Fred's technology blog
More-or-less monthly postings on the state of technology
2010
February
New website
The redesigned "FredMorgenstern.com" website is just about finished. There's a lot of new content.
I'm sorry to see the page counts reset to zero, but I hope that the new website will be an improvement for most visitors.
Apple
As we keep learning about the upcoming iPad, it's becoming clear that this is not an ideal solution as a person's only computer. For full function and maximum portability, stick with either a netbook or a notebook computer.
People contemplating a new Macbook or Macbook Pro should wait a while to see if the lines are updated this month. Indications are that updates are coming soon. They are long overdue.
Windows
There are indications that anyone who purchases Microsoft Office from this point forward will receive a free upgrade to Office 2010 when it is released. Still, for most users, we find Office to be overpriced and bloated. Open Office is free and is often a better alternative.
Microsoft Works, bundled with many computers, is another option. With the proper customizations, it can be made user friendly. It's just necessary to bypass all of its so-called "helpful templates!"
Recording
Pro Tools users should update to the new 8.03cs1 release available from Avid.
Most recently updated February 10, 2010
January
Apple
We're waiting to see what Apple's big announcement will turn out to be. There's a lot of talk of a possible tablet computer. Whatever it is, we hope that Apple's working hard on replacements in its notebook computer line. Mac lovers are at a serious disadvantage these days if they want to purchase an Apple notebook computer. These run half as slow, or slower, when all processors are involved, that current Windows notebooks that cost only two-thirds as much.
Usually, we see updates to current products from Apple in mid-February and then some time in the Summer. We'll see what Apple does this year.
Windows
It's wonderful to see that Windows 7 is turning out to be a very good solution for non-Mac users, especially after the disaster that we all endured with Vista.
The various versions of Windows 7 are confusing. I find that it's best to consider Windows 7 Home Premium to be the absolute minimum for typical users. Even that version of the program, maddeningly, does not allow the use of certain language packs and does not include an email client. Fortunately, Thunderbird is a good replacement for those clients who prefer not to use web-based email programs.
Clients using AOL with an email client like Thunderbird have been made aware of a policy change on AOL's part. In itself, this change—that AOL will no longer save "sent" messages when AOL is used with an email client—will not require any changes to how clients work. However, it may be a troubling sign that AOL will eventually change its policies in a way that does affect us. I'll keep on top of this.
High-speed services
Verizon FiOS is worth a look. The downside is, when FiOS is installed, Verizon will physically cut the cables for your older phone lines, which will make it harder to re-install regular phone service if you ever want to do so (though not impossible). Additionally, fiber-optic-based phone service is not as reliable as plain-old telephone service (also called "POTS." There's an acronym for everything!).
Another very cool new technology is the "MiFi," a portable wireless hotspot that's about the size of a stack of six credit cards. The monthly fees are non-trivial, but this can be a great and fun way to have wireless access anywhere that you get cell phone coverage and to share it with your friends as well.
Regardless of which high-speed service you choose, it's worth reviewing the costs of your plan. Bundling by the various providers can lead to substantial savings.
On the road!
I spent a week in New England, combining an IT installation with some much-needed vacation. Thanks to everyone involved there who made my trip unforgettable.
Final edit posted January 26, 2010