Wednesday, December 31, 2008

Fix for Zune Frozen, Video How to Reset Zune - ZY2K9 Fix

If you have a frozen Zune affected by the Dec. 31st ZY2K9 issue, here is a Youtube.com video to reset your Zune.

1. Press and hold the [Back] button and the [Up] on the pad for a few seconds.




More info on fixing a Frozen Zune
http://mostpopularinusa.blogspot.com/2008/12/how-to-fix-frozen-zune.html

Zune Z2K9 Fix

I don't have a Zune so I am not affected by the Zune Z2K9 failure that is crashing Zune 30s. Here is one recommendation from a user on Gizmodo.com.

-- snip from Gizmodo.com --

http://gizmodo.com/5121311/30gb-zunes-failing-everywhere-all-at-once

There's a fix:

"Your zune will need a "hard reset."

To do this, use a small screwdriver to pop off the plastic shielding where the zune cable plugs into and remove the two screws on either side of the plug. Next pop the cover off and locate the battery plug at the top left corner of the zune, using your screw driver, pop the cable connection half way off, and do this to the other plug on the right side. Wait 3 seconds, then push down the right connector and then the left battery connecter. Your zune should start up immediately. Press the backing of the zune down (make sure headphone jack is aligned) and put the screws and cover back in place.

It's an easy process but if you're unsure don't attempt it if you think you'll screw it or something. :)"

Not pretty, but it might help those of you who have this problem.

Monday, December 29, 2008

Congrats to the Miami Dolphins

As read my email including friend updates from social sites: Facebook.com, MySpace.com, Twitter.com, LinkedIn.com and Yelp.com, I am shocked at the number of people talking about the Miami Dolphins.

Thursday, December 18, 2008

Las Vegas Airport Information - Snow Storm

My nephew's flight to Las Vegas last night was canceled due to the snow storm and he is currently waiting at his gate for the next flight to Vegas. It occurred to me that with the new iPhone 3G and other similar devices, you can use other more reliable websites to predict or estimate your flight status rather than relying on the TV monitor at the airport gate as your sole source. I'm sure many of us have waited patiently at an airline gate and not trusted the information provided by the airlines and wanted more detailed information so that we can make possible alternative travel plans.

For flights delayed due to the Las Vegas Snow Storm, here's some sites that I found.

FAA Airport Information - provides overall airport conditions status.
http://www.fly.faa.gov/flyfaa/flyfaaindex.jsp?ARPT=las&p=0

Las Vegas Airport Information - provides a list of upcoming flight arrivals and departures.
http://www.mccarran.com/

Tuesday, December 02, 2008

Bose Headphones with iPhone and Skype?







When traveling overseas, I like to use Skype and I've always wondered if I can use my Bose QuietComfort 2 Headphones with the accessory microphone cord I use with my iPhone to connect to my Dell laptop. I would really not wamt tp carry an extra headset for using Skype with my PC. I googled around and didn't see the answer, looked at the Bose FAQs and finally called Bose Customer Service. The answer from their customer service representative was that there is no known plug from Bose or any third party. A workaround is to use the Bose for your sound and buy a third party microphone for your laptop.

That's too bad.

Friday, November 21, 2008

Vonage Service Outbound Caller ID Not Yet Available in 2008

I noticed the other day that their Outbound Caller ID did not display the name of my business. I cannot believe that Vonage Outbound Caller ID is not yet available as of 2008. I have seen complaints dating back to 2006. When I called Vonage Customer service today, the rep told me:

  • "It's available for their business customers only."

  • "It's not available on any IP Phone Service"

  • "The final answer is that the Vonage Outbound Caller ID is not available on their personal or business services".

Here are some links to other individuals complaining about this.

Vonage Outbound Caller Not Available
Vonage Outbound Caller ID Complaint in 2006
Cnet News - comment

When I subscribed to the Vonage Service several years ago, I did so thinking the service would improve in future years. I understand that displaying the caller id has been problematic for telco companies, but even my iPhone family plan displays the correct outbound caller id for each family member. The Vonage corporate tag line is: "A Better Way to Phone for Less". They list one of their features as "Caller ID with Name" but that is clearly deceptive advertising, it should read "Inbound Caller ID with Name Only".

Without Outbound Caller ID, Vonage is clearly not a viable personal or business phone alternative. Come on Vonage, it's time to step up your level of service!

Apple iTunes 8.02 and iPhone 2.2

I updated my Apple iTunes 8.02 and my iPhone to iPhone 2.2. These updates were installed without any problems except with my PC Windows or Dell laptop, I have not been able to upgrade my iPhone firmware for about a year. Luckily, I have a Macbook and I first synch my iPhone on my Dell, then backup and upgrade my iPhone on my Macbook. This release took less than an hour with my 16GB iPhone 3G.

This is a nice upgrade loaded with use features that include:
  • Google Maps Walking and Public Transit Directions
  • ITunes Store Podcast Downloads
  • Apps Store sorting options
  • The ability to disable the annoying Auto Correction keyboard setting (Setting > General > Keyboard > Auto-Correction Off
  • Pressing the App Home Button is suppose to return you to the Application Home screen with this release but this feature did not work for me.

Overall, a very nice unexpected full featured iPhone update. Great job Apple iPhone Dev Team!

Monday, November 17, 2008

Google Mobile App to be launched on Monday 17 November 2008?

The new rumor is that Google Mobile App that allows voice search will be released on Monday, November 17, 2008.

http://www.google.com/mobile/apple/app.html


Monday, October 27, 2008

How much postage do you put on your Miami - Dade County Absentee Ballot?

I use to think the United States Postal Service website was great at calculating postage but when I mailed my Absentee ballot today, the site computed $.59 unless the envelope is an odd size, which it could be, then it's is $.79 cents. James Camner, a blogger on The Huffington Post site writes it will cost two first class stamps or $.84. My W says she took hers to the post office and the postal worker there said it was $.59. A Miami Herald website news article reports that the Post Office will deliver your ballot regardless of the postage you put on it. In Osceola county in Florida, the postage is $1.17 because of the number of initiatives on their ballot.

I put two first class stamps or $.84 on my ballot. If I were voting for the post master general or for the group that writes the ballot instructions, they surely won't get my vote today.

Happy voting!

Monday, October 20, 2008

Saturday, October 18, 2008

Digital TV Converter box installed - Miami, FL

Okay, my mom doesn't get cable TV so I requested and received one of
those $40 coupons. The expiration date was Oct 20, 2008 so today I
bought and installed the Zenith DTT901. It was $59.95 less $40.00.

I was curious to try it out on a small TV in my kitchen that previously only received analog
channel 6 NBC in Miami, Florida. After installing the Digital TV Converter Box, I now I recieve 10 digital stations that are crystal clear including ABC but not NBC. Many of the new
stations are in Spanish but I am shocked by the improved quality. Some other observations:

  • The digital channels have a new numbering scheme. Just what we need, another non-standard numbering scheme for our TV channels.
  • The box came with a remote which you use to change the digital channels. Just what my mom needs, another remote.
  • There is a website that provides more information on the new digital tv channels and provides you information on which direction to point your antenna for the best reception. See www.atennaweb.org

The main problem I see is that there is a delay on some digital tv stations similar to what we see during a rainstorm. If this delay occurs too frequently, it would make digital tv unusable if it cannot be fixed with a better antenna. When my mom asks why we can't go back to her old television without the box, I'll have some explaining to do...just when I got rid of her old telephone, now another change for her. We'll see what happens in February 2009.

Thursday, October 16, 2008

XM Radio Pricing after Merger with Sirius

Several of my friends purchased a Sirius lifetime membership for $499. As a loyal XM radio customer, I don't remember getting any news of that promotion. Here is XM's pricing to get the new Sirius Channels which includes Sirius NFL radio, Howard Stern, Martha Stewart Living and Playboy.

$458.00 - 3 years XM and Sirius
$322.00 - 2 years XM and Sirius
$186.89 - 1 year XM and Sirius
$16.99 per month - XM and Sirius
$50.97 per quarter - XM and Sirius
$12.95 per month - XM only.

I didn't like the idea of a lifetime membership when I first heard about it. That said, it sure sounds like a great offer now.

Tuesday, October 14, 2008

AOL Hometown FTP Settings - members.aol.com FTP Setting

To access your AOL FTP site using a FTP Client such as Core FTP LE, here are the steps and the settings that I used.

1. Login to AOL using your AOL Client software.

2. Host /IP / URL: members.aol.com
Username: anonymous
pw: youraolmembername@aol.com

Port: 21
x PASV (this box checked)
_ SSSH/SFTP (this box unchecked)

They are shutting down AOL Hometown or members.aol.com on October 31, 2008. The use of a FTP client is the best method to change and/or retrieve your files off AOL.

Good luck! If you have any questions, please add a comment to my blog.

AOL Hometown - Redirect to WordPress Site

AOL Hometown is closing down on October 31, 2008. I had a site on AOL Hometown from the beginning of the Internet in the late '90s. Here is how I moved my site from AOL Hometown or AOL Member Pages to the free www.Wordpress.com site.




1. Create your free site at http://www.wordpress.com/

2. Create pages in WordPress from your HTML pages in AOL.

3. To redirect your website pages, add the following code. This code uses HTML only and does not use Javascript. This is method is recommended my some Search Engine Optimization pros who do not recommend using Javascript. This is the best method I could find to hopefully preserve my Google page rank, Google search results and Yahoo organic search results.

Friday, October 10, 2008

The Economic Crisis of 2008 - Financial Crisis of 2007-2008

In the last several weeks, I have been emotionally exhausted after watching the television and reading the media coverage of the state of our U.S. and global financial markets, the coverage of our U.S. presidential election/debates and the $700 Billion Bailout Bill Congressional Hearings. The information provided with these media sources was not necessarily helpful in answering my important questions.

So today, I searched the Wikipedia.org website to find out what the Editors of Wikipedia.org (whoever they are) have to say about the our U.S. and Global Economies. There is a main article on the Wikipedia.org website: Economic Crisis of 2008 which includes a summary of another Wikipedia article: the Global financial crisis of September-October 2008 also referred to as the Liquidity crisis of September 2008. These are well-written articles that concisely explain how our economy and financial markets got to where they are today.

Wikipedia.org also contain a definition of several related words: What is the difference between a recession and a depression - or What is the difference between an economic recession and a economic depression. In other words, are we entering the Depression of 2008 or the Great Depression of 2008 - 2009?

These articles are updated daily which is necessary for these topics. They also attempt to be as factual as possible which is important during these are very tough times economically, financially and emotionally for all of us -- Americans and people around the world.

In other words, if you are pondering what to do with your financial investments right now, these articles are must reads!

Thursday, October 09, 2008

iPod Wet Screen - Use Zip Lock Bag and Rice to Repair it.

Here is something to try if your iPod gets wet or damp and your iPod has a White Screen or a Blank Screen. In this case, the iPod functioned but you could not read the menu items on the screen. Before I tried this, I reset the iPod and restored the iPod but neither of these worked.
  1. Wipe any water off the iPod immediately.
  2. Do not use the iPod, turn if off if you can.
  3. Use a vacuum to dry out the iPod. A hair dryer is not recommended.
  4. Put the iPod in a plastic zip lock bag with a handful of rice or use Silica Gel Packets that come with most electronic items (I couldn't find any in my house since I usually throw them away). Leave your iPod in the bag for several hours and check it 2-3 hours or so. Apparently, the rice or Silica Gel Packets absorb the moisure in the LCD iPod screen.
In this case, the iPod Nano screen became active after only 1 hour. I absolutely could not believe this procedure fixed the iPod Nano LCD Screen after it got wet!

My next steps would have beeen to take the iPod apart then order a new screen for $29.95 + shipping or call Apple Care. I am glad I didn't have to resort to those options.


Wednesday, October 08, 2008

iTunes 8.0.1.11 - Windows Version Only

I downloaded and installed iTunes 8.0.1.11 for Windows and iTunes 8.0.1 for the Mac today. There were some reports of some users having problems synching their iPhones after installing this release. I didn't encounter any issues. Here is a list of its new features.

Apple has released iTunes 8.0.1, a significant update to the media playback/purchase, and device synchronization tool.

Among the enhancements in this release:

  • Seamlessly plays the current song when creating a new Genius playlist.
  • Improves syncing spoken menus to iPod nano.
  • Addresses an issue of deleting HD TV episodes when downloading.
  • Improves checking for updates from the App Store
  • Improves accessibility with VoiceOver.
  • Addresses problems syncing Genius results to iPod.

Monday, October 06, 2008

TV Converter Box Tutorial

Here is a great Hulu tutorial video about the TV Converter Boxes you may need for some of your non-cable or non-satellite TVs or for your parents. You will need the boxes by February 17, 2009. If you need to order one for them, go to: https://www.dtv2009.gov/


Thursday, October 02, 2008

Charles Schwab Brokerage Accounts - Is Schwab Safe?

In recent days, I have been following both the Senate and House Bailout Bill hearings. During this time, I wondered, "how safe is online broker Charles Schwab & Co.?" Today, I received an email from Benjamin L. Bingeman, Executive Vice President Investor Services with a subject line: Schwab's stability and ways we can help.

The most important items in his letter:
So who is SIPC ? How much does it cover and if Schwab brokerage accounts are protected by the Securities Investor Protection Corporation? Can I then surmise that it is likely my brokerage accounts are safe with Charles Schwab & Co. I looked through SPIC's member database and noticed that all of the brokerage firms in the recent news were in their database.

Here is some info on SIPC from Wikipedia.

The Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC) is a federally mandated non-profit corporation in the United States that protects securities investors from harm if a broker/dealer defaults. Investors are not insured for any potential loss while invested in the market.

SIPC was created by the 1970 Securities Investor Protection Act, 15 U.S.C. § 78aaa et seq, but it is not a government agency; rather, it is a membership corporation funded by its members.

SIPC serves two primary roles in the event that a broker-dealer fails. First, SIPC acts to organize the distribution of customer cash and securities to investors. Second, to the extent a customer's cash and/or securities are unavailable, SIPC provides insurance coverage up to $500,000 of the customer's net equity balance including up to $100,000 in cash.

Monday, September 29, 2008

Monday, September 22, 2008

Bank of America Online Banking Site Down - B of A Site Down

I just confirmed with Bank of America Online Banking Customer Support that access to their online banking site is down. It's been down on Monday, September 22, 2008 since about 2 p.m. Eastern Time and they do not expect it to be back up until 5:00 p.m. or sooner.

I am not surprised that they don't mention of it on their website. The Bank of America website log-in error message received in my browser was:

Connection Interrupted
The Connection to the server was reset while the page was loading
The network link was interrupted while negotiating a connection. Please try again.

Wednesday, September 17, 2008

Upgrading my MacBook to OS X 10.5.5

I upgraded my MacBook today to OS X 10.5.5

http://support.apple.com/kb/HT2405

Here's a list of the fixes.

General

  • Includes recent Apple security updates.
  • Addresses stability issues with video playback, processor core idling, and remote disc sharing for MacBook Air.
  • Addresses an issue in which some Macs could unexpectedly power on at the same time each day.
  • Resolves a stability issue in TextEdit that could be found when accessing the color palette.
  • Improves Spotlight indexing performance.
  • Fixes an issue in which contacts might not sync properly with PalmOS-based devices.
  • Improves iPhone sync reliability with iCal and Address Book.
  • Includes improvements to Active Directory (see this article for more information).
  • Improves Speech Dictionary.
  • Fixes Kerberos authentication issues for Mac OS X 10.5 clients that connect to certain Samba servers, such as Mac OS X Server version 10.4.
  • Includes extensive graphics enhancements.

Address Book

  • Addresses stability issues that may occur when creating a Smart Group.
  • Resolves a printing issue with address cards containing information that spans more than one page.

Disk Utility and Directory Utility

  • Improves reliability when rebuilding a software mirror RAID volume in Disk Utility.
  • Improves reliability of server status displayed in Directory Utility.

iCal

  • Updates iCal to more accurately handle repeating events.
  • Improves performance when choosing meeting attendees.
  • Resolves an issue in which the "Refresh All" option may be dimmed ("grayed out") in the contextual menu for certain calendars.
  • Fixes issues with read-only calendars.
  • Addresses an issue that prevents an invitee from moving an event to a different calendar.
  • Resolves an issue with syncing published calendars.

Mail

  • Addresses performance issues related to displaying IMAP messages.
  • Resolves an issue with SMTP settings for AIM, Compuserve, Hanmail, Yahoo!, and Time Warner Road Runner email accounts.
  • Addresses stability issues that may occur when dragging a file to the Mail icon in the Dock.
  • Addresses an issue with the "Organized by Thread" view in which the date does not appear when the thread is collapsed.
  • Resolves an issue in which RSS feeds could temporarily disappear from the sidebar.
  • Improves Mail robustness when sending messages.
  • Improves reliability when saving drafts that have attachments.

MobileMe

  • Improves overall sync reliability.
  • Improves Back to My Mac reliability.

Time Machine

  • Improves Time Machine reliability with Time Capsule.
  • Addresses performance issues that may affect initial and in-progress backups.
  • Fixes an issue in which an incorrect alert message could appear stating that a backup volume does not have enough free space.
  • Time Machine can now back up iPhone backups that are on your Mac, as well as other items in (~/Library/Application Support).

Upgrading My iPhone to 2.1

I upgraded my iPhone to 2.1 last weekend on my MacBook. For whatever reason, I have not been able to upgrade my iPhone firmware or iPhone software on my Dell laptop. I have tried all the work-arounds but it always freezes. My work-around is to synch my iPhone to my Dell laptop, upgrade it on my MacBook and then re-synch on my Dell laptop.

This works for me!

Wednesday, September 10, 2008

Upgrading My iPod Touch 2.0.2 to iPod Touch 2.1 - it worked!

I just hate being the iPhone IT guy in my household. Every time Apple releases an update (which is a good thing), I need to ensure every computer's iTunes is updated and I need to spend the time waiting as the new iPhone firmware is installed on the device.

Today, despite warnings from the iPhone Atlas website to not upgrade my iTouch to version 2.1, I went ahead and rolled the dice and...IT WORKED!

I wanted to add that I use a Dell Windows XP laptop as my main computer since I am a Microsoft Outlook user. For whatever reason, I've never been able to install the iPhone or iTouch firmware updates on my Dell and I have instead used my MacBook to install them. After I install the new firmware on my iPhone or iTouch, re-synch on my Dell Windows XP laptop. I've gone through and tried just about everything including deleting old iPhone restore files but it's never worked, it always hangs.

Here are the steps I used to upgrade to the new iTouch 2.1 firmware and iTunes 8.0.

  1. Using my Dell windows laptop, I downloaded iTunes 8.0 installed and synched my iTouch. When I received the message to download the new iTouch 2.1 firmware, I did not select or declined those options. I unplugged my iTouch from my Dell Windows laptop and plugged in my iTouch device to my MacBook.
  2. Using my MacBook I downloaded and install iTunes 8.0. When I received the message to download and install the new iTouch 2.1 update. I clicked Download only, because I like to do it in two steps in case something goes wrong.
  3. Using my MacBook, after the iTouch 2.1 software has downloaded, click the iTunes Summary tab and click Update. When prompted with any warning that my iPod Touch was synched to another device, I clicked No and continued with the installation. I did respond yes to the prompt to transfer songs from my device to the MacBook iTunes. The udpate went fast and I did not encounter any issues. When this process finished, I unplugged my iPod Touch and plugged it in to my Dell Windows laptop.
  4. Using my Dell Windows laptop, I synched my iTouch.
I'm now using the new iTouch 2.1 Software. On Friday I'll update my household of iPhones.

Thursday, August 28, 2008

New Scrabble Two Letter Words: QI, ZA, FE, KI, OI

I owe an apology to Hasbro, the makers of the new iPhone Scrabble game. Both my W and I accused Hasbro of allowing the new iPhone Scrabble game computer player to play the two letter words, FE, KI, OI, QI and ZA. It ends up that according to the National Scrabble Association Dictionary Committee site, these words have been added to the Fourth Edition of the Official Scrabble Dictionary. I will be ordering mine on Amazon today. It looks like I'll also need a new electronic dictionary since there is no upgrade path for my old one.










OSPD4 New 2s and 3s

Here is a list of the new two- and three-letter words in the fourth edition of the Official Scrabble Players Dictionary.

New Two-Letter Words and Their Inflections
FE, FES
n a Hebrew letter
KI, KIS
n the vital force in Chinese thought
OI
interj oy
QI, QIS
n the vital force that in Chinese thought is inherent in all things
ZA, ZAS
n a pizza

Other Entries Containing New Three-Letter Words
AG, AGS
n agriculture
AHI, AHIS
n a marine food fish
AH, AHS, AHED, AHING
v aah
APO, APOS
n a type of protein
APP, APPS
n a computer program for a major task
BES, BESES
n beth
CIG, CIGS
n a cigarette
CRU, CRUS
n a grade or class of wine
DAN, DANS
n a level or skill in martial arts
DEF, DEFFER, DEFFEST
n excellent
DIF, DIFS
n diff
DUH
interj used to indicate that something just stated is too obvious
ED, EDS
n education
EEK
interj used to express sudden fright
FAB, FABS
n sudden created or constructed
FAB, FABBER, FABBEST
adj fabulous
GO, GOS
n a Japanese board game
IGG, IGGS, IGGED, IGGING
v to ignore
KYE, KYES
n a private Korean-American banking club
MEG, MEGS
n a megabyte
MIC, MICS
n a microphone
MYC, MYCS
n a gene that transforms a normal cell into a cancerous cell
NEG, NEGS
n a photographic negative
OBA, OBAS
n a hereditary chief in Benin and Nigeria
ODA, ODAS
n a room in a harem
ONO, ONOS
n a large mackerel
PST
interj psst
RAI, RAIS
n a style of popular Algerian music
SOM, SOMS
n a monetary unit of Kyrgyzstan
SUK, SUKS
n souk
URP, URPS, URPED, URPING
v to vomit
UTE, UTES
n a utility vehicle
VID, VIDS
n a video
VUM
interj used to express surprise
YAG, YAGS
n a synthetic garnet
ZEP, ZEPS
n a long sandwich
ZUZ
n an ancient Hebrew silver coin
ZZZ
interj used to suggest the sound of snoring

Reference
National Scrabble Association Site

iTunes Store Credit Unavilable Error Message

Using iTunes, I was trying to download a free video and a free iPhone application and received the error message, Store Credit Unavailable - this appears to be a widespread problem with the iTunes Store. I hope Apple fixes this problem soon!

iPhone Photos

Today I attended an event at the American Airlines Arena to Honor Dwyane Wade for helping the Redeem Team capture the gold medal at the 2008 Summer Olympics. Before I rushed out of the house, I thought about taking my Canon Digital Camera with its telephoto lens, but usually I get stopped at Pro Sporting events -- they won't let you take a camera in with a removable lens or one with a telephoto lens over a certain size. There have been times during the "heated dicussion" with the arena staff that I have just walked off with my camera in hand ignoring them.

So today, I left the camera at home and took these shots with my iPhone. Not too bad, but not to great either. I need to find a smaller digital camera in 2009. I went to borrow my W's but it was in her purse where it should be.





Posted by Picasa

Monday, August 25, 2008

3G Speeds in Some Cities Much Faster - Winston, Salem, NC vs. Miami, FL












I'm getting a AT&T 3G upload speed of 5,932 in Winston-Salem, NC compared to only 3,038 in Miami, FL. I also notice I get 4 bars on my AT&T Communications Manager in some cities such as Jacksonville, FL and Winston, Salem, NC.


Friday, August 22, 2008

iPhone 2.0.2 firmware Upgrade

I have a Dell Windows laptop that I have never been able to upgrade my iPhone or iTouchwith. I can backup and synchronize without incident, but it always freezes with the Dell. To upgrade, I use my MacBook. Today I will install the new iPhone 2.0.2 upgrade.

Amazon 2.0 - Web 2.0 - Books 2.0

My nephew, a high school junior sent me an email the other day asking me if I could help him buy a book on the Internet he needs for school. With all the technological advancements on the Internet, I thought this would be a very simple task. It was not. Normally, you would think I would be able to find any book you need on the big three:
  • Amazon.com
  • BarnesAndNoble.com
  • Borders.com
Unfortunately, this book was out of stock at all of these sites and I was furthermore shocked to find that some third parties had this book retailing online for anywhere from $28.98 to $158.99 including shipping. In addition, I discovered the following:

  • Amazon.com -- It was was almost impossible to find the ISBN number or the publication date on this site. Even with the used books, the publication date was not listed -- why would any student want to buy a book with an old publication date, especially to study for a 2009 Advanced Placement Test.
  • BarnesAndNoble.com - this site contained the ISBN number 97815676556602 and the Publication date. This site also allowed you to find the book at their stores, unfortunately, they were sold out.
  • Google Shopping -- http://www.google.com/products?q=9781567656602&hl=en&show=dd - This site listed the range of prices from $23.00 to $208.00 not including shipping but did not include the publication date of the book. It did list the publisher AMSCO School Publications Incorporated (2004) which I subsequently used to find the publisher website. It listed the range of prices form $23. 00 to $208.00.
  • CheapBooks.com -- This site was suggested by my daughter, but was not useful.
I ended up buying this book direct from the Publisher at the site below for $17.00 plus shipping.

http://amsco.extendsales.com/AMSCOPUB/control/productdetails?&item_id=9781567656602

In the end, with all the advancements made on the Internet such as Web 2.0, the best deal I could find for buying a book on the Internet was direct from the Publisher's website. It required finding the ISBN number, finding publisher's name and ordering it over the phone. It sounds like even with Web 2.0, Book Shopping 2.0 or Amazon 2.0, we're still not quite there yet.

Wednesday, August 13, 2008

Apple iPhone and iPod Touch Backup Times

The backup process on the Apple iPhone and iPod Touch appear to take a very long period of time, sometimes several hours or more. I assume transferring all of the data over USB 2.0 just takes a very long time. I also think if you store a large amount of email messages on your phone that it significantly increases the backup time. When I am in a hurry and can't wait for the backup process, I usually click to cancel the backup so that the synchronization process is triggered. When I get a chance, I will be looking for some other work-arounds here.


Will the iPhone 2.0.1 fix the White Apple Logo Screen of Death

I will install the Apple iPhone 2.0.1 update and hope it finally resolves the White Apple Logo Screen of Death issues.

With the iPhone 2.0, I was usually able to resolve this by holding [Home] for 10 or more seconds and patiently waiting for my iPhone main menu to reappear.

Here are the previous steps I've used to address the White Apple Logo Screen of Death.

- The the iPhone crashes or freezes and tries to reboot displaying the black screen with the apple logo (iPhone Black Screen of Death)

- A black start screen with the white Apple logo appears then immediately quits.

Here are the steps that I've been using to address these issues.

1. RESET APPLICATION

Press and hold the [Home] button for at least ten seconds, until the application you are using quits.

2. TURN IPHONE OFF

Press and hold the Sleep/Wake button for a few seconds until the red slider appears and then slide the slider. Then press and hold the Sleep/Wake button until the white Apple logo appears.

3. RESET IPHONE

Press and hold the Sleep/Wake button and the Home button until the Apple log appears.

4. REDOCK THE IPHONE

Reattach the phone to iTunes.

5. DELETE IPHONE APPLICATION AND RESYNC

Delete the application from the iPhone by pressing and holding any icon until they start jiggling. Then click X in the top left of the application to delete it.

Resync your iPhone.

6. DELETE THE APPLICATION FROM ITUNES AND RESYNC

Delete the application from the iPhone by pressing and holding any icon until they start jiggling. Then click X in the top left of the application to delete it.

Delete the application from iTunes. (note: if your application is deleted from both iTunes and your iPhone you can still re-download it without paying for it twice.)

Resync your iPhone.

7. Apple iCare or the Apple Store
I noticed that some people have called Apple iCare or setup an appointment at the Apple Store to resolve this. I have not yet used any of those options.

Saturday, August 02, 2008

The Web 2.0 Bubble Video

From the SocialMediaBarCamp meeting


Monday, July 28, 2008

Cuil.com - A new Search Engine - First look

Here are my initial thoughts about cuil.com (pronounced "cool"), the search engine by several former Google employees.
  • Today it timed out several times, although I'm sure they will eventually fix that (i.e. the Twitter message, too much traffic.)
  • The images in the search results are not very relevant, i..e. when I search or cuil myself, the first result is correctly my linkedin.com profile page but I get some Asian characters rather than a photo. That's a little bit annoying...
  • I don't think it's as relevant as Google, not that Google is always that relevant.
  • I will say that it bothers me not to see any ads....or maybe the fact that I can't protect my beachhead and insert my ads.
In any regard, it's nice to see some healthy competition which will hopefully result in lower keyword advertising prices.

Monday, July 21, 2008

AT&T 3G Speed - How fast is it?

With the launch of the Apple iPhone 3G, I was concerned about my AT&T about the speed of my AT&T LaptopConnect service. I am currently using the Sierra Wireless USBConnect 881 card. Listed below are the 3G network connect speeds I am getting. this is after the launch of the iPhone 3G.


Updating iPhone Applcations - Steps to Install iPhone Updates

After downloading my first iPhone App or Application, I wondered if the third party developer upgraded their application:

1. Would I get the free upgrade?
2. How would I be notified of the upgrade?

I finally figured it out the answers to these questions and it prompted some other issues too.

3. First of all, the App Store icon will have a number in the upper right corner notifying you if an application update is available. If you tap it, you will be given a list of the updates available to your iPhone, similar to Mac Software Update or Windows Update.

I, tried to update some of the applications from wireless home network while sitting on the couch watching television. What I discovered is that most of the applications that were previously crashing or were not operational were on the list, i.e. Version 1.0.1, 1.1, 1.2 etc. I also discovered the following:

4. The best way to upgrade is to do so from your PC. Open iTunes, under Library click Applications. On the rigth bottom of the screen, click "Check for Updates". The upgrading worked best for me if I upgraded while connected to iTunes and with my phone connected to my PC rather than using the iPhone connected to your home wireless network. After you upgrade and synch, your updated applications will be installed.

Note: If you are upgrading using your home wireless network or Edge (not advisable, it takes forever) the application updating goes through several steps: a) You tap Update and/or Install on your iPhone or iPod Touch Upgrade Application Screen and you wait a few seconds or more then the application icon would be displayed on the screen with; b) A "Loading" message a progress bar displayed under the application icon; c) An "Installing" with the progress bar displayed under the icon; d) If the application upgrade was successful the Application title name would appear under the icon.

During this upgrade installation/loading time, I wondered if I could use the other features on the iPhone without causing an installation issue? I ran some test including dialing my phone and I was able to receive a call while the application was installing.

There is an Update All screen. When I clicked on this for six applications needing updates, it took about 25 minutes (similar to Windows Update and much longer than most Mac Software Updates). This is probably the best option but I'm still not sure what happens if an error occurs with one of the software updates.

7. Lastly, some of the applications took a very long time to install both when using a PC and without, so make sure you have set aside more than just a few minutes to do this.

Here is a new KB article on the Apple Support Site listing this process.

Tuesday, July 15, 2008

iPhone Applications Crashing - Steps to Resolve

I've encountered several incidents of iPhone 2.0 Applications crashing when they are launched.

- The the iPhone crashes or freezes and tries to reboot displaying the black screen with the apple logo (iPhone Black Screen of Death)

- A black start screen with the Apple logo appears then immediately quits.

Here are the steps that I've been using to address these issues.

1. RESET APPLICATION

Press and hold the [Home] button for at least six seconds, until the application you are using quits.

2. TURN IPHONE OFF

Press and hold the Sleep/Wake button for a few seconds until the red slider appears and then slide the slider. Then press and hold the Sleep/Wake button unti the Apple logo appears.

3. RESET IPHONE

Press and hold the Sleep/Wake button and the Home button until the Apple log appears.

4. REDOCK THE IPHONE

Reattach the phone to iTunes.

5. DELETE IPHONE APPLICATION AND RESYNC

Delete the application from the iPhone by pressing and holding any icon until they start jiggling. Then click X in the top left of the application to delete it.

Resync your iPhone.

6. DELETE THE APPLICATION FROM ITUNES AND RESYNC

Delete the application from the iPhone by pressing and holding any icon until they start jiggling. Then click X in the top left of the application to delete it.

Delete the application from iTunes. (note: if your application is deleted from both iTunes and your iPhone you can still re-download it without paying for it twice.)

Resync your iPhone.

iPhone Applications Freezing - iPhone Black Screen of Death

I've seen another variation of iPhone Applications issues. Here it is:

1. When iPhone applications are launched, they will show a black start screen with the Apple logo then immediately quit.

Here are two possible work-arounds:

A) Delete iPhone Application and Resync

1. Delete the application from the iPhone by pressing and holding any icon until they start jiggling. Then click X in the top left of the application to delete it.

2. Resync your iPhone.

B) Delete iPhone and iTunes Application and Resync

1. Delete the application from the iPhone by pressing and holding any icon until they start jiggling. Then click X in the top left of the application to delete it.

2. Delete the application from iTunes. (note: if your application is deleted from both iTunes and your iPhone you can still re-download it without paying for it twice.)

3. Resync your iPhone.

There is speculation that this issue is related to Digital Rights Managment embedded in the iPhone Applications. If you have multiple PCs with multiple versions of iTunes or multiple devices (iPhones, iTouches).

Saturday, July 12, 2008

iPhone 2.0 Black Screen of Death

When using iPhone 2.0 applications, I've seen the iPhone Black Screen of Death (not to be confused with the M$ Blue Screen of Death) several times. It occurs when accessing some iPhone Applications. When it occurs, here are the steps I used to reset my iPhone.It would be nice to see a KB article on the Apple or A$ site!

1. Turn iPhone off and on -- Press and hold the Sleep/Wake button for a few seconds until the red slider appears and then slide the slider. Then press and hold the Sleep/Wake button unti the Apple logo appears.

2. Press and hold the [Home] button for at least six seconds, until the application you are using quits. (This worked several times for me.)

3. Reset the Phone - Press and hold the Sleep/Wake button and the Home button until the Apple log appears. (This worked for me serveral times).

4. Reattach the phone to iTunes. (This always worked but my laptop was always with me.)

Friday, July 11, 2008

iPhone 2.0 Upgrade - Restoring iPhone Software - won't restore

When upgrading to my iPhone 1.0 Edge to the new iPhone 2.0 software using my Dell laptop, the restore would would always freeze at the end of the Restoring iPhone Software dialog box below. Apple has a KB article on how to fix this, but none of those options ever worked for me. The last time this occurred, I had to bring my iPhone to Apple and they gave me a new phone.


Here was the only option that worked for me today.

1. I synched my iPhone on my Dell. This is my main PC since I use Microsoft Outlook and all of my iTunes songs etc. on on this computer.
2. I synched my iPhone on a MacBook and downloaded the iPhone 2.0 Software but did not intall it.
3. I installed the iPhone 2.0 Software or firmware update on my Dell Laptop and started the upgrade process. It backed up my iPhone and started the upgrade process. When the screen appeared to lock (it was at the above screen for almost a hour) I disconnected the iPhone from the USB cable.
3. I connected my iPhone which displayed the Connect to iTunes screen to my MacBook and followed the screen prompts to install the iPhone 2.0 software.
4. The Apple Activation servers were down at the time so I had to click [OK] and Music and the iPhone until it finally gave me the activation screen.
5. When the activation and restore was completed, my iPhone was activated but my iPhone contacts, calendar and settings were missing. I connected my iPhone to my Dell laptop and followed the screen prompts to restore the iPhone software.

It worked! I am now running my iPhone Edge on the new iPhone 2.0 software! It's very cool!

iTunes Store Down - An unknown error occurred (-9838)

As of 10:20 a.m. today E.T., The iTunes Store is down for iPhone activations. Here are the error messages you receive using the Mac and Windows. There servers are no doubt over loaded because of all the users trying to upgrade to iPhone 2.0. I'm sure some are having problems installing this upgrade which will make their phone unsable if they can't restore.

Mac iTunes Error Message



Windows Error Message

iPhone 2.0 5A347 218.2 MB Now Available

iPhone 2.0 North America update

At 8:22 a.m. Eastern Time, I just downloaded this file from iTunes on my Mac. It was available from iTunes when I clicked Check Update. The file name is:

iPhone1,1_2.0_5A347_Restore.ipsw

The file size is: 218.2 MB on disk

I have a 4GB iPhone 1.0.

I just noticed as of 9:00 a.m., it is now available on Windows too.

Thursday, July 10, 2008

iTunes 7.7 now available on Mac OS only

iTunes 7.7 is now available for download on Mac OS Software Update. The actual version number is 7.7 (43). It is not available for Windows yet. This update is the first step to installing or upgrading the new Apple iPhone Software from 1.1.4 to the new Apple iPhone Software 2.0 on July 11, 2008.

If you are planning on upgrading to the new iPhone 3G, I would make sure you backup and synchronize your iPhone prior to upgrading. That said, it is possible that your phone can become locked or damaged during the upgrade process and if you are not technical, you might want to wait for several weeks to put on the upgrade since the Apple Stores and AppleCare Telephone Technical Support wil be very busy on and after the July 11, 2008 iPhone 3G launch.

See this link from the Apple website for more info on upgrading to the iPhone 3G.


Tuesday, July 08, 2008

iPhone 3G - July 11, 2008 Info

Here is some info on the iPhone 3G launch on July 11, 2008 that I found on the web.

Tuesday, June 17, 2008

Firefox 3 Rocks

I finally was able to get Firefox 3 installed on all my computers. Here's the final link:

Firefox 3 Download Page

It rocks, here is a list of all the features Firefox 3 Features.

Firefox 3 Download Link at www.getfirefox.com

The Firefox 3 Download site does not appear to be very reliable. So much for World Records....

According to the a mozilla developer center. Here is the official download link:
www.getfirefox.com

Although I couldn't get that page to load so here's where I downloaded my copy for Windows. In addition, here are some other Firefox download links "caveat emptor".

Digg.com Windows version

A download site with all versions

Firefox 3 Download Day June 17, 2008 Starts at 1PM ET, 12PM CT, 11AM MT, 10AM PT

For news, finance and sports national events are usually scheduled based on East Coast Time. Today, the Firefox 3 Download Day Official Start Time is scheduled based on Pacific Time (Silicon Valley, California USA). This is 1PM Eastern Time or -4 GMT. In many countries it will be 18 June 2008 for this Download Day in which an attempt will be made to set the Guinness World Record for most software downloaded in 24 hours.

Here is a link to download Firefox 3

Download Firefox

Here is a link to the Spread Firefox Site:

Download Day

Monday, June 09, 2008

iPhone 3G - $199 - Shipping July 11, 2008

I want one of these.

Steve Jobs Keynote - Key Highlights - iPhone 3G - $199 - 70 countries

The Apple new iPhone 3G will be shipping July 11, 2008.

  • New iPhone 3G $199 8GB -- A black back, thinner at the edges, a full plastic back, and a flush head phone jack. Download times - 21 seconds on 3G 59 seconds on Edge (36% faster). Includes GPS support. Apple plans to make the phone available in 70 countries this year.

  • iPhone 2.0 Software -- To be released in Early July 2008. A free upgrade. iTouch users will pay $9.95.

  • iPhone MS Office Support -- The iPhone will now support, Word, Excel and PowerPoint.

  • iPhone Enterprise Support -- Apple has added enterprise support so that corporate IT departments can authorize iPhones and then create and distribute applications.

  • MobileMe -- A web or Ajax-based mail, calendar and address book that works with maill.app, iCal, Address book and MS Outlook. This service replaces .Mac. Current .Mac user will be automatically upgraded.

Steve Jobs Keynote - Best Links to Follow

Here are the best link I've found to listen to Steve Job's live keynote at the Apple WWDC 2008 Keynote on June 9, 2008.

LIVE AUDIO
http://www.ustream.tv/channel/wwdc-2008-live-keynote-audio-stream


LIVE BLOG UPDATES
http://www.engadget.com/2008/06/09/steve-jobs-keynote-live-from-wwdc-2008/
www.macrumorslive.com

Apple WWDC 2008 Keynote Steve Jobs - Best links

Here are the best link I've found to listen to Steve Job's live keynote.

LIVE AUDIO
http://www.ustream.tv/channel/wwdc-2008-live-keynote-audio-stream


LIVE BLOG UPDATES
http://www.engadget.com/2008/06/09/steve-jobs-keynote-live-from-wwdc-2008/
www.macrumorslive.com

Friday, June 06, 2008

Wii Fit Cheats, Wii Fit Tips, Wii Fit Hints

  • Ultimate Balance Test

    Choose your Mii to reach the statistics screen. Notice the balance board character running on a treadmill in the background. Select him with the Wii-mote to participate in the Ultimate Balance Test.

  • Easy coins

    Enter the "Balance Mode Games" menu, and select "Marble Drop Game". Intentionally allow time to run out to fail the first challenge. You are given one coin for every one minute of game play (win or lose), and the time used to fail Marble Drop is rounded up to a one minute value. Thus, you will get one coin for failing. Simply press A to continue and fail again for another coin.

  • Advanced activities

    Successfully complete the indicated task to unlock the corresponding activity:

      Free Jogging: Successfully complete the Island Lap several times.
      Free Step: Play Step Plus Aerobics several times.
      Snowboarding Slalom: Accumulate two hours of total game time.
      Step Plus Aerobics: Play Step Aerobics several times.
      Tightrope Advanced: Successfully complete Normal Tightrope.
      Tightrope Super Advanced: Successfully complete Advanced Tightrope.
  • Fit Money bonuses

    Accumulate the indicated amount of time in your Fit Piggy to unlock the corresponding bonus:

      Aerobics: Rhythm Boxing: 1 hour 40 minutes
      Aerobics: Super Hula Hoop: 30 minutes
      Balance: Balance Bubble: 1 hour
      Balance: Penguin Slide: 1 hour 30 minutes
      Balance: Snowboard Slalom: 2 hours
      Balance: Tightrope Tension: 15 minutes
      Balance: Zazen: 3 hours
      Muscle: Arm & Leg Lift: 2 hours 40 minutes
      Muscle: Parallel Stretch: 1 hour 50 minutes
      Muscle: Rowing Squat, Single Leg Twist: 10 minutes
      Muscle: Sideways Leg Lift: 1 hour 10 minutes
      Muscle: Single Arm Stand: 3 hours 50 minutes
      Muscle: Tricep Extension: 2 hours 30 minutes
      Yoga: Bridge: 3 hours 40 minutes
      Yoga: Chair: 2 hours 15 minutes
      Yoga: Cobra: 3 hours 30 minutes
      Yoga: Crocodile Twist: 4 hours
      Yoga: Downward Facing Dog: 3 hours 10 minutes
      Yoga: King of the Dance: 3 hours 20 minutes
      Yoga: Palm Tree: 1 hour 20 minutes
      Yoga: Shoulderstand: 4 hours 10 minutes
      Yoga: Standing Knee: 45 minutes
      Yoga: Sun Salutation: 10 minutes
      Yoga: Triangle: 2 hours 50 minutes
  • Muscle Workout challenges

    Successfully complete the indicated task to unlock the corresponding challenge:

      Jackknife challenge: Get a "Four Star" rank in the 10 Second Workout and 20 Second Workout.
      Parallel Stretch challenge: Get a "Four Star" rank in the 30 Second Workout and 60 Second Workout.
      Pressup challenge: Get a "Four Star" rank in the 6 Reps and 10 Reps.
  • Stamps

    Successfully complete the indicated task to unlock the corresponding stamp:

      OK: Attend 2 Body Tests.
      Star: Attend 5 Body Tests.
      Heart: Attend 6 Body Tests.
  • Alternate Fit Piggy colors

    Accumulate the indicated amount of training time to change the color of your Fit Piggy:

      Bronze: 10 hours
      Silver: 20 hours
      Gold: 40 hours
  • Jogging alternate courses

    There are three (and possibly more in Free Jogging) alternate courses to take in the Jogging mini-game, one for each length of course (Short, Long, and Island Lap). To access these, enter the Jogging mini-game as normal, and start jogging. When you see a single dog overtake your character, run past your guide so that the "Oh! You've passed your guide!" message appears. It will then read "Now follow the dog" and take you on an alternate course. The dogs appear as follows:

      Short Course: As you run towards the single house with a Mii outside.
      Long Course : Immediately at the start.
      Island Lap: Immediately at the start.

    The following alternate courses are on Island Lap:

      Follow the yellow dog at the start. Soon a black dog will appear. This is the first new alternate course.
      Follow as above, but after following the black dog for a while, a white dog will appear. This is the second new alternate course.
      Follow the Mii guide at the beginning until you get to the bridge, and a brown dog will appear. This is the third new alternate course.
      Follow as above, but after following the brown dog for awhile, another brown dog will appear. This is the fourth new alternate course.
  • Weighing objects

    When you stand on your Balance Board immediately after choosing "Body Test" (the first time it asks, and not the time that it weighs you), hold a heavy object. The Balance Board will know that you are holding the object and actually weigh it for you.

  • Wednesday, May 21, 2008

    Wii Fit - Found at Target

    Thank you Nintendo and Target. I found my W's birthday gift this
    morning. There was a limit at Target of one Wii Fit per customer. Of
    course the Balance Board compatible We Ski game was today's impulse
    purchase. We'll see if the Wii Fit Yogamat is a must have or a nice to
    have.

    Monday, May 19, 2008

    Wii Fit - Street date May 21

    I am on a quest for a Wii Fit for my W. I understand the street date is May 21.

    Ugh, I hate standing in lines.

    Thursday, May 08, 2008

    Sorry, the OpenID server couldn't be found

    I have never been able to successfully sign-up for an new website using OpenID. This time, I logged in to OpenID, and tried to sign-up, but I still receive the message:

    " Sorry, the OpenID server couldn't be found "

    Does anyone know if there is a known work-around to this issue?

    Monday, May 05, 2008

    MacBook firmware Update 1.2 and Java Update 1

    The following releases were available for update for my MacBook:


    • MacBook EFI Firmware Update 1.2 1.6 MB
    • Java for Mac OX X 10.5 Update 1 1.0 57.5 MB

    According to Apple, it fixes several issues to improve the stability of the MacBook. After the firmware is installed, the Boot ROM version will be: MB31.008E.B02

    Friday, May 02, 2008

    FakeSteve - Fake Steve Jobs - The Ballmer - Yang Picture

    This is the original blog from The Secret Diary of Steve Jobs AKA Daniel Lyons that contains the Steve Ballmer - Jerry Yang dog picture. The blog is entitled: Yahoo: Borg deal is "frosting on a double-layer suck cake."

    read more | digg story

    Wednesday, April 30, 2008

    OpenDNS Servers - not reliable - April 2008

    Last year, the Bell South or AT&T DNS Servers went down so I switched to OpenDNS. Today, I noticed that several websites were not found on the OpenDNS servers so I switched back to the AT&T DNS servers. The AT&T DNS servers appeared to be much faster than before. I think the OpenDNS servers are better used as backup DNS servers.

    It's really nice to have an Apple iPhone so that I can use Edge to test access to the website.

    OPENDNS
    https://www.opendns.com/start
    208.67.222.222
    208.67.220.220

    Monday, April 28, 2008

    iPhone Proximity Sensor broken

    Since the last iPhone firmware update, the proximity sensor on my phone appears to be broken or non-operational. When speaking to someone on my iPhone, the screen goes blank and I am not able to get back to the iPhone Phone screen. Today, I called AppleCare Support, and they recommended a System Restore

    However, I would not recommend performing a system restore unless you have time to go to your local Apple Store or to send your iPhone for service. When I tried a system restore, I was not able to restore it. I have my original iPhone from last June, the iPhone Launch Weekend.

    An FYI - if you believe your proximity sensor is broken, check your sensor without the case. It is possible an old case might be causing the problem.

    -- snip --
    Iphone screen wil not wake from sleep after phone call


    You know how when you take a phone call in iphone mode, and you bring the receiver to your ear and the screen magically goes blank? I assume this function was designed to reduce heat against one's ear) Well, after I take calls lately my screen has not been magically turning back on?????

    The phone doesnt completely shut down, I can still hear calls and everything. But the screen will not wake until I press the sleep button twice and it will then return to screen save and require the slideer function to return home.

    This is rather annoying. I havent trid a restore yet, as Id prefer not to, but Im sure thats what they will do at the store.

    If I try a restore and it keeps doing it I definitely take it back to apple store right?

    Anyone else getting this error?

    iTunes 7.6.2.9

    I just installed the iTunes 7.6.2.9 update on my Windows XP PC. I have not noticed any problems with my iTunes or my iPhone. There was no iPhone update yet (1.1.4 is the most recent version). I can't seem to locate of list of any features or bugs that this update fixed.

    Tuesday, April 22, 2008

    It's Time to Cancel T-Mobile HotSpot




    Today I was at Starbucks and I was able to log-in to AT&T wi-fi with my AT&T DSL account number. What that means is that it is now time to cancel my T-Mobile $40 per month month-to-month account that has since been discounted to $19.95.

    T-Mobile HotSpot Contact Info

    T-Mobile HotSpot Customer Service is available to assist you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

  • Send us an email
  • Call us at 877.822.SPOT (7768)
  • Customer Relations
    P.O. Box 37380
    Albuquerque, NM 87176-7380

    Wednesday, April 16, 2008

    Sorry, the OpenID server couldn't be found

    OpenID

    This is the most common user experience when trying to user OpenID.

    Tuesday, April 08, 2008

    T-Mobile Wi-Fi Hotspot - It's time to cancel!

    By the end of the year, I can finally cancel my T-Mobile Wi-Fi wireless account!

    AT&T Wifi - AT&T Wi-fi Signup - AT&T
    http://www.att.com/gen/general?pid=5949

    AT&T Wireless Free Wi-Fi at Starbucks Info
    http://www.starbucks.com/retail/wireless.asp

    Starbucks Register Your Card for Free Wi-fi
    https://www.starbucks.com/customer/login.asp

    Get a Starbucks Card Now! - Wi-Fi will be free if you use your card!
    https://www.starbucks.com/card/default.asp?cookie%5Ftest=1

    The many conveniences of Wi-Fi There are a number of complimentary and paid Wi-Fi options, whether you need to check your email, download files for your next meeting, or just surf the Web in coffeehouse comfort.
    Complimentary Wi-Fi for Starbucks customers When you register your Starbucks Card and use it at least once a month, you'll receive two consecutive hours a day of complimentary Wi-Fi, courtesy of AT&T.
    Complimentary Wi-Fi for AT&T DSL customers AT&Ts more than 12 million DSL customers already qualify for free Wi-Fi at their neighborhood Starbucks.
    Competitive pricing for paid Wi-Fi All other customers can receive two consecutive hours of Wi-Fi access for $3.99.

    -- snip --

    More Than 12 Million AT&T, Starbucks Customers to Get Free Wi-Fi Access for a Rich In-Store Experience

    New Offering Includes Two Hours of Free Wi-Fi Service Per Day for Starbucks Card Holders Beginning this Spring

    All 100,000 U.S.-Based Starbucks Partners to Receive Free Wi-Fi at Starbucks Stores

    Seattle, Washington, San Antonio, Texas, February 11, 2008

    AT&T Inc. (NYSE:T) and Starbucks (NASDAQ:SBUX) today announced plans to deliver AT&T Wi-FiSM service at more than 7,000 company-operated Starbucks locations across the United States. The initiative brings together two of the most recognizable global brands to create a powerful and convenient online experience for consumers and business customers. Starbucks and AT&T will offer a mix of free and paid Wi-Fi offerings at Starbucks stores to meet the needs of both frequent and occasional Starbucks Wi-Fi customers.

    The initiative further expands the AT&T Wi-Fi network, already the largest in the United States, to more than 17,000 U.S. hot spots and more than 70,000 globally.

    Beginning this spring, Starbucks Card holders can enjoy up to two hours of free Wi-Fi service per day at Starbucks locations offering Wi-Fi access, while more than 12 million qualifying AT&T broadband and AT&T U-verseSM Internet customers will have unlimited free access to the Wi-Fi service. In addition, more than 5 million of AT&T's remote access services business customers will be able to access Wi-Fi service at Starbucks locations. AT&T will soon extend the benefits of Wi-Fi at Starbucks to its wireless customers.

    "People want to stay connected to their world 24/7, and Wi-Fi hot spots, broadband and wireless make that mobility possible," said Rick Welday, AT&T chief marketing officer, Consumer. "Laptops and smartphones give us the online mobility we crave, and now millions of AT&T and Starbucks customers will get Internet access free from the comfort of their neighborhood Starbucks."

    "This is what our customers have been waiting for — free Starbucks-quality Wi-Fi," said Chris Bruzzo, chief technology officer, Starbucks Coffee Company. "Through our new partnership with AT&T, we also welcome their millions of current customers who can now come in and enjoy free Wi-Fi as part of their daily Starbucks Experience."

    As an added benefit for the more than 100,000 Starbucks partners in the U.S., all Starbucks partners will receive free AT&T Wi-Fi accounts allowing them to use the network in Starbucks company-operated locations offering Wi-Fi access.

    "Our new relationship with AT&T gives us the opportunity to expand and enhance the range of digital entertainment experiences for our customers as well as our partners, including the continued rollout of the iTunes Wi-Fi Music Store at Starbucks," said Ken Lombard, president, Starbucks Entertainment.

    In addition to the free Wi-Fi access for qualifying AT&T customers and any Starbucks Card holder, customers will be able to purchase tiered access to the AT&T Wi-Fi network at Starbucks at attractive price points. For a two-hour period, customers will pay just $3.99 per session. Monthly membership will also be available for $19.99 per month, and will include access to any of AT&T's 70,000 hot spots in 89 countries around the world.

    AT&T business customers who subscribe to remote access services can also enjoy unlimited, flat-rate access plans at any Starbucks location offering Wi-Fi service or at other AT&T Wi-Fi hot spots.

    Additionally, AT&T is providing Starbucks an enterprise-class network with increased bandwidth and redundancy. AT&T's underlying network technologies will enable a wide range of business applications and help Starbucks stores operate more efficiently.

    "Delivering networking capabilities to help a world-class company such as Starbucks achieve greater business velocity is what we do," said Welday. "Our work with Starbucks is collaborative innovation at its finest."

    The availability of AT&T Wi-Fi service at Starbucks will take place on a market-by-market basis with store implementation beginning this spring and completed by the end of the year.

    Monday, April 07, 2008

    iTunes 7.6.2 - Installing

    On April 2, 2008, Apple released the iTunes 7.6.2 update. The fix contains some iTunes update fixes "to improve stability and performance". The fix does not include any iPhone firmware updates. The current version of the iPhone Software update is still 1.1.4.

    It's a 66.19 MB update.

    Monday, March 31, 2008

    T-Mobile Hotspot down - what to do

    I've been a loyal T-Mobile hotspot or T-mobile wireless hotspot user for several years and every so often, I arrive at a Borders or a Starbucks T-mobile hotspot to find their t-mobile hotspot wireless access down or impaired. When this occurs, I usually try the connection on both my Apple iPhone wireless connection and my laptop to ensure it's a tmobile hotspot failure.

    Here's my advice.

    Rather than calling T-mobile hotspot customer service, go to another Starbucks. Their system will not allow their technicians to reboot and their system rarely detects a system impairment. In addition, the local Starbucks manager does not have the workflow or the authority to call to report the t-mobile hotspot failure.

    I hope that this experience is different once they switch to AT&T wireless data. However, if you do spend the time to report the error to T-mobile customer service, make sure that you ask the technician for a credit ($20.00). Your Starbucks Manager may also give you a coupon for a free coffee of your choice. But for the hour you spent on the phone, it's probably not worth it!

    I'm going to think about buying that AT&T 3G wireless card. I wish AT&T had a bundled plan for our iPhone wireless calls, access to their 3G and wi-fi networked!

    Monday, March 03, 2008

    Apple Leopard 10.5.2 fixes Windows Networking issues

    I just installed Apple's Leopard 10.5.2 and it finally fixed my Windows networking issues!

    Prior to installing this release, from a Windows PC, I could not longer view my Apple Mac computers when I clicked View workgroup computers. After installing Apple OS X 10.5.2 (Leopard) I can now view them. Using Leopard, I never had a problem viewing any Windows PCs from my iMac or MacBook, but I was unable to find a work-around for this issue. Finally, Apple has fixed the problem!

    Wednesday, February 27, 2008

    iPhone 1.14 - new 1.1.4 iPhone release

    It's a 162.1 MB upgrade that is reported to address the following:

    1. Boosts cell strength affecting some users
    2. Improves Edge reception
    3. Bluetooth issues
    4. SMS Ordering Bugs
    5. Problems sending mail (I have seen this one, a message gets stuck)
    6. Possibly supports a new SDK!

    Tuesday, February 26, 2008

    Wii Firmware 3.2 - faster?

    Today I heard that Nintendo made available Wii Firmware 3.2. I understand it makes the Wii faster. There are no new features in this release.

    Monday, February 25, 2008

    iTunes 7.6.1 - new release for iTunes only, no iPhone update

    I downloaded and installed this release today. The release did not contain a software update for the iPhone.

    -- snip iphoneatlas.com --
    Apple has released iTunes 7.6.1, a minor update to the music playback, purchase and synchronization tool that “includes several bug fixes and improves compatibility with Apple TV software version 2.0.”

    The new release is available through Software Update, or as a standalone download.

    Saturday, February 16, 2008

    Disable Edge - iPhone - Disable Data Roaming

    iPhone - Disable International Data Roaming – Edge

    If you are traveling abroad and do no not want disable Edge so that you can avoid data roaming charges, here are instructions:

    1. Settings > General
    2. Network > Data roaming
    3. OFF (When abroad, turning off Data roaming may avoid roaming charges when using email, web browsing and other data services.)

    It works if you never see the [E] to the right of the AT&T logo.

    When you return to the United States, make sure you re-enable it.

    Wednesday, February 06, 2008

    800-560-9448 is a Deceptive Mailer

    Today I found another great use for Google. My mother received a post card from Gayle Clary of The Annuity Service Center as follows:

    ---

    NOTICE

    Dear Annuity Holder:

    This notice is to inform you that you may have an annuity that has reached the end of the its surrender period.

    Please contact Gayle Clary in the Annuity Service Center to discuss your options.

    (800) 560-9448

    ---

    This mailing from 800-560-9448 is deceptive. The Illinois Attorney General's Office has filed a lawsuit in August of 2006, but this company continues its practice of deceptive mailings.

    Luckily, when I googled the phone number 800-560-9448, it provided me with this useful information. Now, I'd like to see Google remove this company's website from their index.

    Wednesday, January 16, 2008

    iPod touch Upgrade $19.99 - This Upgrade Should Be Free!


    I just found out that it's going to cost $19.99 to upgrade my iPod touch. As far as I know, this is the first time Apple has charged for a iPod upgrade. Here are the reasons why I think Apple should not charge for this upgrade:

    + It's free for iPhone users
    + They should have disclosed it to iTouch buyers when many of them were deciding between the iPhone and the iTouch.
    + These features should have been in the iTouch when released.

    Tuesday, January 15, 2008

    iPhone Update 1.1.3 and iTunes 7.6

    My daughter called today from college to let me know that a new iPhone 1.1.3 update is out. She said it had some great new features.

    View the Apple iPhone 1.1.3 Update Video

    Here is a summary of the iPhone 1.1.3 Features
    • Enhanced Maps
      • New Location Button - Find your location automatically
      • Drop Pin - You can
      • Display Real Time Traffic Information
      • Hybrid View -- Street names on top of satellite imagery
    • Customize Home Screens
      • Add Icons to the home screen for websites or iPhone Applications/Games.
      • To customize - Tap or hold icon for 1 second until they wiggle.
      • Supports up to 9 home screens
      • Scroll between home screens
    • SMS
      • Send SMS messages to more than one recipent
      • Stores SMS groups via history
    • Gmail
      • Gmail folders are now supported.
      • iMap support to gmail.
    • iPhone Movies
      • Rent movies
      • Movie chapters allow navigation.