HaroldChia.com

Papago Z1 On the Road Review..

2012-02-28T22:49:00.001+08:00

Ok.. so I have been using this beautiful Papago Z1 for 5 days now.. here’s what i have to say.

Before I start, let me explain a little bit of my background with GPS.. i first started to use GPS on my Nokia N95 smartphone, using Mapking, and eventually Garmin Mobile XT. i even wrote a guide on how to install MapKing and Garmin Mobile XT previously.

I then upgraded my phone to Nokia 5800, with obviously Garmin Mobile XT, and occasionally Nokia Maps. It was around this time i bought myself the Garmin Nuvi 205w when i was on vacation in Taiwan. So, yes, I am rather pro-Garmin guy and only recently got my hands on Papago devices. Having only Garmin 205w to compare the device with, i will be making comparisons here and there..

For those who are new to my blog, here’s my post on me unboxing the unit..
http://www.haroldchia.com/2012/02/unboxing-papago-z1-south-east-asia.html

OK.. lets start with the device.. Start up time is rather slow.. about 7 seconds, compared to my obsolete Garmin 205w. Next, SATELITE LOCK IS SOOOOOO SLOOOWWW… and i am not talking about initial lock.. even this morning, 5th day of using this papago in same area, took 30 seconds to get a satellite lock! it will normally take my garmin 205w longest 10 seconds to get a lock.

In my opinion, this is where Papago looses out to Garmin.. even loosing to a 3 year old Garmin Nuvi 205w.. Device Start up and satellite is VERY important for a GPS unit.. but papago isnt that bad.. it is slow, but still way faster than most of the CHINA GPS branded units out there..

Next.. the interface.. I must say.. Papago has a very different interface compared to Garmin.. Papago is more.. umm.. matured.. compared to cartoon-ic garmin.. but it depends on personal taste.. some likes papago interface some prefer garmin.

Although i prefer to cartoon interface, i simply love this screen.. has everything i need on display.. estimated time of arrival, distance remaining, travel time remaining.. u get this too in garmin, but only 1.. u have to choose which one you want..

papago with junction view..

Some other screens..

“Travel Computer” & “POIs Nearby”

Another version of “junction view”

Ok.. overall, the Papago is comparable to Garmin.. it has some pros and cons.. However, to me, besides satellite lock and boot up time, the MOST IMPORTANT THING, is the mapset.

Garmin uses Malsingmaps (MSM) where-else Papago uses Malfreemaps (MFM). Malfreemaps is by far much better than Malsingmaps in terms on POIs and new area availability (MFM maps covers much more areas compared to MSM)

MFM does have maps for garmin.. but garmin does not allow junction views to be enabled on non MSM users or non South East Asian Garmin unit (i’m using taiwanese unit.. it is so much cheaper there).. so it really sucks.. i have been using MFM on my garmin for a long time, but no junction view..

so here i am, using papago.. happy to have the more up-to-date MFM map and junction views on my unit..

Papago Z1 is a great unit.. and the mapping community behind the map is great and supportive.. (http://www.malfreemaps.com).. i would say, i do not regret buying this GPS PND.

Unboxing the Papago Z1, South East Asia Edition

2012-02-25T21:45:00.001+08:00

It has been a great day! I saw a promotion on the internet, the a promotion (Pre-launch) to purchase the new Papago Z1 at RM488, instead of it’s RRP of RM599. If anyone’s interested, here is the link:
http://www.m3shoppe.com/m3gps/index.php?page=shop.product_details&category_id=&flypage=flypage-ask.tpl&product_id=9654&option=com_virtuemart&Itemid=26

Before i start, here’s the promotion brochure.

And, here is the specifications..

Processor : SiRF Atlas-V, ARM11 500MHz Dual Core CPU
Memory : 128Mb DDR2 RAM, 4Gb Flash
OS : Microsoft Windows CE 6.0
Display : Touch Screen, 5” TFT LCD, 480 x 272 pixel
GPS : SiRF
Antenna : Patch Antenna
Battery : 1,500mAH Rechargeable Li0Polymer Battery
Car Charger : Input 12V DC, Output 5V, 1.5A
Dimension : 130 x 85 x 15 mm
Weight : 194g
Car Mount : YES
Memory Slot : Micro SD

What is in the Box?

1 x Unit of PAPAGO! Z1
1 x Vehicle Suction Mount
1 x Car Charger
1 x USB Cable
1 x User Manual
Preloaded with PAPAGO! X9 Navigational Software, 5 country maps including Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Brunei and Indonesia

Alright, here’s the condition i received it.. via GD Express. i had the parcel delivered to my office..

Nice, they even wrapped it with bubble foam..

OK.. here is the items included in the box.. just as they said on the website..
1. Car suction mount- checked.
2. Papago Factory Backup Disk + Digital Manual in CD- checked.
3. USB Cable- checked.
4. Car Charger- checked.
5. Warranty Card- checked.
6. Quick Start Guide- checked
7. Stylus- checked (although i have no idea where to slot this in, on the PND.. there isnt any “hole” for the stylus
8. PAPAGO Z1 PND- checked.

I noticed there is a warning sticker on the PND, asking me to let it charge at least for 10 minutes before i first use it.. SOOOO.. alright, plugged in the unit into my PC’s USB slot and let it charge..

Thats all for now.. more on actual usage and a review of its X9 interface..

Thaipusam, Batu Caves, Malaysia, Year 2012

2012-02-07T18:39:00.001+08:00

I have spent the half of yesterday, thinking should I go to Batu Caves or should I not, just for the sake of taking photographs of devote hindu disciples pay their respect to their god.. SO finally.. i decided to go, with a good friend of mine.

Woke up at 530am, met up with friend at 6am, had breakfast at McDonalds and made our way to Batu Caves.. Reached there around 650am, there was a big jam there.. ALREADY.. THIS EARLY.. manage to secure a place to park my car on the fly over bridge about 5 minutes walk away from the temple.

So here is some of the photographs i shot..

Now.. for those taken with my 2nd camera, my faithful Point and Shoot.. for wide angle photos..

And finally.. THIS.. had a free “cold sample” before i called it a day and left..

Now.. want to share a photo with all of you.. sometimes, i feel ashamed to be called a photographers, because of these in-humane, in-polite and no respect for religion photographers.. the poor dude was carrying such heavy thing.. and needs to sit for a rest.. the moment he sits down.. FUIYOH.. all this idiots rush to him to shoot.. poor guy.. it must have been painful.. This is why photographers is banned in so many places.. because of these guys..

And then on my way out, i see 3 police tow trucks happily towing cars away.. odd, because you do not see them towing away cars at certain places of worship and during certain time and certain day.. and FRU unit on standby..

And next.. videos..

Thaipusam Video 1

Thaipusam Video 2

Thaipusam Video 3

Thaipusam Video 4

How to Root Motorola Razr after Updating to 65.1.21.XT910.PSHAsiaRetail.en.03

2012-01-25T10:36:00.001+08:00

Note: This is ONLY for XT910 variants. Flash at your own risk. If you brick the phone, it is a risk you have to bear. We will not be held responsible. DO SO AT YOUR OWN RISK.

Reference: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1457622
Reference: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1347767
Reference: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1341578
Method by: almstag (XDA-Developers Forum)

This is what happened to me.. i purchased a brand new Motorola Razr XT910.. and soon after that, before i even rooted the device.. i did the OTA update.. BIG MISTAKE.. turns out the new firmware 65.1.21.xt910 cannot be rooted.

So the only way, at least as I am writing this guide, is to downgrade, root, protect root, and revert back to 65.1.21.xt910.

So here is a guide from almstag, of XDA-Developers forum, which is the guy who’s post helped me root my phone.

First, you will need some files.. download these in advance.

1. Moto Helper
http://www.motorola.com/staticfiles/Support/Experiences/Global_Drivers/MotoHelper_2.0.53_Driver_5.2.0.exe

2. RSD
http://www.datafilehost.com/download-70528f54.html

3. Fastboot File: Download SPDREM_U_01.6.5.1-73_SPU-11-PASS-10_SIGNEuropeAustraliaEMEA_USASPDRRTGB_HWp2b_Servi ce1FF_fastboot.xml.zip
http://www.multiupload.com/T012AX9PKH

4. ROM for Razr Asia Recovery
http://www.multiupload.com/8XIEU8V4QY

5. Root Files (DooMLoRD_v4_ROOT-zergRush-busybox-su.zip)
http://www.mediafire.com/?sdkqc4jjt2o6iq5

6. Razr Bootstrap Recovery
http://www.mediafire.com/?3b8ka26kk2zpw5l

Lets Start with Downgrading via Fast Boot
OK.. currently there is no Fastboot for 65.1.21.XT910.PSHAsiaRetail.en.03, so we are going to do, is to flash Europe’s Fastboot file 651.73.23.xt910.retail.en.eu to your phone.

Step 1: Flash the 651.73.23.xt910.retail.en.eu to Your Phone
1.1 Boot your phone into AP Fast Boot Mode
Switch off your phone, then hold to the power key + Volume Down + Volume Up
You should get something like this

1.2 Connect your phone to your PC Via USB cable
1.3 Flash the firmware into your phone

Step 2: Root your phone..
2.1 Extract the Root files you downloaded earlier (DoomLord)
2.2 Enable debugging mode on your phone
Go to Settings->Applications->Development->[Tick USB debugging]
2.3 Connect your phone to PCl
2.4 Set USB connection to “Charge Only”
2.5 Run the “Runme.bat” from Doomlord’s file
2.6 Thats it.. your phone is now rooted.

Step 3: Bootstrap Recovery
3.1 Install Razr Bootstrapper (APK) to your phone.
You will need to copy this APK file to your phone’s SD card
3.2 Copy the Razr Asia Recovery.zip to your phone’s SD card
3.3 Run Razr Bootstrapper
3.4 Select “Bootstrap Recovery”
Superuser will prompt for permissions
3.5 Select “Reboot Recovery”
3.5.1 The phone will reboot into Clockworkmod Recovery
3.5.2 Select “Install zip from SD Card”
3.5.3 Flash the software
If you are unable to complete this step, please skip to the last part.. because i encounter “installation aborted” error

Step 4: Preserve your Root
4.1 Install from market Voodoo OTA Rootkeeper
4.2 Backup the Root
4.3 Unroot
4.4 Install the 65.1.21.XT910 update (OTA)
4.5 Use Voodoo OTA Rootkeeper to restore root

DONE~!

Ok.. now for the difficult part. What if you encounter problem at step 3. I encountered installation aborted error message. No matter how many times i try, i still get that error message.

Thanks to almstag from XDA-Developers forum, he taught me what to do.

1. Download this stock ROM
http://www.4shared.com/zip/K5sSRyU7/RAZR-651_73-spd-ird-12.html

2. Make a folder on your ext-sd and name it “clockworkmod”

3. Go to clockworkmod, and make a new folder inside it, named “backup”

4. Extract the downloaded 6.5.1_73-spd-ird-12 into the backup folder (ext-sd\clockworkmod\backup)

5. Run Razr Bootstrap on your phone and go to recovery

6. Scroll down into “backup & restore”

7. Restore 2011-12-23.11.43.29

8. After complete, wipe cache, and then reboot.

DONE! you can now proceed with step 4.

Papago X5 SGMY for Android (Tested on Motorola Droid Razr- Ginger 2.3.5)

2012-01-20T21:00:00.001+08:00

Root NOT Required.. did this on my phone, and it is not rooted.

Hey guys.. Having the opportunity to use this great GPS application (was installed on my phone by the phone shop, i must say, it makes a very good back up GPS navigation software if my primary GPS device have problem..

But one day, me and my itchy hands, went to perform a hard reset on my phone.. and i had to install everything from the scratch. Good learning curve too.. after spending several hours looking through the internet, and combining several tricks from different sites, i came up with the best method i have so far..

Sorry i didn’t make this guide with images to make the installation easier.. i have yet to find a suitable screen capture app on Android that doesn’t require root.. I do not want to root my device and expose it to potential system failures and malware attacks.

Tools & Software Requirement
Disclaimer: this guide is written for Ginger 2.3.x devices. It may or may not work for other devices. Do so at your own risk. Do not come to me if you damage or brick your phone by following this guide.

Step 1: Download this file from the net:
1.1. Papago X5 for Android.zip (http://www.mediafire.com/?wnayab08zqy1f54)
1.2. Papago X5 for Android.z01 (http://www.mediafire.com/?feepfyv6jnexh2f)
Copy both this file into the same folder, and extract the contents from Papago X5 for Android.zip

Step 2: Determine your Android Device Screen Resolution. For example, my Motorola Razr Screen Resolution is 540X960. (if you do not know your device’s screen resolution, go to your manufacturer’s website and search for the screen resolution.

Step 3: Go to the folder where you extracted the “Papago X5 for Android.zip” file.
3.1. Go to the folder \NaviSEA\Organic. You will see there are many folders with different screen resolution.
3.2. If your screen resolution is not stated there, find one that matches it exactly, and ‘copy-paste’ it within the same folder. It should come out something like “480X854 - Copy” and rename it to your screen resolution. For my case, it is 540X960.
Remember, choose the nearest resolution folder and make sure the resolution is smaller than your screen resolution.
3.3. Do the same thing for the folders within CHT, EN, IND, MY.

Step 4: From your phone, go to market (or some call it Google Market).. and download the software “Spareparts+” and install it on your phone.

Step 5: In your phone’s settings, make sure you enable the option to install applications from others source other than market.

Step 6: Connect your Android to your PC via USB cable, for me i used PC mode, and copy the folder “NaviSEA” and the file “PAPAGO_X5SEA_0806_WWEMarket.apk” into the root of your SD Card.

Step 7: Disconnect your android device from your PC. Use any “file explorer” softwares out in market.

Step 8: Browse to the root of your SD Card and run the “PAPAGO_X5SEA_0806_WWEMarket.apk” file. DO NOT RUN THE APPLICATION JUST YET.

Step 9: Run “Spareparts +” which you installed in step 4. Under Compatibility Mode, Tick it and restart your phone.
If it is already ticked, untick it, restart your phone. Then tick it again.

Step 10: Go to the PAPAGO X5 from apps, and run it. it should be able to run.

Note 1: If the application exit on its own, then go back to spareparts and untick the compatibility, and restart phone again.. then run papago x5 to see if it works.

Note 2: If the application complaints something about resolution, that means you did not do step 3 properly.. go and do it properly.

DONE~! Enjoy your Papago X5.

AND, yes, i am aware that the screen looks abit odd.. this is because papago X5 is a rather old navigation software for android, and not meant to be used in the more modern android devices with larger screens.. thus it looks weird. You can however install the later versions, but i never tried it. Papago X5 works well and it is perfect as a back up navigator.

I might come out with a guide to update the map later on.. when i have the time..

Malaysia Today..

2011-12-12T09:13:00.001+08:00

Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Putra_Mosque_3370297490_e805040863.jpg

Malaysia is a multiracial country with Islam being the official religion, with approximately 64% of its population Muslims..

In the early seventh century, Arabian traders including the “Sahabas” preached in Malay Archipelago, Indo-China and China, but was not widely accepted. Islam was brought to Malay Peninsula by Indian Muslim traders in the 12th Century, where the first Malay Ruler, Sultan Muzaffar Shah the first, converted to Islam after being introduced to it by Indian traders. Even the first sultan and founder of the Malacca state, Parameswara was converted to Islam after marrying a princess from Pasai (currently part of Indonesia) and changed his name to Sultan Megat Iskandar Shah.

Malaysians were generally a harmonious community with tolerance among religions such as Buddhist, Christians, Taoist, Sikhs, and many more..

But recently, the Islamic religion became more and more aggressive with less tolerance to other religion..

Although Islam on itself is not a bad religion, it teaches us all to be kind to each other, compassionate, to pursue science and technology.. to be tolerant towards other religion and culture. But it is the followers that are bringing havoc, and their deadly interpretation of the Quran (the bible for Muslims).

I would not touch on Islam activities outside of Malaysia, just by looking at Malaysia, there are people throwing Cow heads at Hindu temples (Cow is considered holy to Hindus), demolishing Hindu or Buddhist temples just to build Islamic Mosques at the same grounds. There is even cases where Buddhist temple have to use the Islamic symbolic “Onion shaped roof” in their temple or risk being demolished in Klang, Selangor.

Where is the tolerance that the religion teaches?

Things get worse when Politicians start to use it for leverage in their political career.. Do they not see, using the Religion card and the Racial cards, will bring in-stability to the country? From what i read from local news, online news, I can see there are more extremist in Malaysia now compared to 10 years ago.. and even more so compared to my father’s days in the 60s and 70s.

Is Malaysia trying to mimic Indonesia, in their famous blood bath riots? Indonesia has learned it’s lesson and is now growing fast.. And Malaysia is becoming more and more backward..

The arrogance of the ruling party is appalling.. Trying everything to secure more votes in the upcoming election.. Dirty tactics such as attacking the opposition leader’s son using a photo of a foreign chess champion which is widely distributed on the internet. Come on, do you think we are dumb?

What makes me sad, is our Prime Minister can’t seem to keep his deputy prime minister in control.. the DPM keep making racist remarks and later call for tolerance in the society. The Prime Minister himself trying to improve his image with Facebook accounts, iPhone application and even the 1Malaysia concept, meant to bring harmony and better tolerance among culture and religion, but says the opposite things during UMNO assembly. Publicly showing his snake tongue.

There are photographs and other reports of the ruling party allowing large numbers of illegal immigrants to become citizens of Malaysia, YES, citizens and not PR holders.. as long as they vow to vote for ruling party in the next election. This has been practised for many years in east Malaysia (look at the number of Philipina in Kota Kinabalu) and you will understand. Now this is being practised in West Malaysia as well.

Even Muslims from Indonesia, upon registering, becomes BUMIPUTRA immediately.. the chinese, indian and other ethnic races has been in Malaysia for so many years, some even 4 or 5 generations, was not offered Bumiputra, but those new immigrants are granted just because they embrace Islam as a religion.

All this is never published by mainstream media, which is controlled by the ruling parties. Where is the freedom of speech?

The last time Malaysia held a rally, the famous “Bersih 2.0”, the ruling party came down on it really strong, having closing almost all major highways and roads leading into the city centre for a week! a week before the rally.. why? there certainly isn’t any reason for the road blocks, perhaps 1 day before, but not 1 week, causing havoc and heavy jam on the roads.

Police permits was not issued, but was later issued to similar rally by Islamic groups and an extreme racist organization, which ought to be put in jail by ISA a long time ago for inciting racist remarks and provoking racial riots.

To be honest, I do not have much faith in the opposition ruling the country, i even voted for the ruling party in the last election, based on the performance of the representative in my residential area. But looking at all these recent developments, I have lost ALL faith in the ruling party and will not hesitate to give the opposition a chance to prove itself. It can’t be worse than it is today, with all the corruptions that is draining the country’s reserves dry.

Look at the states run by opposition, they have mass reserves in the bank in just 2 years from last election.. Being able to have reserves and projects to improve the lives of people within the state, this means a lot compared to other states ruled by ruling party, with less projects but reserves getting less and less.. Where is the reserves going to?

There are cases where GLCs which is supposed to breed cows, end up investing in Condominiums in Bangsar. True, the investment may be a good investment, but the point is, the organization is meant to breed cows, which is far from achieving their targets. I would understand them spending to bring in experts in bovine breeding, or in improving their facilities, but certainly not property investments, posh cars for the directors.

Why not let the opposition have a go with the Country? They did a good job in states, I am sure they can do so in the country as well.

Note: This is purely my thoughts and I am not linked to any political party or religion. I am just an Ordinary Citizen of Malaysia, voicing his concerns.

First Trip with Colleagues.. Taipei, Taiwan Part 3..

2011-11-19T11:25:00.001+08:00

OK.. next.. Morning breakfast.. cannot resist.. must eat this.. Oyster Noodles!

Next, we went to the Gangster’s Paradise in Taipei, 万华! and lets start by the famous 龙山寺

龙山寺

Psst psst.. There are cute girls too..

Next, we went to Taipei 101!! We walked our way through the shopping markets that interlinks with Taipei 101..

And of course from time to time, we are on the surface..

Finally, we arrived.. Taipei 101!!

Taipei 101

To be honest, I am getting tired of detailing our trip.. here’s some remaining photos

Saw a police Operation? I wonder who they are raiding..

More coming.. stay tuned for Part 3.. and the final part..

First Trip with Colleagues.. Taipei, Taiwan- Part 1

2011-11-07T22:49:00.001+08:00

Hello.. This is my first vacation trip with my new colleagues from Panasonic..

And our first destination, is to Taipei, via Malaysia Airlines..

Upon landing, we proceed to catch a bus from Taoyuan International Airport (桃园国际机场), to Taipei City. Came down at 承德路 before catching Taxi to my grandparent’s house in 三重市.

Grandpa's House

Our first dinner in Taipei.. YangChun Noodles (阳春面) and Shui Jiao (水饺)

at San Chong’s Night Market (三重夜市)

三重夜市

Next.. BREAKFAST!

Next, we continued making our way to the bus stop to catch a bus to taipei bus station.. along the way, we saw this notice for filming.. if only i am here earlier, could have kepoh and shoot..

Next, we reach taipei bus station.. GIRLS, CHECK THIS OUT!! can buy ur makeup here.. there is at least 5 vending machines here with different type of make up!

And toilets is very clearly indicated.. there is an arrow on the floor every 10 meters..

First up.. 中正纪念堂

中正纪念堂

Also met some very interesting tourist from other countries.. Philippines?

Some american tourist, me taking photographs with Stanley..

The guard that doesn’t move..

The whole team..

More coming…

A Very Happy Day..

2011-10-16T00:37:00.001+08:00

It has been a GREAT day today, seeing 2 very dear friends of mine, tying the knot and beginning their next stage of life.

I had the pleasure of seeing CW glancing at KW from time to time in the office, when KW first join. Took him awhile before he gathered the courage to introduce himself. I can remember it very clearly, it was in my hotel room, during Ricoh’s Service Ambassador Meeting in Kuantan. At that time, almost everyone was in my room drinking beer, eating peanuts. KW was playing UNO with us. I noticed CW glancing at her from time to time, then finally taking the courage to sit down by the bed to introduce himself to her, which was followed by a romantic stroll on the beach and mountain tracking the next day.

After the event in Kuantan, in the office, i can still remember CW finding reasons to be near KW.. taking up call avoidance just to be near KW (Call Avoidance Desk is very near KW’s desk)

To be honest, when I first joined Ricoh, I do not like CW. I found him to be a Mr. Know-it-all.. But after a few weeks, I found that he is a great guy, knowledgeable in his field and willing to help people when they need assistance.

KW on the other hand, for some reason, from the moment she joined Ricoh, i found it very easy to talk with. She became my listening ear as I release all my frustration when my relationship with my ex is not going smooth, and when I was thinking of how to tackle girls (my current girlfriend). I can still remember seeking your advice on what to give her..

Together with William, we had some great memories.. having lunch together almost everyday, and not to mention DOTA sessions at burger king, McDonald's, William’s house, CW’s house, KW’s house and also my house. These are really sweet memories, of which I will always cherish.

To CW & KW, I wish both of you, only the very best. Congratulations!

Scuba Symphony Facebook Underwater Photo Contest- September 2011

2011-10-02T17:52:00.001+08:00

Hey Guys!

For the first time, I have won something on the Internet for Photography.. Although I only got a Consolation Prize, the feeling is still good.

The competition is organized by Scuba Symphony, via Facebook, the “Scuba Symphony Facebook Underwater Photo Contest- September 2011” with the theme ‘Clown Fish’.

There is a total of 6 entries, 1 got the 1st prize while the other 4 got the consolation prize.. I know.. almost everyone got a prize.. but the feeling is still good.

I just sent the organizers the High Resolution photo for verification. I wonder what is the consolation prize..

For this photography competition, participants post their photograph on the facebook page, make a donation to “Project Aware” (any sum will do) and the photograph with the most “LIKES” will win.

There is one participant which went out of their way to publish a touching story on why she wants to win this competition, which generated a lot of “LIKES”.. i’m not complaining, because her photograph is really nice.

But there is another participant which actually cheated by creating lots of “FAKE” accounts just to “LIKE” his photograph, and to win the competition. He succeeded in winning.. It is sad the organizer didn’t look into the issue of the cheating.. However, the organizer did comment saying from next month’s competition onwards, they will be the ones to judge the photographs and not through “LIKES”.

Alright, having said that, this is the photograph I entered into the competition.

This is the First Prize Winner’s Photograph:
Yes, the one with the ‘cheat to win’ guy.. WaiSang Ooi

Here’s the other winning entries:
The one with the 2nd most votes, Sharmine Lee

Next, Davide Lopresti’s entry.. Personally, my favourite. I seriously think this is the best photo among all participants..

Next, Steven Sim. The photo is rather good as well..

Lastly, the entry that didn’t win anything.. (perhaps because he did not make the required donation to “Project Aware”.

Disclaimer: All photographs used here is not my photographs, except for the first photo. All Rights remain with the respective Photographers.

Here is the link to the competition FACEBOOK page..
http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=229369407077037

My MANGO UPDATE!!

2011-09-28T07:10:00.001+08:00

This morning, I received 3 Updates! Not 1, but 3!

This is rather interesting and very exciting!

Update 1: ‘Update for Windows Phone 7 for ISV beta (7720)’

After that the phone went on to search for Additional Updates:

Then it found it.. Update 2: ‘Mango ISV beta Bundle: Cleanup’

and just as i was getting happy, a 3rd UPDATE!!

It is simply AMAZING!

Currently, my phone information is as below:
Model: LG LG-E900
Carrier: OPEN
Software: Windows Phone 7.5
Total Storage: 14.94 GB
Available Storage: 7.31 GB
OS Version: 7.10.7720.68 (previously i was on 7712)
Firmware revision number: 1.0.6.10
Hardware revision number: 1.0.0.0
Radio Software version: 1.0.6.10
Radio Hardware version: 0.3.5.0
Bootloader version: 1.5.1.0
Chip SsOC version: 0.30.2.0

WhatsApp for WP7 is close to come.. Beta Version Available..

2011-09-23T11:45:00.002+08:00

After waiting for some time now, whatsapp is confirmed here.
There is also leaked beta which some people grabbed it from its private beta (download only made available to selected few..
Here’s some screen shots of it on WP7..

Note: This is not my photo.. took it from the web (www.mobiletechworld.com)
After using the beta for a few days, besides being laggy (its still beta, what do you expect?), the toast notifications and live tile works great! really looking forward to its full release in marketplace.
For those who can sideload apps, you can get the XAP file here: http://www.mediafire.com/?xnmxhktj6sk46w9

Videos taken at Perhentian Island, Underwater..

2011-09-11T16:52:00.001+08:00

Fimbriated Moray

Brownstripe Snapper.. why is it brownstripe? beats me.. looks yellow to me.. according to reef fish ID book, its brownstripe..

Perhentian’s Famous 3-legged Green Turtle..

Hari Raya & Merdeka Day Dive- Perhentian Island.. yet again..

2011-09-06T07:20:00.001+08:00

Here we are again, Perhentian Island. Can’t get enough of diving for myself..

Here’s some photographs I shot..

Mombasa Lionfish Fimbriated Moray

Long-Beaked Coral Fish

OKAY, at this point, im getting lazy to ID all the fish.. so here is the rest of them..

Nudi Branch..

Anemone Fish (aka Nemo or Clown Fish)

Green Turtle

Our Dive Master attacked by Titan Triggerfish..

Others…

Overall, damn enjoyable..

Board Express for Tapatalk- WP7

2011-08-14T21:02:00.001+08:00

Board Express Pro for Tapatalk allows you quick access on more than 8000 forums that are supported by Tapatalk. With Board Express Pro you may access to forums, threads and personal messages, furthermore, you may also post into existing threads as well as creating new threads and send personal messages.

Features
• Access to more than 8000 forums (vBulletin, IPBoard, phpBB and SMF)
• Read and create posts, threads and private messages
• Optimized for your Windows Phone 7 screen
• Tapatalk is traffic-efficient, because it allows you to quickly access the information you want
• Ability to use the search function in forums
• Search for threads in which you posted
• Search for unread posts
• …and much more

Download it Here (Sideload)

Weave- Best RSS Reader Available for WP7

2011-08-14T08:15:00.001+08:00

RSS Evolved Presenting Weave – the world’s best news reader, exclusively for Windows Phone 7! Featuring an attractive interface and lightning-fast performance, Weave offers a fresh take on RSS. Try it now for free!

Full list of features:
• 33 pre-loaded categories including world, financial, deals, fashion, videogames, technology, and sports news just to name a few!
• Add new categories at any time
• Over 180 pre-loaded, high-quality news sources including CNN, Wall Street Journal, ESPN, Engadget, USA Today, NY Times, IGN, Entertainment Weekly, and many more!
• Feed search – you can search for new feeds by topic or website name
• Easily manage your feeds and categories via the settings screen
• Preview articles with a touch of a finger
• View full articles at your leisure
• Share articles with your friends, via email!
• Post an article to your Facebook wall!
• Tweet an article to your Twitter followers!
• Send an article to Instapaper!

We pre-loaded Weave with 33 categories of interest – from sports to technology, politics, world news, videogames, wine, comic books, art, celebrity gossip, movies, travel – just to name a few! For every category, we went and found the highest quality blog and news sources, the ones with the best content, the most interesting articles, and the best images.

As soon as you open Weave the first time, you select the categories you are interested in, and within seconds you have created what is essentially a high-quality magazine that is catered just to you! A virtual magazine that is always updated with fresh articles – without you having to do anything at all!

Download (Via Sideloader)

How to Install Mango Beta 2 on Windows Phone 7- without developer account..

2011-08-08T23:33:00.001+08:00

Ok.. I was telling myself, I would wait until the official update comes..

But I just cannot wait anymore.. So I took the plunge and updated my NODO WP7 to Mango Beta 2 WP7.

Here’s the steps I took and links to the files which is necessary for the update.
Source: http://gadgetfeel.com/how-to-install-wp7-mango-beta-update/

Step 1 : Download the required files.
i. Windows Phone Support Tools. Click HERE for x64 version, and HERE for x86 version.
ii. Updating Tool which can be found here: WindowsPhoneHacker.com.
iii. Beta version for Zune (made for Mango Beta, other Zune don’t work with mango).
Download it here.

Step 2 : Connect your NODO WP7 to PC via USB.
Ensure that Zune pops up (the old Zune, not the beta version)

Step 3 : Close Zune.

Step 4 : Run the Update.bat

Step 5 : Once complete, Zune will automatically launch.

Step 6 : Check for Updates. You will find ‘Windows Phone 7 Build 7401’. Install it.

Step 7 : Once installed, search for update again. You will find ‘Windows Phone 7 Build 7661’. Install it. Thats Mango Beta 2.

Step 8 : Once Mango is installed, you will need to use the Zune Beta version as the old zune will no longer work on your phone from this time onwards.

However, if you ever want to go back to Nodo, use the ‘restore.bat’ to restore your NODO.
Keep your NODO Backup Safe, as you will need it to return to NODO, before you can update to the official Mango and other future updates.

Update 1 Screen Shot

Update Screen Shot 2- This is it.. MANGO BETA 2!

Almost..

DONE ! !

Disclaimer:
i. This is not the official update. Updating to Mango Beta will void your warranty
ii. I am not responsible for any damage, ‘brick’ of your phone
iii. You will need to be at least, on NODO update for this to work

Good Luck and Enjoy WP7 Mango!

Configure a USB flash drive to be a Windows 7 installation platform

2011-07-30T01:51:00.001+08:00

Source: http://www.techrepublic.com/blog/window-on-windows/configure-a-usb-flash-drive-to-be-a-windows-7-installation-platform/1446?tag=nl.e064
Author: Greg Shultz, July 27, 2011, 12:25 AM PDT

In a recent 10 Things blog, “10 Cool Things You Can Do with a USB Flash Drive,” I presented 10 tasks that you can perform with a flash drive, including booting an operating system. However, I have since discovered a technique on the Microsoft TechNet Magazine site that describes how you can use a USB flash drive to install Windows 7.

This technique is very cool for two reasons: First, a flash drive is much more responsive than an optical drive, since it doesn’t rely on physically moving components, so the installation procedure will be faster. Second, it provides an easy way to install Microsoft Windows 7 on a system that doesn’t have a DVD drive, such as a netbook.

Since this technique would be a valuable addition to the 10 Things list as well as to users planning on installing Windows 7 on a netbook or who want to be able to quickly and easily install Windows 7, such as the Family Pack, on multiple systems without having to mess around with a DVD, I thought that I would examine the technique.

In this edition of the Windows Vista and Windows 7 Report, I’ll show you how to use the DiskPart utility to configure a bootable USB flash drive that you can then use to install the Microsoft Windows 7 operating system.

This blog post is also available in PDF format in a free TechRepublic download.

Getting started

Of course, in order to employ this technique you’ll need a USB flash drive that is big enough to hold the contents of the Windows 7 DVD. The Windows 7 RC DVD is about 2.5GB, and you can expect that the RTM DVD will be at least that if not more. For my test system I am using a 4GB USB flash drive.

Keep in mind that the procedure we will use will completely reformat the USB flash drive. So you want to make sure that you back up any data that you have on the drive before you begin.

The systems on which you want to install Windows 7 via the USB flash drive have to be able to be configured to boot from a USB drive. Most new systems have the capability to boot from a USB flash drive, and the operation can usually be configured in the BIOS or by simply pressing a certain key during bootup. You’ll need to check your specific hardware in order to be sure.

Using the DiskPart utility

As you may know, the DiskPart utility is a command-line version of the Disk Management snap-in and is designed to allow you to manage disks, partitions, or volumes from within scripts or directly from a command prompt. We can use the DiskPart command in Windows Vista or in Windows 7 to configure a USB flash drive to be a bootable device. (Keep in mind that Windows XP’s DiskPart command is unable to create a bootable USB flash drive.)

To begin, connect your USB flash drive to a computer on which you will be preparing the drive. For my example, I’ll be using a Windows Vista system.

Now, locate the command Prompt shortcut on the Start menu, right-click on it, and select the Run as Administrator command. Then, respond appropriately to the UAC. You can now launch the DiskPart utility by typing DiskPart on the command line. You’ll then see the DISKPART prompt, as shown in Figure A.

Figure A

DiskPart has its own command-line environment complete with a special prompt.

Now that you’re in the DiskPart environment, you’ll need to locate the USB flash drive using the List Disk command. As you can see in Figure B, the List Disk command has identified my USB flash drive as Disk 5. I can verify that my USB flash drive is indeed Disk 5 by checking the Size column, which lists the size as 3906MB, which is roughly 4GB.

Figure B

Using the List Disk command displays all the disks in the system.

(If you have difficulty identifying your USB flash drive using the List Disk command, you can try the List Volume command, which will provide the drive letter as well as the label, both of which can help you to identify the drive.)

Once you identify the drive number of your USB flash drive, you will need to set the focus of the DiskPart environment on that disk. (This is an extremely important step–Make sure that you select the correct drive or you could accidentally destroy valuable data!) On my example, the USB flash drive is Disk 5, so I will use the command Select Disk 5, as shown in Figure C.

Figure C

To shift the focus over to the USB flash drive you’ll use the Select Disk command.

Now that your USB flash drive has the focus, you need to remove all the partition or volume formatting information from the disk. To do that, you’ll use the Clean command. The Clean operation should occur rather quickly. When it is done, you will see a success message like the one shown in Figure D.

Figure D

In order to start with a clean slate, you’ll use the Clean command to remove all partition and volume information from the USB flash drive.

You’ll now use the Create Partition Primary command to create a primary partition on the disk. After you create the partition, you will see a success message and the focus will automatically shift to the new partition. You’ll use the Active command to mark the partition as active, as shown inFigure E. Marking the partition as active will essentially allow the BIOS to recognize that the partition is a valid bootable system partition.

Figure E

Using the Create Partition Primary and the Active commands, you’ll create a bootable partition on the USB flash drive.

With the partition created and active, you’re now ready to quickly format the drive and set up the FAT32 file system using the Format fs=FAT32 quick command. (While you could format the drive as NTFS, the typical way to format a USB flash drive is to use FAT32.) Once the drive is formatted, you’ll use the Assign command, as shown in Figure F, to allow the drive to be assigned a drive letter.

Figure F

To complete the preparation, you’ll format the drive and assign it a drive letter.

The USB flash drive is now ready. At this point, you can use the Exit command to exit the DiskPart environment and then close the Command Prompt window.

Copying the Windows 7 files

Copying the Windows 7 files is easy. Just open Windows Explorer, access the Windows 7 DVD, select all the files and folders, and then drag and drop them on the USB flash drive icon, as shown in Figure G. Keep in mind that the copy operation will take a little while to complete.

Figure G

Once the USB flash drive is ready to go, you can copy all the files and folders from the Windows 7 DVD to the newly prepared bootable drive.

Installing Windows 7 from the USB flash drive

With the contents of the Windows 7 DVD on a bootable USB flash drive, installing the operating system is a snap. Just boot the system from the USB drive and the installation procedure will begin as it normally would, as shown in Figure H. However, the installation procedure will actually run quicker off a USB flash drive since it doesn’t contain any physically moving components.

Figure H

Once the system boots from the USB flash drive, the Windows 7 installation will begin as normal, but it will actually run faster.

IM+ Updates to 1.1, adds support for Windows Live Messenger on WP7

2011-07-06T21:48:00.001+08:00

IM+ was initially launched for WP7 few weeks ago, with support for Chat in Facebook®, Skype®, Yahoo!®, GTalk™, AIM®, Jabber, ICQ® and MySpace™!

Now, with version 1.1, they added chat in Windows Live Messenger.. making this the best IM offered for WP7 to date (although KIK is smoother, but i only have 1 friend using KIK.. i dumped it)

Features
(Source: http://www.shapeservices.com/en/products/details.php?product=im&platform=wp)

'Always-on' communication across most of public messaging systems

Stay in touch with your your friends in a single buddy list right on your Windows Phone. Anytime, anywhere. IM+ offers ultimate mobile IMing experience with its sleek and polished interface.

Save battery life

Take advantage of Tile and Toast notifications without running IM+ in background.

Take the most out of your Windows Phone

One-tap access to phone dialing and email composing right from IM conversations. Simply tap on phone number or email to contact your buddy outside of IM+.

First multi-messenger application for Windows Phone is finally here

IM+ does not limit your daily IMing to one-on-one chats. Keep in touch with your friends and colleagues in Skype group chats. We will be adding support for other group messaging services in forthcoming updates.

For Unlocked Phones, you can download the XAP file here:
http://www.mediafire.com/?w2yk0sc96vyc5q6

For others, please get from Marketplace..

Angry Birds comes to WP7

2011-07-02T21:10:00.001+08:00

Finally, after much delays, Angry Birds is finally here in WP7.

For those who are interested, and have an unlocked phone, here’s the XAP file.
http://www.mediafire.com/?ydy5l5x9vvzi4ix

For those who has the option to buy the application, please go and purchase this app and support the developer. I have no choice as I cannot purchase the app.

WP7- Installing Paid Apps without Paying for it..

2011-07-02T21:02:00.001+08:00

Disclaimer: I came across some information from the internet, and decided to post this out to all my friends out there who are in the same situation as I am. As much as I love my WP7, I am vastly disgusted and saddened by Microsoft’s inability to enable most of the people in the WORLD to purchase apps from marketplace, which i have posted in my blog here. I have been using ‘free’ and ‘trial’ apps for a long time, and now, I want to share to people how to get to use the apps for free. Please do take note, that I am willing to pay for each and every app i use this method to download, if the method is make available to me in Malaysia.

This is a short guide on how to install paid apps from Microsoft’s Marketplace and installing them in your phone. Before we begin, you will need a developer unlocked phone, which I have covered here:
1. http://www.haroldchia.com/2011/03/how-to-developer-unlock-wp7-without.html
2. http://www.haroldchia.com/2011/01/unlocking-windows-phone-7-via-chevron.html
Note: the 1st link only works for LG handsets while the 2nd method only works on Pre-NODO update handsets. Those with NODO updates, i am sorry but i do not know how to unlock your phone.

Next, you will need a very handy tool, from Microsoft themself, called ‘Application Deployment’ which is part of the Windows Phone Developer Tools 7 (get it here free: http://create.msdn.com/en-us/home/getting_started)

Next, you will need Zune, required to enable your PC to communicate with your handphone.
http://www.zune.net/en-US/

Alright, next you will need this 2 application, one to download apps from marketplace, and the other to ‘patch’ the XAP file.
1. WP7-MktPlace (http://s317073502.onlinehome.fr/b.a.s.e/?p=225)
2. WP7-app (http://www.mediafire.com/?qv7y567p6r27yg4)

The steps is rather simple.
1. Install all the software mentioned above.
2. Make sure your phone is connected to PC via USB, and Zune detects your phone.
3. Use WP7-app to search and download the XAP file of the software you intend to install.
4. Use WP7-MktPlace to patch the XAP file (the steps to do that is covered in the place where you download it)
5. Use the Application Deployment tool to send this to your phone, and DONE, you have the app in your phone.
Note: From personal experiance, this method doesn’t work for larger XAP files and most of the LIVE games. However, you CAN find and download the XAP for those games already on the internet. Just google it.

Good Luck!

Videos Captured in My Recent Dive Trip in Perhentian

2011-06-25T20:49:00.001+08:00

Here’s some videos I took on my Recent Dive Trip in Perhentian, some fish underwater, some turtles laying eggs

Here’s the videos. Please do comment. Shot using my Canon Powershot G11

Green Turtle Lay Eggs..

Or rather covering the egg with sand..

Underwater Video

Anemone Fish..

Black Tip Reef Shark..

The biggest plankton i ever saw.. the size of a maggot!

Yellow Tail Baracuda..

The Barge.. Video 1

The Barge.. Video 2

Hope u guys liked the videos.. Will take more video’s and photographs in next dive trip.

Diving at Perhentian- June 2011 (Photos, Videos coming soon..)

2011-06-07T07:44:00.002+08:00

Having being totally stressed out the past few months, working late almost every night, sometimes to wee hours.. it is only normal to go for a vacation.. and what better vacation than to go tot he crystal clear islands of Perhentian..
This round, took flight instead of driving or coach.. Overall travelling cost much more, but not as tiring as driving or coach.
This trip, only did 3 dives for a 3D2N weekend escapade. My purpose is to rest, not stress myself out.
So guys, here’s some pics i took underwater.
Dive 1: Batu Layar (Refresher Dive, PM dive), Maximum Depths 17.8m, 66' dive time, 29⁰C

Dive 2: Bubbles DC House Reef (Night Dive), Max Depth 14.7m, 62’ Dive Time, 29⁰C

Dive 3: The Barge (AM Dive), 26.4m Max Depth, 44’ dive time, 27⁰C

And of course, after the dives, did MANY SNORKELING around the house reef of Bubbles DC.

Photoshoot at Klebang Beach, Malacca..

2011-05-29T16:30:00.002+08:00

Was in Malacca town, so might as well do some photo shooting..
Klebang Beach, Malacca Town.

嫁給工程師真好!

2011-05-28T08:44:00.001+08:00

Original Source: http://www.facebook.com/notes/alex-chou/%E5%AB%81%E7%B5%A6%E5%B7%A5%E7%A8%8B%E5%B8%AB%E7%9C%9F%E5%A5%BD/420639237197

Author: Alex Chou

當你選擇丈夫時，請先把工程師與以下的職業作一番比較︰

一.醫生幾乎所有女人都喜歡追求當醫生的。所以不要期望你們的婚姻能持續五年以上，因為早晚有一天，他會跟某個護士小姐跑掉的，或是被一個假裝生病的年輕女人勾引走。這種倒霉事還往往發生在你已經為他生了幾個小孩的時候。你的工程師丈夫不會發生這種事。因為他忙得連見你的時間都很少，更別說有機會跟他工作以外的其它女人接觸了。

二.律師你真認為你可以和一個靠撒謊謀生的人能保持誠實、信任的關係嗎？而你不用擔心你的工程師丈夫，他笨拙的社交能力將無法掩蓋他的謊言。跟律師結婚還有一個危險，那就是離婚時，官司往往他打贏，你將一無所有。

三. 推銷員他的可信程度比律師還差。另外，他還要常常離家出差，或是到處上課和開會，和那些有著同樣可信度的人混在一起。如果有一天你被邀請出席聞所未聞的千人大派對時，你不要感到驚訝。而你的工程師丈夫卻被公司整天關在那叫做"小隔間"的鳥籠裡,除了回家，那裡都去不了。

四.老師男人當教師的唯一目的是，他能整天被一大群青春貌美,又盲目崇拜他的女學生團團圍住。于是，他很快就會被抓到監獄，那時你只得琵琶別抱另尋郎。其它危險的職業，如消防員，建築工人等。如果你嫁給這種人，他即便沒有因意外事故死亡，也很可能會因脊椎受損而導致性無能。要命的是，那時正值你的性需求尖峰期。而你那位工程師丈夫要面對的唯一危險是，由於整日盯著計算機，視力將會衰退。這危險其實對你有好處︰當你變老時，他不會注意到，因為他的視力模糊了。但他的記憶力卻非常好，仍記著你們初次相會時你那年輕美麗的容貌。假如你擔心他在望著別的年輕女人，對他說︰「親愛的，你干嘛老瞧著她呀？」他會很誠實地回答說︰「我根本無法看清那女人的臉﹗」

-----嫁給工程師的好處 [反証版]----

1.男工程師不修邊幅，所以家裡不用保持太整潔。

2.男工程師很難有女朋友，所以他會對目前的這個死心塌地。

3..男工程師呆板無趣，根本不活在人的社會中，只活在圖表的世界裡, 所以你不必花心思去取悅他。

4.男工程師視修理東西為娛樂，在你生氣時大可在他面前摔東西出氣，他會很高興的幫你修好又不必花錢。

5.男工程師IQ都不低，所以嫁給他后可以生一堆這樣的兒子考一堆的滿分讓你去跟街坊炫耀。

6.男工程師待在研究室的時間比在家裡多，所以嫁給他以後還是很自由。

7.男工程師口才太差根本講不過你，所以你可以盡情用言辭凌辱他。

8.男工程師最講求【理】，所以你有理的話他服你；他如果有理，你就不要跟他講理，他對你一點辦法也沒有。

9.男工程師薪水不錯，自己不會娛樂不怎么花錢也很少女人花他錢，所以你可以大大方方的花他錢，並且告訴他這是促進經濟繁榮，他做出來的東西才有人買。

10. 男工程師除了以上之外毫無魅力可言，所以嫁給他不用擔心他有外遇。