it on time and turned it in for a late grade.

If only I had the Connect-A-Desk Laptop Holder would I have been able to turn my paper in on time. The Connect-A-Desk Laptop Holder does exactly what the name says. It is a portable computer desk so that you can compute while on the move. The holder is supported by straps that go over your shoulders. It folds out a flat surface to place your laptop upon and it hangs low enough to make it comfortable for your arms to reach the keyboard. The Laptop Holder can support any size of laptop and it is completely mobile. You do not even have to take it off when sitting down; you can just slide it onto the desk in front of you and then it is ready to go when you are about to leave. The holder is compact able, making it easy to put in a bag and take on trips.

Image you can now move from class to the next without ever having to get off Facebook. You can walk with friends and do homework at the same time. There is no reason you should ever have to leave your computer home again with the Connect-A-Desk Laptop Holder.

What's the Problem!?!?!

I was sitting at my computer, not really sure what to write, so I went to my staple website, Facebook.com. I stared at the screen for what seemed like a few seconds, but 10 minutes had already gone by. So now, ten minutes later, I still had no topic, but I did now know who was dating who. This information was irrelevant in my search though, so I attempted to forget about it. I searched for new technology news, and still found nothing. Back to facebook. I was thinking about how I'm a stereotypical college student. "When life gets hard, turn to facebook." That is the motto of today's generation. Suddenly it hit me. Facebook is a huge tool used by so many college students today. I had a main topic, I just needed to find something to write about facebook. Wait... didn't they just release their new layout, and everyone hates it? Perfect.
The new facebook was launched in September, with the hopes that the users could "focus on the recent and relevant content on the site," according to creator Mark Zuckerberg. But, it seems that people are not pleased at all with the new design. The change is not a good one in this case, and people don't know what to do. Groups about boycotting facebook are being joined (as soon as members find out how to navigate the facebook layout). Millions of people world-wide are not very happy with this design, and don't know where to turn.
What is so wrong with the new design? Honestly? I was a little confused at first, but now that I'm using it more and more, I like it more and more. I think teens are more afraid of stepping out of their comfort zone and trying something new. I want feedback in my comments about this. What is so wrong about the new facebook? I am calling an all english class discussion.
Zuckerberg said this about the changes and the comments against the new layout. "Facebook is a work in progress. We constantly try to improve things and we understand that our work isn't perfect. We appreciate the thousands of you who have written in to give us feedback. Even if you're joining a group to express things you don't like about the new design, you're giving us important feedback and you're sharing your voice, which is what Facebook is all about."

Geek Sites

First off I apologize for my last blog being extremely long. So I thought I would make this one quick so that you do not have to read so much. I was going to mention the websites that have given me a good deal of these interesting topics. The first one would have to be thinkgeek.com which my fellow blogger showed me. This site is filled with random things for your average geek. They sell computers, games, and even Halo t-shirts. The other site I recommend you go to would have to be geek.com. This site is like thinkgeek.com but they do not sell as many items. They have more articles about new gadgets and new technology. I will wrap it up and just tell you to keep looking for new technology and explore the world out there.

Impenetrable Flash Drive

It is a Wednesday you are sitting in the library working on writing your blogs. You look up to take a quick brake from working and notice a guy walking away from the table your sitting at. Just a moment ago without your knowledge your thumb drive as removed from your laptop. You look back down and continue to work; a few minutes later the same man walks back by your seat and put the flash drive back. Within those few minutes the man has stolen all your information off the flash drive and now has all your personal information. This is the perfect opportunity for someone to commit identity fraud and do whatever they want with ‘you’. As college students we have to worry about people trying to steal our work or our identities. An answer has been found and it is called the Ironkey.

The Ironkey is an 8GB USB flash drive. It was created for the government to use in the Middle East but now is available to the public. The Ironkey utilizes the newest advancements in security technology. The outer skin of the flash drive is created with a metal sheet making it very hard to crack or break. The Ironkey is equipped with a hardware encryption chip. This chip scrambles all the data so that it is unusable without the correct password. You might be thinking that it is easy to crack a password but the Ironkey has a solution for those who wish to steal from you. If the password is entered in incorrectly ten times the USB drive instantly sends an electrical surge throughout the drive which wipes the data off of it. So do not ever forget your password otherwise you will end up with a blank drive.

One password encryption sometimes is not that hard to crack so the creators added two more. Yes, that is three encryption codes built on top of one another. Let me break it down for you, there is a 128-bit AES, Advanced Encryption Standard, encryption on all the data that is stored on the drive. Then there is a separate 256-bit AES encryption on the password that solves the 128-bit encryption. And just to make it more complicated they put a SHA 256 hash encryption on the 256-bit encryption. Ok that probably sounds like a whole bunch of mumbo-jumbo, so let me simply it. First the higher the bit count the more possible solutions there are so the harder it is to crack. The creators put a simple encryption on the data which is solvable with the password you use. Then they put a harder encryption on the password itself and put an even better encryption on that. Basically it is almost impossible to crack without the right password.

There is one finally safety measure to tell you about and it has to deal with preventing people from physically opening your flash drive. The contents of the USB drive are coated with an epoxy. The epoxy fills up all the open spaces and turns hard to create one giant solid object. This makes it useless to break into the Ironkey because they will most likely damage the encryption chip. Without that chip they would not be able to read the encrypted data.

The Ironkey is probably one of the most secure computer items I have ever seen. This flash drive would be a great asset to anyone who needs to keep personal information, personal.

Cha Cha Cha, Engine

Have you every gotten in a fight with one of your friends about a simple question like how many children does Angelina Jolie have now and your sure you know the right answer and you want to prove your friend wrong? Well there's a new style of search engine called ChaCha. If your on the go and no where close to a computer you can use your phone to figure out the answer. You might think this is the same as say the iPhone but this is an actual person on the other side texting you back the answer. It doesn't take long and he feeds you back a simple 1 sentence answer. Its a little different then putting a word into a search and getting lists of different places to redirect to to get your answer. 

I strongly suggest college students start using this because it will make there lives a whole lot easier. If they ever need a simple answer to a question they have rattling in there head like what is the equation of the product rule for derivatives then ChaCha is there to help. Its not just for school work but can be used if your stuck on crossword puzzles or any other type of brain drainer. If you want a simple joke to lighten your mood for the day you can do that. So this simple tool at your finger tips will help the College student with lots of different problems.

If you are intrested yourself about using this the number to text is 242242. 

Music? For Free? Where Do I Sign Up?

Okay, so you are a poor college student that loves music. There is no way you are going to pay for new music that comes out, so what are you going to do? There are not a huge amount of options, what with this whole file sharing fiasco going on in the media. Luckily, I have once again sacrificed my time to find you your resources.

The site is called Ruckus.com. Ruckus is a file sharing network that you can use with a college email address. All you have to do is get onto the website, and put in a valid college email. That's it! From there, you download the music player that supports the files Ruckus uses, and you play the music directly. This site has many obscure artists, and many live albums not able to be found in stores. It truly is a gift from the musical gods.

Drawbacks to this site are as follows: You can only play the music through their own special music player. The files are a super special type that only plays through the Ruckus Player. That means that it has to stay on your machine. You are not allowed to transfer it to any portable music device. So, if you love to listen to music outside of your room, you are screwed. Unless, you want to illegally download a file conversion device that allows you to convert the file type to anything you want. Not usually the best idea to break the law, in my honest opinion

Where's the WiFi?

The other day I was walking around trying to find a good place to do my homework. I sat down outside so I could use WiFi to get on the Internet. I turned on my computer and started searching for my good friend, PAL2.0. After a few minutes of the computer not being able to find anything I packed up and walked a hundred feet to a nearby bench. I turned my computer on again and was still unable to receive a WiFi connection. At his point I was starting to get annoyed because caring around a 17” laptop is a bit of a hassle. I am pretty sure Purdue has WiFi throughout campus but why is it whenever I try to connect it never can.

Last night I discovered the perfect item to help me with finding WiFi when I need it. It actually attaches to your wrist and you can use it to keep time. Yes, it is a watch. A watch that tells you time and if there is a WiFi connection available. The watch has a button on it that when activated turns on a mini receiver that checks for WiFi connections. The only down side of the watch is that it cannot determine if the connection is secured or not. So the watch may find a working WiFi but when you try to connect you are denied because you are trying to access a network that does not want you. The watch is also water resistant up to 100 meters so if you ever need to find WiFi underwater you can.

The WiFi watch would be a great help to me and I believe it would also be a great help to all of you too. So now if you have to get some homework done and you do not want to work with your annoying roommate around, go outside and use WiFi.

Warning To the Vista Users

There has been recent talk going around about when Windows is giving up the support for Vista. You may have heard from people or from some of the Apple commercials that Vista has set back windows from competing with Apple on new systems. There is talk that Windows is about ready to release Windows 7 and is going to try and push it onto the market early to get back in the game. But wait what about all those users out there who still use Vista. Well in my opinion you need to switch now. I havent personally used Vista but Ive heard from others that they were about to throw there computer out the window because of the frustrations they recieved from it. From what Windows has told the media is that they have documented all the users that are using Vista right now and are ready to deliver the new Windows 7 without leaving those users out in the cold. So for the college students using Windows just keep your ears open and be ready to switch over or you might lose your operating system mid year or even worse mid-paper when you havent saved it yet and its your big formal paper for the year.
The next question a student might ask is what benefits will I get from this new Windows 7. Stated by Windows, it brings updated security which was the dreadful problem of vista and other then that it creates a step back from Vista so they make sure the problems dont occur again. So Just be careful with what you go with out there. It sounds like vista is getting thrown in the trash and it seems like they are takeing that step back to regain the lost time they might have lost with offering vista to users.
If you live on the other side of the spectrum like me being a mac user you kinda sit back and chuckle at all of the scrambling that Windows has done to try and catch up. Yes i have been told that macs are much more expensive then the windows computers but then i just ask them how many times has your computer locked up on them. That usually gets them to stop. The one big problem i seem to have with windows is the poor organization of there different applications. With the Mac you can easily find what you are looking for because they are in the most logical spot for the ordinary computer user. So for all those college students out there frustrated with Windows and dont want to go through the hassle with another failing Software system.

Thefts on the Rise?

The evolution of cell phones has taken another giant leap, as Japan announced its newest addition to the mobile phone world. Already, the Japanese cell phone business has vastly surpassed the United States, with Japanese phones usually coming standard with digital TV, music players, GPS, and a camera that doubles as a barcode scanner, and a wireless credit card. But, today, the Japanese are even beating themselves. The Japanese have made a phone that can unlock and even start the engine of a car
The idea is relatively simple. Each phone has an “intelligent key” that is partnered with a specific car. When the phone gets near the car, the doors begin to unlock, allowing the driver to get into the car without worrying about fumbling in their pockets or purses for keys. Once unlocked, the driver merely has to step into the car and the engine will recognize the “intelligent key” and start the engine. Nissan has said that they have already made about a million cars with this capability since 2002.
Okay, we have the facts now, but that is not what this blog is about. Allow me to put in my own two cents onto this article. My first thought when reading this is, if this becomes as popular as it sounds, two things will happen. One, the Japanese will solidify themselves as a serious contender, if not leader of the technological evolution of the world.
Secondly, car thefts will go up an extreme amount. If a student were to get a car with this capability, his/her cell phone would become their life more so than it is right now. If like me, most students have their phone in their hand most of the day, then it would be quite easy to snatch it and run. The same thing goes with leaving your phone out. When I go to eat at one of the dining halls at Purdue, I usually place my phone on the table so I can see a text message pop up, or notice who is calling me. Imagine I absentmindedly leave my phone on the table when I go to get desert. There goes my cell phone, which cost a hundred dollars, but immediately after losing that, I lost my $25,000 to $30,000 car.
Those reading this can now see why I feel it’s a bad idea to design something like this. I feel it will only cause theft to grow higher. But, whatever. The Japanese can do as they wish. I may disagree with this invention, but, with new innovations and technologies, the world is becoming a much cooler place.

Tiny Phone, Big Sound

The cell phone world has crossed with the musical world. Recently while researching my usual site, thinkgeek.com, I found a cell phone that works as not only a cell phone, but as a boom box as well. It's called the Mini Boombox GSM. This phone, the same size as the average cell phone on the market today, works like a phone, allowing phone calls and text messaging, but it also packs a punch when it comes to music.
This phone comes with speakers with extreme power, allowing the user to carry around one device that does the job of two. No more will your pockets be packed with ipods, phones, or whatever other music devices you have. Now, you can keep it all in one device.
The phone is very simple to operate. Order it off of thinkgeek.com, and you wait for the delivery. Now that I mention this, you have to realize that it is only for T-Mobile and AT&T phones. This is due to the SIM card that saves all your information on your current device. Now, back to the boom box. All you have to do is place your SIM card into the phone, and call the old number. Voila! You now have an amazing phone allowing you to carry your music with you.
The phone supports most sound files, so it is easy to transfer your music onto this phone. The phone also has a built in video watching capability, so you can put some of your favorite music videos, and clips onto this phone. The phone comes with a guarantee 256 MB memory, but is expandable up to 2 GB. So, you can carry a lot of your music with you with a lot of ease.
I'm not sure about you, but to me, this phone sounds pretty sweet. I am considering buying it, and at $150.00, its very affordable compared to the iPhone, or equivalent. With new innovations and technologies, the world is becoming a much cooler place .

Lecture with a Buzzer!?

Recently reported by ABC news, educators across the country are buying into the new technology that is allowing professors to figure out there question they always ask in the back of there mind, "Is anyone paying attention?" Supposedly the new technology isn't new but its new to the classroom. The main part of the technology is the clicker that is very similar to a remote and sends responses by the students back to the computer of the teacher instantly. With this technology, the teachers and students enjoyed the item and said it helps with the class as a whole. 

Now from what you have heard, I want you to imagine your most boring class. Then picture that class with this new technology at work in it. Probably seems logical doesn't it? Well, with this new technology spreading rapidly across different campus's around the world you could soon see this new technique of teaching by teachers soon. I think this could bring more engagement by the students to the lecture and it wont call students out if a teacher asks them an answer to a question and they have no clue what going on. I know for sure I would need it in a few of my classes at the later levels because of how hard the material is going to get and how many times it might take me to understand it clearly. If you think this is a good idea bring it up with your teacher and maybe they will consider what the new technology can bring to the class. Trust me any teacher has gone through that tough question if anyone is paying attention or not. 

American's Love Their Video Games!

Everyone does it; well actually 97% of the youth in America do it. After a survey released on Tuesday, the American people realize that almost every youth plays video games. Be them elite gamers or casual players, everyone plays video games. Everyone has their own weapon of choice, it maybe a decked out Xbox controller or a full gaming keyboard.

According to the survey 99% of all boys play some type of video game and 94% of all girls. Now the percent of boys does not surprise me, cause who would not want to beat the crap out of their friends without retaliation. The percent of girls does surprise me though but now that I think about it, what girl would not jump on the chance to make their boyfriends cry like a baby after getting their jimmy whipped in Guitar Hero.

The survey also goes on to say how video games do not deter people from being social instead it does the opposite. It says how people who game are more social because they are constantly communicating with other players. Gamers use all sorts of communication devices. They use headsets to help them intimidate their opponents and help them communicate with their allies so that they can win. Gamers across the world collect the latest technology to help them better their game and become the best.

Video games are one of the best social interactions between people that were ever invented. One day you may be sitting in your room and hear someone screaming hysterically at the end of the hall. So as the nosey person you are you head down to see what is up. You end up stopping in front of a room in which ten people are sitting in staring at a single television. You notice that they are playing Guitar Hero on the Wii. You mention that you love that game and instantly you have ten new friends who cannot wait to challenge you.

Technology is invented to help people become more connected and as you can see, I think it is doing its job.

TV ON ... TV OFF!

The other day I was abruptly awakened by someone blaring their television. I walked down the hall to find out what room the annoying sounds were coming from. I eventually reached the room, which was at the end of the hall, and politely asked them to turn down the volume. Instead of doing what I asked they just stared at me like I was crazy. Later that day I was on a website and found the perfect item that would have been a great help in my earlier debacle.

The TV-B-Gone would have been the answer to my problem. The TV-B-Gone is basically a remote that can turn off any television. It has the off codes programmed into it for almost every television in the North America. This remote is designed to fit on your keychain and is easy to use. All you have to do is hold the button down and point it at the television you wish to turn off. Within seconds the annoyance will be neutralized.

Just imagine sitting down in the lobby trying to do your homework and someone has the TV on. It is disrupting your concentration so you pull out your keychain and push the button on the TV-B-Gone. The television turns off and your worries are over. You can also use it as a great way to prank your friends. All of your friends meet up to watch a movie at someone’s dorm. About half way through the movie you hit the keychain remote and the television flips off. Someone goes to turn it back on and instantly you turn it back off.

The TV-B-Gone is a great tool to get rid of any annoyances and to tick off your friends.

Google Round 2 ... but This Time It's the World

Its official Google is taking over the world! It has only been a few months sense the release of the new Google Chrome and they have already begun to hit the phone industry. Google has teamed up with T-Mobile to create their new world changing device called the HTC Android.

Google is trying to make the life of Apple a little bit harder with Android. Android has all the same features as the iPhone, the prized possession of the fruit. It is supported by 3G technology making it one of the fastest phones on the market. The only problem with T-Mobile is that they do not have a wide range of 3G networks so; about 95% of the country is screwed out of that deal. T-Mobile did say that they are working on creating more 3G networks but it is difficult with when they have a new phone coming out; excuses, excuses.

The Android also has a touch screen application making it easy for the user to interact with it. You no longer have to punch in buttons to text your friends; instead you can type on a screen. The touch screen is a nice addiction but I do not think people are going to care that much because they already own an iPod Touch or iPhone.

Google’s Android does include a nice 3-megapixel camera which lets you take decent pictures of your friends to put on Facebook. The phone is programmed with the latest Google software and has all the needed applications like Gmail. Unfortunately is completely useless to everyone who uses Yahoo mail, like yours truly. The only application I can see being useful would have to be Google Earth because it at least gives me the opportunity to look up my house and try to find myself out on the lawn.

Now everyone beware of the new technological giant. Google has come out of the internet and is now available for your computer. In a few months they will be offering the Android to everyone and soon take over the digital world. I am not saying Google is evil; all I am saying is that do not be surprised when you wake up one morning, turn on the TV, the Google logo appears, and asks you what you would like to watch.