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Not that all your internet activity isn't already being monitored, but the FBI want to make it a law for ISPs to keep records of all websites visited for at least 2 years.

I can see where they (computer crime investigators) are coming from, but who do we trust with that information.  I know I certainly don't trust any part of our government with any of that data.  I'd sooner trust google - at least they are striving for the ideal: 'do no evil.'

These internet criminals already know how to cover their tracks.  And let's face it, the government isn't really known to have the lastest and greatest high tech computers and security.  What happens when a hacker gets into all that data that's being stored?  And do you really trust your local ISP provider to keep that information secure?

Let's hope the court system knocks this one down.

iPad!

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Steve Jobs has announced the iPad this morning.  For the love of god, how did they come up with such a bad name when they have such awesome names for their Mac OS versions?!

Gizmodo has live coverage that is funny to read and informative here.

They've recently posted video from the introduction and are currently posting pictures taken minutes after they are shown.

From what I can tell its supposed to have around extended netbook battery life (around 8 hours +), runs on modified iPhone OS (also runs your iPhone apps), but with more features available with new SDK, revamped homescreen/interface, has a 9.7" screen that isn't quite HD perspective but not 4:3, has an onscreen keyboard, plays games, functions as ebook reader (with iBooks), up to 64 GB of flash memory and I want one!

 

Ooma features coming to Telo and Core

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At the CES Ooma booth I got a chance to talk to a representative about what's in store for Ooma available first half of 2010.

Here's what's coming up:

1. iPhone and iPod touch calling application

"Ooma customers will be able to downloan an Ooma iPhone application to make phone calls over any Wi-Fi network using an iphone or iPod touch."

2. Bluetooth support

For Ooma Telo, allows users to integrate their mobile phone with their home phone systems.  Answer cell phone calls on home phone, answer calls to your home phone hands-free on a headset, transfer cell phone address book to your Telo.

3. Google Voice Extensions

Those with a Google Voice account can integrate and hear call presentation and listen in on speaker.  Pickup any handset to be connected to the caller.  One touch access to Google Voicemail.  Also use your GV number as your outgoing for caller-ID.

4. Voicemail transcription

Allows incoming voicemail be transcribed into text and sent as email or text message (kind of like what GV does).  This service one-ups google by actually using human transcription to increase accuracy.

The rep says these features are coming to Ooma Telo and most likely will be premium (Premiere) features.

What might be rolled out for Core and Telo for free are:

Ooma Pure Voice:

In a nutshell increased voice quality over congested networks while maintaining low bandwidth requirements.

High Definition Voice:

Doubles the audio frequencies transmitted (compared to regular landlines) so that calls are more natural sounding between Ooma customers.

Reckless drivers for 2009

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For 2009, I've come across two ridiculously reckless, idiotic drivers that put their lives and others in danger on the freeway right in front of me:

 

1. Nissan Altima - Silver

License Plate: 5MMZ834

Location: LA County

Driver speeds up and passes on right lane.  Pulls directly in front of me for a few seconds, then brakes - twice.  Repeats.  In moderately heavy traffic.  

 

2. Infinty G35

License Plate 5SYD730

Location: 152 freeway (the ridiculously dangerous one that connects the I5 to 101).

Tries to overtake cars in a two-lane, definitely don't pass zone and nearly does a head-on with on-coming traffic at 60 MPH.  Swerves back into spot in front of me because I let him... then driver repeats the same thing again.

 

 

Turn your Windows 7 laptop into a Wireless Access Point - FREE

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Why you need it:

You have to setup an impromptu wireless access point to share files, internet, etc.  (I use this with my built-in wireless 3G modem to create my own personal MiFi type connection.

What you need is:

  1. PC running Windows 7
  2. Working wireless adapter (some intel ones don't work).
  3. Connectify Me Software (free beta).

Just download the roughly 1.5MB software and run to install it.  You just need to pick a WiFi name, a passphrase, and the internet connection access and whether you want to turn on the hotspot you've just created or turn it off.

 

Great stop for gas etc on I5 in CA at Lost Hills

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image1513656488.jpgSo on my way down to LA from the SF bay area I just happen to stop by the Pilot travel center.

They have huge signs advertising gas prices (they also have diesel) and a Wendy's. Gas was cheaper than norm at 2.79 for regular and 3.03 super (better than Costco). The restrooms are big and relatively clean. The convenience store is big and stuff like drinks, snacks, sandwiches were cheap. Example: any size slurpee just 0.79, two snack size potatoe chips for $1.00 (1.29 retail each normally), 2 bottles of 'pure water' for 3.00.

Free Wifi and hot shower stalls available too!

Definitely add this as a stop your next trip up or down when you need a break!

Mobile Blogging from here.

[Posted with iBlogger from my iPhone]

Zmax Formula Works - but only really for older cars

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Last year I tried it on a whim.  It was on sale at Amazon at the time, and I took advantage of it.  

Today I see it on sale in the Amazon.com gold-box offer and thought I'd share my experience.

I noticed increased fuel efficiency and power when I poured it into my old Jag.  Granted I don't get much MPG with it as is, any amount of increase is easily apparent just by looking at the odometer and fill-up time.

Don't ask me how it works, but it did what it said it would do and noticeably so.

 

 

A couple of observations.  The fluid / formula is the same in all formulations, the only difference is the volume per bottle.  For example the power steering fluid could easily be used in your gas tank, and in your motor oil.  

If you have a newer car (within the past couple of years), reports show that it didn't make much of a difference.

Give it a try and let me know how it works for you!