My experience of Installing Ubuntu with Vista

Vista according to me is one of the most crappiest piece of OS ever made. I think so that it is plot of OS company with some other hardware manufacturers. This is the logic behind it - In order to sell new and more powerful processors and peripherals, you need to have something which needs to use it. If the new OS cant work with the current best then you need to buy even more powerful (power hungry i would say) hardware components, which is what Vista does. Firstly you force everyone to purchase a laptop or desktop preinstalled with Vista, by that you get the base for selling all the new hardware components. I would say that very few of us actually uses the computing power which we have in hand fruitfully. I don't use it fully but do you?? Its a question which I asked myself before buying my laptop. Luckily I got a great deal for a mean machine. [:D] Ok so getting back to the topic.

I am kind of getting glued to Linux. More I use linux, kind of i would say that i am kind of forgetting Windows [:)]. Today I tried to install Ubuntu on my laptop which came with Vista and I would say that it was a breeze. I found a tutorial online which was really easy to understand and also I would give my complements to the Ubuntu team which made it so easy to install. I remember that I had to do a lot of settings change on my previous laptop and it was a pain. I also spent a lot of time installing Ubuntu on my dads laptop during my Christmas break which had really shocked me as the ATI drivers couldn't be found by the Live CD. But this installation was a piece of cake. i was done in about 20-25 mins and everything was set perfect.

The following are the pages which I referred and would also like to state it so that it will be helpful to whoever reads this blog.

Great reference for installing Ubuntu with Vista

Reference for all the Permutations of installing Ubuntu

Ubuntu, XP and Vista - 3 OS on 1 HDD

I hope this blog is helpful, please feel free to post in your comments.

My new laptop

So after giving my old laptop to my brother, I started my search for a new one and spent sometime searching for some great deal. (My biased opinions) I prefer buying a laptop from OfficeDepot.com, as i feel they give the best deals in laptops. And finally my effort paid me a rich reward. My friend found this great deal one Sunday and it offered a 33% discount on one of the laptops at OfficeDepot. I was amazed and found that 5 pieces were available. So we went to have a hands-on preview of this laptop and found it really amazing. We paid for the laptop and brought it home.

I was amazed by the capabilities of this laptop after i started using it. I went with the perception that this laptop had a shared nVidia graphics card, but after reading the configuration at home I found that it had a dedicated 256Mb graphics card. The 3 Gb RAM was huge and i think so I don't need any more. But i was surprised the way Windows Vista drinks (uses) RAM. I have never seen a RAM usage less than 1Gb on this laptop and also seen a max RAM usage of about 2.5Gb. [:D]. That is why i call it drinks.

My soft spot for HP laptops is their Altec Lansing speakers. I really love to hear music on my laptop and really love these speakers. I didn't have any problem with this laptop yet and would love to keep using this mean machine for long (And also hope to receive my $350 Mail in Rebate as early as possible [;)]). Reset enjoy and have a great day.

Below are the details of my laptop as per Amazon.com

Link

Designed for fast access to your entire entertainment library, the HP Pavilion dv6775us notebook PC is a great choice for both families and business travelers on the go. The 15.4-inch high-definition BrightView display looks good even in direct sunlight, and you'll enjoy movies or music in seconds with the external DVD or music buttons to launch HP QuickPlay (which bypasses the boot process). Control playback settings from up to 10 feet away with the included HP remote, then store it conveniently in the Express card slot. Easily manage your digital photo library and share with friends and family using the included HP Photosmart Essential software. This stylish laptop also features a high-gloss, durable HP Imprint finish with the Radiance pattern of concentric waves.

This notebook is powered by the 1.66 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo T5450 processor, which offers a 20 percent performance boost over its predecessor while using 28 percent less power--so you get the benefit of a powerful dual-core PC plus all the benefits of mobility. It also features an extra-large 250 GB hard drive, 3 GB of installed RAM (4 GB maximum), 54g Wi-Fi connectivity (802.11b/g), 8x dual-layer DVD±RW drive (which also burns CDs), ExpressCard slot, HDMI port for connecting to an HDTV, and Nvidia GeForce Go 8400M GS video/graphics card with up to 1535 MB of total allocated video memory. It also includes an integrated Webcam in the LCD's bezel and an omnidirectional microphone for easy video chats.

It comes preinstalled with Microsoft Windows Vista Home Premium, which includes all of the Windows Media Center capabilities for turning your PC into an all-in-one home entertainment center. In addition to easily playing your DVD movies and managing your digital audio library, you'll be able to record and watch your favorite TV shows (even HDTV). Vista also integrates new search tools throughout the operating system, includes new parental control features, and offers new tools that can warn you of impending hardware failures.

The Basics

• Processor: The Intel Core 2 Duo T5450 processor has a 1.66 GHz processor speed, fast 667 MHz front-side bus (FSB), and 2 MB L2 cache. (An L2, or secondary, cache temporarily stores data; and a larger L2 cache can help speed up your system's performance. The FSB carries data between the CPU and RAM, and a faster front-side bus will deliver better overall performance.)

  With two computational execution cores in a single processor, it provides greater system response when running multi-threaded applications simultaneously with no significant increase in power consumption. It's optimized for multitasking and is ready to support the Microsoft Windows Vista operating system. It can simultaneously run multiple demanding applications--such as graphics-intensive games or serious number-crunching business productivity applications--while downloading music or running virus-scanning security programs in the background. Some of the advanced Intel innovations of the Core 2 Duo processor include:

  • Smart Memory Access: Improves system performance by hiding memory latency, thus optimizing the use of available computer data bandwidth to provide data to the processor when and where it is needed.
  • Advanced Digital Media Boost: Effectively doubles the execution speed for instructions used widely in multimedia and graphics applications.
  • Dynamic Power Coordination: Coordinates Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology and idle power-management state (C-states) transitions independently per core to help save power.
  • Deeper Sleep with Dynamic Cache Sizing: Saves power by flushing cache data to system memory during periods of inactivity to lower CPU voltage.
• Hard Drive: The 250 GB Serial ATA hard drive is more than double the average size for notebook PCs, and it offers a fast 5400 RPM disk speed--an improvement over other notebooks with extra-large hard drives. It provides more than enough capacity for storing documents, digital media files, and video editing software. This SATA hard drive also quickens the pace with a higher speed transfer of data--akin to FireWire and USB 2.0.
• Memory: This notebook comes installed with 3 GB of RAM (DDR2), which helps boost the amount of available video RAM that's shared with this notebook's video card. It has a 4 GB RAM capacity.
• DVD/CD Drive: This multiformat DVD/CD drive is compatible with writing both DVD+ and DVD- disc formats as well as dual-layer (DL) DVD+/-R discs, which can store up to 8.5 GB of data. It features 4x DVD-R DL Write Once, 2.4x DVD+R DL Write Once, 8x DVD+R, 4x DVD+RW, 8x DVD-R, 4x DVD-RW, 16x DVD-ROM, 40x CD-R, 24x CD-RW, and 40x CD-ROM speeds.

  This LightScribe DVD±RW drive lets you laser-etch silkscreen quality text and images on to CDs and DVDs . Your software, PC and discs work together for a no-hassle way to burn just the labels you want. After you burn content, just flip the disc over, reinsert and burn your label--anything from a simple title to a full-disc work of art.

• Keyboard & Mouse: This notebook has a 101-key keyboard and a touchpad with on/off button and dedicated vertical/horizontal Scroll Up/Down pad. It also includes two quick-launch buttons (HP QuickPlay Music and DVD).

Screen, Video & Audio
You'll enjoy razor-sharp graphics and widescreen movies with the 15.4-inch WXGA high-definition screen, which displays an 18 percent larger picture than standard 15-inch screens and an improved contrast ratio. It has a widescreen resolution of 1280 x 800 pixels--perfect for watching DVD movies the way they were meant to be seen. Video is powered by the Nvidia GeForce 8400M GS graphics card, which provides up to 1535 MB of available RAM/video memory (256 MB dedicated video RAM) for unmatched HD video performance on a notebook PC. With support for Microsoft DirectX 10 Shader Model 4.0 and High Dynamic-Range Lighting (HDR), the 8400M lets you rip through all of today's most advanced and cutting-edge games and applications.

The Altec Lansing speakers provide exceptional sound, and a pair of stereo earbud headphones with volume controls is included. You'll be able to privately share enjoyment of multimedia with a friend via the dual headphone jacks.

Networking, Connectivity & Expansion
Be ready for the next platform in wireless connectivity with the integrated quad-mode Intel Wireless 4965AGN Wi-Fi chip. Based on the draft 802.11n Wi-Fi specification, it offers up to five times the performance and twice the wireless range as existing 802.11g wireless. It's also backward compatible with 802.11b/g networks (commonly found in home routers and wi-fi hotspots) as well as 802.11a networks (which has a higher throughput, but more limited range--great for closed office environments). It also includes a next-generation ExpressCard 54/34 card slot (though no standard PCMCIA slot), which lets you take advantage of thinner, faster, and lighter expansion cards for even more advanced wireless, networking, storage, and security features. You get a good offering of connectivity options:

• 3 USB 2.0 ports for connecting a wide range of peripherals--from digital cameras to MP3 players
• 1 FireWire (also known as IEEE 1394 or i.Link) port for connecting digital video camcorders and other peripherals
• 1 HDMI output (for connecting to a compatible HDTV or home theater receiver for uncompressed digital audio and video via a single cable)
• Analog video out: 1 VGA monitor port and 1 S-Video port for connecting to a TV or projector
• 1 ExpressCard 54/34
• 2 headphone jacks and 1 microphone jack
• 1 notebook expansion port 3 (for use with the HP xb3000 Expansion Base or the HP Notebook QuickDock)
• 1 consumer IR (infrared)
• 5-in-1 memory card reader (Secure Digital, MultiMedia, Memory Stick, Memory Stick PRO, xD Picture Card)
• 10/100 Fast Ethernet
• 56K modem (V.90)

Operating System
Windows Vista Home Premium is the operating system for users with advanced computer needs, and it includes all of the Windows Media Center capabilities for turning your PC into an all-in-one home entertainment center for watching DVD movies and accessing your digital audio library. You can also use Windows Media Center to record and watch your favorite TV shows (even HDTV) and to access new kinds of online entertainment content. Computers that include Windows Vista Home Premium and an auxiliary Windows SideShow display will also allow you to access key data even when your computer is off. It is also easier than ever to share files between other PCs in your household and to manage your laptop computer settings to more securely connect via Wi-Fi.

Every edition of Windows Vista provides the essential tools and technologies to help protect you whether you are browsing the Internet, connecting to a wireless network, or just reading e-mail. All editions of Windows Vista include new tools that can warn you of impending hardware failures long before you have lost any important personal data. And, all Windows Vista editions include parental control features that allow you to manage and monitor your family's use of games, the Internet, instant messaging, and other activities.

Preloaded Software
Symantec Norton Internet Security 2008 (60 days of complimentary live update), HP PhotoSmart Essential, Muvee autoProducer, Cyberlink DVD Suite, Microsoft Works 9, Microsoft Office 2007 Student and Teacher Edition (60-day trial)

Dimensions & Weight
This notebook measures 14.05 x 10.12 x 1.56 inches (WxHxD) and weighs 6.06 pounds.

Power
This notebook is powered by a 6-cell rechargeable lithium-ion battery, which offers up to 2 hours of battery life (dependent upon computing conditions).

What's in the Box
This package contains the HP Pavilion dv6775us notebook PC, rechargeable lithium-ion battery, AC adapter, IR remote control, earphones, and operating instructions. It is backed by a limited warranty for parts and labor for one year from date of purchase as well as technical telephone assistance for one year. Software is also covered for 30 days from date of purchase.

Reduce your impact on the environment with this Energy Star-certified system and HP's innovative take-back options, including trade-in, recycling and donation.

Product Description
For those who want advanced digital entertainment capability coupled with leading-edge mobile performance and communication features in a distinctive design, the HP Pavilion dv6700 series Notebook PC delivers! Intel mobile dual-core technology enables use of multiple demanding applications, such as photo editing, DVD burning and playing a game, at the same time. Chat face to face or take pictures and video clips using the HP Webcam and Microphone. Listen without disturbing others with the included stereo earbud headphones. And control content from up to 10 feet away with the HP Mobile Remote Control that can be stored in the ExpressCard slot for convenience. This 6.14 lbs light notebook exists at the intersection of computing and entertainment with its 15.4" High-Definition BrightView widescreen display, innovative entertainment features and fresh design. 15.4 diagonal WXGA (1280 x 800) BrightView Widescreen display NVIDIA GeForce 8400M GS with up to 1535MB graphics memory with 256MB dedicated Built-in Webcam and microphone SuperMulti 8x DVD+-R/RW Drive with Double Layer Intel Wireless WiFi Link 4965 802.11AGN Wireless 10/100 Ethernet 5-in-1 Bridge Media Adapter - MMC, SD, MS, MS Pro, xD 1 ExpressCard Slot (34/54 Slot) 3 USB 2.0, 2 Headphone out; 1 Microphone-in, 1 VGA, 1 HDMI, 1 TV-Out (S-Video), 1 IEEE-1394, 1 RJ-11, 1 RJ-45 Approximate Unit Dimensions - 14.05 (W) x 10.12 (D) x 1.69 (H) Approximate Unit Weight - 6.14lbs

Hectic Life

Giving a thought to what hectic is, i feel that its me that makes it hectic. My present choices decides what my life will be tomorrow. I slack one day and the next day or the day after is one hell of a day. This is what happened to me and also struck me when i wasn't ready for it. I forgot about one of the assignments and the day it was due and also was slacking about reading a paper and that led to 2 consecutive nightouts to get back to track. I would say i dug my own grave, which led me to sleep for 2-4 hrs in 3 days. But its the kind of thing that happens to everyone and the person who survives comes out stronger. But it also lays a lot of stress on planning.

In my life i have always put effort in terms of planning but my execution has always been shaky. In my terms "Jab tak danda nahi padhta tab tak kaam karne ka josh hi nahi aata hain". Its really wrong, but atleast i would say that i judge the situation in hand quite well and that leads to me getting through each hurdle as required. But this Wednesday was different. I didn't put the initial work in judging the situation which led to a nightout and i would say a really hell lot of exertion. But as usual my will to survive was stronger than that to go down without a fight.:D

But seeing the road ahead, I feel that this cant go on as it is now, so now enough of talking and back to planning my next week and the work in hand. I know its early as its Friday, but Sunday is a day when kind of i get most of the push to work as always Saturday is lost in something or another and this weekend its the India Nite. So till my next post chao and enjoy ur weekend.

Savin Me - Nickelback (Lyrics)

This is the most recent song that i have got addicted to. If u have time then do listen to it. Its called Savin Me by Nickelback and below is the lyrics of the song.

Prison gates won't open up for me
On these hands and knees I'm crawlin'
Oh, I reach for you
Well I'm terrified of these four walls
These iron bars can't hold my soul in
All I need is you
Come please I'm callin'
And oh, I scream for you
Hurry I'm fallin', I'm fallin'


Show me what it's like
To be the last one standing
And teach me wrong from right
And I'll show you what I can be
And say it for me
Say it to me
And I'll leave this life behind me
Say it if it's worth savin' me


Heaven's gates won't open up for me
With these broken wings I'm fallin'
And all I see is you
These city walls ain't got no love for me
I'm on the ledge of the eighteenth story
And oh, I scream for you
Come please I'm callin'
And all I need from you
Hurry I'm fallin', I'm fallin'

Show me what it's like
To be the last one standing

And teach me wrong from right
And I'll show you what I can be
And say it for me
Say it to me
And I'll leave this life behind me
Say it if it's worth savin' me
Hurry I'm callin'


(instrumental interlude)


And all I need is you
Come please I'm callin'
And oh, I scream for you
Hurry I'm fallin', I'm fallin', I'm fallin'


Show me what it's like
To be the last one standing
And teach me wrong from right
And I'll show you what I can be
And say it for me
Say it to me
And I'll leave this life behind me
Say it if it's worth savin' me
Hurry I'm fallin'


And say it for me
Say it to me
And I'll leave this life behind me
Say it if it's worth savin' me.

Lyrics from Ab Na Jaa by Euphoria

Lyrics from one of my favorite songs

ankhen band kar lu jo mein
dekhu bas tumhe
khwabon mein keh sakta huin aapna tumhe
rehne de mera ye wehemte hi yakin
na jaoge
pyar ki yeh raat hai ab na ja
chotisi ik baat hai ab na ja
tumhi se hai meri neendein na bhi ho to kya
tumhi se hai meri baatein  na bhi ho to kya
kehne de taaron ko kahaani ankahi
na jaoge
pyar ki yeh raat hai ab na ja
chotisi ik baat hai ab na ja

pal do pal ka saath hai ab na ja
jadusi ye raat hai ab na ja
ab na ja

aankhen de pyaar ki boondein
bikhre se kai sawaal
ankhon mein kitne mausam pal mein beetein kitne saal
behne de jahan bhi le jayen zindagi na jaoge
pyar ki yeh raat hai ab na ja
choti si ik baat hai ab na ja
pal do pal ka saath hai
ab na ja
jadusi ye raat hai ab na ja

yeee a ho a ho aho

ab na ja(17)

Ab Na Jaa by Euphoria - Album "Gully"

Spring has arrived

On 28th March, 2007 after attending the morning class, when i came out, I saw this worderful view.So i though that i should get it captured. I rushed to my friend to borrow hi Powershot A530 and then took these snaps. With spring at the corner, the trees and the shrubs are all beginning to have leaves and flowers after a long and snowy winter.

mehfuz

Lyrics from one of my favorites

mehfuz

Zindagi hai dhuan to kya
Bujh gayi har subah to kya
Rootha mujhse khuda to kya
Ho gaye hum juda to kya
Faasle they hazaaron darmiyan,
Waqt ke they hazaaron imtehaan
Fir bhi ban ke nishaan,
Tere honthon ke kisi kone mein,
Hansi ke tarah, main mehfuz hoon
Teri aankhon ke chipe dard mein
Aansoo ki tarah, main mehfuz hoon
Bewajah har wajah to kya
Begunahii hai gunaah to kya
Beasar hai dua to kya
Ho gaye hum juda to kya
Raaz gehre hazaron bepanah
Lafz thahare hazaaron bejubaan
Fir bhi ban ke nishaan
Tere honthe ke kisi kone mein
Hansi ki tarah, main mehfuz hoon
Tere gesu ke ude pannon mein
Yaadon ki tarah, main mehfuz hoon
Teri aankhon mein
Mehfuz hoon
Teri yaadon mein
Mehfuz hoon
Teri baaton mein
Mehfuz hoon
Tere baalon mein
Mehfuz hoon
Faasle the hazaron darmiyaan
Waqt ki thi hazaron aandhiyan
Fir bhi ban ke nishaan
Tere honthon ke kisi kone mein
Hansi ke tarah, main mehfuz hoon
Tere kaandhe ke chipe til mein
Vaadon ki tarah, main mehfuz hoon

- Lyrics for "Mehfuz" from "Mehfuz (Euphoria)"

My First Post

Welcome everybody. This is my first try with blogging and would basically like to deal with Sports, Cameras, Photography and Animated series which i like. I would like to have as many comments and suggessions and would really appreciate it.