Something Random

[DrunkenBastard]

I was researching peltiers many moons ago, things to watch out for:

A) Having a sufficient DC power supply-usually external (they can get thirsty).

B) Figure out what to do when the cold side drops below the dewpoint and condensation starts to form....IIRC there was a device available that could connect to the pc via usb that would regulate power to the peltier so if the cpu wasn't pegged doing folding etc and went to an idling state it wouldn't turn it into a block of ice.

Ok never mind, just read your post and see it's for a fridge.

 

[ddrueding]

Running a peltier on the CPU or GPUs has also interested me, but that is certainly a more tricky install. I have plenty of capacity in my water loop, so adding one would be simple. Just not sure how exactly to size it and seal around it (to prevent condensation).

At one point I played with the idea of building a system in a styrofoam cooler and cooling the whole thing using peltier coolers to well below ambient. If the heatsinks on the cold side of the peltier are significantly colder than the rest, then in theory all condensation should happen there and moisture could be safely removed from the system until the internal humidity was below the local dew point. Taking the ambient around the whole system to near (possibly below?) freezing might open up the overclocking quite a bit.

 

[jtr1962]

JTR, I remembered you had done the project. Might be fun, but I just don't have the time for anything at the moment. Just finished work for the night and I'll be starting again at 2:30AM. Been working a bunch of 14-18 hour days lately plus the kid.

Same here. Between my latest consulting gig, plus having to do most of the chores associated with running the house since my mom can't, I'm not left with a whole lot of free time. I did get these on eBay recently, and spent a few hours playing with them. Might be useful for making a small temperature chamber. I had the cold side under -60°F using air cooling in my tests. This was just using some rags as insulation. I would imagine I could get somewhat colder with a properly designed setup. Delta T on these is supposedly 107°C. With the hot side at 30°C in theory I should be able to get as low as -77°C (-107°F). In practice more likely I would get into -90s F.

 

[Bozo]

Running a peltier on the CPU or GPUs has also interested me, but that is certainly a more tricky install. I have plenty of capacity in my water loop, so adding one would be simple. Just not sure how exactly to size it and seal around it (to prevent condensation).

At one point I played with the idea of building a system in a styrofoam cooler and cooling the whole thing using peltier coolers to well below ambient. If the heatsinks on the cold side of the peltier are significantly colder than the rest, then in theory all condensation should happen there and moisture could be safely removed from the system until the internal humidity was below the local dew point. Taking the ambient around the whole system to near (possibly below?) freezing might open up the overclocking quite a bit.

Fill your Styrofoam cooler with dry nitrogen air after it is sealed. Then start your cooler. No condensation.

 

[ddrueding]

Fill your Styrofoam cooler with dry nitrogen air after it is sealed. Then start your cooler. No condensation.

Neat. Liquid nitrogen is actually easier to get around here. That would be one way to jump-start the cooling process...

 

[sedrosken]

Got a Latitude C-series laptop from another friend of mine. Lacks an AC adapter, other than that, the lack of a pad on the Trackpoint, and some cosmetic blemishes it's almost mint. Pentium III, unsure of clock speed but it has to be at least 700MHz, Rage Mobility with 8MB (or was it 16? Either way it doesn't matter much) VRAM, 10/100 ethernet onboard. The AC adapter and a 512MB upgrade kit is on the way, thanks to ridiculously cheap prices on both. Already put a mini-PCI wireless card and 80GB PATA hard drive in that I had laying around. The wireless card's range might be a bit low because I don't have any antennas for it, but I'm sure it will work from less than 10 feet away from the access point, which is where I plan on using it 90% of the time.

 

[CougTek]

You know that that laptop is only about one or two years younger than you, right?

 

[sedrosken]

Aye. That's admittedly most of the appeal. It will accomplish the job I have in mind for it very nicely, a 'retro' machine that I can use and play around with outside of my cave. My i3 laptop doesn't like to play my older games very well for compatibility issues that I don't care to resolve, or indeed many newer ones either, what with its very weak integrated HD 3000. Most of the games I play are older than I am or not much younger anyway, so it does well enough.

 

[Handruin]

I picked up a Ducky Shine 3 mechanical keyboard with Cherry MX brown switches this past weekend and so far I really enjoy the feel of the keys and the typing feedback provided. The customizable LEDs are a really nice touch when gaming in the dark. I like that I can highlight the keys I want to use for a game like the typical WASD yet make all the other keys glow softer or completely off as-desired. The mechanical dip switches on the back also allow for some other nice flexibility with things like swapping the CTRL and win key if desired. If you're looking for a very solid keyboard with very nice key feedback, it's worth looking into.

 

[LunarMist]

http://www.theregister.co.uk/2015/11/10/sony_kills_betamax/

 

[LunarMist]

Buchner, Buchner...

 

[Stereodude]

Renhcub, Renhcub...

 

[sedrosken]

I'm getting tired of the endless update train of Win10 (doing that on 3.3mbps DSL is, shall we call it unpleasant) and I don't like the idea of having to fend off my system from unwanted upgrades so I think I'm going to hop over to Manjaro and keep 7 around in a VM for GMetrix and Office 13 so I can get my MOS cert. Because I didn't take any computer classes (didn't have the opportunity, where I was at before) before this year they won't let me take my A+ cert even though I could probably pass it just as I am. Not trying to be cocky or anything but I've pored over the textbook they lent me and it's not telling me anything I don't already know, and what I wasn't completely solid on I could have probably guessed. When I'm done with this school year I can nuke the 7 VM and keep my XP one for Asheron's Call, for which setting up addons is a right PITA under anything newer than XP and won't run on my PIII and using my dad's old A64X2 for a dedicated machine is kind of overkill. AC itself runs flawlessly in WINE, it's the Decal addons (a must these days) that won't work no matter what you do.

 

[LunarMist]

I'm getting tired of the endless update train of Win10 (doing that on 3.3mbps DSL is, shall we call it unpleasant) and I don't like the idea of having to fend off my system from unwanted upgrades so I think I'm going to hop over to Manjaro and keep 7 around in a VM for GMetrix and Office 13 so I can get my MOS cert. Because I didn't take any computer classes (didn't have the opportunity, where I was at before) before this year they won't let me take my A+ cert even though I could probably pass it just as I am. Not trying to be cocky or anything but I've pored over the textbook they lent me and it's not telling me anything I don't already know, and what I wasn't completely solid on I could have probably guessed. When I'm done with this school year I can nuke the 7 VM and keep my XP one for Asheron's Call, for which setting up addons is a right PITA under anything newer than XP and won't run on my PIII and using my dad's old A64X2 for a dedicated machine is kind of overkill. AC itself runs flawlessly in WINE, it's the Decal addons (a must these days) that won't work no matter what you do.

Your internet is better than mine. Most likely I'll not ever use 10 unless it is on a corporate computer. I hope they will be set to update only on some fixed schedule and not when remote.

 

[sedrosken]

I feel so bad for you. Mine is already very slow (and flaky to boot), what's your average DL speed?

For the record I'm going with Manjaro because it has all of the advantages of Arch without being as difficult (or to me or one of you, a mere PITA) to set up and configure as it already comes out of the box mostly there. I'll admit I'm mostly just being lazy this time.

 

[Mercutio]

sed, I teach CompTIA and Microsoft Professional certifications as part of my day job. My co-workers do MOS stuff. If you want study materials or something, let me know.

I don't think the A+ represents a good value at the moment. The cert is only valid for two years and costs over $250. The tests themselves are a mile wide and an inch deep, but they are comprehensive enough that if you have a big gap in your knowledge on one topic (say, mobile device ecosystems or laser printing), you might still have a problem with the exams. You're at the right age for an entry level cert to still be meaningful, but you'd be better off pushing to get a CCNA, MS Solutions Specialist or Technology Associate (if you have a cooperative community college offering the program; it's one thing my company can't offer) or Server+ / Network+ / Security+ if you can get somebody to pay for the exams.

If you're doing MOS, try to angle for Excel and Access training and if you can get somebody who will let you work with Sharepoint, that's only a good thing. Most MOS programs cover Word / Excel / Powerpoint rather than Access. You're better off learning about databases (so far as Access is one of those) than making presentations.

 

[timwhit]

If you're planning to go into computer science I don't know that any of these certs will help you.

 

[sedrosken]

True enough, and beyond that we're entering an age where the only machines with user-serviceable parts are either really high-end corporate stuff (still need to know) or high-end enthusiast stuff (slightly less important but still important). It hasn't happened yet but it's fast approaching it, I think. Computers are a commodity, cheap enough to be replaced every two or three years, it sickens me. I think MS Office will remain relevant for years upon years to come so it's still a good idea to get certified in that.

Let me rephrase that -- they'll let me take the A+ cert so long as it's on my own dime and my own time. They'll pay for the MOS but nothing else. I'd love to get my Server+/Security+ cert but no one I know can/will pay for it. I can still study for it though, that's better than sitting on my duff. Better to finish the cert they'll actually pay for first.

Yeah, laser printing is the one thing I never really cared much for, and I haven't been able to practice things related to that because laser printers are all either in use or in the trash here. All the printers I've ever done anything more than print a document or two off of have been inkjets, and I don't even mess with those much. I prefer to hand in digital copies whenever and wherever I can.

What's funny is that even with all I do know I still get regularly stumped by things and have to exercise my Google-fu. I have to say my Google-fu has graduated from a white belt to something of a brown belt since I began tinkering with this stuff. I'm not the best and don't claim to be but I like to think my knowledge is at least somewhat impressive for one who is almost completely self-taught.

I still don't really know what I want to major in. IT is my passion but cloud stuff and security seems to be where it's all headed. I may decide to become a developer. Of what I am unsure. I like to think my patience has dramatically improved in recent months as my conditions aren't nearly so stressful as they were. It's a bit late to still be doing this but I admit I'm still testing the waters.

 

[Stereodude]

I'd suggest programming within an Electrical Engineer or Computer Engineer context if you enjoy programming. Specifically C/C++ for embedded systems (microcontrollers / microprocessors). Savvy Electrical or Computer Engineers knowledgeable with embedded system programming are in high demand and will continue to be for a long time. The pay is very good too.

 

[timwhit]

Plenty of people start college without knowing what they're going to major in. Something like 80% of people change their major as well. You're not late in the game at all.

 

[snowhiker]

I'm getting tired of the endless update train of Win10 (doing that on 3.3mbps DSL is, shall we call it unpleasant).....<snip>..... When I'm done with this school year I can nuke the 7 VM and keep my XP one for Asheron's Call, for which setting up addons is a right PITA under anything newer than XP and won't run on my PIII and using my dad's old A64X2 for a dedicated machine is kind of overkill. AC itself runs flawlessly in WINE, it's the Decal addons (a must these days) that won't work no matter what you do.

Yeah that 3.3 mbps must suck. I had 3/3 mb cable in 1996. Two DECADES later and people are still stuck at 3.x mbps.

And holy-crapola I always figured I was the only person on here that played AC. March '01 thru Sept '07. Two plus years with 2 accts. Is Turbine still running AC or what? What's the story? Friend of a friend is still on Darktide. I think I got to lvl 182 on Solclaim. The Verendi-Executioners that would occasionally wander in AB scared the poop out of me.

Every MMO since has way better graphics and way worse/dumbed-down game play.

 

[Mercutio]

Plenty of people start college without knowing what they're going to major in. Something like 80% of people change their major as well. You're not late in the game at all.

I loved programming in school when I was working on projects that were actually interesting. Real-life developer work made me stare longingly at a sharp objects. I graduated right as the first cycle of the internet boom ended, so my feelings on the matter might be the product of a particular place and time, but I like being in non-developer IT positions better.

Were I to go around again, I'd probably pick something like a general Mathematics, Actuarial Science or Accounting if I wanted good employment options and stability. Computer Engineering is entirely respectable but I worry that it's just as endangered of becoming dated as any tech program if you happen to leave the field for a few years. I think CS programs can be hit or miss. Some schools seem to work in flavor of month technologies and others absolutely refuse to change anything and neither of those things is a great idea.

Also, if you wind up at university rather than a trade school, take some goddamned humanities courses. Take a couple Philosophy and upper level Lit classes instead of bullshit psych or whatever history class seems easiest.

 

[Stereodude]

So I bought a Honda today. 8)

 

[LunarMist]

So I bought a Honda today. 8)

Does this post belong in the new car thread or is it a generator or the like?

 

[Stereodude]

Does this post belong in the new car thread or is it a generator or the like?

It's not a car

 

[Howell]

A push mower? How pedestrian.

 

[CougTek]

I tend to prefer stuff that's more manual, but in case of a powered mower, I would only buy one that stops the blade once you let the handle go. That way, if I ever fall for whatever reason, I won't find myself missing a foot.

That being said, unless you have a large field, a mecanical mower is my favorite option (more maintenance, but a lot greener).

 

[ddrueding]

My lawnmower does an incredible job; also handles the shrubs. His name is Jose.

 

[Howell]

A push mower? How pedestrian.

Just so it's clear, that was a joke.

Coug, what is the acreage limit you would more manually?

 

[Stereodude]

A push mower? How pedestrian.

Yes, I know. I should have gotten a robotic mower. wneddnce:

I tend to prefer stuff that's more manual, but in case of a powered mower, I would only buy one that stops the blade once you let the handle go. That way, if I ever fall for whatever reason, I won't find myself missing a foot.

I'm pretty sure that's a legal requirement in the US and has been for decades. They have to shut off if you don't actively hold the handle or at the very least disengage the blade. My current mower is an old Stereodude propelled push mower.

 

[LunarMist]

It's not a car

I suspected something like that.
I hope it's a good one, but like DD prefer not to do any work myself.

 

[CougTek]

Coug, what is the acreage limit you would more manually?

Probably no more than 5000 square feet. It's been a while since I've used a mower of any sort. At least 20 years.

 

[Mercutio]

Quebec does not need grass mowed. It has vast fields of moose and poutine, not grass.

 

[sedrosken]

So I put together a S478 Netburst rig to replace the PIII for vintage gaming on account of the PIII's anemic 3D capabilities (it has a Radeon 7000 but it's only connected via PCI -- there IS no AGP in this machine). It's powered by the motherboard out of an HP d530 with an i865 chipset -- no matter what you say about HP, this thing is damn near bullet-proof -- with a Prescott P4 @ 2.8GHz, 4x1GB DDR-400 (I have the RAM, might as well use it), a GeForce2MX100 (by the way, anyone have any AGP cards they could send my way? This card sucks), a 250GB Seagate SATA hard drive, and it runs Windows XP updated to the Unofficial Service Pack 4. The memory runs at 333 for some odd reason, perhaps a pair of the modules are actually only rated for 333 or maybe that's the highest speed the board or chip supports. I wasn't really intending for this to happen but while I finish building the software on the Phenom II I've had to use it as a sort of quasi-main rig. Posting from it now by the way.

I am very impressed at just how usable the P4 still is. For that matter Windows XP still surprises me with how much fight it has in the usability arena. It has almost nothing on the Phenom II but holy crap, this thing is still usable.

One thing this does in particular better than the Phenom II is sound. On the Phenom II's onboard HD Audio chipset, sound is infested with static and whining. The P4's onboard AC97 codec is clear as a bell and sounds a bit louder and in general much better.

 

[Mercutio]

One thing this does in particular better than the Phenom II is sound. On the Phenom II's onboard HD Audio chipset, sound is infested with static and whining. The P4's onboard AC97 codec is clear as a bell and sounds a bit louder and in general much better.

If sound is important, you might want to hunt down a Via Envy-based card. They're a big step up from the crappy onboard audio of the time and don't have the shitty driver issues of Creative Labs stuff.
I might have an Asus Xonar sitting around, now that I think of it.

AGP Graphics card are a touchy matter. The truly high end AGP parts are probably dead by now due to cooling failure and the low-end stuff won't be any better for being AGP than it would be as PCI hardware (e.g. ATI Rage, S3 Virge) and because the slots came in several different physical and voltage configurations. Do you have a 2x, 4x or 8x slot? 4x cards are probably a sweet spot since IIRC they tended to work with everything but 8x AGP is probably most common for Pentium 4 systems. Something like a passively cooled Geforce 4MX might be OK. It'll be dirt cheap and reasonably capable for a 15 year old video card. Another option, if you can find one, is a 3dfx Voodoo 3000. They're even older, but the fact that they shipped without a crappy 40mm fan to break and kill the card is a plus.

 

[snowhiker]

Just 3-4 months too late Sed. I could have sent you this HD 4670 4x/8x AGP card. I recently donated six complete vintage systems (2x PIII, 1x P4, 3x AXP) minus HDDs to a vintage store/recycler.

Now for some strange reason I still have an AGP, ATI 9600 XT, 128 MB video card, AND a PCI based Sound Blaster Live (CT4830) card you can have.

 

[sedrosken]

The Radeon 9600 XT will be a darn sight better than a GeForce2MX. The HD4670 would have been freaking sweet though. I actually have that exact card but in PCI-E 256MB flavor. This machine, being a late S478 machine (i865) is an AGP 8x capable machine, to the best of my knowledge.

If the Phenom II had any PCI slots, I'd have my Audigy in there. Under Linux (or indeed anything released in the past 10 years or so) Creative's drivers are a moot point. I don't need anything particularly high end, but I want what I do have to be clear-sounding.

Just bear in mind that I can't cover any of this. I still don't have a job and you guys know how my dad is by now. If you decide to send anything my way it will have to be pure charity, sorry about that. As an aside, it's funny how hardware that was once very expensive very nearly can't even be given away anymore. This P4 system was slated for recycling.

 

[snowhiker]

The Radeon 9600 XT will be a darn sight better than a GeForce2MX.

Just bear in mind that I can't cover any of this.

PM me your address and I'll mail you the 9600 XT gratis.

 

[ddrueding]

I'm handling some Christmas shopping for some clients. One of which is getting a top-end Surface Book. The #1 priority for them is the ability to play scrabble with the person next to them (passing the tablet back and forth) while not on the internet (on an airplane, for example).

Who makes the best Scrabble game? Does it do the thing? Is it compatible with Win10? Budget is a non-issue ($250?)

 

[LunarMist]

I'm handling some Christmas shopping for some clients. One of which is getting a top-end Surface Book. The #1 priority for them is the ability to play scrabble with the person next to them (passing the tablet back and forth) while not on the internet (on an airplane, for example).

Who makes the best Scrabble game? Does it do the thing? Is it compatible with Win10? Budget is a non-issue ($250?)

What is their problem with the Scrabble app for the Androids or iThingies?