Sunday, December 15, 2024

PHONECO Antique phone, collectible telephone, old telephone

Try a few of these (perhaps with VOIP) to add some nostalgia to a home:
https://www.phonecoinc.com/?

Saturday, November 9, 2024

Linux for Windows users

From a FB forum:
If you're looking for a Linux distribution that is most similar to Windows and also fully supports NVIDIA graphics, here are the best options for you:

Zorin OS – Zorin OS is the closest in terms of look and feel to Windows. It offers an interface that resembles Windows 7 and Windows 10, which makes it ideal for users transitioning from Windows. Zorin OS supports NVIDIA graphics well and comes with a tool to easily install the proprietary NVIDIA drivers. It's an excellent choice for those who want a familiar experience with solid NVIDIA support.

Linux Mint (Cinnamon) – Linux Mint is one of the most Windows-like Linux distributions, especially with the Cinnamon desktop environment. It provides a very user-friendly experience and a familiar layout. Mint supports NVIDIA graphics, and the process for installing the proprietary drivers is simple and integrated into the system. This makes it a top choice for users coming from Windows.

Ubuntu – Ubuntu with its default GNOME desktop is a bit different from Windows, but it can be made more Windows-like by installing the Ubuntu MATE or Ubuntu Budgie desktop environments. Ubuntu has strong NVIDIA support, and drivers can be easily installed via the Additional Drivers tool. It's a reliable choice for those who want solid support and a lot of resources.

Pop!_OS – While Pop!_OS, developed by System76, is not exactly Windows-like in appearance, it is extremely user-friendly, especially for users who need high-performance NVIDIA graphics. It offers built-in support for NVIDIA graphics cards and provides automatic installation of the proper drivers. For users who prioritize performance and ease of use with NVIDIA hardware, Pop!_OS is an excellent choice.

Summary:
Zorin OS is the closest to Windows in terms of design and experience while also providing full support for NVIDIA graphics.
Linux Mint (Cinnamon) is another excellent Windows-like option with solid NVIDIA support.
Ubuntu offers good NVIDIA compatibility but is less Windows-like than the other two.
Pop!_OS is perfect for those who need high-performance NVIDIA support, though it may not resemble Windows as much.

Schedule automatic iPhone reboots (sort of ...)

How to Automatically Restart iOS Every Day
https://medium.com/@bjammin/how-to-automatically-restart-ios-every-day-4b3bfdba7a90

"Experts ... say forcibly closing apps could stop criminals from monitoring …
Persistence is difficult on iOS, and restarting it will clean up running processes.

We could use the Reminders app to set a reminder and then go through the process of holding the buttons, swiping, etc. But, there's a better way.
Shortcuts app! We still get a pop-up prompt and still need to be there to hit "Ok." Apple probably doesn't want to allow scheduled restarts because of the risk of a phone turning off in the middle of an emergency. But I'm pretty happy with this one-click approach.

On your iPhone, open the Shortcuts App which should be installed by default. Then:
  •     Tap on the Automation tab
  •     Create Personal Automation (or click the plus if you have some)
  •     Time of Day (or use another trigger)
  •     set your schedule & tap Next
  •     tap Add action
  •     search for shutdown and tap add
  •     Tap the word "Shutdown" and change it to "Restart"
  •     Next
  •     Done"

Monday, October 28, 2024

Workshop / workspace organization tips

On the topic of workshop or workspace organization:
Just a tiny chapter in the Lean Book of Excellence is 5S.
A series of steps to achieve organizational excellence which very few ever attain.  It is not easy - it is time spent up front to lead efficiency ongoing.
So here is what 5S in its simplest terms -

#1 Sort - only keep what is needed. All else removed.

#2 Set - every item has a place where it lives. 
  • All like items in one place. 
  • Label drawers/cabins on the exterior because once you 5S everything you will get really frustrated by not being able to find what you are looking for.

#3 Shine - clean up and use methods for keeping sets/items like hand tools, etc. from rolling around. (foam storyboards, socket trays)

#4 Standardize - If more than one station/workbench, use the same tool -mfg./model - where possible.

#5 Sustain - implement a plan to keep #1 through #4 from dissolving back into the chaos from which it came. Mainly, At the end of the day/project everything is back in its place.

Once done, clutter should be a thing of the past. Zero searching around for that special tool. 

Sunday, October 27, 2024