We have been working hard on developing Macnamara's new website. Working with Hello Slate we have created an entirely new outlook which will reflect our new direction.
We hope to have the site launched in the next 7 days. Make sure to keep checking in for updates on Twitter (www.twitter.com/macnamara_IT), Facebook.
Looking forward to showing you the Macnamara direction through our new online home: www.macnamara.it
Monday 9 August 2010
Wednesday 28 July 2010
Accurate Speed Tests on an ADSL Line
by Geoff Courts - @Macnamara_Geoff
If you are experiencing a poor internet connection, there are a number of websites that offer to test your upload and download speed for you. The problem is, if you want to get a truly accurate result, the act of measuring can actually affect the result. In physics this is called the Uncertainty Principle; this states that, on a quantum level, you cannot know both an objects’ speed and location, because the act of measuring will impact on the outcome (all measurement exerts some force or energy of the object being measured).
On a macro scale, the energy impact of photons of light has a negligible effect, but when measuring the velocity and location of individual particles, this can give experiment tainting results.
Speed test websites that use heavy flash simulations to display moving dials and pictures are consuming bandwidth at the very time you are trying to get an accurate reading of the connection you are using. Similarly, it’s no good testing the connection if someone else in the office is streaming BBC iPlayer, and someone else is downloading a large PDF report off a website. Uploads and downloads will affect directly the results of the speed test, including downloads from flash animations.
http://speedtester.bt.com/ gives an accurate reading of the actual download speed of the connection. It requires only that the PC you are using is connected directly to the router on the connection, and that no other machines are connected on the network, so the line is as clear as it can be and the externalities of other connected devices are avoided entirely. (It does require a Java plugin, however)
What’s more, the test results are logged with BT and, in Macnamara’s case, Zen (our preferred ISP), allowing them direct access to the results in case a fault is raised on the line.
If the test fails, or returns ‘inconclusive’, a second test may be initiated, which involves re-setting the router username and password to speedtest@speedtest_domain. This connects directly with the BT exchange, giving the truest reading on the line possible. If the result is poor, then the evidence is strong that the issue lies with the line itself. If the performance is shown to be good, it suggests that there may still be another network issue at play, and further investigation may be required.
If you are experiencing a poor internet connection, there are a number of websites that offer to test your upload and download speed for you. The problem is, if you want to get a truly accurate result, the act of measuring can actually affect the result. In physics this is called the Uncertainty Principle; this states that, on a quantum level, you cannot know both an objects’ speed and location, because the act of measuring will impact on the outcome (all measurement exerts some force or energy of the object being measured).
On a macro scale, the energy impact of photons of light has a negligible effect, but when measuring the velocity and location of individual particles, this can give experiment tainting results.
Speed test websites that use heavy flash simulations to display moving dials and pictures are consuming bandwidth at the very time you are trying to get an accurate reading of the connection you are using. Similarly, it’s no good testing the connection if someone else in the office is streaming BBC iPlayer, and someone else is downloading a large PDF report off a website. Uploads and downloads will affect directly the results of the speed test, including downloads from flash animations.
http://speedtester.bt.com/ gives an accurate reading of the actual download speed of the connection. It requires only that the PC you are using is connected directly to the router on the connection, and that no other machines are connected on the network, so the line is as clear as it can be and the externalities of other connected devices are avoided entirely. (It does require a Java plugin, however)
What’s more, the test results are logged with BT and, in Macnamara’s case, Zen (our preferred ISP), allowing them direct access to the results in case a fault is raised on the line.
If the test fails, or returns ‘inconclusive’, a second test may be initiated, which involves re-setting the router username and password to speedtest@speedtest_domain. This connects directly with the BT exchange, giving the truest reading on the line possible. If the result is poor, then the evidence is strong that the issue lies with the line itself. If the performance is shown to be good, it suggests that there may still be another network issue at play, and further investigation may be required.
Tuesday 6 July 2010
8 iPhone Apps to help IT Pros with day to day business . . .
By @Macnamara_MB
While the frivolous iPhone apps usually get most of the media attention (yes, there really is over 175 apps that can produce rude bodily noises), there are quite a few apps that can help you do your job as an IT worker. While less notorious, they are worth your time to download and check out.
These apps serve several purposes. They can control or interact with appliances that are part of the corporate network, monitor and remotely control your office PCs, or check your Web server. While the small screen of the iPhone can't deliver everything that your multi-monitor desktop rig can, this collection of pro-class applications will help iPhone-holding IT workers manage their work lives better.
What follows is a list of 8 IT business-related iPhone apps. Most of these apps require the v3.0 (or higher) firmware to work properly. I have also tried to pick those apps that are free (or nearly so).
1. Ever-note (FREE) Collect, sort, tag and annotate notes and other miscellaneous information
2. Documents to go (£5.99 with Exchange Support £2.99 without also FREE Version)
3. Dropbox (FREE) File Sharing
4. Network Ping (FREE) Test broadband speeds from your iPhone anywhere on the move
5. Team Viewer (FREE) Remote Access from your iPhone
6. 0870 (FREE) Save a fortune, never dial 0845/0870/0844 from your mobile again
7. Logitech Touch Mouse (FREE) Remote mouse, just type in PC’s IP address
8. NetPortal (1.79) Remote file sharing over VPN or router port-forwarding.
You will be relieved to know, that I have picked apps that work with 3.1.3 firmware, as not so many people have upgraded their handsets to iOS4 software yet (if you hold a 3G, you’re not missing much). So us eager IT workers now have a handful of apps to make our work more in hand.
While the frivolous iPhone apps usually get most of the media attention (yes, there really is over 175 apps that can produce rude bodily noises), there are quite a few apps that can help you do your job as an IT worker. While less notorious, they are worth your time to download and check out.
These apps serve several purposes. They can control or interact with appliances that are part of the corporate network, monitor and remotely control your office PCs, or check your Web server. While the small screen of the iPhone can't deliver everything that your multi-monitor desktop rig can, this collection of pro-class applications will help iPhone-holding IT workers manage their work lives better.
What follows is a list of 8 IT business-related iPhone apps. Most of these apps require the v3.0 (or higher) firmware to work properly. I have also tried to pick those apps that are free (or nearly so).
1. Ever-note (FREE) Collect, sort, tag and annotate notes and other miscellaneous information
2. Documents to go (£5.99 with Exchange Support £2.99 without also FREE Version)
3. Dropbox (FREE) File Sharing
4. Network Ping (FREE) Test broadband speeds from your iPhone anywhere on the move
5. Team Viewer (FREE) Remote Access from your iPhone
6. 0870 (FREE) Save a fortune, never dial 0845/0870/0844 from your mobile again
7. Logitech Touch Mouse (FREE) Remote mouse, just type in PC’s IP address
8. NetPortal (1.79) Remote file sharing over VPN or router port-forwarding.
You will be relieved to know, that I have picked apps that work with 3.1.3 firmware, as not so many people have upgraded their handsets to iOS4 software yet (if you hold a 3G, you’re not missing much). So us eager IT workers now have a handful of apps to make our work more in hand.
Set Up Your iPhone with MS Exchange
From Geoff Courts - @macnamara_geoff
These days, everyone has an iPhone. In addition to the incredible number of applications with dubious merit you can add to it, there is one very useful function built in, and that's the Exchange Connector. This syncs not just your E-mail, but also your Calendar and Contacts from your Microsoft Exchange account.
You can of course sync with your Hotmail and G-mail accounts as well, but they can be added alongside your Exchange account, and it is Exchange that will almost certainly be running your business e-mail system. Since iPhone is rapidly gaining primacy in the business mobile device market, even over the mighty Blackberry (it was always a winner with the non-business users), lets show you how easy it is to set up your Exchange account on it.
N.B. You should note that only the latest version of iPhone - IOS4 - can support more than one Exchange account, so if you already have one set up, you will need to upgrade your iPhone's software before adding another.
1. Go to Mail Settings, select new Account, and select Microsoft Exchange
2. E-mail Address - this is your full e-mail address (e.g. yourname@domain.com)
3. Domain Name - leave this BLANK
4. Username - your username (the one that you use to log on to a PC with)
5. Password - your password (again, the one you use to log on to your PC)
6. Server name - the mail server name, e.g. mail.domainname.com (you may need to ask your administrator)
And that's it! You may be prompted that the Security Certificate is invalid. Every Server needs a certificate when accessing remotely. Some are verified by third parties (such as GoDaddy) but some are self-signed - i.e. you trust it because IT says you can. Just click 'Yes' when prompted if you want to continue.
You will also be asked if you want to over-write or merge your existing iPhone contacts - that's up to you.
If you have multiple sub-folders, it will only sync the top level by default, due to data allowances. If you have an enormous mailbox, but no subfolders (when you use Outlook, are all your e-mails in your Inbox?) you may want to create some additional subfolders before you sync, otherwise you risk downloading the entirety of you 10,000 e-mails and attachments over your tariff.
These days, everyone has an iPhone. In addition to the incredible number of applications with dubious merit you can add to it, there is one very useful function built in, and that's the Exchange Connector. This syncs not just your E-mail, but also your Calendar and Contacts from your Microsoft Exchange account.
You can of course sync with your Hotmail and G-mail accounts as well, but they can be added alongside your Exchange account, and it is Exchange that will almost certainly be running your business e-mail system. Since iPhone is rapidly gaining primacy in the business mobile device market, even over the mighty Blackberry (it was always a winner with the non-business users), lets show you how easy it is to set up your Exchange account on it.
N.B. You should note that only the latest version of iPhone - IOS4 - can support more than one Exchange account, so if you already have one set up, you will need to upgrade your iPhone's software before adding another.
1. Go to Mail Settings, select new Account, and select Microsoft Exchange
2. E-mail Address - this is your full e-mail address (e.g. yourname@domain.com)
3. Domain Name - leave this BLANK
4. Username - your username (the one that you use to log on to a PC with)
5. Password - your password (again, the one you use to log on to your PC)
6. Server name - the mail server name, e.g. mail.domainname.com (you may need to ask your administrator)
And that's it! You may be prompted that the Security Certificate is invalid. Every Server needs a certificate when accessing remotely. Some are verified by third parties (such as GoDaddy) but some are self-signed - i.e. you trust it because IT says you can. Just click 'Yes' when prompted if you want to continue.
You will also be asked if you want to over-write or merge your existing iPhone contacts - that's up to you.
If you have multiple sub-folders, it will only sync the top level by default, due to data allowances. If you have an enormous mailbox, but no subfolders (when you use Outlook, are all your e-mails in your Inbox?) you may want to create some additional subfolders before you sync, otherwise you risk downloading the entirety of you 10,000 e-mails and attachments over your tariff.
Tuesday 29 June 2010
Should we all turn our computers off when we go home in the evening?
From Ciaran Kenny @ciaranjkenny
It’s not quite up there with the perennial debate as to whether Macs or PCs are better but it is one of those questions that never quite get answered. Generally the IT guys would prefer if you left your PC running all the time but, in these cost conscious times, they don’t really like to say that. And, of course, it’s not just cost – there are environmental considerations too. Just how much electricity are those PCs burning away while they do nothing for 16 hours or so each day – how much does that cost, how much carbon does that add to the atmosphere?
So why do the IT guys tell you to leave the PC on? Well, one reason is that most support desk calls are generated just after the computer is switched on – when things don’t go as expected: the machine doesn’t boot, or the password is rejected or it just takes an age. Simple then, don’t turn the machine off in the first place and eliminate those time consuming support calls. But there is another reason: PC operating systems are usually programmed to run a whole host of update and maintenance tasks during those twilight hours. All those security patches from Microsoft, anti-virus scanning, disk tidy ups etc. happen while you are tucked up in bed.
The pity about it is that Microsoft actually only, as a rule, releases patches once a month.
Virus scanning, if done regularly, only takes a few minutes. The same is true for other routine tasks such as disk defragmentation. But, for them to happen out of ours and not cause the PCs to slow down during working hours it seems the only way is to leave the computers on all the time.
Some IT support companies though have come to the conclusion that asking for computers to be left on all the time really is unsustainable in every sense of the word. And that is precisely the conclusion we have reached. We have spent some time putting together a detailed maintenance plan that takes into account whether users are logged on and runs all necessary maintenance at the earliest opportunity out of working hours. And, here’s the extra step – afterwards we shut the PC down. One small step but actually a major innovation – and we are looking at cost savings in terms of electricity consumption of up to £1,000 per year for some clients. And that is not to mention the reduced environmental impact and enhanced green credentials for the client.
So, back to the opening question, should you turn your PCs off in the evening? Well, yes and no, it depends who’s looking after them!
It’s not quite up there with the perennial debate as to whether Macs or PCs are better but it is one of those questions that never quite get answered. Generally the IT guys would prefer if you left your PC running all the time but, in these cost conscious times, they don’t really like to say that. And, of course, it’s not just cost – there are environmental considerations too. Just how much electricity are those PCs burning away while they do nothing for 16 hours or so each day – how much does that cost, how much carbon does that add to the atmosphere?
So why do the IT guys tell you to leave the PC on? Well, one reason is that most support desk calls are generated just after the computer is switched on – when things don’t go as expected: the machine doesn’t boot, or the password is rejected or it just takes an age. Simple then, don’t turn the machine off in the first place and eliminate those time consuming support calls. But there is another reason: PC operating systems are usually programmed to run a whole host of update and maintenance tasks during those twilight hours. All those security patches from Microsoft, anti-virus scanning, disk tidy ups etc. happen while you are tucked up in bed.
The pity about it is that Microsoft actually only, as a rule, releases patches once a month.
Virus scanning, if done regularly, only takes a few minutes. The same is true for other routine tasks such as disk defragmentation. But, for them to happen out of ours and not cause the PCs to slow down during working hours it seems the only way is to leave the computers on all the time.
Some IT support companies though have come to the conclusion that asking for computers to be left on all the time really is unsustainable in every sense of the word. And that is precisely the conclusion we have reached. We have spent some time putting together a detailed maintenance plan that takes into account whether users are logged on and runs all necessary maintenance at the earliest opportunity out of working hours. And, here’s the extra step – afterwards we shut the PC down. One small step but actually a major innovation – and we are looking at cost savings in terms of electricity consumption of up to £1,000 per year for some clients. And that is not to mention the reduced environmental impact and enhanced green credentials for the client.
So, back to the opening question, should you turn your PCs off in the evening? Well, yes and no, it depends who’s looking after them!
Monday 21 June 2010
Macnamara is the new trading name for Lynx Computing.
Ciaran Kenny founded Lynx in 2003, based on the principles of reliable service, cutting edge IT and hard work. As the company’s reputation has grown, along with the valued client base, Lynx has now reached a crucial point in its development. Always looking to be able to improve on the range and level of service provided, some key changes have taken place.
The company has not only changed its name, which I will return to later, but it has also recently relocated. Macnamara now operates from Hoxton Works in Hoxton. These new premises are dedicated to small companies, in the heart of an area of London renowned for innovation. Macamara’s hub is minimally sleek with the occasional touch of contemporary East London style. Efficient, innovative, open; all part of the vision, it perfectly reflects the organisation itself.
I sat down with Ciaran over a good cup of coffee, to discuss the change. Enthusing about the progress of the business in the last seven years, he explained that the development was both necessary and unusual in the industry.
Macnamara is about growth, partnership and clarity in a complex business world. Proactivity is at the core of the business. Staff work hard to understand the pressures faced by your company and your specific needs, to create a service package which you are happy with. The team are genuinely interested in technological progression, both personally and professionally. The frequent knowledge sharing and discussion amongst the staff, with clients and the wider world illustrates the transparency of the business and its commitment to learning. The recently expanded team is keen, dynamic and committed.
I’m new to the business and the IT world but one thing which is evident is the dedication of the team to both client service and technological innovation.
The team all share one open plan office space and are in constant communication. The office walls are adorned with screens which monitor the performance of every server and internet connection under Macnamara’s care. These alert the technicians to any crucial changes before they become critical. This epitomises Macnamara, diligence in providing effective technology.
Having its roots in Ciaran Kenny’s family history, the name ‘Macnamara’, is the Irishman’s mother’s maiden name. Distinctive and characterful, just like the business.
So what else has been happening? New name, new premises- of course it has to be responsiveness to social technological change. In particular, Macnamara has increased their online presence. Macnamara communicate face to face, on the phone, via email, Twitter and Facebook. Each member of the team tweet regularly, in dialogue with the online community. Their blog is an archive of tech news and fixes as well and business developments.
Clients respond very positively to these developments and if you haven’t checked us out yet, go to www.macnamarablog.blogspot.com or www.macanamaratech.blogspot.com.
Macnamara is certainly entering an invigorating period of development on strong foundations. Becoming the professional, reliable partner, in a complex world of IT to which good business is increasingly dependent.
Do let us know what you think of these developments or our service in general, as your views are important to us.
The company has not only changed its name, which I will return to later, but it has also recently relocated. Macnamara now operates from Hoxton Works in Hoxton. These new premises are dedicated to small companies, in the heart of an area of London renowned for innovation. Macamara’s hub is minimally sleek with the occasional touch of contemporary East London style. Efficient, innovative, open; all part of the vision, it perfectly reflects the organisation itself.
I sat down with Ciaran over a good cup of coffee, to discuss the change. Enthusing about the progress of the business in the last seven years, he explained that the development was both necessary and unusual in the industry.
Macnamara is about growth, partnership and clarity in a complex business world. Proactivity is at the core of the business. Staff work hard to understand the pressures faced by your company and your specific needs, to create a service package which you are happy with. The team are genuinely interested in technological progression, both personally and professionally. The frequent knowledge sharing and discussion amongst the staff, with clients and the wider world illustrates the transparency of the business and its commitment to learning. The recently expanded team is keen, dynamic and committed.
I’m new to the business and the IT world but one thing which is evident is the dedication of the team to both client service and technological innovation.
The team all share one open plan office space and are in constant communication. The office walls are adorned with screens which monitor the performance of every server and internet connection under Macnamara’s care. These alert the technicians to any crucial changes before they become critical. This epitomises Macnamara, diligence in providing effective technology.
Having its roots in Ciaran Kenny’s family history, the name ‘Macnamara’, is the Irishman’s mother’s maiden name. Distinctive and characterful, just like the business.
So what else has been happening? New name, new premises- of course it has to be responsiveness to social technological change. In particular, Macnamara has increased their online presence. Macnamara communicate face to face, on the phone, via email, Twitter and Facebook. Each member of the team tweet regularly, in dialogue with the online community. Their blog is an archive of tech news and fixes as well and business developments.
Clients respond very positively to these developments and if you haven’t checked us out yet, go to www.macnamarablog.blogspot.com or www.macanamaratech.blogspot.com.
Macnamara is certainly entering an invigorating period of development on strong foundations. Becoming the professional, reliable partner, in a complex world of IT to which good business is increasingly dependent.
Do let us know what you think of these developments or our service in general, as your views are important to us.
Trailblazing Advancement for Macnamara Clients
From: Kate Coles @Macnamara_Kate
On a sunny Monday morning in June, Macnamara are launching the in-house designed software which will maintain PCs after hours.
This substantial advancement comes at a time of exciting change for Macnamara.
The reality for our clients is arriving in the office in the morning with all PC’s running at optimum level. All updates, scans and defragmentation will be done overnight. In addition there is the assurance that all PCs will have all of the necessary updates and virus protection in a scheduled manner.
Consequently clients’ avoid the usually inescapable speed reduction throughout the day by running updates.
Many underestimate the vital nature of IT maintenance, but even if you are not engaged in technology the benefits are apparent.
From the clients’ point of view, perhaps the most significant development is the remote shut down of the PC once the update is completed. Increasing the business’ green credentials by saving energy and most importantly, money.
Ultimately, entirely beneficial for business.
We will update you on the outcome of the rollout and any clients’ feedback.
If you wish to speak with Macnamara about this exciting development you can contact us below:
Email: enquiries@macnamara.it
Phone: 0845 180 1180
Twitter: @Macnamara_Kate
On a sunny Monday morning in June, Macnamara are launching the in-house designed software which will maintain PCs after hours.
This substantial advancement comes at a time of exciting change for Macnamara.
The reality for our clients is arriving in the office in the morning with all PC’s running at optimum level. All updates, scans and defragmentation will be done overnight. In addition there is the assurance that all PCs will have all of the necessary updates and virus protection in a scheduled manner.
Consequently clients’ avoid the usually inescapable speed reduction throughout the day by running updates.
Many underestimate the vital nature of IT maintenance, but even if you are not engaged in technology the benefits are apparent.
From the clients’ point of view, perhaps the most significant development is the remote shut down of the PC once the update is completed. Increasing the business’ green credentials by saving energy and most importantly, money.
Ultimately, entirely beneficial for business.
We will update you on the outcome of the rollout and any clients’ feedback.
If you wish to speak with Macnamara about this exciting development you can contact us below:
Email: enquiries@macnamara.it
Phone: 0845 180 1180
Twitter: @Macnamara_Kate
Thursday 10 June 2010
One Man’s marriage with Vista.
From: @Macnamara_Vasco
A couple of years ago I decided to buy a laptop after some time spent in a computerless state. At the time I had much less experience as a computer user and I was not aware of the new developments in Operating Systems. I knew I wanted a computer with good memory and a spacious hard drive in order to be able to use music production software. I wasn’t aware that Windows XP had been superseded by Vista, knowing absolutely nothing about the latter.
Going to buy a computer like this is almost like an arranged marriage. You don’t really know what you’re getting into. And chances are that things can go horribly wrong. I quickly found out that Vista had a terrible reputation, almost on par with bankers after the credit crunch. Then came the slow realization that my laptop would be better off without it. I was quite nonplussed by the fact that a laptop with a reasonable amount of processing and memory power was taken so long to log on and off, that it was quite common for applications to freeze. I noticed that on a different less powerful machine that had XP installed, one could log and off in much less time. Yes, my “marriage” to Vista was doomed from the start.
Like most people I kind of stuck with Vista because I wanted to avoid the whole tedious process of not only having to reinstall the OS, but also the myriad of programs that I had previously installed. As installing an OS will delete anything downloaded previously. So, I continued this unhappy marriage for a while in frustration with the way that Vista (dys)functions, everyday in frustration I would hurl a string of verbal abuse to it (trust me the Portuguese language is very colourful for insults).
Also having to admit to people that I had Vista on my laptop was very socially awkward. It was akin to being overheard telling a dirty joke by everyone in a family gathering. Being a Vista owner is almost like becoming the village idiot, either jeered or utterly patronized by everyone. Either that or you commiserate your misery with fellow Vista users. It’s funny how difficult is to find people that honestly can say that they like Vista; it’s actually easier to find someone who spotted the Loch Ness monster or even to spot Nessie itself, than finding a Vista enthusiast. A Vista enthusiast is definitely in the league of Nessie, the Yeti or Bigfoot in the grand scheme of mythical creatures.
When the news came that Windows 7 was about to arrive, everyone was in a weird mix of apprehension and expectation. Would Microsoft get it right this time? Would we be able to throw off our Vista shackles? I had a colleague that was using the Beta version and his feedback had been positive. The reviews in the Guardian were also very positive. Reasons to be optimistic, but in these situations the best thing is not take other people’s words for granted and just try it out.
Recently I decided that Vista had to go. Our abusive relationship had to be terminated as soon as possible as it evidently was going nowhere. Having managed to obtain Windows 7, it was time to say “Hasta la vista, Vista!” So I tucked up my sleeves, backed up my data and the final showdown had arrived (queue the Good, the Bad and the Ugly theme tune). I was quite keen to get rid of Vista. There were no moments of wistful wide eyed nostalgia remembering all the good times spent with Vista. There were no dramatic Shakespearean like speeches such as: “Alas poor Vista, I knew him well…” or “I came to bury Vista not praise him” It was more like Goodbye and good riddance.
With Vista gone and Windows 7 in its place so far the experience has been positive. It takes much less time to log in and especially to shut off. It used to be quite annoying when I wanted to go to sleep having to wait a bit before Vista managed to shut the computer down. Everything seems to be running a bit smoother. I don’t particularly like the icons pinned to the taskbar and how they are grouped together. Luckily, that can be changed on Task manager. Some people might think this is almost like blasphemy but I prefer the much more minimal and Spartan look that one gets when one sets the visual options for best performance and the actual taskbar looks like the old one from Windows 2000, rather than the sleeker default settings. I prefer a less ‘flashy’ look. Another thing that is great is the new added capability of burning Iso files which is quite useful especially if you don’t have a program like Nero installed. There are still a few differences in presentation in Windows 7 to get used to, but so far I feel a massive improvement. I still need to put it to a more serious test such as seeing how it fares when it has some memory consuming software like Ableton Live to attend to.
It seems that Microsoft got things right this time. Let’s hope that they had learnt from their mistakes on Vista. Especially now with Apple on the rise in the market, they can’t allow themselves to be smug and complacent and alienate their core users with inferior products. But so far it’s thumbs up for Windows 7.
A couple of years ago I decided to buy a laptop after some time spent in a computerless state. At the time I had much less experience as a computer user and I was not aware of the new developments in Operating Systems. I knew I wanted a computer with good memory and a spacious hard drive in order to be able to use music production software. I wasn’t aware that Windows XP had been superseded by Vista, knowing absolutely nothing about the latter.
Going to buy a computer like this is almost like an arranged marriage. You don’t really know what you’re getting into. And chances are that things can go horribly wrong. I quickly found out that Vista had a terrible reputation, almost on par with bankers after the credit crunch. Then came the slow realization that my laptop would be better off without it. I was quite nonplussed by the fact that a laptop with a reasonable amount of processing and memory power was taken so long to log on and off, that it was quite common for applications to freeze. I noticed that on a different less powerful machine that had XP installed, one could log and off in much less time. Yes, my “marriage” to Vista was doomed from the start.
Like most people I kind of stuck with Vista because I wanted to avoid the whole tedious process of not only having to reinstall the OS, but also the myriad of programs that I had previously installed. As installing an OS will delete anything downloaded previously. So, I continued this unhappy marriage for a while in frustration with the way that Vista (dys)functions, everyday in frustration I would hurl a string of verbal abuse to it (trust me the Portuguese language is very colourful for insults).
Also having to admit to people that I had Vista on my laptop was very socially awkward. It was akin to being overheard telling a dirty joke by everyone in a family gathering. Being a Vista owner is almost like becoming the village idiot, either jeered or utterly patronized by everyone. Either that or you commiserate your misery with fellow Vista users. It’s funny how difficult is to find people that honestly can say that they like Vista; it’s actually easier to find someone who spotted the Loch Ness monster or even to spot Nessie itself, than finding a Vista enthusiast. A Vista enthusiast is definitely in the league of Nessie, the Yeti or Bigfoot in the grand scheme of mythical creatures.
When the news came that Windows 7 was about to arrive, everyone was in a weird mix of apprehension and expectation. Would Microsoft get it right this time? Would we be able to throw off our Vista shackles? I had a colleague that was using the Beta version and his feedback had been positive. The reviews in the Guardian were also very positive. Reasons to be optimistic, but in these situations the best thing is not take other people’s words for granted and just try it out.
Recently I decided that Vista had to go. Our abusive relationship had to be terminated as soon as possible as it evidently was going nowhere. Having managed to obtain Windows 7, it was time to say “Hasta la vista, Vista!” So I tucked up my sleeves, backed up my data and the final showdown had arrived (queue the Good, the Bad and the Ugly theme tune). I was quite keen to get rid of Vista. There were no moments of wistful wide eyed nostalgia remembering all the good times spent with Vista. There were no dramatic Shakespearean like speeches such as: “Alas poor Vista, I knew him well…” or “I came to bury Vista not praise him” It was more like Goodbye and good riddance.
With Vista gone and Windows 7 in its place so far the experience has been positive. It takes much less time to log in and especially to shut off. It used to be quite annoying when I wanted to go to sleep having to wait a bit before Vista managed to shut the computer down. Everything seems to be running a bit smoother. I don’t particularly like the icons pinned to the taskbar and how they are grouped together. Luckily, that can be changed on Task manager. Some people might think this is almost like blasphemy but I prefer the much more minimal and Spartan look that one gets when one sets the visual options for best performance and the actual taskbar looks like the old one from Windows 2000, rather than the sleeker default settings. I prefer a less ‘flashy’ look. Another thing that is great is the new added capability of burning Iso files which is quite useful especially if you don’t have a program like Nero installed. There are still a few differences in presentation in Windows 7 to get used to, but so far I feel a massive improvement. I still need to put it to a more serious test such as seeing how it fares when it has some memory consuming software like Ableton Live to attend to.
It seems that Microsoft got things right this time. Let’s hope that they had learnt from their mistakes on Vista. Especially now with Apple on the rise in the market, they can’t allow themselves to be smug and complacent and alienate their core users with inferior products. But so far it’s thumbs up for Windows 7.
Tuesday 1 June 2010
Extending our virtual reach
From: @Macnamara_Kate
We now have 2 blogs.
For the tech savvy check out Our Technical Archive is a catalogue of technical help and support.
For clients and those with an interest in Macnamara Our Blog details business developments and interesting articles which we want to share our perspective on.
For a micro blogging Macnamara hit, check out our twitter.
We now have 2 blogs.
For the tech savvy check out Our Technical Archive is a catalogue of technical help and support.
For clients and those with an interest in Macnamara Our Blog details business developments and interesting articles which we want to share our perspective on.
For a micro blogging Macnamara hit, check out our twitter.
Wednesday 26 May 2010
'Tweetie' to 'Twitter'
From: @macnamara_MB
I knew this was coming ever since Twitter bought Tweetie. And guessed it wouldn’t be long until its launch when Tweetie was removed from the App Store on May 19th 2010.
On May 20th 2010, the official Twitter app was available world-wide. It is the official Twitter app, which has caused some concern for developers of other Twitter apps. The seller is listed as Twitter, Inc.
Here are a few quick notes on the new app based on just a quick look and my experience so far …
Note: The version number is 3.0 – the ultimate acknowledgement of the Tweetie to Twitter changeover. It is also, now, a completely FREE app as opposed to £1.19 previously.
It installed as an update to Tweetie, rather than a new app. I suppose that’s to be expected, but it did not behave like a nice, friendly update and carry over account settings. I had two accounts setup in Tweetie version 2.0, but was welcomed as a brand new user in the Twitter app – prompted to create a new account or sign in to an existing one. Not a huge thing, but a bit of a nuisance.
A cool new feature that you notice right away is that the app lets you use Twitter (or look at it might be a better way of saying it) without logging in and lets you sign up for a new account within the app. Frequent tweeters will know that you can’t usually see anything other than a couple of tweets on the homepage without an account.
There is now a dedicated Re-tweet button on the app’s bottom action bar – that’s quite handy. Then again, if you prefer the ‘old-school’ style using RT @username you still have to go to the ‘Quote Tweet’ option.
Sadly, there are reports that Twitter may be filtering out search results that include the ‘RT @username’ syntax. If true, that seems an over-the-top, and kind of nasty tactic. Why not let users choose how they like to use the service, (within reason)? Twitter has long been about the micro cultures which arise from which app or service you use to access the network.
The Follow / Un-follow button has been moved up to near the top of the user profile page, a nice change as it makes it quicker and easier to take this common action. The app also offers a Suggested Users list, divided into categories by topic area … something I think is quite cool.
Twitter is listed as a universal app, compatible with iPhone (OS 3 or later), iPod Touch, and the iPad, but there is no full-on iPad version yet. On the iPad this one still appears at iPhone size, with only the typical 2X scaled up mode to run on the full iPad screen.
Hope they bring an iPad version out soon, as there’s no real killer Twitter app for the device yet.
You can find the Twitter app in the App Store now, and as said it is completely FREE now.
This is my view on the NEW Twitter App, I look forward to reading yours.
Tweet me @Macnamara_MB or comment the blog.
I knew this was coming ever since Twitter bought Tweetie. And guessed it wouldn’t be long until its launch when Tweetie was removed from the App Store on May 19th 2010.
On May 20th 2010, the official Twitter app was available world-wide. It is the official Twitter app, which has caused some concern for developers of other Twitter apps. The seller is listed as Twitter, Inc.
Here are a few quick notes on the new app based on just a quick look and my experience so far …
Note: The version number is 3.0 – the ultimate acknowledgement of the Tweetie to Twitter changeover. It is also, now, a completely FREE app as opposed to £1.19 previously.
It installed as an update to Tweetie, rather than a new app. I suppose that’s to be expected, but it did not behave like a nice, friendly update and carry over account settings. I had two accounts setup in Tweetie version 2.0, but was welcomed as a brand new user in the Twitter app – prompted to create a new account or sign in to an existing one. Not a huge thing, but a bit of a nuisance.
A cool new feature that you notice right away is that the app lets you use Twitter (or look at it might be a better way of saying it) without logging in and lets you sign up for a new account within the app. Frequent tweeters will know that you can’t usually see anything other than a couple of tweets on the homepage without an account.
There is now a dedicated Re-tweet button on the app’s bottom action bar – that’s quite handy. Then again, if you prefer the ‘old-school’ style using RT @username you still have to go to the ‘Quote Tweet’ option.
Sadly, there are reports that Twitter may be filtering out search results that include the ‘RT @username’ syntax. If true, that seems an over-the-top, and kind of nasty tactic. Why not let users choose how they like to use the service, (within reason)? Twitter has long been about the micro cultures which arise from which app or service you use to access the network.
The Follow / Un-follow button has been moved up to near the top of the user profile page, a nice change as it makes it quicker and easier to take this common action. The app also offers a Suggested Users list, divided into categories by topic area … something I think is quite cool.
Twitter is listed as a universal app, compatible with iPhone (OS 3 or later), iPod Touch, and the iPad, but there is no full-on iPad version yet. On the iPad this one still appears at iPhone size, with only the typical 2X scaled up mode to run on the full iPad screen.
Hope they bring an iPad version out soon, as there’s no real killer Twitter app for the device yet.
You can find the Twitter app in the App Store now, and as said it is completely FREE now.
This is my view on the NEW Twitter App, I look forward to reading yours.
Tweet me @Macnamara_MB or comment the blog.
Tuesday 18 May 2010
Getting our blog on
We are hoping to start frequently posting blogs within the next week.
We know that so much of the IT community is online and we, like many, troubleshoot for solutions online.
We hope to give you plenty to read from updating you on any problems the guys have faced working on client projects (and, more importantly, the solutions!) to links to interesting developments in technolgy.
We hope you enjoy reading our posts during this time of constant development.
We know that so much of the IT community is online and we, like many, troubleshoot for solutions online.
We hope to give you plenty to read from updating you on any problems the guys have faced working on client projects (and, more importantly, the solutions!) to links to interesting developments in technolgy.
We hope you enjoy reading our posts during this time of constant development.
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