IG Web Media Blogspot

Get the Mac look on your PC, with a cool transformation!

ITSGUI Man — Thu, 01 May 2008 09:56:00 +0000

The other day I was drooling in my local Apple shop(not a pretty site) at the cool iMac creations and deciding whether or not to invest in one. I've been bought up on PC's and worked with every version of DOS and Windows and feel like it's in my dna. The dilemma has been decided by stumbling across a skin that makes your XP OS look and behave like Mac OSX. Here you have the best of both worlds.

Go to http://osx.portraitofakite.com/ click to enter site and then put in a username. Select the Download link at the top of the page followed by FlyakiteOSX and choose a download source. During installation, tick the boxes to create a System Restore point and install all available components to get the full OSX experience.

I love the Dock at the bottom with its smooth animation plus the transparency effects.
The solution is certainly cheaper than investing in new hardware and software alike.
Have a go and see what you think.

Cambridge named as one of the UK's most tech-savvy towns..

ITSGUI Man — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 08:29:00 +0000

A recent survey (not another beepin** survey) has just named Cambridge, my home city as one of the most tech-savvy towns in the UK. The 'Great British e-test' by Enhance Media found that London, Canterbury and Cambridge are the most e-literate towns with Twickenham, Bournemouth and Torquay the least. It found that people working in the IT sector were the most savvy (no surprise there then!) and that students were the least, plus it showed that 97 per cent of respondents used email, 67 per cent social-networking and 29 per cent had created their own blog.

Check out and see how web savvy you are by taking the test at the How E R U website.

A wireless SD card, that's nice...

ITSGUI Man — Thu, 17 Apr 2008 14:08:00 +0000

Here's a quick one I spotted for all the didgy camera fans especially! There are currently very few digital cameras that can connect direct to a wireless network and allow fast upload of pix to albums and sites. An SD card which makes any didgy snapper compatible with wireless networks is going to be a winner. Check out Eye-Fi which reckons that the cost will be around £50 and that UK suppliers will be announced shortly! Watch this space...

Super Hi-Vision on the horizon...

ITSGUI Man — Thu, 03 Apr 2008 13:11:00 +0000

That's just typical! I've just invested in an HD TV, after years waiting for the prices to tumble and my piggy bank to have sufficient funds, only to read recently that a new technology known as Super Hi-Vision is threatening to make high-def TV sets obselete. The BBC along with other Japanese broadcasters are currently testing the technology. 2012 appears to be the big target and as the new technology boasts a resolution of 7,680 x 4,320 (33 times better than the best HDTV!) it will suit big displays.

Initial testing has shown that sitting to close to the screen can cause motion sickness, plus recording the massive amounts of data means that about 20 mins of footage can be recorded at a time. I'm sure that these problems will be resolved so watch this space! Don't you just love technology.....

Cloud Computing - is this a silver lining!

ITSGUI Man — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 16:35:00 +0000

There's a lot of web and IT chat at the moment about Cloud Computing, which is billing itself as a new concept, that means you leave your expensive software on the shelf and carry-out all your tasks online.

Definition: A Cloud is basically a publicly accessed network, namely the internet.

If you've had a look at or currently use Google Docs then you have already seen the light or should I say 'silver lining'. You can perform tasks similar to Word and Excel without having to download anything to your PC. Along with Google Docs there are additional applications like Calendar, Photos and Reader.

The main advantages are the saving on buying expensive software plus the freedom to work anywhere you want, knowing that your files are easily accessible. No corrupted software installations to worry about. Let's face it most of us only use 20% of software, 80% of the time!

The 'flip-side' is that if you are stuck without Internet access you're stuffed! If the Internet connection is poor then work will be slow and frustrating plus there is undoubtedly going to be a compatibility issue between the myriad of document versions. In addition you will have to pay for some storage once your free allowance is used up.

Like all these concepts I can see it working for some people and companies but not others. I currently fall into the 'others' camp as the offline use out ways the online. As technology improves and connection speeds get faster, I could be persuaded in time!

Grab yourself 50GB of free storage!

ITSGUI Man — Thu, 28 Feb 2008 15:53:00 +0000

The joy of storing your content online means that you can access it from anywhere. Get along to ADrive and get yourself 50GB of free storage. It's probably not enough to backup your entire hard drive but it should be ample for all your key personal data. Give it a go!

Innova Systems pick up another award at SolidWorks World 2008

ITSGUI Man — Fri, 08 Feb 2008 15:59:00 +0000

I'm pleased to announce that one of my clients, Innova Systems has just picked up another prestigious award.

At the SolidWorks World Conference held January 20-23 in San Diego, California, Innova Systems were awarded the exclusive “President’s Club” award in recognition for their achievements in Sales and Technical Support.

Jeff Ray, SolidWorks CEO, presented Innova Systems Managing Director Mark Bradford with their 2nd consecutive “SolidWorks President’s Club” award.

This honour is awarded annually to SolidWorks resellers who demonstrate continued success and growth in their business. Innova Systems were the only UK Reseller to be recognised for the award and were the only Reseller in Europe to obtain growth targets for license sales of SolidWorks, COSMOS and PDM Works Enterprise products.

If you use or are thinking about getting into 3D CAD CAM software then don't forget to talk to Innova Systems for the latest version of SolidWorks!

Why not stream your music!

ITSGUI Man — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 09:14:00 +0000

How about streaming your music across the internet. If your MP3 collection is stored on one computer and you want to listen to it from somewhere else, the solution is to stream it! There are plenty of options to do this but one I really like is Simplify Media which is a free add-on that lets you stream the songs using iTunes. Simply sign-up and install the software on the host computer. Once the service is up and running you can listen to tracks remotely by logging into the server from any web-enabled device. That's cool!

Cambridge Acupuncturist Tony Sugden launches blog!

ITSGUI Man — Wed, 30 Jan 2008 16:47:00 +0000

My client Tony Sugden has just launched an Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine blog where he will discuss the mystery if any that surrounds these ancient alternative medicines. Personally, I have recently had treatment from Tony for a niggling shoulder problem and can honestly say that it has transformed the range of movement and speeded up the recovery. Contact him at Physic Therapy Centre, Girton Road, Cambridge on 01223 237459!

Time to make your mark in History!

ITSGUI Man — Tue, 22 Jan 2008 11:01:00 +0000

Everyone has a claim to fame or craves their 15 seconds! Here's a cool new web site that's creating a database of memories and stories about specific events in time. My Time in History invites visitors to post comments, recollections and personal stories about a key event in their lives plus in the 'claim to fame' section describe an encounter with famous persons.
Clear layout and a refreshing honesty about the entries makes this a real fun site and I'm sure that it will keep on growing into a Wiki-style site of memories!

Amazon launches new electronic reader...

ITSGUI Man — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 15:19:00 +0000

Amazon is venturing into new territory with the release of its electronic reader called Kindle. Both Sony and Microsoft have tried and failed so is the new 'iPod for books' going to be a winner. The Kindle is a slim wireless terminal that displays downloadable content onto a palm size screen. The online Kindle store boasts over 90,000 books to choose from with many of the latest bestsellers as little as a fiver! In addition there are newspaper and magazine subscriptions from the likes of New York Times. The unit can store around 200 titles, weighs less than a regular paperback and sports a standard keyboard layout, so its versatility could develop with other programs.

The Kindle is currently for our American cousins only, but I'm not convinced it will be a big seller over this side of the pond, even if it makes it over. As for me, I love a good paperback from Amazon, read it then sell it back! Recycling is the way to go...

Expand your PC skills and release the inner geek...

ITSGUI Man — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 09:46:00 +0000

We are all looking to try something new with our PC's and expand our existing skills. There are some great sites out there that offer tips and tricks galore but the majority are set to high-geek levels! One site that I keep using all the time is PC Tips Box which is packed with useful advice, news and easy-to-follow walkthroughs. The wide variety of technical tips cover all Windows versions, Mac OS, Linux plus a keen focus on Firefox, iTunes and other popular applications. You can browse by category or use the search facility to find what you're looking for. The only downside is that there is quite a bit of intrusive advertising which slightly spoils the experience. New tips are added and updated regularly so its a great resource to help you release the inner geek!

PayPal make web transactions safer...

ITSGUI Man — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 13:55:00 +0000

PayPal has responded to consumer anxiety about online financial transactions, by launching a new software utility called the PayPal Secure Card. This program adds a button to browsers that generates a special MasterCard transaction code that will be acceptable to sites who don't normally take PayPal payments. It cleverly recognises when a retail site is visited and automatically completes transaction details so that loggable key-in information isn't required. For obvious security reasons sensitive data is not stored locally but is instead held in user accounts on central servers. PayPal are promising full browser support very shortly

A Web Refresh for 2008!

ITSGUI Man — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 14:30:00 +0000

Just a quick post to let the www know that I've just completed a thorough refresh of our web site www.itsgui.co.uk.....ITS GUI Web Media are a web media design company based outside Cambridge, that offers the complete web service for sole traders, partnerships, charitable organisations and professionals in the UK.

New Year, New Look...Customise your BBC homepage

ITSGUI Man — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 14:43:00 +0000

Happy New Year to all! 2008 will no doubt bring some cool gadgets, web sites and technology advances so why not start with something easy to master! The Beeb's homepage is now customisable under a new beta version. The page is made up of a selection of movable, customisable widgets that give you access to local weather, news topics, tv programmes and the ever cool iPlayer. The drag 'n' drop design style is easy to master and customise to your needs and interests. I like the stylish interface so give it a whirl and click on the link top right of bbc.co.uk

Happy Xmas and Best Wishes for 2008!

ITSGUI Man — Thu, 20 Dec 2007 16:17:00 +0000

Just a quick entry at the blogspot to wish everyone a great Christmas and a healthy, happy and prosperous New Year!

Missed your favourite TV programme? No worries....

ITSGUI Man — Tue, 11 Dec 2007 15:57:00 +0000

If you've missed out on your favourite TV programme don't despair, you can now enjoy it on-demand on your PC. Faster broadband connections means that internet TV is now a reality and although it's not quite the experience as viewing it on your awesome mega-inch plasma, it has it's advantages. All the main broadcasters have developed their own on-demand service so whatever your looking for checkout, ITV, Channel 4's 4oD , Five and Aunty Beeb's BBC iPlayer!

There are plenty more on-demand services out there so if you fancy viewing US TV programmes or even your favourite MTV music vids go check online for your fix!

Get the best deal on your new PC!

ITSGUI Man — Tue, 04 Dec 2007 11:24:00 +0000

Looking for a new PC can be quite a headache with a minefield of specs, options, operating systems etc. I've come across PC Checker that allows you to quickly search the net for the best deals on new computers. Whether you're looking for a student spec lappie or the ultimate gaming centre than this is a great place to start. You can search by your desired manufacturer, type (desktop/laptop), operating system and refine the list on further options like memory, screen size, cost etc. Alternatively use the package route to search out the best deals.

They also have a sister site called Mobile Checker which is also equally clear and user-friendly. Go check out some deals today and treat yourself for Xmas!

Shred those sensitive files...

ITSGUI Man — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 08:59:00 +0000

I've just found another cool piece of software called UltraShredder. This is a small standalone file that can be run off a USB memory drive and deletes sensitive files by overwriting them with a selection of random characters. This process bypasses the Recycle Bin and if it was recovered by a data recovery program it would show up as a jumble of unrecognosed characters.
A great personal and portable file shredder!

Self Catering House @ Impington, Cambridge....

ITSGUI Man — Tue, 27 Nov 2007 15:48:00 +0000

I've just completed a web update for one of my clients, New Farm Cottages and they have just added another self catering house to their portfolio. Holly House is a 2 bedroom end of terrace property that's available for holiday and business lets. It is close to local village and Cambridge facilities as well as St Johns Innovation Centre and the Science Park.
Take a viewing now at www.newfarmcottages.co.uk/sc-impington-house.html

Review our World today!

ITSGUI Man — Tue, 20 Nov 2007 09:07:00 +0000

As the dark nights close in, thoughts drifted to summer holidays and where to go. I stumbled across a site called WorldReviewer which allows you to share your holiday memories, using comments, pictures and videos. It is a great source of inspiration for your next trip, so whether you're fancying a safari, a spectacular festival or a lounge on the beach getaway it's definately worth a look. In addition there are city guides, recommended accommodation and must-see destinations.
Take a look and get inspired for your next trip!

Cottenham Park Homes is voted Park of the Year!

ITSGUI Man — Fri, 16 Nov 2007 15:06:00 +0000

I'm delighted to announce that my client, Cottenham Park Homes has been voted 'Park of the Year 2007' by the UK's best-selling and biggest Park Home magazine, 'Park Home and Holiday Caravan'. 2007 has been a great year for the park as they also scooped their first David Bellamy Gold Award for their conservation efforts.

Take a look at Cottenham Park Homes site and see what makes the best Park home community in the UK!

Innova Systems launch a SolidWorks Blog!

ITSGUI Man — Wed, 14 Nov 2007 17:00:00 +0000

I'm delighted to announce that one of my clients, Innova Systems, have launched their own Blog! Innova are one of the UK's Premier SolidWorks Reseller's. For those of you not in the know, SolidWorks is the ultimate in 3D mechanical design software, that allows the user to develop more accurate and reliable product designs, through unmatched 2D and 3D capabilities.

Subscribe to their feed to get the latest SolidWorks news!

How to get more speed from your PC!

ITSGUI Man — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 12:19:00 +0000

I feel the need for Speed!
There are plenty of ways to speed up your PC. Here is a quick summary of the key tasks and a selection of the software I use to assist with the task. I know that there is a lot of software out there so feel free to investigate further..

1. Uninstall unwanted programs - You might think that 'Add/Remove Programs' is adequate but I recommend using ZSoft Uninstaller as it does just a bit extra with it's range of options.

2. Optimise your system memory - see no. 8 for preferred option, but if not, then an optimising tool such as Ram Booster allows various tweaks and options to improve performance.

3. Check that you are using the correct software versions - Filehippo is a quick tool that tells you what software needs upgrading plus gives you a direct link to the new version. That's cool!

4. Clean-up unwanted files - CCleaner is the best tool for this task!

5. Check start-up programs - Too many programs and processes running in the background take up too many resources and slow the PC down. Are they all necessary? NO! use a manager tool such as WinPatrol to run just what you want, when you want.

6. Clean the Registry - The heart of the operating system is the registry and problems with it can cause significant performance problems. I use a useful tool from Eusing that scans the registry looking for obselete and invalid entries.

7. Defrag your disks - To ensure an efficient hard disk you need a disk fragmenting tool to ensure that all files are easily accessible. Auslogics Disk Defrag is the chosen tool for the job.

8. Buy more RAM! - this is always a good solution. Buy the best and fastest you can afford.

De-clutter those folders!

ITSGUI Man — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 12:42:00 +0000

If you're like me and that you've had your pc for sometime it's more than likely that useless empty folders are strewn all over the place. It's time to remove these old folders and gain some space. I've found a small freeware download that will do the job, Remove Empty Directories. Download it from www.jonasjohn.de/lab/red.htm
It does what it says in the name!