Lane of Scholars

Publishing Visio

2012-01-18T10:01:00.001-08:00

Learn about desktop publishing with Visio
Learn what Visio can do for desktop application by following me here.

Learn how to map documents in mere minutes as opposed to hours at your desk
Personally, I think that Visio is one of Microsoft's more enjoyable applications. If you're interested in simple map making, see my booklet on Amazon's Kindle Store.

*Note: Thomas P. Walton sells ebooks which are available in the United Kingdom and United States of America http://bit.ly/thomaspwalton

Practice Japanese Online

2011-12-03T21:50:00.000-08:00

Listening to Japanese conversation online is a free way to learn to speak Japanese online. It is the easy way to learn to speak Japanese. Start testing your basic and intermediate listening skills and comprehension in Japanese. Click here to listen to a Japanese language conversation. Click on a link to any of the lessons provided on the web page. An audio player will appear on the screen. Click on the play button to start the audio lesson. After listening to an audio lesson (with some pictures that hint at the conversation), click on the link below the audio player to take a multiple choice quiz and test your Japanese language comprehension.
Speak Japanese Online with a Hiragana Audio Player

Go here to read hiragana and listen to the pronunciation of each syllable. There are 46 hiragana syllables to practice. Simply move your mouse-pointer over a hiragana character and left-click on the hiragana one time. An audio file will promptly play the pronunciation of the hiragana. Try speaking the hiragana by yourself, and then click on one to check your progress. You’ll be a step closer to learning to speak Japanese. So get started speaking Japanese online as soon as you decide to start learning Japanese.
Speak Japanese Online with Hiragana and Katakana Syllables

The best way to learn Japanese online is to start listening to a native speaker pronounce the proper syllables. A program online can help you get started. You can learn to speak Japanese online by comparing both hiragana and katakana syllables. You will need to have Flash Player plug-ins installed on your computer to view files containing characters and sounds made by Adobe Flash.

Another great tool for learning to speak Japanese online is to use the katakana chart! If you’re not already familiar with the most basic katakana, shame on you! Get started by clicking on a sample word written in katakana. When you click on the word your browser will go to another page where you can read the English equivalent of the katakana. A play button allows you to listen to the pronunciation of the word. Using this free online tool will allow you to hear the word, and also comprehend its meaning at the same time. You’ll notice that there is some text next to the English definition of the word. This is romaji. Romaji is the Japanese transliteration of the characters into Romanized letters. For example, the word “data” is preceded by the following Romaji “deeta”. Romaji helps you to pronounce the correct sound when you read katakana or hiragana. If you aren’t sure about the spelling of Romaji, or you don’t know how to pronounce it in English, try this free online converter program. Convert English to Romaji to see how the sounds are transliterated into the Romanized form of Japanese writing.

Mapping for the iPhone

2011-11-17T20:51:00.001-08:00

Map Quest has turned its attention to the mobile internet, specifically for the iPhone. Map Quest has added a new interface to their website, one which will recognize whether or not you’re using an iPhone when you visit their web site. The minute an iPhone user browses Map Quest, the web page will recognize you’re using your iPhone, and then convert to an iPhone sized web page interface. The result on your screen is a miniaturized full version of the Map Quest interface on your iPhone touch screen, with all the features of the original web site included.

Map Quest Features

What you get with the iPhone version of Map Quest is the same as the web site you see on your PC or Mac. Easily set up itineraries for places you want to visit along the way to your destination on the map. You can take advantage of all the other services Map Quest offers for free, such as finding cheap gas. Even more useful, if you made an error in your driving instructions and didn’t notice until you get lost driving halfway to your destination, you can use your iPhone to find a new route. The iPhone interface is parallel to the desktop version, just smaller and easier for iPhone users to navigate. Improvements to Map Quest are displayed without having to download any upgraded software to your iPhone. It’s all handled on the server-side.

Navigating Map Quest with iPhone

Navigating on Map Quest’s new web interface responds to the same pinching and tapping actions you use on your iPhone touch screen. This means that veteran iPhone users don’t have to learn any new tricks with Map Quest’s intuitive new look and feel for iPhone browsing.

Take a Shortcut

Place a shortcut on your iPhone for Map Quest. Tap the plus sign on your iPhone touch screen. Select “Add to Home Screen”. An icon will appear on the iPhone screen. Just tap the icon anytime you want to visit Map Quest.

*Note: Thomas P. Walton sells ebooks which are available in the United Kingdom and United States of America http://bit.ly/thomaspwalton

Prepare Windows for Other OS - Linux

2011-10-10T06:16:00.000-07:00

Preparing Your Computer for Linux and Windows

You don’t have to get rid of Windows to use Linux on your personal computer. Why not take advantage of having the power of both operating systems on one computer? As long as you ensure that you have enough room on your hard drive for both systems, your computer will handle both of the operating systems without too much difficulty. The things you need to look at for compatibility with the Linux operating system include: the motherboard on your computer; video card; sound card; printer and drivers.
If you’re installing two operating systems from scratch (generic computer, barebones, etc.) then you will ensure that the hardware is able to handle both operating systems. For example, you do not want to try running Windows Vista on older hardware, let along try to install Linux on top of that. Have fun, but be reasonable about your computer project. If you’re converting an old or recycled computer, chances are you’re better off running the older versions of Windows operating systems. Windows XP is the more stable and reliable system. Partitioning your drive for XP and Linux is fine, so long as you’ve read the requirements for the most updated version of Linux (and XP, of course).
You can visit Linux here before you begin your project on your operating system.

Getting Started

Get your system hardware up to date. You’ll need about 256 MB of RAM. Ensure that your hard drive has 4 GB of free space. A good amount of processor power is the Pentium III/AMD Athlon class. You will also need to purchase software for partitioning your hard drive (dividing the hard drive, and organizing it). I recommend using Symantec’s Partition Magic software for this kind of project.
Create a backup disk for your current operating system. You can also backup your system to an external drive, or another computer. The reason for backing up your system is so that you can try out the Linux system safely. You can reinstall your old operating system with all the files and settings that you saved to your backup disk if there are any problems. You do not want to lose your old system. You just want to install a second system on your computer.

Organize your hard drive. Run Symantec’s Partition Magic software when you’re ready to divide your hard drive for both operating systems. After you’ve read through the instructions, and have partitioned your drive. You may install the operating system. If you don’t have Windows on your computer, but you want to run it alongside Linux, you will need to install Windows first. Do not install Linux first! You will not be able to install Windows after installing Linux. It is important to follow this order of installation for your operating systems to work on the same hard drive.

After you’ve run the Partition Magic software and have installed your operating system(s), you may then boot either operating system on your computer. You’re all set! Enjoy your new operating system(s).

*Note: Thomas P. Walton sells ebooks which are available in the United Kingdom and United States of America http://bit.ly/thomaspwalton

Power Point Resourceful Blog

2011-09-25T00:15:00.000-07:00

I've always found Visio helpful with visualizing a system, but when it comes to presentations there is nothing like Power Point from Microsoft. But, unless you're a Power Point wizard you'll need some templates to get you started. And let's face it--most of us are too busy to take the time to learn all the features and places to downloads for Power Point presentation development. Below I'm adding to this post some resources for Educators, Entrepreneurs, Infopreneurs, Scientists, and all walks of life. This list will grow gradually, because I like to take my time reviewing the resources instead of just throwing them at my readers. The most useful sites will be listed here:

RESOURCES:

Educator's Power Point Templates

*Note: Thomas P. Walton sells ebooks which are available in the United Kingdom and United States of America http://bit.ly/thomaspwalton

Science and Metaphysics Digression

2011-08-21T21:40:00.000-07:00

On occasion we have some very good theories which fall short of returning results. In metaphysics as well, there are things which simply fail to work. I believe this is due to the theorized function or law of the occult meeting a digression point; as if there is a transference to another cosmology when physics pours over into the metaphysics. For example, a counter-clockwise spiral travels from its center of origin out into space, until at last colliding with another form or force, thereby graduating to a new form or force. It can also dissipate as its life-force is utterly spent through space.

Likewise a law of the occult or even science may transcend its medium of influence or house of natural functionality, but it will transform in the process. Things may not move toward transformation necessarily, but transcendence will occur. Transformation is likely the byproduct of this kinetic activity of transcending thresholds from one cosmic model to the next, whereby its nature will also be influenced by the process behind the veil of perceivable reality.

*Note: Thomas P. Walton sells ebooks which are available in the United Kingdom and United States of America http://bit.ly/thomaspwalton

Down-Grading to Windows XP Vs Upgrading for Windows Vista and Windows 7

2011-07-14T02:15:00.000-07:00

Why Keep XP?

For those of you out there who are still in business and using Windows XP, let it be known that XP will not be sold in stores anymore. But, do not worry too much about it. You can still downgrade a Vista operating system to XP on your next computer purchase. So, hold on to your Windows XP installation disk the next time you purchase a new computer.
Now, as to the process of downgrading your operating system, it will depend on the manufacturer of the computer you purchase. You’ll have to contact your computer’s manufacturer to determine if it can be downgraded. Downgrading is also dependent on the type of operating system that your new computer is running. The only Vista operating systems which are able to downgrade are Vista Business and Vista Ultimate.
So, why choose to keep Windows XP over the new operating systems to come? Compatibility is one reason. And certainly economics plays a big role in your purchasing decisions (And let’s face it… most small businesses have difficulty in making purchasing decisions.)
Let’s cover compatibility issues first.

XP Compatibility

Those of us running older hardware at work will need a system that is compatible with such hardware. Windows XP does the job of recognizing this hardware for us; Whereas Vista falls short of compatibility with various kinds of hardware. However, if you’re serious about switching over to Vista, make sure you visit the Vista Compatibility Center at Microsoft.
There’s also another concern for businesses that have been running legacy applications (database management systems [DBMS]) for many years. Windows XP supports legacy applications, and any new software application can easily pull data from the company’s database management systems. Of course, in the long run of business operation, it may prove to be more cost-effective to replace your legacy applications with an entirely new, updated system. There are some good virtualization consultants to help you find alternatives to keeping your data consistent with your new software.

Economics

XP users have until April 2014 to continue receiving support for Windows XP from Microsoft. That’s enough time to continue using XP, as well as project your company’s cost reduction (by not purchasing a new operating system for all of your employees). You’re in good hands if you keep Windows XP (for a time anyway).

Support

Microsoft offers two kinds of support for Windows XP users: Mainstream and Extended.
Mainstream support gives your business (or home users) technical updates until April 2009. This includes both free and paid support for a retail purchase (with the exception of pre-installed operating systems).
Extended support gives your business (or home users) technical updates until April 2014.

Future Considerations for XP Users

At some point, you will need to upgrade your operating system (unless you plan on using Linux). However, it doesn’t have to be Vista (e.g. Windows 7). Consider hanging on to XP as a means of hedging the economy. Wait for prices to fall on new operating systems. Watch for reviews on Windows 7, and then compare the pros and cons of Windows 7 to Vista. By the time XP’s support services expire, you will be better informed to make a decision on your next operating system.

Resources:

Microsoft Windows XP Professional SP3 32-bit for System Builders - 1 pack [Old Version]
Microsoft Windows XP Professional Full Version with SP2
Windows7 Professional (A full system builder!)
Loose your Dell Disc? Well you can still get XP back on your Dell or the used Dell PC you purchased--no sweat! Here!
Easily Run Windows XP on Windows 7 --- Step by Step Guide, Easily Run XP on Windows 7 Home, Run XP on Windows 7 Professional, No Hardware Virtual Machine
Microsoft Windows 7 Ultimate Upgrade Microsoft Windows 7 Ultimate Upgrade
Microsoft Windows XP Professional Upgrade [OLD VERSION]
Microsoft Windows Vista Ultimate FULL VERSION [DVD] [OLD VERSION]
Windows Vista Ultimate (PRODUCT)RED Upgrade with SP1

*Note: Thomas P. Walton sells ebooks which are available in the United Kingdom and United States of America http://bit.ly/thomaspwalton

All Roads Lead to ROM... or iPhone?

2011-07-14T00:00:00.000-07:00

All roads lead to…R.O.M. Or it might be better stated that “All books might someday lead to iPhone”. Even the bookworm publishers of old are won over by electronic publishing in this soon to be paperless world. And now, continuing the battle for the ultimate ebook reader has found its front with the iPhone. However, this time around the other players in this battle over ebook readers are different. With the exception of Amazon, most mainstream publishing houses have been dragging their feet when it comes to publishing electronic books (ebooks). Online resellers, like Barnes and Noble, have simply stopped supporting ebooks altogether. One should wonder why, especially when the projected sales for ebooks shows a spread of some $5 billion in the next couple of years. The problem remains that there exists numerous ebook readers. Seiko Epson is coming out with non-LCD screens that look almost like real ink on paper, and reduces the consumption of battery juice - something the handheld enthusiasts will appreciate. Never the less, mainstream publishers are turning their attention to ebooks. Random House Publishing Group introduced multiple ebooks for Stanza on the iPhone, and they’re free to download and read. What changed the minds behind these mainstream book publishers? There are some economical factors that contribute to this change of heart. Number one is reducing the cost of production. Ah, hah! Well, hold on folks… they’re not only investing in digitizing their books, some of these mainstream publishers are reforming their firms into digital publishing houses, and may be altogether abandoning the printed book. Oh? That’s right. Want to know more? Lean a little closer to the screen… A big, big publishing house has announced serious incentive to publish on the mobile net. Ah, that’s a big relief for all the ebook investors out there who’ve been waiting for the rest of us to catch on to the big idea. But wait! Which ebook reader are they going to publish on? Well, we’ve already got Penguin Mobile running on iTunes. Readers can catch the Penguin podcast and read until their eyeballs fall out. And where will we read it? Just say “iPhone”.

iPhone’s Stanza is the New Home to Mainstream Book Publishers

The iPhone already has at least 40,000 ebooks you can read right now. The trouble with Penguin’s application is that we can’t download a full book. You can still download chapters or excerpts, but this really just seems like a misleading incentive to eventually buy a paperback that you’ll have to wait to receive in the mail. The problem in that strategy is that iTunes was never intended to make its contributors lots of money; but rather to bring in traffic. But why isn’t iPhone capitalizing on ebooks when it could apparently bring Apple another victory in this recession? We don’t know. The one thing we’re waiting on is to see if Apple will help some of the publishers out just like they did with the music record industry. We have yet to see if mainstream publishers will have their content licensed for iPhone’s Stanza, where ebooks are sure to be a big hit.

Resources:

iPad related:

Note: using a portable modem is easy. One need only have the key for accessing the mobile device shared on the iPad or other portable device. So, if you didn't get the 3G with your iPad, then you can still use the WiFi with a portable router, or visit a location where there is an available hot spot. However, I recommend using your own portable router as iTunes has access to your account numbers (don't use public hot spots with an iPad).

*Note: Thomas P. Walton sells ebooks which are available in the United Kingdom and United States of America http://bit.ly/thomaspwalton

Centralized WiFi/ Wireless Base

2011-07-13T23:58:00.000-07:00

To deter this obnoxious and sinister enemy you need to learn the tactics for preventing intrusion, and ultimately fortify your wireless home office from all kinds of attacks. The best thing for you to do is to use a direct connection to your internet or your network of computers in your home office. But if you truly must have a wireless network in your home, you’d better do a little work to fortify your network.
For starters, lets move that Wi Fi router of yours away from the walls and any doors. Centralize your base! Move your wireless station to the center of your room or home, and keep your wireless router away from all windows. If you live in an apartment, keep your signal away from neighboring walls. Once again, it is highly advisable to use a direct LAN line instead of a wireless router. No matter how centralized your router is, there are antennas made to either expand a wireless network or pick up on hard to reach signals. These antennas run for about $100, and are widely available to anyone with the desire to purchase one.

Change the Defaults

Get rid of those ridiculous default settings! Typically your wireless router can enable WEP, but it is often set to the low 24-bit encryption by default. This leaves your home office fortress wide open to even the most casual intruder. To rectify this you will change the setting of the WEP to 64-bit encryption. If your wireless router happens to support a 128-bit encryption, then you are even better armed by using this setting. If you don’t have the 128-bit encryption support, and you really should, the device may simply need a driver to upgrade. Check the manufacturer’s website for your specific model, and do a keyword search for “support, driver, and upgrade”. You will also want to limit the access to your network by removing the function that assigns IP addresses to clients. To do this you will need to turn off the DHCP. The DHCP is a protocol that allows devices to connect to a network automatically. By turning off the DHCP protocol, you make it harder for intruders to gain access to your network.

Create Strong Passwords

Next is something that may seem silly, but please be assured that nothing could be further from the truth. Do not use your name, a pet’s name, or anything else that might generally reveal information about you, for the name of your wireless connection. To use your name is the equivalent of putting a sign on your house which reads something to the effect of “Burglars Welcome!”. You will set into effect the improvements to your wireless system by accessing the service set identifier (SSID). Here you will change the SSID and the password for all devices on your network. As a rule of thumb, it is best to practice using passwords that do not relate to your personal life, character, or hobbies. As well, you should use letters and numbers, both lower/ upper case. If your wireless device supports symbols, then so much the better to mix some of those into the password. The strength of your password will be the number of characters and the randomness of those characters.

Resources:

Faster Speed Boost

Linksys E1500 Wireless-N Router with SpeedBoost

Dual Band Processor and Extended Range Devices

For iPad and other portable computers (metro-band):

*Note: Thomas P. Walton sells ebooks which are available in the United Kingdom and United States of America http://bit.ly/thomaspwalton

Convert a DVD to iPhone

2011-07-13T23:49:00.000-07:00

There are various ways to convert DVDs so you can watch them on your iPhone. One of the best and simplest options is to use some dedicated software. Cucusoft offer a software package that is perfect for converting DVDs to watch on the iPhone and it's fairly easy to set up and use.

Overview of Cucusoft DVD Format and Requirements

Cucusoft DVD to iPhone Converter runs on Windows. The following operating systems can run Cucusoft DVD to iPhone: Windows 9x, Windows 2000, Windows NT, Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 2003 Server and Windows 7. You will need the latest version of Direct X, or at least Direct X 8.0.
Your hardware requirements are as follows: MMX-enhanced CPU or better. 32+ megabytes of RAM, and a VGA card.
The most impressive feature about Cucusoft’s DVD converter is the manner in which the DVD is transferred to your iPod or iPhone. Simply put, you don’t have to convert the DVD to AVI/VOB. Also, Cucusoft iPhone Video Converter + DVD to iPhone Suite features a wide variety of formats (Cucusoft has covered just about everything). These are the formats that Cucusoft’s DVD converter program supports: DivX, XviD, MOV, dvr-ms, rm, rmvb, MPEG, WMV, AVI and MP4 (it is commonly misconceived that Cucusoft’s DVD program only converts to iPod). Download a free version of Cucusoft iPhone Video Converter + DVD to iPhone Suite.

How to Convert to the iPhone or iPod Format

It’s your choice on how you want to get started using Cucusoft iPhone Video Converter + DVD to iPhone Suite (or Cucusoft iPod Movie/ Video Converter program [both support the other device]). You can rip either video to iPod or DVD to iPod. Let’s look at ripping DVD to iPhone from Windows.
Click on the DVD to iPod/iPhone button. Click the Open DVD button. You will now see a menu populated with movie files. Click on the Output folder to save video files. If you do not want to save a particular file, just select it with your mouse-pointer, and then click on the Remove button. You change other features in the converter program—like add subtitles to your video (click on the Subtitle list box). Click on Convert to start the ripping process.
Now it is time to go get your newly created video file. Open the folder you created via the Output feature. Move it to iTunes Library.
To convert other formats to iPhone or iPod, see my article on Converting Video Files to iPhone.

Troubleshooting

If your converter doesn’t work, download the DivX Codec here.

References

Cucusoft official site!

Resourceful items:

*Note: Thomas P. Walton sells ebooks which are available in the United Kingdom and United States of America http://bit.ly/thomaspwalton

The Methods of Learning a Language

2011-07-13T23:45:00.000-07:00

There exists any number of methods for learning a new language, and this is something that can be confusing, and down right frustrating. Some of the typical methods for learning a new language include reading books, watching videos, or listening to audio cassettes/ discs. Students should incorporate all of the aforementioned into their studying habits.

However, there comes a point when the student of any foreign language will have to start practicing with real live people. This may come as a shock to some professors, but the fact remains that the rules in any language are broken by those who speak the language fluently. In other words, you won’t learn to speak a foreign language at school. You’ll just have to make friends who speak the language you’re interested in mastering.
Keep in mind the possibility that a text book may contain misconceptions about the way phrases or questions are executed in the target language. For example, while living in Japan, I learned that the phrase “Doo itashi mashite” was an inappropriate response to an apology, although my college text book clearly stated the opposite to be true.

The trick here is to correct your misconceptions of a foreign language as you gain more experience, and practice the correct phrases.

After spending some time listening to a foreign language from native speakers, you’ll soon realize that you no longer have to translate the phrases or questions you hear in your own language in order to communicate. The language becomes natural over time. Initiating a conversation in a foreign language can be more difficult, however, as opposed to simply answering questions or blurting out phrases. Therefore, studying the foreign language, I’m afraid, will be a life-long necessity, even after you’ve mastered the language to some proficiency.

Advice on Foreign Language Learning

The best advice for a student is to go out into the world and start learning to communicate with real people. That’s not to say that books and audio cassettes aren’t worth investing in, but rather that such tools should be used in the beginning of learning a language, and then again as a supplement to real life communication in the target language. The point here is to immerse the student in the language and culture. Consider the basic text books and audio lessons to be the groundwork or preparation for speaking with native speakers of the target language.

Keep in mind that effectively communicating with speakers of a foreign language is your ultimate goal; and remember that the best way to reach that goal is to start communicating with people who speak the language you want to learn.

Resources:

Unusual Language Books:

What Happened to My Internet Programs?

2011-07-13T23:37:00.000-07:00

Did you lose control of your internet browser? Has your homepage been reset to some wacky site that you have never heard of before? Unfortunately, this kind of thing happens to the best of us. The good news is, however, that Windows XP makes it easy for you to take back the control that you once had over your web browser, the startup homepage, your email settings, and the instant messenger.

This can be easily accomplished by resetting the factory settings for your internet programs on your computer. Your homepage will be reset to the page that your computer originally was set up to display. All your internet settings will return to default. This means you’ll need to check the security settings and decide which level is best for your personal computing needs. So, let’s get cracking.

Restore Control Over Your Internet Programs

Click on the Start button. Move your mouse pointer to All programs. A slide-out menu will open containing all your user related computer programs. Click on the Set Program Access and Defaults program. Click on Computer Manufacturer. Click OK.

Click on your browser (Internet Explorer/ Fire Fox). The home page will now display with the manufacturer’s settings. If you want, you can change the home page later. First, double-click on your Instant Messenger program (on the task bar). The Instant Messenger will work just as it did when it was installed with your computer settings (If not, then you might have to set your computer to an earlier Restore Point). Your email settings are restored to the factory settings. Check your Outlook program or whichever email program you first started using on your computer.

Customize Internet Settings

Now that your home page has been returned to normal, you may wish to make a few adjustments to your internet options (unless you want to see the manufacturer’s web site every time you open your browser). So, let’s get started to seeing things done your way.

First, open your internet browser (Internet Explorer/ Fire Fox).

Fire Fox browsers start here. Locate the Tools menu, click on it, and select Options. Click on the Main tab. Ensure that the Startup section is set to Show my home page. In the Home Page textbox, type the address you want your browser to load for your home page each time you visit the web. Set your options for Downloads, and then click on the OK button.

Internet Explorer browsers start here. Click on the Tools menu. Select Internet Options. Ensure that you’re looking at the General tab. In the Home Page section, type in the text box the web address you want to see when each time you visit the web. Visit the Security tab to make changes to the security level for your computer. Visit the Privacy tab to protect your privacy when you access the web. Click on the OK button when you have finished making your adjustments.

Hit the Ctrl + r keys on your keyboard to refresh the browser page. You will see your chosen home page on the screen, just like you had it before. You are good to go!

Resources (Software Deals and Book Bargains):
The Web Application Hacker's Handbook: Discovering and Exploiting Security Flaws
McAfee Total Protection 2011 3-User
Internet Safety 101 Program Kit
Internet Information Services (IIS) 7.0 Administrator's Pocket Consultant
GO! with Internet Explorer 2007 Getting Started
Success in College Using the Internet (Student Success Programs)
A Travel Agent in Cyberschool: The Internet and the Library Media Program
Build a World Wide Web Commerce Center: Plan, Program, and Manage Internet Commerce for Your Company
Cybrarian's Guide to Developing Successful Internet Programs and Services (Neal-Schuman Net-Guide Series)
Why Programs Fail, Second Edition: A Guide to Systematic Debugging
GO! with the Internet: Comprehensive
Fundamentals of Web Design Companion Guide (Cisco Networking Academy Program) (Cisco Networking Academy Program Series)
C++ How to Program (3rd Edition)
GO! with Internet Explorer 8 Getting Started (Custom Phit: The Pearson Custom Program for Cis)
Learn How to Program Using Any Web Browser

Where Does Vista Stand in Business? Windows Vista has been implemented into the systems of roughly 10% of businesses. With Windows 7 coming right around the corner, there does not seem to be much reason for companies to switch to Windows Vista. Changing systems for multiple seats in a medium to large company is expensive, and may require training employees on how to use the new system. The recession is also affecting businesses, and one thing companies can do is reduce unnecessary expenses on software and operating systems. The Future of Windows Although Windows XP is good enough for the time being, companies and business owners will have to decide their next move when Windows 7 arrives in 2009. Good reviews of Windows 7 are coming out early on, which is a very strategic move for Microsoft. The attention that Microsoft has paid to the user experience design aspect of Windows is likely to project more optimism for the next operating system from Redmond. This is a good thing. Windows 7 appeals to the veterans of business by providing the user with an interface that anticipates how the user will manage windows on the screen, find files, peek at the desktop, and sort through folders. From what we've seen so far, this interface makes Windows Explorer look shoddy by comparison. The new operating system also appeals to the incoming generation of tech savvy youth by featuring a Web 2.0-type interface that is visually pleasing. In a nutshell, Windows 7 has been improved by design for the user. Older programs will still work, which means companies won’t have to spend a lot of money on new software after they purchase the new operating system. Your Next OS? The next version of Windows is going to look more like Vista than XP. And here’s something else—the next operating system after Windows 7 is going to be a bit like Vista, too. You may very well ask why that is. This is simply the direction the future is headed. The Windows operating system design must keep up with the times we live in, particularly when one-touch applications are becoming the norm for those who spend more time on the mobile web. There’s going to be less typing and rummaging for files that are difficult to find. I have to admit, I lean more over toward the group who still love the old Commodore 64 line-by-line programming interface (and cheap graphics) but we all have to move forward at some point. Tips for a Highly Graphical Interface Operating System There have been some severe complaints about Windows Vista freezing up for ten or more minutes at a time, but I’ve yet to see it happen on my machine. When you are contemplating the move to Windows 7, make sure that you’ve done your homework regarding the hardware side of the switch. I use different computers and operating systems for different tasks. When I run Vista, it is done on my bigger computer, with maximum memory and video power. The best advice I can give anyone who is planning on switching over to an operating system that runs a highly graphical user-interface is to get a robust graphics card/video card, a premium processor, and more memory than is specified on the package of the operating system you intend to buy. Better yet, get more memory that you think you need. If you can, spend a little extra money now to get the hardware you'll need then.

2011-07-13T23:34:00.000-07:00

Windows Vista has been implemented into the systems of roughly 10% of businesses. With Windows 7 coming right around the corner, there does not seem to be much reason for companies to switch to Windows Vista. Changing systems for multiple seats in a medium to large company is expensive, and may require training employees on how to use the new system. The recession is also affecting businesses, and one thing companies can do is reduce unnecessary expenses on software and operating systems.

The Future of Windows

Although Windows XP is good enough for the time being, companies and business owners will have to decide their next move when Windows 7 arrives in 2009. Good reviews of Windows 7 are coming out early on, which is a very strategic move for Microsoft.
The attention that Microsoft has paid to the user experience design aspect of Windows is likely to project more optimism for the next operating system from Redmond. This is a good thing. Windows 7 appeals to the veterans of business by providing the user with an interface that anticipates how the user will manage windows on the screen, find files, peek at the desktop, and sort through folders. From what we've seen so far, this interface makes Windows Explorer look shoddy by comparison. The new operating system also appeals to the incoming generation of tech savvy youth by featuring a Web 2.0-type interface that is visually pleasing.
In a nutshell, Windows 7 has been improved by design for the user. Older programs will still work, which means companies won’t have to spend a lot of money on new software after they purchase the new operating system.

Your Next OS?

The next version of Windows is going to look more like Vista than XP. And here’s something else—the next operating system after Windows 7 is going to be a bit like Vista, too. You may very well ask why that is. This is simply the direction the future is headed. The Windows operating system design must keep up with the times we live in, particularly when one-touch applications are becoming the norm for those who spend more time on the mobile web. There’s going to be less typing and rummaging for files that are difficult to find. I have to admit, I lean more over toward the group who still love the old Commodore 64 line-by-line programming interface (and cheap graphics) but we all have to move forward at some point.

Tips for a Highly Graphical Interface Operating System

There have been some severe complaints about Windows Vista freezing up for ten or more minutes at a time, but I’ve yet to see it happen on my machine. When you are contemplating the move to Windows 7, make sure that you’ve done your homework regarding the hardware side of the switch. I use different computers and operating systems for different tasks. When I run Vista, it is done on my bigger computer, with maximum memory and video power. The best advice I can give anyone who is planning on switching over to an operating system that runs a highly graphical user-interface is to get a robust graphics card/video card, a premium processor, and more memory than is specified on the package of the operating system you intend to buy. Better yet, get more memory that you think you need. If you can, spend a little extra money now to get the hardware you'll need then.

Systems and books:
VT 12-Inch Touch Screen Graphic Pen Tablet (White)
VT PenPad 7.7-Inch Graphic Pen Tablet (Black
Microsoft Windows Vista Ultimate FULL VERSION [DVD] [OLD VERSION]
Windows Vista Ultimate with SP1 Upgrade [OLD VERSION]
Microsoft Windows 7 Ultimate
Microsoft Windows Vista Ultimate UPGRADE [DVD] [OLD VERSION]
Windows Vista Ultimate (PRODUCT)RED Upgrade with SP1
Microsoft Windows 7 Ultimate Upgrade
Microsoft Windows Vista Ultimate
Windows 7 Vista XP Media Center MCE PC Remote Control and Infrared Receiver for Home, Premium and Ultimate Edition
win Vista Ultimate 64-bit English 1pk
Windows Vista Ultimate Bible

External sites and helpful resources:

The New and Ultimate User Interface in Win 7

2011-07-13T23:29:00.000-07:00

The idea behind Windows 7 is to get user applications to work well without the support of a developer. Of course, if you purchase newer applications you can extend the level of support for those applications to a higher degree in Windows 7. The navigation interface has changed quite a bit, but it’s easier to get used to once you’ve tried Vista. So, let’s dive in to this new virtual Window of possibilities.

New Home for Gadgets

The first thing you’ll notice right off the bat with Windows 7 is that gadgets populate the desktop. Gadgets may include items such as your clock, calendar, and weather forecast. With some new functionality programmed into the Windows 7 operating system, you’ll be able to see these gadgets even if you have several windows open at one time.

Navigate Your Entire Computer with the Wave of a Mouse

Navigate between windows by mouse-over is absolute simplicity in the design of Windows 7. Point your mouse to an icon located on the taskbar at the base of the Windows interface. A series of thumbnails will display on the Windows screen. Select a thumbnail by clicking on it with your mouse to open an application.
Remember, you can still view the gadgets on your desktop with any number of application windows open by using the peeking method. Peeking is a new term for viewing a window passively (not interacting with the window). To peek at your gadgets, or to view other applications without making any changes to the applications, simply move your mouse over the thumbnails housed in the taskbar. As you move your mouse over each thumbnail, the windows on your screen change so that the outline of each window is transparent. The only exception is the window that has the current set focus (whichever application you’re currently interacting with). Move the mouse away from the taskbar to reset the windows back to their natural states.

Jump Lists

Another nice way to get around the Windows interface in a jiffy is to use the Jump list. The Jump list displays recently used files on a floating window that resembled the old side bar in earlier versions of Windows. You will use this program to jump straight to the file you want to access by clicking on the file in the jump list. In Windows 7, you can see why the side bar just isn’t necessary anymore. Trigger the jump list by right-clicking on any icon in the taskbar.

Libraries

Truly, one of the more impressive changes made to the Windows experience is a program called Libraries. Libraries is the new construct in Windows 7 that will be replacing Windows Explorer as a better, more intuitive way of locating documents, files, and media.
Search through random areas of the file system. The organization for files is intuitive, and doesn’t really focus on the location of the files. Find it easier and faster with Windows 7. When you look for documents in the Libraries on Win 7, you’ll see a graphical interface similar to Vista and other key features. Libraries tells you how many locations on your computer house your documents, files, and media.
The entire layout is much easier to read than Windows Explorer. Also, the actions you can take are clearly displayed at the top of the Libraries layout. These actions include Organize, Open, Print, and Burn. This is a much more convenient way to execute an action than to pull down a list of options from the old File menu.

Resources:

From a Mere Graphical User Interface to the Ultimate User Interface

2011-07-13T23:24:00.000-07:00

No doubt you are thinking…Yet another version of Windows? I still don’t understand Vista! It is only natural that you should question this new operating system shrouded in much mystery. But in all fairness, it’s not so much mysterious as it is ingenious. Imagine a version of Windows that could anticipate a user’s needs in a number of ways never seen before on any operating system. This is the software of visionaries who have studied the way computer users utilize their machines.

For instance, the majority of computer users may run multiple programs, but most people will only work in one or two of those programs at a time. Microsoft has taken this into account and designed their new Windows operating system around the needs of the majority. But don’t worry, there’s plenty of room for individual tastes to vary. For example, many of the icons are removed from the task bar, and these icons remain disabled until you decide you want the icons to be displayed on the task bar. Now, that’s actually considerate for an operating system.

Windows 7 is featuring a graphical way for the user to interact with Windows that’s still very functional with old programs. That’s what’s so great about the way Windows 7 treats the computing experience. You won’t need to squint at a list of tiny text any more. With Win 7 you can start navigating through several intuitive icons, and get to where you need to go quicker. This isn’t a new, fancier version of Vista, ladies and gentlemen. Windows 7 is fully functional with software programmed for older Windows versions.

In a nutshell, Windows 7 is a design aimed at functionality, productivity, and ease-of-use. It’s built for the user. So, now you can feel special when you buy your next version of Windows. But read on if you still aren’t sure about the uniqueness of what Win 7 has to offer.

Systems/Software/Platforms:

Books (Including a missing manual for Win 7):

*Note: Thomas P. Walton sells ebooks which are available in the United Kingdom and United States of America http://bit.ly/thomaspwalton

Neural Networks for Indie Biz and Home Business Consoles

2011-07-13T23:03:00.000-07:00

Research and Data Mining

Start using what the big boys use for predicting market trends. You probably won’t be using this software for identifying potential terrorists, but just knowing that it’s that powerful is a real confidence builder in itself. Furthermore, you can download a trial version and take Neural Solutions for a test drive right now.
The benefit of taking the test drive is that you can start training the neural software on your existing data, which allows you to test predictions made by the software. For starters, that’s an excellent free demonstration of what you’ll get when you purchase the software. Additionally, the trial version permits you some time to contemplate more advanced neural systems, which you can readily implement this adaptive software system to your own custom network design. To make it easier, Neuro Solutions includes a dynamic link library (DLL)in their software which features fifteen customizable modules for you to choose from. The non-isolated DLL is applicable with GUI programs like Visual Basic. Neuro Solutions can be run directly through Microsoft Excel with this add-on.

Skip the Hype and Read the Technical Specs

Before you buy any software always read the whitepapers if they’re available free of charge. Whitepapers are extremely useful due to the non-bias nature of the documentation. Skip the hype, read the full details, and make your own decision based on the facts. I’ll admit, it doesn’t hurt to read some reviews if you have some spare time surfing the internet. We all know that Knowledge is power, so start grabbing all the information you can before you start to invest in any kind of dynamic software application or other technical services. However, keep in mind that Neuro Solutions is confident enough to allow their prospective clients to test drive the software, and there’s no customer review that can take the place of a personal test drive.

Resources (books and software of relevance):

New Learning Tech Method A.I. V.R. Concept

2011-07-02T02:16:00.000-07:00

The New Language Learning Technology Concept

I (Thomas Walton) personally know that books are great mediums for deep, lengthy study which requires considerable contemplation and reflection. Yet, when approaching the study of a modern, contemporary language--especially conversational skills--a book falls short of adequate tools for learning, save as a reference.

My proposal is as follows:

A medium through which one student may engage a series of subjects of study, while being completely locked into the study program.

To accomplish this, virtual reality or similar technology will be employed. The student will experience high speed digestion of the material, so as to block out most unwanted stimuli, and eliminating the majority of sidebands (stray thoughts). With slow reading digestion, the potential for unwanted distractions is a concern for the linguist student and his or her instructor. The instructor would manage the program, while maintaining a position of non-interference to the program's instruction.

The media ideally includes audio, video, temperature adjustment (very slight changes in temperature), motion, emotion attached to various phrases and or situations encountered in the program, and high speed dictation from the program. The speed will adjust itself to a level just above the student's ability to absorb the information. The latter is acquired by a warm up session,one in which the student is instructed to verbally recite the audio file test speech recognition, and response time. As the student adjusts to the program, the A.I. will increase the media speed gradually, and continue to do so for a set rate of speed (to digest four hours of study in just one hour will be considerably successful).

This learning concept was created by Thomas P. Walton, but has not yet been employed in virtual reality. Instead, tests running M.S. Power Point with flash transitions on slides have provoked the idea of full immersion into a virtual language and mathematics learning program. Originally used for memorizing keys, symbols, mantras, and foreign language characters.

The method works not only in absorbing a visual/audio interface, but by the student verbalizing, reciting, and responding to the program output. The program adapts itself to the student, and when a ballast is acheived, the A.I. will adjust the rate for learning expected by the participating student.

Warning
Students who suffer from or susceptible to seizures would not participate in this form of learning technology without a doctor's permission. Rapid eye movement and light/sound pulses can trigger the nervous system to respond in an adverse way in some individuals.

Thank you for considering this idea.

More on this to come...

Resources (certainly others have come up with similar thoughts):
StressEraser Portable Biofeedback Device

Featured Article in Walton Books Blog: eReaders Getting Smarter?...

2011-06-06T07:54:00.000-07:00

The future of scholar content will be long/short-form arguments, referencing audio/video and citing links all in one place. To accomplish this e-books are a must for authors and publishers of science and social disciplines to start investing now... Read more [..]

Source:
http://waltonbooks.blogspot.com

Article link:
http://waltonbooks.blogspot.com/2011/06/ereaders-getting-smarter-or-scholarly.html

A Philosophy of Art and Technology for Electronic Books

2011-05-31T23:42:00.000-07:00

More than any other time, it is the subject of e-books which brings to my mind the paradox of art vs science. It all ties down into formatting, implementing elements other than the printed word, diagram, chart, illustration, or photograph.

Why formatting should be so great a concern to an author of e-books may not be so clear to a writer of contemporary fiction. If, for the sake of argument, an author wishes to convey his thoughts in the form of printed words, then a PDF document would seem the most rational format, given that PDF is for all practicality a standard in business document format (and with upgraded software even text becomes somewhat searchable in an array of massive technical documentation). The e-book writer, however, will come across a number of limitations in each format.

Consider some of the elements which go into some of the best selling e-books. Writers who earn a living as an Infopreneur often include video, animated graphs or charts, interactive icons, and so on. One example of these electronic books which implement video or animations is the shear number of get rich books, coupon writer programs, real estate e-books, and commercial property investment books.

In order to implement these various elements into ebooks, the author typically will format the ebook as an HTML file, so that the book may be viewed on a browser. Yet, this route can lead to book returns due to a number of readers who were unable to digest the full content of the ebook. And why? Because the ebook may not have properly displayed in one browser or another.

So here we are at a stand off it would seem... Which elements shall I include in my ebooks? What browsers support my content? What browser is most popular among those more likely to read my ebooks as a stand alone web page (off-line)?

The real question is whether or not the author will take the time to learn about technology. Certainly, it is something of a nuisance to learn a new science. However, it is really only a learning curve if we look at ourselves straight. In many ways the author today must become somewhat of a technically savvy writer. Once the author realizes the learning curve or road block in publishing his indie craft, he can turn the entire process of learning into a game of research (something authors must do anyway). The author can implement new elements into the content of his work in the way of creating puzzles to be solved by the reader. In this way, the science of e-books returns once again to the art of creation. Literature, after all, is really an art form intended to move the muscle of the mind in one direction or another. The new ebook of tomorrow is simply a more complex language compiled into an electro-magnetic package...

For those who have some difficulty with technology, keep in mind that science is really an elaborate philosophy of exploration which distinguishes itself from the arts by avoiding subjectivity the best that it can (I say 'the best that it can' because we have learned through timeless trials that the observer does project some influence over the subject). Realizing that to some extent all things are in their own right an art form, the author will have far less bias toward adapting to the variant ebook formats. Authors will then have a far greater reach across mediums for the written word, graphics--or whatever form of language intended to provoke a spark between the synapses in the minds of the reading audience.

Resources
Ebooks for Kindle by this author

Time, Space, Dimensions

2011-05-30T02:10:00.000-07:00

Dimensions are often thought of in a linear fashion, at least in the minds of the layman. We tend to believe that a three dimensional object is a step up in dimensions, having transcended the two dimensional into the perception of surface area. From here, the third dimension somehow gives way to the fourth dimension of space/time. It is at this final point where I draw the following conclusion that the linear thinking may fall short of being successful. What if dimensions were not linearly organized? The fabulous string concept might be more like a spiderweb; that is to say, the next dimension up may not follow the same linear path as the previous dimension. Rather, the dimensions of the universe may be better represented as a maze, a maze of twists, turns, and even dead end curves which may not be breached by following the extended path. Mind would seem to be somehow further defined as consciousness which is outside of time/space, for in a variety of experiments in the early seventies, the conscious mind or limited conscious perception of tested individuals failed to make decisions consciously before taken a given action (pushing a button in these experiments [see Bio Feedback]). This would indicate that some other level of (presumably mind) consciousness is making decisions well in advance of our conscious minds catching onto the fact. Further exploration of dimensions seems to call for advanced methods in psychology, neurology, physics, and indeed metaphysics. Ancients themselves seemed to cultivate some belief in the two dimensional having a direct correlation with space/time and future events. To use a modern variant, we contemporary thinkers utilize the two dimensional printed word. This example of reading text allows for the mind of the reader to experience subjectively a variety of realities, whether these are concrete facts of history or abstract concepts.

Resources:
Space/Time Connection (Llewellyn's New Age Psi-Tech)
Metaphysics and the Future of Theology: The Voice of Theology in Public Life (Princeton Theological Monograph)

Http://mauricecotterell.com

Books by this author at bit.ly/thomaspwalton

Solar Energy and Nikola Tesla

2011-05-20T09:46:00.000-07:00

I'm surprised to find that when I read something about solar energy, there isn't a reference to Nikola Tesla. Well, there should be. And here's a relatively inexpensive and quick way to get to reading about this genius... download the ebook on harnessing solar power, all Nikola Tesla technology, right here (PDF)

*Note: Thomas P. Walton sells ebooks which are available in the United Kingdom and United States of America http://bit.ly/thomaspwalton

Resources:
THE Passive Solar Energy Book (Expanded Professional Edition)
Solar Electricity Handbook - 2011 Edition

And while you're at it, you might want to encourage your children or young learners at school to learn more about solar energy. See this wonderful, colorful book, and old time favorite character:
George Measures Up / Something New Under the Sun

American English Slang Dictionary for Japanese

2011-05-20T09:40:00.000-07:00

Japanese students who are learning English in America, take this ebook with you! American Slang Dictionary helps you look up American slang quickly.

*Note: Thomas P. Walton sells ebooks which are available in the United Kingdom and United States of America http://bit.ly/thomaspwalton

Get Help With Electronic Reading Devices Here

2011-05-20T09:36:00.000-07:00

You may have purchased a Kindle or Sony Reader/ eReader if you're an avid reader of non-fiction. With the numerous ebook formats online, it can be a hassle trying to convert file types, or simply learning more about your ereader can be a bother for people who are in a hurry.

I recommend this Q and A site for eReaders to all electronic book enthusiasts, professionals who need information fast, and digital book collectors.

*Note: Thomas P. Walton sells ebooks which are available in the United Kingdom and United States of America http://bit.ly/thomaspwalton

Resources:

Explanations:

Amazon's eReader is by far the popular choice. Moreover, many professionals and educated readers tend to lean toward Amazon's Kindle eReader.
Sony's eReader features full color pages, which are good for anyone viewing graphic novels.
Apple is wisdom in a small package. A great operating system. You can get documents done, check emails, tweet, get directions, read maps, hold video conferences, and browse books in full color.
Kobo is your economy choice eReader.

Read How Gravity [Really] Works

2011-05-09T23:04:00.000-07:00

Maurice Cotterell's How Gravity Works is free to read on the author's web site. You'll learn why the old glue and velcro theory doesn't have to exist for atoms to work. As well, Future Science is available directly from the author's site. Future Science details how anti-gravity works, including infamous phaser weapon technology. Every science enthusiast and super villain will want to read it!

*Note: Thomas P. Walton sells ebooks which are available in the United Kingdom and United States of America http://bit.ly/thomaspwalton

The Diablocleus

2011-05-08T08:24:00.001-07:00

RPG and Fiction this week....

Rumor only tells that such a diabolical stronghold between the known realms and prime evil exists in the ultimate void, just beyond reach of the chaos moon of Terra-X. The mechanical facility nested in the metallic cube of Terra-X has attracted an asteroid of chaotic powers as its new moon.

Mining colonies have unearthed a power from the chaos moon which has enabled them to build the Diablocleus, an artificial planet of evil laws, in the name of an ancient and diabolical god. It is said that a 10th greater portal of power has been discovered.... [Read more at 9portals.com]