SkyBerry: Blog

DJ Earworm - United State of Pop 2010 (Don't Stop the Pop) - Mashup of T...

2010-12-29T22:17:00.001+08:00

Reformat Windows XP

2010-12-28T12:38:00.002+08:00

Insert the Windows XP CD-ROM into your CD-ROM drive or DVD-ROM drive, or insert the first Windows XP Setup boot disk into the floppy disk drive if you are starting from Setup boot disks, and then restart the computer.

NOTE: To start your computer from the Windows XP CD-ROM or from the Setup boot disk, your computer must be configured to start from the CD-ROM drive or DVD-ROM drive or the floppy disk drive.

In some cases, you may have to modify your computer's BIOS settings to do this. The BIOS contains the boot-up sequence. Normally, computers are configured to boot from a hard drive. You will need to boot from a CD or DVD. It might be called Boot Order, instead of Boot Sequence.

If you are starting from the Windows XP Setup boot disks, insert each of the additional disks when you are prompted, and then press ENTER to continue after inserting each disk.

At the Welcome to Setup page, press ENTER to continue.

Press F8 to accept the Windows XP Licensing Agreement.

If an existing Windows XP installation is detected, you are prompted to repair it. Press ESC (do not repair).

All existing partitions and unpartitioned spaces are listed for each physical hard disk. Use the arrow keys to select the partition or space where you want to create a new partition, and then press D to delete an existing partition or press C to create a new partition using unpartitioned space.

If you press D to delete an existing partition, you must then press L (or press ENTER, and then press L if it is the System partition) to confirm that you want to delete the partition. Repeat this process for each of the existing partitions that you want to use for the new partition.

When all the partitions are deleted, you can then select the resulting unpartitioned space and then press C to create the new partition.

Type the size (in megabytes, or MB) that you want to use for the new partition, and then press ENTER, or just press ENTER to create the partition using the maximum size.

If you want to install Windows XP, use the arrow keys to select the partition you want to install Windows XP on, and then press ENTER.

Select the format option that you want to use for the partition, and then press ENTER. The options are:

Format the partition by using the NTFS file system (Quick) [I would usually pick this]
Format the partition by using the FAT file system (Quick)
Format the partition by using the NTFS file system
Format the partition by using the FAT file system

Youtube in HTML5 Videos

2010-12-10T17:12:00.000+08:00

HTML5 is a new web standard that is gaining popularity rapidly and adds many new features to your web experience. For YouTube users, HTML5 includes support for video and audio playback. This means that users with an HTML5 compatible browser, and support for the proper audio and video codecs can watch a video without needing to download a browser plugin.

Currently YouTube videos are Flash and Flash is external plugin which is sometimes buggy. Since HTML5 is a new standard for web, it is also supported on mobile devices. It is lightweight and no additional installations required.

Try YouTube in HTML5 here: http://www.youtube.com/html5

Supported Browsers

We support browsers that support both the video tag in HTML5 and either the h.264 video codec or the WebM format (with VP8 codec). These include:

Firefox 4 (WebM, Beta available here)
Google Chrome (WebM and h.264)
Opera 10.6+ (WebM, Available here)
Apple Safari (h.264, version 4+)
Microsoft Internet Explorer 9 (h.264, Beta available here)
Microsoft Internet Explorer 6, 7, or 8 with Google Chrome Frame installed (Get Google Chrome Frame)

Notes

Fullscreen support is partially implemented. Pressing the fullscreen button will expand the player to fill your browser. If your browser supports a fullscreen option, you can then use that to truly fill the screen
The HTML5 player has a badge in the control bar. If you don't see the "HTML5" icon in the control bar, you've been directed to the Flash player (due to restrictions listed below)
The HTML5 player also has a badge to indicate the video is using the WebM format. If you don't see the "WebM" icon, the video is encoded using h.264
If you want to find videos with WebM formats available, you can use the Advanced Search options to look for them (or just add &webm=1 to any search URL)

Additional Restrictions (we are working on these!)

Videos with ads are not supported (they will play in the Flash player)
On Firefox and Opera, only videos with WebM transcodes will play in HTML5
If you've opted in to other testtube experiments, you may not get the HTML5 player (Feather is supported, though)

Write Cover Letters

2010-11-05T12:39:00.000+08:00

To write an effective cover letter, you must understand what qualifications the employer is seeking to meet. An employer seeking a Human Resources Generalist, for example, is typically looking for someone familiar with benefits packages, pay scales and EEO law. Make the greatest impact with your cover letter by focusing on the needs of the employer seeking to fill a human resources position and highlighting how your qualifications meet those needs.

What should the cover letter do for you?

It should answer the question - Why should I hire you? It should grab the employers attention and point out why you, above all other applicants, should be contacted for a personal interview.
Before you are granted a job interview, a cover letter is the first means to communicate with your potential future employer. So you should spend some time to prepare it to give a good impression to employers. The following are tips for writing a cover letter.

Tone

You should be polite in writing the letter. In addition, try to show your strengths and enthusiasm in applying for the job advertised. Use positive words such as pleased, keen, devoted and strong.

Length

The letter should not be too long (2-3 pages) or too short (only 1-2 paragraphs). One page with 3-5 paragraphs is desirable. Human Resources staff do not have much time to read through all applications. So, they will not choose long cover letters to read. For short letters, it is impossible to tell the employers much by one or two paragraphs only.

Content

At the beginning, you should state the job position you are applying for. Companies may be recruiting a number of positions at one time and it would be helpful if you state the position clearly to avoid being considered for the wrong job. Do not repeat information in the resume. Instead, address the job requirements and tell the employer why you think you are suitable for the position. You can state your skills and your personalities which match the job requirements. Even if you do want to mention your experience, highlight the accomplishments only. You have to state clearly the documents you are attaching to the letter, including resume, portfolio of work or reference letters. In the last paragraph, let the employer know that you are available for job interviews and how they can contact you.

Signature

Remember to sign your letter if you are going to send it by post.

Proofreading

After you have finished writing the letter, read it over and over again to make sure there is no spelling or grammatical mistakes. Don't just rely on the spellcheck programme installed in the computer. Sometimes a word is not misspelled, but it is used wrong. In such cases, spellcheck programmes may not be able to detect them. Even one single mistake in the letter will give a bad impression to the employer. Don't lose a mark because of that.

Design

Use quality white A4 paper to print your letter. Give enough space between the paragraphs so that the recipient can read your letter comfortably. Remember that every job has specific requirements, and it is essential to tailor the cover letter to every job you apply for. Don't make it a “standard” letter by just changing the company name and position you are applying for and then sending it out every time. In addition, keep a copy of the letter for future reference. You may find this helpful when you are later granted an interview for that position.

Format of a cover letter

YOUR ADDRESS (Do not put your name here)

TODAY'S DATE

Mr./Ms. EMPLOYER'S NAME (If you don't have one, get one!)

TITLE (vice-president?)

COMPANY'S NAME

ADDRESS

DEAR Mr./Ms. EMPLOYER:
FIRST PARAGRAPH: This is the "why I'm writing
to you" paragraph which immediately tells the employer the position you want to be
considered for. This is short - usually 2-3 sentences. Points to cover:

Why you are writing and which position you are applying for.
How you heard about the position is irrelevant unless it is a mutual contact or
recruiting program. Do not write, "I learned of this opportunity through the Career
Services Office."
Show from your research why you are interested in this position or organization. The
goal is to make a connection - do this Briefly and Specifically or leave it
out; sweeping statements will not work.

SECOND PARAGRAPH: This is the "why I'm
qualified" paragraph. Highlight some of your most relevant experiences and qualities
as they relate to the position for which you are applying. Choose 2 - 3 points you want to
make about Specific experiences/accomplishments or about general qualities you have
exhibited, and provide Specific examples to support those points. This
paragraph will change according to the job/employer for which you are applying. This is
usually the longest paragraph of the letter. You may break this paragraph into two if it
looks too lengthy or if your points work best in separate paragraphs. Points to ponder:

The first sentence should be a hard-hitting opener. It is a quick introduction, which is
accomplishment-oriented and directed at the skills and qualifications needed for the
job/industry.
The body of the paragraph should provide evidence to back up what you've just claimed.
Cite specific jobs/internships/activities/projects and accomplishments associated with
those experiences. Use your resume to come up with some specifics, but NEVER reiterate
passages from your resume word for word. Discuss why what you did is to the employer-
relate the facts to the job. Strong examples are important!
The final sentence is a summary of what you've discussed above. It's a good idea to
mention the position title and company name to bring the reader back to the specific job
in question.

FINAL PARAGRAPH: This is a short 2-4 sentences
paragraph. You should refer to the enclosed resume, request an interview and let the
reader know what will happen next (Contact them within specific period of time unless it
is a recruiting program). It is vital that you thank the reader for his/her time
and consideration.

Sincerely,
Your Signature
Your Name

Enclosure(s)

Tips to Make Your Letter Professional

Research the company and the specifics about the position so you
can tailor your letter to the needs of the organization.
Avoid using too many sentences that start with "I" or writing in the passive
voice (ex. "This experience enabled me to..." or "Through my internship, I
was responsible for..."); instead, make yourself the subject of each sentence and use
active descriptions (ex., "In this internship, I demonstrated sound judgment and
problem-solving skills on a daily basis.").
Do not use contractions (I'd, didn't, it's).
Spelling, grammar, or punctuation mistakes are out of the question! Cover letters are a
reflection of your writing skills, so make each cover letter an example of your best work.
Be sure to sign your letters. (Black ink is suggested)
Keep your letter short and simple. This is not the time to tell your whole life's story.
Have a Career Specialist review your cover letters during drop-in hours: Monday-Friday
1:30 - 4:30 and Wednesday 8:30am - 11:30am OR you can make an appointment
anytime.
Use good quality paper that matches your resume paper and envelopes.

Sample Cover Letter 1

Elicia Delombard

286 North 75^th St. – Apt 5L

New York, NY 10021

212-555-9988
March 21, 1998
Mr. Ralph Cantor

Executive Vice President

Republican Young, Inc.

321 Marzio Rd.

Mohaonk, NY 12561
Dear Mr. Cantor:
I would like to be considered for the Legal Assistant position offered at White, Case & Bothalemule. I learned of this opportunity through the New York Recruiting Consortium at Trinity College.
My high level of concentration and excellent organizational skills have helped me achieve a strong academic record at Trinity College which reflects my diligence and commitment to success. Rigorous liberal arts courses and a concentration in psychology have provided me with a first rate writing ability as well as sharp analytical, problem-solving and research skills. In my International Politics and Clinical Psychology courses, I have written papers involving in-depth research and analysis in order to prove a specific thesis. I have also developed research skills in a different capacity by compiling and analyzing data in a Research Design and Analysis class. In addition, my studying in England and France as well as taking French and Spanish classes, has greatly expanded my knowledge of different cultures and languages. My language proficiency will be an asset to a law firm with global interests.
Through challenging leadership positions, I have developed a strong sense of responsibility, effective interpersonal skills and the ability to contribute to teamwork, even in high-pressure environments. As a Resident Assistant, I successfully resolved conflicts among residents, planned social and educational programs while serving as a positive role model for my peers. With my background in liberal arts, business and leadership, I am confident that I can make a profound contribution to White, Case and Bothalemule.
Enclosed is my resume for your review. I am enthusiastic about the position and look forward to meeting with you at the Consortium in January. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Elicia Delombard
Elicia Delombard
Enclosure

Sample Cover Letter 2

300 Summit St.

Hartford, CT 06106-3100

August 17, 1998
Ms. Arianna Rikic

Director of Recruiting

Eastern Arbor

225 East 72^nd Street

New York, NY 10098
Dear Ms. Rikic:
Laura Flannigan suggested I contact you concerning the Marketing position available at Eastern Arbor. I am inspired to pursue my marketing interests at Eastern Arbor due to its reputation as a prestigious, innovative and growing company in liability policies.
My diverse and intense academic, professional, and leadership experiences would make me a valuable asset to Eastern PG Arbor. Currently, as a professional Student Admissions Associate, I assist in promoting Trinity College to prospective students and parents. I am responsible for interviewing and evaluating students as well as leading group information sessions. Since I work with people every day in a business setting, I have developed strong interpersonal and communication skills.
My leadership experience, particularly with the President’s Special Council on Women, is another example of my strong sense of responsibility and motivation. As a council member concerned with the rights of women, I have brought fierce new ideas onto the agenda, such as bringing student leaders together to discuss how to create a more active community at Trinity. As a result of this idea, the council along with other student leaders has begun planning a leadership forum for next semester. In all of my business experiences, my motivation and energy has ignited me to work hard and accomplish goals.
My resume and transcript are enclosed for your evaluation. I will contact you on the
week of Augustl 30^th to schedule a time in which I may further discuss my
qualifications for the Marketing position. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Marty E. Spruce
Marty E. Spruce

IE Blocking iframe Cookies

2010-09-25T12:31:00.001+08:00

One of my web applications in PHP is running correctly inside iFrame. I tested the same iFramed PHP page on Safari and Firefox and everything works well but not in not IE6, IE7 or IE8. After trying a few times, the cookie using sessions to keep data was not being saved.

After Google-ing and thanks to Adam Young, found out that the problem lies with a W3C standard called Platform for Privacy Preferences or P3P for short. You can read all about the it at the link or else just install the P3P Compact Policy header below. This will allow Internet Explorer to accept your third-party cookie. You will need to send the header on every page that sets a cookie.

PHP:

header('P3P:CP="IDC DSP COR ADM DEVi TAIi PSA PSD IVAi IVDi CONi HIS OUR IND CNT"');

ASP.NET:

HttpContext.Current.Response.AddHeader("p3p","CP=\"IDC DSP COR ADM DEVi TAIi PSA PSD IVAi IVDi CONi HIS OUR IND CNT\"");

Django:

response = render_to_response('mytemplate.html')

response["P3P"] = 'CP="IDC DSP COR ADM DEVi TAIi PSA PSD IVAi IVDi CONi HIS OUR IND CNT"'

JSP:

response.addHeader("P3P","CP=\"IDC DSP COR ADM DEVi TAIi PSA PSD IVAi IVDi CONi HIS OUR IND CNT\"")

Email Writing

2010-09-04T12:29:00.000+08:00

Email pointers

Emails are less formal platform of delivery for written messages
Start off your email message with an informal friendly greeting
Sign off your emails
Ensure that the subject line reflects message
Keep it brief and simple
Contracted word forms (shouldn’t couldn’t) are allowed in email
Abbreviations are fine too
Watch the use of SMS language
Use attachments (if body message too lengthy)
Decide if the history is relevant

Terminology and acronyms

Try to avoid using these short forms especially if the email stands a good chance of being forwarded to an external party
Alternatively if you have to use these, spell it out in fill at the first mention to give the reader an idea of what it means. Never assume

Observe basic email etiquette

Use the priority feature with care (don’t use ‘urgent’ for fun)
Know your audience’s culture
Hit the right reply button
Use the to, cc and bcc fields correctly

To – directly, take action
Cc – please read for your information, no action
Bcc – don’t allow user to know who else receive the message

Don’t use all capitals (capitals in email is considered the equivalent of SHOUTING)
Never resort to excessive punctuation (!!~!!)
Proofread before sending

Tips for better emails

Write meaningful subject line

Recipients scan the subject line in order to decide whether to open, forward, file, or trash
Remember, your message is not the only one in the recipient’s mailbox
Before you hit “send”, take a moment to write a subject line that accurately describes the content

Keep the message focused and readable

Use bullet points for better readability
Use short paragraphs and avoid clumping

Always be kind, don’t flame

Never reply to an email when you are angry
Consider the best means of communication (do not use email on issues that are too sensitive, it may cause misunderstanding)

Distinguish between formal and informal situations

When you are writing to a friend, it is OK to use smiles (=]), abbreviations (LOL) and nonstandard punctuation and spelling
By the same token, don’t use informal language when your reader expects a more formal approach. Always know the situation, and write accordingly

Understanding the differences

Internal emails

Use of jargon and short forms are fine
Salutations are usually more casual (Hey)
Less service and customer oriented
No formal closings

External emails

Spell things out in full to avoid confusion
Salutations could be less casual (Dear)
Emphasis placed on service orientation
A standard signature block

Style and approach

Natural sounding
Simple
Concise
Clear
Easy to understand
Coherent
Customer oriented
Refrain from using old-fashioned language when composing your email message
Writing should be kept as natural and simple as possible
Do not use redundant expressions words or long winded phrases

Style and approach

Old-fashioned jargon	Natural modern
Herewith please find	I am pleased to attach
We regret to inform you that we are unable to accede to your request	Unfortunately we are unable to agree to your request
I refer to the above mentioned account	I refer to this account
We refer to your email of 20 June 2008	Thank you for your email of 20 June
As spoken in our teleconversation this morning	Thank you for calling me this morning
Please revert to me soonest possible	I hope to hear from you soon
I will revert soon	I will reply soon
Should you require any further clarification please do not hesitate to contact the undersigned	Please give me a call on 67654321 if you have any questions

Spelling does matter

Rules of spelling in the English language is sometimes illogical and inconsistent, but spelling does matter
Decide whether you should be using American or British English and always be consistent (use ‘organisation’ cannot have ‘center’)

Effective emails are concisely written

When constructing your emails, ensure that your sentences are kept to a maximum of 15 words (KISS-Keep It Short and Sweet)
Limit your sentences in your email to just one key message per sentence
You can ensure conciseness by shortening your word combinations

Shorten the word

At this point in time	Now
Both together	Both/together
For the purpose of	To
Bring to a resolution	resolve

Concise writing essentials

Identify your key messages
Ensure they are not omitted
Retain reference
Maintain courtesy (thank you)
Make distinctions when needed (specify)

Approaches to writing

The direct approach

Used when writing general correspondence, making a request, sharing positive or neutral news and information
When using the direct approach: The main idea or key message comes first followed by the supporting facts/evidence and data

The indirect approach

Used when sharing negative information or bad news
When employing the indirect approach: The supporting facts/evidence and data precedes the main idea or key message

Using the right tone when emailing

Ensuring the appropriate tone is used is essential in ensuring that your email messages are not misunderstood
The tone of your emails will determine the success of your communication objectives

Understanding tone

Tone conveys

The emotional content of your message
The degree of formality or informality
Your attitude towards the topic
The urgency of your message

Improving the tone

The words you use and how you use them will set the tone of your communication
You can alter your tone to convey messages in different ways. It is important to use the right tone in your communication

Factors that help you decide the appropriate tone when emailing

Your own status
The status of the reader
Your relationship with the reader
The content of the message

Some choice words

It is most unfortunate
I understand your frustration
With all due respect
Thank you for highlighting this oversight
Thank you for bringing this matter to our attention
Thank you for your email
Please accept our sincere apologies
Allow me to extend my heartfelt apologies
May I respectfully suggest
I beg to differ
Unfortunately
We sincerely hope that
We unreservedly apologize for

Avoid the wrong tone

You should know
You cannot expect
You have ignored
You failed to

Using the right tone

Focus on the solution instead of the problem

Solution	Problem
I am available to meet you next Wednesday through Friday	I am not available to meet you next Monday or Tuesday
Please return your form before 25 May in order to guarantee a place at the conference	If you do not return your form before 25 May. We cannot guarantee you a place at the conference

10 Steps to Create Custom Ringtone on iPhone

2010-08-15T12:22:00.000+08:00

This work with: MP3 files, AIFF files, Non-protected AAC files.

Right click song and GET INFO
Go to OPTIONS
Adjust START and STOP time (cant be too long)
OK
ADVANCE and CREATE AAC VERSION (aac file create)
Uncheck back your orginal song (to play normal)
Drag that new song file to desktop
Change file exe from .m4a to .m4r and OK
Delete old short version song file
Drag and drop new .m4r file into iTunes

iHand Will Solve All Your iPhone 4 Reception Issues

2010-07-08T16:25:00.004+08:00

Fix iPhone4 'Holding' Problem

2010-07-07T16:32:00.000+08:00

Upside Down House

2010-07-02T16:26:00.000+08:00

Facebook ‘Like Button’ Goes Physical

2010-06-20T22:11:00.000+08:00

Internet Procrastination

2010-06-19T10:07:00.000+08:00

New Office Hours For The World Cup

2010-06-18T22:14:00.002+08:00

The World Cup is a big deal at the Beijing company that sent around the following notice:

Latest Notice: The Company During the World Cup

Notice is made of the following:
1. During the World Cup, the start of work will be delayed from 9:00 am to 10:30.
2. Red Bull has been added to the company's refreshment room for employees to revitalize themselves. However, quantities are limited to two bottles per person per day. Please observe this rule when you drink.
3. During the World Cup, the company will run a prediction contest. Competitors will guess the champion, and the contest winner will be awarded an XBox (check your email for participation details).
4. During the World Cup, every day on which Brazil has a game, the company will organize a group to watch the game at the Goose and Duck, and will cover all drinks (those interested in taking part should apply with Xu Li in Administration before June 11).
5. If Brazil becomes the champion, the entire company will dine at the Golden Jaguar! (on the evening of July 12).
The above measures apply so long as they do not affect work.

[Company name redacted]
2010.06.10

How Scientists See the World

2010-06-17T22:01:00.000+08:00

StarCraft II Commercial

2010-06-13T20:20:00.001+08:00

Doggie Self Service

2010-06-12T21:53:00.000+08:00

Tiger Dog

2010-06-11T22:24:00.000+08:00

New Cinematic from Starcraft 2

2010-06-03T13:56:00.005+08:00

Chrome for Mac Ad

2010-05-27T18:23:00.003+08:00

Don't Make Them Sick, Thank You!

2010-03-22T20:12:00.001+08:00

Lack of USB Ports? No Problem!

2010-03-12T20:14:00.000+08:00

The design speaks for itself of what it can do. Interesting and creative huh?

How Significant We Are

2010-02-11T00:43:00.001+08:00

Empty Your Desktop

2010-01-30T22:31:00.000+08:00

Create a Safely Remove Hardware shortcut
I just reformated my computer once again, and as usual I prefer an empty desktop with no icons and no taskbar, just ObjectDock Pro shown. One very important shortcut on the taskbar will be hidden too if I want to empty them all and that is Safely Remove Hardware shortcut located at the System Tray. If I hide everything, I wont be able to disconnect my removable hard drive properly. I have to put this shortcut onto ObjectDock. So, to create the shortcut:

Right-click on the desktop, select 'New' and then 'Shortcut'. For the item location, copy and paste the following:

RunDll32.exe shell32.dll,Control_RunDLL HotPlug.dll

Then click 'Next'. Call the shortcut 'Safely Remove Hardware', and you are done. If you want to make it look better, right-click the icon, choose 'Properties' and then the 'Shortcut' tab, click on 'Change Icon' and in the 'Look for icons' box type:

%windir%\system32\HotPlug.dll

The first icon in this file matches the 'Safely Remove Hardware' icon so you'll be able to recognise it.

Remove Recycle Bin

Go to START > RUN and copy and paste the following:

GPEDIT.MSC

Navagate to USER CONFIGURATION > ADMINISTRATIVE TEMPLATES > Click on DESKTOP,

On the right hand pane find "Remove Recycle Bin icon on the desktop" , double left click on it and ENABLE it.
That's it!

iPad

2010-01-28T13:51:00.002+08:00

Surf Internet using Safari, read your Mails, enjoy your Photos, watch movies and Video, watch YouTube videos, listen music via iPod and iTunes, visit App Store and get applications and games, download read books from iBooks, visit Maps, write your own Notes easily, manage your Calendar and save Contacts.

Size and weight

Height:: 9.56 inches (242.8 mm)
Width:: 7.47 inches (189.7 mm)
Depth:: 0.5 inch (13.4 mm)
Weight:: 1.5 pounds (.68 kg) Wi-Fi model;; 1.6 pounds (.73 kg) Wi-Fi + 3G model

Display

9.7-inch (diagonal) LED-backlit glossy widescreen Multi-Touch display with IPS technology
1024-by-768-pixel resolution at 132 pixels per inch (ppi)
Fingerprint-resistant oleophobic coating
Support for display of multiple languages and characters simultaneously

Capacity

16GB, 32GB, or 64GB flash drive

Wireless and Cellular

Wi-Fi model

Wi-Fi (802.11 a/b/g/n)
Bluetooth 2.1 + EDR technology

Wi-Fi + 3G model

UMTS/HSDPA (850, 1900, 2100 MHz)
GSM/EDGE (850, 900,1800, 1900 MHz)
Data only²
Wi-Fi (802.11 a/b/g/n)
Bluetooth 2.1 + EDR technology

Pricing (in USD)

16 GB	32 GB	64 GB
Wi-Fi	$499	$599	$699
Wi-Fi + 3G	$629	$729	$829

Looking For Job? Call This Number!

2010-01-27T09:00:00.000+08:00