The blog of Matthew A. Smith and Michael Chappell, on topics from A to Z

Entries from July 2007

Bug Labs Releases DIY Electronics Kit

by Michael Chappell · July 31st, 2007 · 6 Comments

We have all heard of our share of open-source software, now this company plans on revolutionizing the electronics industry with open-source hardware. In a discussion with our friends from Engadget (we wish they were our friends), Bug Labs describes how they will provide young (or old) designers with a kit containing a small Linux-based [...]

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Categories: Technology

The 500 Question Purity Test

by Matthew Smith · July 31st, 2007 · No Comments

I don’t know how many of you have seen this test (warning: those with weak stomachs might be a little offended at some of the later questions) that David pointed out to me the other day. The test is most entertaining and I recommend you take it - it opens up the possibility of conclusively [...]

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Categories: General · Greek Life

Hunt Real Sharks Virtually

by Matthew Smith · July 30th, 2007 · No Comments

If you’re looking to waste a little time (and possibly learn something in the process), the Discovery Channel has a new game/promotional website that enables you to track sharks. The cool part? While the boats may be virtual, the sharks and their positions are real, thanks to the wonders of GPS tracking and the internet. [...]

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Categories: General

iPhone Running 3rd Party Software, Custom Ringtones

by Matthew Smith · July 30th, 2007 · No Comments

Engadget is reporting that the good hax0rz over at the iPhone Dev Wiki have churned out a proof-of-concept compiled application (”hello world”) that will run on the good ‘ole iPhone. Of course this doesn’t mean anything for you yet (unless you want to write your own software for the iPhone), but if you’re looking for [...]

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Categories: Technology

Sonex Unleashes Electric Airplane

by Michael Chappell · July 27th, 2007 · No Comments

Sonex, a company that apparently builds small sport airplanes, has revealed that it will begin producing a nice two-seater model powered by batteries (of the Lithium-Polymer variety). You will only be able to enjoy 45 minutes of flying time, but the company is hoping to boost those stats by possibly introducing some ethanol [...]

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Categories: General

Spelling Mistakes are a Strange Form of SEO

by Matthew Smith · July 27th, 2007 · No Comments

About a week ago, I wrote a brief note on a new viral advertisement for the new Simpsons Movie (which premieres today). This website, called “Simpsonize Me,” allows users to create a Simpsons-esque likeness of themselves by uploading a photograph and tweaking some settings.

The post itself was (and is) of no real significance; however, I [...]

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Categories: General

Afternoon Detours

by Matthew Smith · July 27th, 2007 · 1 Comment

It’s Friday afternoon and in a few short hours the masses will be turning off their computers, donning their driving gloves, and heading away from work. Now while the weather in my part of the world might is not currently the best, for those of you blessed with sunny afternoons and a little free time, [...]

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Categories: Garage

Smithsonian CultureFest: Louisiana!

by Matthew Smith · July 27th, 2007 · 2 Comments

While reading a most interesting article about modern day pirates, I noticed that the Smithsonian’s CultureFest is currently featuring Louisiana! I had a blast while for Dave and Desiree’s wedding, and I hope to return in the near future. If you haven’t been to Louisiana, head over and read about it (try Cajun Country, [...]

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Categories: General