Sunday, January 26, 2014

HTPC

I'm always interested in home theater PCs (HTPC).  I have tried several, and currently use two styles in my cabinet.  A home-made one based on an earlier version of this running Windows 8.1, and a G-Box Midnight 2 running Android.  Both are capable machines, but the W8 is faster and noisier and hotter.  The new version mentioned in this article sounds like the best of both worlds.  Would someone build it and let the group know how it works????

Theme Party


Finally, some photos to show you.  Last night was the Theme Party - Flintstones Meet the Jetsons.  Click on the photo for additional shots taken.  If we get photos from other attendees, they will be posted via a link on www.gcnugget.com.  Enjoy.


Monday, January 20, 2014

This Week's Meeting

This wednesday's meeting is in the Saguaro Room.  9:30am.

Google Voice

Some time ago, I stated that Google Voice (GV) would cease its' present operation as it pertains to services like Obihai.  I've demonstrated a few times how easy it is to have free phone service with the Obi100, GV, and a normal telephone.  This has been a great service, but by the end of May, Google is making changes to the service.  These changes will (may?) impact the great Obitalk service.  Consequently, Obihai has been working with other Internet Telephone Service Providers in order to make the transition easily from the free GV service to some other provider.

The transition is discussed on this web site -  http://goo.gl/PYZnZw.  It appears the cost will be only $3.33 per month.  Not a bad deal.  If the fact that Mediacom has sold your new number to telemarketers is bothersome, why not give this service some consideration?

Saturday, January 4, 2014

Important or Interesting Sites

Happy New Year!

News!  Don Widrig will present "The History of the PC" on January 15.  This is a followup to his talk a few weeks ago on "The History of the Internet".  I'm looking forward to it.  On January 10th, Activities will host an "Activities Expo" after the Buzz.  The Computer User Group will have half of an 8' table on which to display our Activity.  If you wish to participate, by either manning the table or providing a visual item, please give me a call.

Now, on the some web sites I've found recently that might interest the Group.

From my favorite site, Lifehacker, comes "Most Popular Chrome Extensions and Posts of 2013".

Next is "How to Stop Your Smartphone from Constantly Tracking Your Location"

Nine Windows 8.1 Features You Might Have Overlooked

How To: Password Protect Your Android (Only) When Away From Home

I'm sure you find sites that provide interesting information that others would find useful.  Let me know about them and I'll post links on this site.

See you on Wednesday in the Prickly Pear Room.