Easier way to add captions in Pinnacle Studio

Its not too hard to make captions that are short.

I got lazy and I just added a slab or maybe 20 seconds of captions on one caption, this made it really bulky, unprofessional and crowded the screen but it was convenient for me.

I then realised I can easily make then shorter without having to apply much effort.

1. Do what I have done above, add a decent slab of text into a caption and add it to scene.
2. Split the captions on the timeline along where you want the captions to change.
3. Now start deleting sentences so that you only have a short sentence on every split caption.
4. As the captions will include the original slab of text, all you have to do is delete more and more lines of text until you teach the last sentence in the slab.
2B. You may want to split the captions strategically to ensure you don't need to play around with timing realignment.

This has saved me so much effort in making shorter captions. Its easy , quick and looks so much more professional (which makes it more practical) as slabs of text are hard to follow.

Efficiency in using mouse

I want to reduce my mouse usage and I got inspired from using a tablet today and iPod, You can actually download freeware to change your laptop or pc to use a "drag and scroll" feature to simulate the touch-pads. This will save the time of having to move the mouse to the scroll bar and instead just click an empty area on the window and move the mouse up or downwards.

Google Drag and scroll freeware to find one that suits you.

How to find out what mobile network your friend is on

1. Ask them duh!

3. EDIT - Refer to Edit below

2. This question has surfaced the Internet before due to mobile carriers providing free sms or calls to numbers on the same carrier, sometimes you want to know for things like Plumbers, contractors, sellers (from poster ads and notice boards etc.) for whom you don't want to ask because it makes you look stingy and cheap, LOL

The Internet reads that with new mobile numbers it is impossible to tell which provider because numbers are no longer allocated to providers specifically. I am sure there are other methods to find out the provider of a mobile phone but I thought of a method to do it by using another service (not designed to tell you what provider the mobile number belongs to but works to do just that if you know how to)

SOLUTION:

1. Go to http://www.web2msg.com/
2. Make sure you go to the web page when all the allocated SMS to all the providers are "currently unavailable", to check this look under the "Current Status" box in the top right side of the web page. You should see all yellow crossed boxes
   
3. Now fill in the form on the website and send an SMS to number you want to send to
4. All providers are unavailable and you will get a message saying that the message was not sent because all the allocated SMS quota to provider XYZABCDEFG Pty. Ltd. are exhausted.
5. That's how you determine the provider, or one of the ways, or the only way I've come up with so far without asking the person (which is sometimes not possible without calling them first).

EXCEPTION:

1. If the providers are not all unavailable your message will actually be sent, so try avoid doing this, the SMS sent will be from Web2msg's number and will be considered as spam if you send it. The quota is reset every 12 hours so if you try at the right time, or analyse the website you'll know what time the quota is always exhausted, I will post some AEST times that I have found them to be most dead.

EDIT: (More reliable as method 2. has issues with carriers using other carrier networks and numbers being transferred to new carrier?)

Just found a better, simpler way to do it, good ol Google work.

http://www.smsfun.com.au/mobile_lookup.php

Shows the previous and current provider/carrier, which can be a bit confusing but;

Current provider: provider currently with (free txt or calls goes with them)

Previous provider: the previous carrier of that number (number change over?)

* A limitation of this 3rd method is that you can check up to ~3 numebrs a day without needing to make an account with the website (who has more than 3 numebrs to check anyway?)

Can't copy and Paste Diagrams in MS Word

the diagrams are missing things such as text, the boxes are different shapes or places, the lines in the diagram are in the same place as original diagram. Fixing the new pasted diagram in Word is useless and annoying.

i don't got a solution for fixing that but I have a work around:

• Take the "to copy from" word doc and open it up
• Go to the page zoom option and set it to whole page
• go to view > full screen
• Press screenshot button keyboard (PrtScr) button
• Open up photoshop or another nice imagine editing software
• Paste it in there
• Crop out the unwanted parts
• Save as a JPEG
  
  
• Open up "to paste in" doc and insert image and point to the JPEG.
  
  
  A simple yet sometimes hard to think of work around that has worked for me well during my first year of uni.
  

Orginising your desktop for tidy PC users

I have all my icons neatly organised at the bottom of my desktop BUT now there's a new better way to organise icons on the desktop. You can organise everything from type of shortcut, purpose area to place all the software (for work, home, kids etc.)

The software is called Fences from Stardock.
http://www.stardock.com/products/fences/downloads.asp


Click picture to view full sized version.

Continue using Windows 98 computers

I am just re-formatting my IBM Aptiva P3 700Mhz computer with Windows 98se.

It has gotten to the point where it is 3 generations behind for me hence more then 3 times slower than I now usual speed reaction.

So what can you still do? People usually recommend Linux or a light weight one anyways but I've had a look into it and it seems quite slower than Windows 98 not to mention a lot of your very old tech will not EVER get drivers or what not written for them to work.

What I am proposing:

* Windows 98se OS

* Firefox

* MSN

* Defrag app for windows 98

* Maybe Spybot search and destroy

* Hardware Firewall via Ethernet


Hopefully this minimalist set up will make it a fast Internet terminal for the family.


BUT then these rules should be laid out:

* No personal data or personal websites are to be visited, only wiki etc. nothing where a username and password is required should be visited.

* No USB connecting to the computer unless the USB is thoroughly scanned for viruses on some other computer (pref. not a good one?)


But if your still keen on security and feel more comfortable there is a link here that talks about some solutions.

But Microsoft has cut off all support so I think if people want to hack your Windows98 they will eventually find a hole and get you no matter how good of anti-virus your using and as you get more updated anti-virus your computer will be more slow. The slower though the slower the virus can spread? but too slow to use? your choice....

99% reduced SPAM for your website

Like the GecSoft portal website, a contact method is really nice and necessary.
But your current e-mail address is excellent with SPAM control and amount of SPAM received and you really don't want to post your primary e-mail on your website and you really can not be bothered to open a new account that you know you won't check regularly.


Well one solution can be to do what I have done and post a blog post called contact me. Click that post to view in a single view and then use that page link as your contact link. Now when people want to contact you they can use the blog comments system to send you a message.
Of course you would need a blog first. Also don't forget to ask Anonymous contacts to add a reply e-mail address if required.

Any other suggestions are welcomed.


You can always use things like "me AT hotmail DOT COM" to make autobots searching for e-mails to SPAM skip you as this is not a valid format for an e-mail address but this makes it harder for standard users to contact you and understand what your doing. Its also useless against human collected e-mail spamers.

I highly doubt that sending an e-mail addressed to (me AT hotmail DOT COM) will get it sent to (me@hotmail.com) p.s. that was an example e-mail it is not a real e-mail.

How to Create / Insert the Infinity Symbol in MS Word

Start Up MS Word > Insert > Symbol
Then enter in the following
Character code: 221E from: Unicode (hex)

OR you could always try to copy and paste this: ∞

You can usually Copy and Paste symbols from MS word and use them in other applications such as MSN Messenger Display Names, etc. So keep this tip in mind for when you want to use symbols that are non-keyboard assigned. You could always try to use it for graphic designs and abstracts etc.

Undo and Redo then to you

Skip past red line if you don't want to hear story.

I am quite sure almost everyone in Asia has heard this story. Maybe some in the West too. Its suppose to be the biggest celebrity scandal of the year. Google almost exploded.

Wiki quote:

In January 2008, Edison Chen was involved in a widely publicized sex scandal when sexually explicit and nude photographs of himself and several high-profile female celebrities from the Hong Kong entertainment industry became widely circulated on the Internet. Celebrities implicated in the scandal included Gillian Chung, Bobo Chan, Mandy Chen, Candice Chan, Rachel Ngan and Cecilia Cheung. Nude photos of Edison's current girlfriend, Vincy Yeung, were also made public and the future of the relationship is in doubt.

The way the pictures were circulated on the Internet is not a hard question. The question is how did they manage to get the pictures from his camera?
According to the newspapers Edison bring his computer in to get it fixed, the servicemen went through his computer and copied all his photos, at least that's what it is to my knowledge. Making a bad name for IT people :( , Edison could have prevented this if he deleted his data off of his computer (like really delete it, not only from the index but the hard drive.) don't tell me your surprised or confused because you should already know that data is not deleted when its deleted from the rubbish bin, its only removed from index to allow data to be stored in that location of the disk now (come on, i posted about this ages ago).

My Story:
When I sent my Sony mp3 player back to warranty I did a complete delete, I only had music on it but for some reason IT people like to leave nothing (so i copied and left 2 songs only), maybe its so the technicians can't know I have bad taste for music, harhar but anyway I was glad to do so as it didn't come back. I got a replacement warranty and my old mp3 player along with my music was not given back to me. I did however place a few good song on it so to allow the technicians to test the mp3 player without having to spend additional time uploading a song to test it.

________________________________________
Use this type of precaution to wipe out private data when:
* Recycling old storage devices
* Selling it
* Giving it to a friend or someone to borrow
* Warranty return
* When ever the situation means someone can use it and you don't want them to see your data

! The above story is used as an example of what can happen, I am not suggesting your have such content on your storage devices ;)

Method 1
Get a large file and fill up the usb drive or mp3 player (only for small devices, don't use this method for hard drives, you've got too much space on a HD and the data will be written in free space, maybe) I deleted all my data and sent a demo game which was 600MB to my mp3 player and that destroyed any recovery option fairly well.

It is probably still possible to recover but for basic security this will do, I mean your not trying to secure a $1 million dollar idea, are you? For general photos etc. for privacy reasons this method should be enough, maybe even delete the large file and write something else large to the usb again? Remember the file you write to the usb to overwrite your personal data should be data you don't care about like a game demo file where it doesn't matter if someone knows you've saved that on there. Overwriting a gallery of family photos with a HD movie your your family's last holiday is not a good idea. Usually if you not important, no one will go to extreme lengths to recover your data so I think this method is the fastest.

Method 2
Use software, commercial grade if you wish or a simple free application like Spybot. Spybot has this feature built into the latest version of it. If you find it too hard to find that feature (on left hand menu under tools, called secure shredder) then you could try and download and use a single purpose deleter. I have Eraser and Restoration (Google to download it, I don't have a URL). Personally, I like Restoration, Its main purpose is to scan your removable (and HDs) drives for data that can be restored. We are interested in this as well, what can we restore?? Find out and then select the files and go to the top menu bar and choose the option to delete completely. This will delete it a couple of times to make sure its been over written with different data. Do a scan again and it shouldn't be recoverable.
For HDs you may want to try Eraser where you can selectively choose the files on the HD that you want to destroy.


Method 3
Physically smash the part that is holding your data or the whole storage device all together. Not environmentally friendly but works the best. Smash it into little pieces, grind it into powder, dispose of in garbage bin over 5 months (little handfuls of powder at a time).

If it is still under warranty - make sure to bring the powder and tell the clerk that you can assure it is broken and not working and require a replacement warranty. I am sure they will believe you ... now

If your selling it or giving it to a friend - make sure the powder is in an air tight container and ask your friends to not lose any of it because you want to piece it back later when they are finished borrowing it.

Blog Labels Idea

Please remember to use the search box at the top to find posts. My labels aren't perferct because I have diversed i what I talk about and need to make new labels so some early posts may be in the wrong labels.

I wished if I would organise labels better like:

Software > MS
Software > Freeware
Software > Updates
Software> etc.


Allow you guys and girls to go through sub categories to make using labels more precise. Get the hint Blogspot crew? lol

Changing Windows XP Vista icon size

How do I change the size of icons?
How do I make my desktop icons bigger or larger?
Changing Windows XP Vista icon size

I like to have my screen in a higher resolution because it looks better and desktop wallpapers are usually a better fit.

A problem is I am usually use to having medium sized desktop icons which are now very small in a high resolution. To prevent me having to learn to be more precise with my mouse clicking I will have to adjust the icon size to be larger but how?

Here is how:

Vista:
Right click on an empty space on the desktop

Click “Windows Colour and Appearance

Click on “Open classic appearance properties for more colour options”

Click on [Advanced Button]

Select “Icon” under Item: dropdown

Change the “Size:” field to a large number that suits you

You can always set the Size: to a smaller value to make icons smaller too if you ever have that need.

Windows XP:
Right click on an empty space on the desktop

Properties > Appearance > Advanced

Select “Icon” under Item: dropdown

Change the “Size:” field to a large number that suits you

You can always set the Size: to a smaller value to make icons smaller too if you ever have that need.

How do I save a file as .doc in Word 2007?

How do i save a file that will open in word 2003 using Word 2007?
Saving .doc in Word 2007
How can i make my files compatible with Word 2003?


To save files so others can open them in Word 2003 or older Word versions or to teach others how to save in .doc before sending a file to you, point them to one of the following sites below:
I have tested them for accuracy.

• MS site, simple text only instructions.
• Nice graphical tutorial, really nice wbe site check out their other Word tutorals.
  

Exta:

Just found this beauty of a site that teachers you that there is a method to save .doc as a default. Which is great cause it kills my comment about people being lazy and saving files as .docx by defaut.

Default Word 2007 to save in.doc format.

How do I open .docx files in Word 2003?

How do i convert .docx into .doc?
How do i open .docx files in MS Word 2003?
How do i open .docx?
I can't read .docx files

I had this frustration before and I think I promised in my past posts to shed some light on how I am now able to open .docx files in my MS Word 2003 in Vista.

Get this package, install it and MS Word 2003 will open .docx files like normal .doc files. I think its slightly slower to open but negligible speeds for my computer.

And another fix would be to do what i do and have a e-mail footer saying to send you .doc files only. Some people are thoughtful and will send you .doc and .docx because they are not sure which version of Word you have but most people will become comfortable with the lazy way of just hitting save (which will save to .docx by default) and also some people have no idea what your talking about when you tell them to save it in .docx hmmm... maybe I'll find a tutorial for you guys and girls on that one to forward to others to get them to save in .doc for you.

Download this package from MS

File extension

File extension
How do i open this file?
What do i use to open this type of file?
How do i open this file extension?

Solution: A huge list of file extensions and software assiciated with it.

Use the letter index at the top of the site and then you can also use the Ctrl + F to quickly jump to certain words.

Handy Spellchecker

Reading my blog i think you will find that i have way too many typos and spelling errors. I have since used BlogSpot's built in spell checker so hopefully i can help reduce the challenges in reading my blog, lol.

A common way i use to spell check without a built-in spellchecker was to copy and paste my text into word and spell check it ;) nice, it has all the functions you ever need from thesaurus to dictionary.

I usually however still carry a separate dictionary called WordWeb, It loads much faster and helps me spell check as well as define and find synonyms. You can download it Here.

Sure it can't recommend spellings as good as word but if you use word and WordWeb in partnership, you can get a fairly fine filter to scoop out all those spelling sillies.

Network Idea 3 computers, 1 wired modem

I am planning on buying a wireless router so i can use the Internet on my laptop and desktop (which are located outside of my room, where the main desktop is and therefore the broadband modem) Its fairly cheap these days if you don't need a wireless router that allows your laptop to connect to the Internet at home from school or the shops (lol, i.e. you only need a short range router)

My tip is before you get broadband think about asking for a wireless modem. Some broadband companies give free modems (on contract plans) and ask if you want a wired or wireless. My mistake was asking for a wired cause now i have to spend money on a wireless router to route the wired modem. Usually wireless modems, (unless your ISP is a strategic money making stingy one), will provide you with a wireless router that has wireless and one ethernet which will solve all my problems (ethernet for room desktop and wireless for latop)

Wired routers, at least my one has a usb and a ethernet so if you have two computer close range you may consider that.

Remeber to ask for the details on the modems because as i said not all ISPs will give you the same modem. Some wireless modmes may really only be designed for one laptop and have no ethernet etc.

My problem is that the desktop out of my room is a really old one and i am not sure if i can install a wireless card or if it worth it. An idea i had was,



Main desktop ~~~ laptop -------- Older desktop.

~~~ wireless connection
------ ethernet


Of course this setout is't perferct and especially if i can get a router for less than $100. It would also mean my laptop would have to be near the old desktop for both to go on the internet. But I thought I'd post my idea anyways incase if there is a scenaino for someone to use to this. BTW the ethernet connection would be with laptop ethernet to old desktop pci ethernet, the internet would come to old computer via wireless to the laptop.

Best Investment: Cleaning LCDs and laptops

How do i get rid of finger prints on my laptop?
How do i get rid of finger prints on my laptop lcd?
How do i get rid of finger prints on my lcd screen?
What do i use to clean lcd screens?

Is that the type of questions you want answers to?

The answer is simple get a microfibre cloth, buying this cloth is probably the best investment ever! You can usually get them in the cleaning section of shops, they may be in the mirror or car cleaning products section as these are other uses for microfibre cloths. These cloths have micro-fibre so they pick up everything and leave no scratched or cloth marks, hence being used for mirrors and cars for shine and clarity.

Just get a microfibre cloth and wipe gently to remove any fingerprints on shiny metallic paint looking surfaces on laptop fronts or even external hard drive cases. Recent fingerprints and even oily finger prints can be taken off lcd screens with microfibre cloths. For older prints, i wet the dirty part of the lcd screen with a damp tissue (barely damp) and then dry off with a soft tissue and than use microfibre cloth to clean up the remaining water. Remember unlike CRT (fat sized screens) screens water is really bad for lcds (so they say) so use my method at your own risk! I don't take any responsibility for what happens, different lcd brands/models may give varied affects.

Blury graphics and text

On my desktop, I've been having troubles running games, my gfx card would just turn idle and the screen would turn off. I then for some reason started to experience blurry text and out of focus graphics. When i used the auto focus button on my LCD screen, the whole screen would be displaced to the left by a couple of CMs.

This is what i did, it solved the problem but which attempt solved it? no idea

• Turn the resoultion down and then back up in Windows XP
• Turned off tower and monitor for a while
• Disconnected monitor cable from gfx card
• Used a paint brush and clean dust off card
• Re-connected cable and gfx card to tower
• Powered back on, all fine again :D

My ideas are maybe lose cable, and after cleaning i put it back on tighter or turning off the tower cleared something maybe? OR last explanation would be faires or nothing, just time fixed it {shrugs}

Googling my Blog

Try using this:

site:gecsoft.blogspot.com gec living

as a search query and you can browse around all my posts in my blog with helpful previews of the post and the normal functions you get with Google search.

Of course you could also use the top search bar of this blog.

Tip of a thought

Google gives the most free web space, i would say.

Before i give you my ideas why don't you think about all the cool stuff you could do with Google's storage?

There usually isn't any time limit of inactivity too, at least if there was it would be longer than most commercial services.