charlie.collins's blog

Unlocking Android code site updated - and book done with final review

Sun, 01/04/2009 - 21:03 — charlie.collins

In after the holidays UAD news: the book is out of final review (pretty good reviews, not perfect, some stuff to address, but overall good), and the code site has been updated to include examples for chapters 8, 9, 10, 12, and 13 (the rest, except for 1 and 2, were already there).

Books

US Navy uses Linux, Brits choose "Windows for Subs"

Mon, 12/29/2008 - 11:46 — charlie.collins

Yeah, sure, it's "cheaper to maintain," that's why the Brits choose a BAE system based on Windows XP to power their nuclear subs. You read that right, Windows is actually used in nuclear submarines.

My ass it's cheaper, but of course that's what the contractors trying to land the deal will purport. Also, when it comes to nukes, how much of a factor should "cheaper" even really be? (Sure it's a factor, but where does it weigh in with reliability, security, and so on?)

Humour

Getting prepared: the lyrics to "Auld Lang Syne"

Mon, 12/29/2008 - 10:21 — charlie.collins

I know everyone is getting ready for a holiday bash of some sort, either with the in crowd in the city, or just banging pans in the streets with the kids. Either way you really should at least glance at the actual lyrics to Auld Lang Syne once in your life?

Should auld acquaintance be forgot,
And never brought to mind ?
Should auld acquaintance be forgot,
And days o' lang syne ?

CHORUS: For auld lang syne, my jo,
For auld lang syne,

Miscellany

Merry FSMas everyone!

Mon, 12/15/2008 - 10:54 — charlie.collins

Yes, even Pastafarians get into the spirit of co-opting the end of the year pagan winter celebrations for commercial purposes (using timeless religious symbols such as trees, fat guys in red suits, a sale every weekend, and brilliant light displays).

http://www.venganza.org/2008/12/13/merry-fsmas-everyone/

http://www.venganza.org/2008/12/12/fsm-holiday-lights/

Merry FSMas, ramen!