Hobbies

Putting a SPIN on Computing

I am learning a new language. It is not a people language. It is a computer language. Yeah, maybe a nerd thing but someone has to do it. Ha! It’s called SPIN and is a higher level language somewhat like BASIC used to program the Parallax “Propeller” micro processor. I am no expert (yet) but I need it for the computerized control system in my RoboBoat project. What’s nice is there are a lot of...

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Serendipity

I took some time off this week and will be taking more time off towards the end of the year. I am working on my RoboBoat project testing my abilities to stay focused on doing fine motor skill work in my shop and also manage my current small Internet business. I am discovering that my expanded business planning could exceed my abilities and time. I realize that my physical strength due to my increasing Peripheral Neuropathy (PN)...

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Not in the Fedora Hat

Fedora is a somewhat frustrating distro (distribution) of Linux. This is because it is closely associated with Red Hat, a commercial Linux open source distribution. I was using Red Hat for quite awhile as a free distro before it took on its commercial identity. When it became commercial many of the folks that donated a lot of free development time to the ideal of a free Linux were very concerned. Actually the Linux Kernel is...

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Turning a Light On

This is the CD drive I took out of my “SandBox”computer. It had a fairly severe buzz and vibration noise and I was afraid I would lose its use just when I needed it the most. Like loading or reloading an OP system. Yes, It is a Lite-On brand but it was the cheapest drive of that brand I could find. It is true you get just what you pay, doesn’t matter who made or...

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