Only two and half hr. drive from Las Vegas "The Grand Canyon Skywalk" is the glass bridge suspended 4,000 feet (1 219 meters) above the canyon. The horseshoe shaped bridge protrudes 65 (20 meters) feet from the edge of the canyon.
Salary - How Much Do You Expect?
Many job seekers already know that it is not wise to ask for the salary in a job interview. But what if it is the potential employer who initiates to talk about it? What would you fill in for “expected salary” in the application form given to you in a job interview? Should we honestly tell the company how much we want?
Salary is no doubt part of the job offer. At the end of the day, you have to address it if you are successfully hired. So, think about it before you attend the job interview and be well prepared so that you can negotiate at any time.
Preparation 1
Study the strengths of yourself and show how you can add value to the business of the company if you are hired. This is to enhance your bargaining power to ask for a higher pay.
Preparation 2
Find out and study the salary packages offered by other companies of similar ranking because companies usually benchmark against each other. You may ask for a better pay if the company is comparing itself with other large corporations.
Preparation 3
Salary does not mean “money” only. It includes non-cash rewards such as medical benefits, bonuses, retirement plans, stock options, overtime compensation, etc. These can add at least 25% to your salary. Calculate in details beforehand and you will know how much you should negotiate.
Preparation 4
Find out what your bottom line is. Remember that your aim is not to negotiate but to get the job. To set a bottom line is to let you know when to stop negotiating. If you do not know how much you want, you will lose the direction in negotiation.
Preparation 5
Be positive and prepared for the “worst”! If by the end of the job interview, you find that the salary package proposed by the potential employer does not meet your expectation, you have only two choices. If you have confidence to find a better offer somewhere, proceed. But if you find that this position seems to suit you, you should consider the company culture, location of work, and the job nature to see if it is worth taking up this job regardless of a not-so-satisfactory salary. Be optimistic that you may get salary increase afterwards!
Salary is no doubt part of the job offer. At the end of the day, you have to address it if you are successfully hired. So, think about it before you attend the job interview and be well prepared so that you can negotiate at any time.
Preparation 1
Study the strengths of yourself and show how you can add value to the business of the company if you are hired. This is to enhance your bargaining power to ask for a higher pay.
Preparation 2
Find out and study the salary packages offered by other companies of similar ranking because companies usually benchmark against each other. You may ask for a better pay if the company is comparing itself with other large corporations.
Preparation 3
Salary does not mean “money” only. It includes non-cash rewards such as medical benefits, bonuses, retirement plans, stock options, overtime compensation, etc. These can add at least 25% to your salary. Calculate in details beforehand and you will know how much you should negotiate.
Preparation 4
Find out what your bottom line is. Remember that your aim is not to negotiate but to get the job. To set a bottom line is to let you know when to stop negotiating. If you do not know how much you want, you will lose the direction in negotiation.
Preparation 5
Be positive and prepared for the “worst”! If by the end of the job interview, you find that the salary package proposed by the potential employer does not meet your expectation, you have only two choices. If you have confidence to find a better offer somewhere, proceed. But if you find that this position seems to suit you, you should consider the company culture, location of work, and the job nature to see if it is worth taking up this job regardless of a not-so-satisfactory salary. Be optimistic that you may get salary increase afterwards!
How to Stay Afloat in a New Work Place
THE big change has happened. And you are happy that you made the decision to switch to a more interesting, challenging and senior position in a new company. That’s the simpler part. A few days into it, and what looked glamorous and exciting from the outside, is suddenly starting to appear a wee bit trickier than before. You’re the rank outsider nobody seems to want around, and you don’t have time for this nonsense. After all, there’s work to be done, and you need to prove that you’re every bit worth the fat package your new employer paid to acquire you.
Welcome to reality. It’s a whole new game that you need to learn and adapt. Time is certainly not on your side, so it’s critical to get your act together from Day One. Here are a few points that can help you manage the transition into a new company.
Focus on relationships from Day One
No matter how long you may have worked in organizations, the truth is that managing people and interpersonal relationships remains the most difficult part of any leadership role. Each instance can be different from the other and no amount of theoretical frameworks and even experience can prepare you for some situations. Building relationships is your single most important task. Visit people outside your team and spend time listening to how they work, and what difficulties they encounter in dealing with your team or department. Offer to help with solutions, if any.
Clarify, clarify, and clarify
Nothing is more dangerous than ambiguity. Before you start, clarify up front what your role definition would be. What the expectations of the organization are from you, the timelines for those deliverables and what resources would be made available to you to help achieve them.
Easier said than done? Most likely, this wouldn’t be handed to you on a platter, so demand clarity. It’s also in your own best interests to have measurement parameters in place. As you begin benchmarking your team’s and your own performance against these parameters, work will start to become more challenging and enjoyable.
Don’t be in a hurry to make a big impression
When you are in an alien environment, the easiest way to get everyone to notice you is to make a big splash with a new project, propose to change processes that you think are old and redundant or redesign structures that come in the way of efficiency. Don’t even think about it, because it’s sure to ruffle a lot of feathers and, of course, get you nowhere. Be realistic about the scope of your new role. Give yourself some time to learn the processes and systems and how people work. Patience can be your best virtue here. Allow yourself a few small victories, though. That will boost your own morale and that of your team, who would be looking up to you.
Understand the Power Networks and Who Matters
Formal organisational positions hardly indicate who’s really in charge. It’s often a core group that gets things done around the place. So carefully observe and figure out the powers that pull the strings and influence key decisions. These could take the form of unofficial ‘shadow boards’ that could consist of members of the formal board of directors, influential shareholders or even outside parties. Understanding this can determine how much and how fast you can execute on your plan, and make all the difference to your success as a senior executive.
Exude Positivity
And finally, take a positive approach to your work. Be clear that you have come to work and deliver on the agreed upon work targets. Do not allow yourself to be bogged down by the politics and the negative people around you. Rest assured there will be plenty of naysayer and trouble makers trying to pull you down. It’s, therefore, important that you stay moored to your goals and objectives, and cut out the noise. Enthusiasm is rare these days, so keep the cheerfulness going.
Stay True to Yourself
Even as you are doing all of the above, make sure that your actions are above board. Resist the temptation to take shortcuts or measures that could put you or your team in an ethical bind. When everything else fails, it is your own sense of values that will stand you in good stead.
Welcome to reality. It’s a whole new game that you need to learn and adapt. Time is certainly not on your side, so it’s critical to get your act together from Day One. Here are a few points that can help you manage the transition into a new company.
Focus on relationships from Day One
No matter how long you may have worked in organizations, the truth is that managing people and interpersonal relationships remains the most difficult part of any leadership role. Each instance can be different from the other and no amount of theoretical frameworks and even experience can prepare you for some situations. Building relationships is your single most important task. Visit people outside your team and spend time listening to how they work, and what difficulties they encounter in dealing with your team or department. Offer to help with solutions, if any.
Clarify, clarify, and clarify
Nothing is more dangerous than ambiguity. Before you start, clarify up front what your role definition would be. What the expectations of the organization are from you, the timelines for those deliverables and what resources would be made available to you to help achieve them.
Easier said than done? Most likely, this wouldn’t be handed to you on a platter, so demand clarity. It’s also in your own best interests to have measurement parameters in place. As you begin benchmarking your team’s and your own performance against these parameters, work will start to become more challenging and enjoyable.
Don’t be in a hurry to make a big impression
When you are in an alien environment, the easiest way to get everyone to notice you is to make a big splash with a new project, propose to change processes that you think are old and redundant or redesign structures that come in the way of efficiency. Don’t even think about it, because it’s sure to ruffle a lot of feathers and, of course, get you nowhere. Be realistic about the scope of your new role. Give yourself some time to learn the processes and systems and how people work. Patience can be your best virtue here. Allow yourself a few small victories, though. That will boost your own morale and that of your team, who would be looking up to you.
Understand the Power Networks and Who Matters
Formal organisational positions hardly indicate who’s really in charge. It’s often a core group that gets things done around the place. So carefully observe and figure out the powers that pull the strings and influence key decisions. These could take the form of unofficial ‘shadow boards’ that could consist of members of the formal board of directors, influential shareholders or even outside parties. Understanding this can determine how much and how fast you can execute on your plan, and make all the difference to your success as a senior executive.
Exude Positivity
And finally, take a positive approach to your work. Be clear that you have come to work and deliver on the agreed upon work targets. Do not allow yourself to be bogged down by the politics and the negative people around you. Rest assured there will be plenty of naysayer and trouble makers trying to pull you down. It’s, therefore, important that you stay moored to your goals and objectives, and cut out the noise. Enthusiasm is rare these days, so keep the cheerfulness going.
Stay True to Yourself
Even as you are doing all of the above, make sure that your actions are above board. Resist the temptation to take shortcuts or measures that could put you or your team in an ethical bind. When everything else fails, it is your own sense of values that will stand you in good stead.
(Free Software) Adobe Reader 8.0 - Download Latest Version
Adobe Reader 8.0 (File size: 20.8 MB)
System requirements
Windows
* Intel® Pentium® III or equivalent processor
* Windows XP Professional, Home Edition, or Tablet PC Edition with Service Pack 2; Microsoft® Windows® 2000 with Service Pack 4; Windows 2003 Server; or Windows Vista™*
* 128MB of RAM (256MB recommended for complex forms or large documents)
* 110MB of available hard-disk space
* Microsoft Internet Explorer 6.0 or 7.0, Firefox 1.5 or 2.0, Mozilla 1.7, AOL 9
* Reader 8 has been tested with a beta version of Windows Vista, and Adobe expects a subsequent version of Reader to support the shipping version of Windows Vista.
Adobe Reader 8.0 offers:
A new interface, new tools, and more options
Better protection of your workflows and transactions
Use improved accessibility features
Access new learning resources
Guidelines for downloading the file:
Click on the link given below.
In the new web page which opens up, click on the "Free" button at the bottom.
Wait for the time specified on the page, before the download setup is complete.
Enter the code displayed and click on the "Download from......" button.
System requirements
Windows
* Intel® Pentium® III or equivalent processor
* Windows XP Professional, Home Edition, or Tablet PC Edition with Service Pack 2; Microsoft® Windows® 2000 with Service Pack 4; Windows 2003 Server; or Windows Vista™*
* 128MB of RAM (256MB recommended for complex forms or large documents)
* 110MB of available hard-disk space
* Microsoft Internet Explorer 6.0 or 7.0, Firefox 1.5 or 2.0, Mozilla 1.7, AOL 9
* Reader 8 has been tested with a beta version of Windows Vista, and Adobe expects a subsequent version of Reader to support the shipping version of Windows Vista.
Adobe Reader 8.0 offers:
A new interface, new tools, and more options
Better protection of your workflows and transactions
Use improved accessibility features
Access new learning resources
Guidelines for downloading the file:
Click on the link given below.
In the new web page which opens up, click on the "Free" button at the bottom.
Wait for the time specified on the page, before the download setup is complete.
Enter the code displayed and click on the "Download from......" button.
Click here: http://rapidshare.com/files/23442110/AdbeRdr80_en_US.exe
Hang in there - Face the Boss!
When a fresher joins MNC, he is usually made to report to a senior who is designated as his mentor. But what happens when a mentor turns into an authoritarian custodian? Many new recruits embrace the work life as their window to many opportunities and healthy competition. However, in some cases, fresher has to report to a boss who doesn’t want him to grow beyond a certain point. This starts affecting the freshers output. In an extreme case he may quit his cushy job!
Here is what you need to do to handle the situation carefully…
LOOK WITHIN
In many cases, ‘I have a bad boss’ is just a perception problem! There are chances that his criticism may be genuine and valid. Be objective and give yourself time before jumping to conclusions. Check passively if it’s just you who is having a problem or there are others in the offices who feel the same.
FOCUS ON WORK
Make your work and not him the focus of all your energies. It will help you deal with him much more objectively. Your super bosses don’t know you much and they will judge you mainly by your work. So do not let your work suffer. In some cases, your boss may have a direct stake in getting the work done faster. This may be the best way to build a smoother relationship.
COMMUNICATE
Meeting over coffee or lunch outside the office may be even better, If you are sure your boss is purposely giving you a tough time. Ask for a frank feedback about your work and your shortcomings. Express the challenges / problems that you are facing at work without getting personal.
DISAGREE, BUT DON’T CONTRADICT
At times, your boss may be wrong and you right. But there are ways to handle it tactfully. Avoid contradicting him, especially in meetings. Express your disagreement, but professionally, without sounding personal. Constant contradiction will only worsen the situation.
TALK TO YOUR SUPER BOSSES
This is one of the last options. Seek advice from any of your boss’ peers to understand the best way to deal with the issue. They would know and understand office politics much better than you at your level.
QUIT BUT ONLY IF YOU MUST
Running away from a problem is never a solution. Faced with such a situation one would want to quit and go. And if the situation is out of your control and if there isn’t much hope from your immediate or super bosses you can consider quitting. Also, if pushing yourself out of home every morning seems like a punishment — perhaps moving out may be the best option.
Here is what you need to do to handle the situation carefully…
LOOK WITHIN
In many cases, ‘I have a bad boss’ is just a perception problem! There are chances that his criticism may be genuine and valid. Be objective and give yourself time before jumping to conclusions. Check passively if it’s just you who is having a problem or there are others in the offices who feel the same.
FOCUS ON WORK
Make your work and not him the focus of all your energies. It will help you deal with him much more objectively. Your super bosses don’t know you much and they will judge you mainly by your work. So do not let your work suffer. In some cases, your boss may have a direct stake in getting the work done faster. This may be the best way to build a smoother relationship.
COMMUNICATE
Meeting over coffee or lunch outside the office may be even better, If you are sure your boss is purposely giving you a tough time. Ask for a frank feedback about your work and your shortcomings. Express the challenges / problems that you are facing at work without getting personal.
DISAGREE, BUT DON’T CONTRADICT
At times, your boss may be wrong and you right. But there are ways to handle it tactfully. Avoid contradicting him, especially in meetings. Express your disagreement, but professionally, without sounding personal. Constant contradiction will only worsen the situation.
TALK TO YOUR SUPER BOSSES
This is one of the last options. Seek advice from any of your boss’ peers to understand the best way to deal with the issue. They would know and understand office politics much better than you at your level.
QUIT BUT ONLY IF YOU MUST
Running away from a problem is never a solution. Faced with such a situation one would want to quit and go. And if the situation is out of your control and if there isn’t much hope from your immediate or super bosses you can consider quitting. Also, if pushing yourself out of home every morning seems like a punishment — perhaps moving out may be the best option.
Sony PlayStation 3 to be launched in India
Sony PlayStation 3 will be available in India from April 27th onwards. PS3, a Gen-Next gaming console, can well be considered an advanced computer system that allows enjoyment of next generation content through a combination of cell and RSX processors, a wireless controller, and a Blu-ray video disc. Besides, a vast catalogue of PlayStation and PlayStation 2 games can be played on the PS3.
It comes equipped with a high-definition display, and gives users free access to the online PlayStation network, where they can communicate and compete with other gamers. The console comes standard with Giga-bit Ethernet and a pre-installed hard disk drive (HDD), enabling users download a variety of content, plus access online games/services over the network.
The PS3 will be priced at Rs 39,990 in India.
It will ship with 12 titles from leading publishers including Electronic Arts, Namco Bandai, and Sony Online Entertainment such as: Resistance: Fall of Man, MotorStorm, Genji, Days of the Blade, Formula 1: Championship Edition, and Ridge Racer7.
Other titles include: Def Jam: Icon, Fight Night Round 3, NBA Street HomeCourt, Need for Speed Carbon, The Godfather: The Don's Edition, Tiger Woods PGA Tour 2007, and Untold Legends: Dark Kingdom.
All games will carry a price tag of Rs 2,799 each
A Survival Guide for Working with Bad Bosses
A Survival Guide for Working with Bad Bosses
Dealing with Bullies, Idiots, Back-Stabbers, and Other Managers from Hell
by Gini Graham Scott, Ph.D.
Guidelines for downloading the file:
Click on the link given below.
In the new web page which opens up, click on the "Free" button at the bottom.
Wait for the time specified on the page, before the download begins.
Enter the code displayed and click on the "Download from......" button.
http://rapidshare.com/files/23225074/A_Survival_Guide_for_Working_With_Bad_Bosses.pdf
(Video) Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix-ABC Family Preview
ABC Family behind-the-scenes video of "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix." Video includes interview with Dan Radcliffe, Emma Watson, Rupert Grint, Imelda Staunton, Helena Bonham Carter, Gary Oldman, Katie Leung & David Yates.
Nike Shoes will be Compatible With iPod
Shoe manufacturer, Nike has confirmed plans to make all its shoes compatible with Apple's MP3 player, iPod, before the end of 2007.
The Nike+iPod technology, which uses the iPod to record calories burnt and distance covered, via a sensor in the Nike shoes, has been widely criticized in the recent past. Researchers at the University of Washington have claimed that the product can double up as a tracking device, posing a serious security threat to the owner.
The sensor in the shoe emits a signal detectable by any compatible receiver within a range of up to 60 feet, even after the workout has ended. This means, the user can be monitored and tracked easily, by a variety of simple computers. According to the researchers, the device is potentially dangerous, as it lets thieves or stalkers track their victims and plan their attack. A thief could even track when people enter or leave their homes or a stalker could hide receivers near a home, a gym and a restaurant, for example, to closely monitor his or her target's movements.
The sensor in the shoe emits a signal detectable by any compatible receiver within a range of up to 60 feet, even after the workout has ended. This means, the user can be monitored and tracked easily, by a variety of simple computers. According to the researchers, the device is potentially dangerous, as it lets thieves or stalkers track their victims and plan their attack. A thief could even track when people enter or leave their homes or a stalker could hide receivers near a home, a gym and a restaurant, for example, to closely monitor his or her target's movements.
Moreover, a computer with wireless Internet access can record multiple users' whereabouts, send the information to a central server and plot people's locations using Google Maps. The computer can then be programmed to communicate with the person doing the tracking, with an e-mail or text message.
The security breach was brought to light after Scott Saponas, a doctoral student in computer science at University of Washington, posted his report online.
The new Nike+iPod Sports kit is being scrutinized by researchers at the University of Washington, who claim that the product can double up as a tracking device, posing a serious security threat to the owner. The device is meant for high-tech runners to upload data such as distance, speed and calories burned via a sensor in the Nike shoe and the iPod that compliments it.
The device is potentially dangerous, as it lets thieves or stalkers track their victims and plan their attack. A thief could even track when people enter or leave their homes or a stalker could hide receivers near a home, a gym and a restaurant, for example, to closely monitor his or her target's movements.
The security breach was brought to light after Scott Saponas, a doctoral student in computer science at University of Washington, posted his report online.
The new Nike+iPod Sports kit is being scrutinized by researchers at the University of Washington, who claim that the product can double up as a tracking device, posing a serious security threat to the owner. The device is meant for high-tech runners to upload data such as distance, speed and calories burned via a sensor in the Nike shoe and the iPod that compliments it.
The device is potentially dangerous, as it lets thieves or stalkers track their victims and plan their attack. A thief could even track when people enter or leave their homes or a stalker could hide receivers near a home, a gym and a restaurant, for example, to closely monitor his or her target's movements.
Sony Ericsson's latest W580 Walkman phone
Sony Ericsson's latest Walkman phone W580, is just 14mm thin and features an MP3 player and 2.0 megapixel camera. It is a slim slider music phone. It will store up to 470 full-length tracks, has a 2.0 megapixel camera tucked discretely within the slider itself, plus stacks of gaming, fun sports and entertainment features.
The 14mm thick W580 weighing 94 grams has enough room for all of the music, the camera and the fun applications. It is incredibly easy to get music from your computer into the phone, since the Disc2Phone music management software and USB cable all come in the box. You can even use TrackID to identify music tracks you don’t recognise, regardless of whether they are playing out loud or via the phone’s RDS FM Radio.
The light effects on the W580 is an attention grabber. Navigate to the Walkman player and they automatically change to a glowing orange colour.
With the W580 Walkman phone you can even take your favourite tracks to the track. It will count your steps, your calories and monitor your running speed/distance/time. Add to that your best tunes for motivation and whether you’re on a run, in the gym or just out for a stroll, the W580 is the perfect fitness partner.
The 2.0 megapixel camera and fast connectivity make picture blogging and instant messaging second nature. 3D Gaming is fast action too with hit titles preloaded. The slider action also allows for a large 2.0” colour screen, ideal not just for gaming but also web browsing and viewing your camera photos.
W580 lets you add music accessories like two sets of cool, optional speakers – the Portable Speakers MPS-70 and Snap-on Speakers MPS-75. To turn up the volume still further, the Bluetooth Music Receiver MBR-100 lets you play your phone music directly through a home stereo, using your W580 as the remote control to skip through tracks and adjust the volume.
The W580 Walkman phone is a 2.5G, Quad Band EDGE device (850/900/1800/1900) and will be available in selected markets from Q3 2007. No information is available on price as yet.
Yahoo! will offer UNLIMITED E-mail Storage
Yahoo has celebrated its mail service's tenth birthday by giving its users unlimited mail storage, responding to explosive growth in attachment sizes as people share ever more photos, music and videos via e-mail.
From May, Yahoo will eliminate the one-gigabyte cap on memory for people with free e-mail accounts and two-gigabyte cap of memory for those who pay for premium accounts.
Yahoo Mail is one of the most popular web-based e-mail service and had more than 250 million users.
Originally Yahoo only offered account holders four MB per account. Yahoo said its "e-mail server farms" could handle the storage load and the company will invest in improved capacity where necessary.
Microsoft has a 2 gigabyte free e-mail storage limit, while Google caps its Gmail service at 2.8 gigabytes.
"We are giving them no reason to ever have to delete old e-mails," Yahoo co-founder David Filo said in a phone interview. "You can keep stuff forever."
Officials said the decision to remove e-mail storage limits reflects the plunging cost of storage as new personal computers store up to a trillion bytes of data and owners of 80-gigabyte iPods can carry 100 hours of video in their pockets.
Starting in May, the changeover to unlimited storage should take a month, said John Kremer, vice president of Yahoo Mail.
One caveat Yahoo makes is that the offer is for personal use and subject to guidelines against abuse that apply to Yahoo Mail. No one can build a business giving away unlimited storage to other consumers using Yahoo Mail, executives said.
Two countries -- China and Japan -- are excluded.
Filo said Yahoo is looking at lifting caps on storage for other services such as its Flickr photo-sharing service. "We are looking at those on a case-by-case basis," he said.
From May, Yahoo will eliminate the one-gigabyte cap on memory for people with free e-mail accounts and two-gigabyte cap of memory for those who pay for premium accounts.
Yahoo Mail is one of the most popular web-based e-mail service and had more than 250 million users.
Originally Yahoo only offered account holders four MB per account. Yahoo said its "e-mail server farms" could handle the storage load and the company will invest in improved capacity where necessary.
Microsoft has a 2 gigabyte free e-mail storage limit, while Google caps its Gmail service at 2.8 gigabytes.
"We are giving them no reason to ever have to delete old e-mails," Yahoo co-founder David Filo said in a phone interview. "You can keep stuff forever."
Officials said the decision to remove e-mail storage limits reflects the plunging cost of storage as new personal computers store up to a trillion bytes of data and owners of 80-gigabyte iPods can carry 100 hours of video in their pockets.
Starting in May, the changeover to unlimited storage should take a month, said John Kremer, vice president of Yahoo Mail.
One caveat Yahoo makes is that the offer is for personal use and subject to guidelines against abuse that apply to Yahoo Mail. No one can build a business giving away unlimited storage to other consumers using Yahoo Mail, executives said.
Two countries -- China and Japan -- are excluded.
Filo said Yahoo is looking at lifting caps on storage for other services such as its Flickr photo-sharing service. "We are looking at those on a case-by-case basis," he said.
(Video) Pirates Of The Caribbean 3: At World's End
In the follow-up to the record-breaking smash 2006 hit PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: DEAD MAN’S CHEST, we find our heroes Will Turner (ORLANDO BLOOM) and Elizabeth Swann (KEIRA KNIGHTLEY) allied with Captain Barbossa (GEOFFREY RUSH) in a desperate quest to free Captain Jack Sparrow (JOHNNY DEPP) from his mind-bending trap in Davy Jones’ locker—while the terrifying ghost ship, The Flying Dutchman, and Davy Jones, under the control of the East India Trading Company, wreaks havoc across the Seven Seas.
Navigating through treachery, betrayal and wild waters, they must forge their way to exotic Singapore and confront the cunning Chinese pirate Sao Feng (CHOW YUN-FAT). Now headed beyond the very ends of the Earth, each must ultimately choose a side in a final, titanic battle— as not only their lives and fortunes but the entire future of the freedom-loving Pirate way hangs in the balance.
Produced by Jerry Bruckheimer and directed by Gore Verbinski from a screenplay written by Ted Elliott & Terry Rossio, our beloved cast sets sail once again on a fresh, new adventure in May 2007.
Navigating through treachery, betrayal and wild waters, they must forge their way to exotic Singapore and confront the cunning Chinese pirate Sao Feng (CHOW YUN-FAT). Now headed beyond the very ends of the Earth, each must ultimately choose a side in a final, titanic battle— as not only their lives and fortunes but the entire future of the freedom-loving Pirate way hangs in the balance.
Produced by Jerry Bruckheimer and directed by Gore Verbinski from a screenplay written by Ted Elliott & Terry Rossio, our beloved cast sets sail once again on a fresh, new adventure in May 2007.
(Video) Luvaglio-World’s most expensive laptop
UK-based Luvaglio has announced what could be the world’s most expensive laptop. The 17-inch laptop will have a rare diamond for the power key and will retail for more than one million dollars.
Here is a very brief YouTube video that only shows a non-descript box that opens up to reveal a keyboard.
Here is a very brief YouTube video that only shows a non-descript box that opens up to reveal a keyboard.
Full details of the laptop have not been released at this point, but it is known that it incorporates a 17" widescreen LED lit screen with a specially designed anti-reflective glare coating for clear and brighter image, 128GB of Solid State Disk space and a slot loading Blue-Ray drive.
There is an integrated screen cleaning device and a very rare coloured diamond piece of jewellery that doubles up as the power button when placed into the laptop and also acts as security identification.
The first such masterpiece will sell for more than US$1,000,000.
Westinghouse Quad HDTV
1080p is really what you should be looking for in a new high-definition HDTV, but the next generation is just around the corner: Westinghouse showcases a 2160p - commonly referred to as a Quad HDTV. If you think this TV is expensive, you are absolutely right.
The 52"" TV runs a super high-resolution of 2160p (3840 x 2160 pixels). In absolute numbers, the device is running a stunning 8.3 megapixels - four times more than 1080p TVs (1920x1080p) and more than twice the resolution of Dell's, HP's and Apple's 30"" desktop LCDs. So, what do you get from this resolution, especially if HD DVD and Blu-ray are running only 1080p anyway?
According to Westinghouse, the TV does not really target the consumer market, but high-end industrial applications. What we saw was an animation of an oil company viewing a digital version of a mining site. And even at this very specialized application, the difference to the best 1080p we saw appeared to be marginal, at least to our eyes. However, of course you do see a much clearer picture when compared to some lower-priced 1080p TVs. However, the TV will not come to the consumer market anytime soon. The TV is selling for around $50,000 at this time.
Westinghouse will have one of the first Quad LCD HDTVs on display, boasting resolution of 3840x2160 progressive (2160p). Early adopters will be able to buy such TVs by mid of 2007.
The 52"" TV runs a super high-resolution of 2160p (3840 x 2160 pixels). In absolute numbers, the device is running a stunning 8.3 megapixels - four times more than 1080p TVs (1920x1080p) and more than twice the resolution of Dell's, HP's and Apple's 30"" desktop LCDs. So, what do you get from this resolution, especially if HD DVD and Blu-ray are running only 1080p anyway?
According to Westinghouse, the TV does not really target the consumer market, but high-end industrial applications. What we saw was an animation of an oil company viewing a digital version of a mining site. And even at this very specialized application, the difference to the best 1080p we saw appeared to be marginal, at least to our eyes. However, of course you do see a much clearer picture when compared to some lower-priced 1080p TVs. However, the TV will not come to the consumer market anytime soon. The TV is selling for around $50,000 at this time.
Westinghouse will have one of the first Quad LCD HDTVs on display, boasting resolution of 3840x2160 progressive (2160p). Early adopters will be able to buy such TVs by mid of 2007.
Improve your PC Performance-2
Delete Unwanted Startup Programs
As you add software to your PC, the number of programs that automatically start with Windows get bigger and bigger. You probably don't need all these programs running all the time; they just eat up memory and increase the chances of a software conflict. To remove the ones you don't want:
1. Go to Start | Run and type msconfig in the text box shown in the figure below. This brings up the System Configuration Utility.
As you add software to your PC, the number of programs that automatically start with Windows get bigger and bigger. You probably don't need all these programs running all the time; they just eat up memory and increase the chances of a software conflict. To remove the ones you don't want:
1. Go to Start | Run and type msconfig in the text box shown in the figure below. This brings up the System Configuration Utility.
Type msconfig to start Windows' System Configuration Utility.
2. Select the Startup tab. You'll see a list of all the programs that automatically start with Windows. Remove the check in the box next to a program name, and that program won't start with Windows.
Disable any programs that you don't need or don't recognize by removing the check from the adjacent box.
3. Click the Enable All or Disable All buttons to do just that.
4. If you're unsure what a particular program does, look under Command for the location of the program file.
5. Pick the programs you want to disable, or click Enable All or Disable All to manipulate all the programs at once. Remember, you can always start a disabled program manually from the Start | All Programs menu or by finding the program's executable file in Windows Explorer and double-clicking it.
6. Reboot your computer to compete the process.
Keep Windows Up to Date
Microsoft is constantly issuing updates to fix bugs, security holes, and problems. Updating your Windows files is one of the most effective ways to keep your PC running smoothly and safe from unwanted intruders.
1. Click Start | Help and Support. Under Pick A Task click Keep Your Computer Up-To-Date With Windows Update.
2. Windows will scan your PC and offer you two choices. Pick Express Install to install critical updates or Custom Install to install some or all of the available updates.
Select Express Install for the most important Windows updates.
3. Windows can automatically download updates and alert you when they're ready to install. To enable this, go to Start | Control Panel | System and select the Automatic Updates tab. Select Download Updates For Me, But Let Me Choose When To Install Them.
3. Windows can automatically download updates and alert you when they're ready to install. To enable this, go to Start | Control Panel | System and select the Automatic Updates tab. Select Download Updates For Me, But Let Me Choose When To Install Them.
Set your PC to automatically update Windows
Improve your PC Performance-1
Over a period of time, Windows XP tends to get clogged up with extra files and programs that can slow down your computer's performance and cause your computer to behave strangely or even stop working altogether. Here's how to keep Windows running smoothly.
Delete Unwanted Files and Programs
Windows Disk Cleanup Utility keeps your hard drive free of unneeded files and programs, frees disk space, and can even speed up PC performance.
1. Click Start | All Programs | Accessories | System Tools | Disk Cleanup to start the utility.
2. Select the hard drive you want to clean from the pull-down menu and click OK.
3. It may take a while for Windows to scan the disk. When done, Windows displays the categories of files it deems suitable for deletion.
Delete Unwanted Files and Programs
Windows Disk Cleanup Utility keeps your hard drive free of unneeded files and programs, frees disk space, and can even speed up PC performance.
1. Click Start | All Programs | Accessories | System Tools | Disk Cleanup to start the utility.
2. Select the hard drive you want to clean from the pull-down menu and click OK.
3. It may take a while for Windows to scan the disk. When done, Windows displays the categories of files it deems suitable for deletion.
Be patient. This box means Windows is analyzing the hard drive.
4. Click a category to see a description of the selected files to be deleted. If you want to see a list of the individual files in a category, click View Files.
4. Click a category to see a description of the selected files to be deleted. If you want to see a list of the individual files in a category, click View Files.
Pick a category and click View Files to see all the files and folders to be deleted.
5. Double-check to ensure you're not deleting any important files, especially those in the Recycle Bin.
Check the files and folders in each category before deleting, especially those in the Recycle Bin.
6. Click the More Options tab to remove even more files.
7. When you're ready, click OK to begin the cleanup process.
6. Click the More Options tab to remove even more files.
7. When you're ready, click OK to begin the cleanup process.
Apple TV - Wow!!
Apple is now shipping Apple TV, an easy to use device that wirelessly play iTunes content from a PC or Mac on a widescreen TV, including movies, TV shows, music, photos and podcasts. With Apple TV’s new interface, people can browse and view their entire collection of digital media from across the room using the simple Apple Remote.
The company says Apple TV is like a DVD player for the Internet age. The device wirelessly connects to a home network through the new WiFi 802.11n.
The company says Apple TV is like a DVD player for the Internet age. The device wirelessly connects to a home network through the new WiFi 802.11n.
The Apple TV is much smaller than a standard DVD player.
The seamless integration of Apple TV and iTunes lets users choose from over 400 movies and 350 TV shows in near DVD quality; over four million songs; 5,000 music videos; 100,000 podcasts; and 20,000 audiobooks from the iTunes Store.
The seamless integration of Apple TV and iTunes lets users choose from over 400 movies and 350 TV shows in near DVD quality; over four million songs; 5,000 music videos; 100,000 podcasts; and 20,000 audiobooks from the iTunes Store.
The Apple TV remote is the same one that ships with iMacs.
Apple TV has a 40GB hard drive to store up to 50 hours of video, 9,000 songs, 25,000 photos or a combination of each and is capable of delivering high-definition 720p output. It comes standard with HDMI, component video, analog and optical audio ports. Using high-speed AirPort 802.11 wireless networking, Apple TV can auto-sync content from one computer or stream content from up to five additional computers.
Apple TV has a 40GB hard drive to store up to 50 hours of video, 9,000 songs, 25,000 photos or a combination of each and is capable of delivering high-definition 720p output. It comes standard with HDMI, component video, analog and optical audio ports. Using high-speed AirPort 802.11 wireless networking, Apple TV can auto-sync content from one computer or stream content from up to five additional computers.
The entire backside of the Apple TV is jammed full of ports--but none for connecting to older TVs.
It is available for a suggested retail price of US$299 (Rs 13,061).
It is available for a suggested retail price of US$299 (Rs 13,061).
(Video) Why u should not cross railway tracks
Video shows a couple who narrowly avoid getting crushed to death, while crossing railway tracks. Please use overhead footbridges for crossing.
Nokia introduces latest N95 GPS cellphone
The N95 has been described as probably the best equipped handheld device on the market anywhere and according to one report a leading UK retailer is restricting buyers to one unit when the N95 goes on sale on 1 April for 550 Euros ($732) unsubsidized.
N95 is all-in-one multimedia computer with a unique 2-way slide design and features a 5 megapixel camera with Carl Zeiss optics, integrated GPS functionality, and support for high speed mobile networks. It is easy to watch / record videos, listen to songs, take high quality photos, browse the Internet, or catch up on email while on-the-fly.
The N95 is a 3G WCDMA device with support HSDPA, WiFi and EDGE networks. It runs Nokia's S60 software on Symbian OS, enabling users customize their device from amongst a wide range of compatible downloadable applications.
N95 is all-in-one multimedia computer with a unique 2-way slide design and features a 5 megapixel camera with Carl Zeiss optics, integrated GPS functionality, and support for high speed mobile networks. It is easy to watch / record videos, listen to songs, take high quality photos, browse the Internet, or catch up on email while on-the-fly.
The N95 is a 3G WCDMA device with support HSDPA, WiFi and EDGE networks. It runs Nokia's S60 software on Symbian OS, enabling users customize their device from amongst a wide range of compatible downloadable applications.
The N95’s 5-megapixel digital camera for picture and video tops previous-generation Nseries models 3-megapixel shooters. Tele Atlas provides the digital map data and dynamic location content for the handset, which includes free basic mapping and routing functionalities to initiate local searches for more than 100 countries and over 15 million points of interest.
When the N95 is in media mode, the 2.6-inch 240 x 320 pixel (QVGA) and 16 million color display is automatically placed into landscape mode. Built-in stereo speakers offer a 3D stereo effect, plus there's a standard 3.5 mm audio jack for headphones, a microSD slot for storage expansion, and mini USB for data transfers. Bluetooth with A2DP allows users to leverage wireless stereo headsets as well.
Users can record and playback VGA video at 30 fps with digital image stabilization. There's also TV out and support for MP3, AAC, M4A, and WMA audio files.
The GPS functionality works with the Nokia Maps application (www.smart2go.com) that includes maps for more than 150 countries. According to Nokia, these enable users to explore the world, find specific routes or locate services such as restaurants and hotels and cove more than 15 million points of interest. Users can also purchase additional features, such as city guides and voice guided navigation.
When the N95 is in media mode, the 2.6-inch 240 x 320 pixel (QVGA) and 16 million color display is automatically placed into landscape mode. Built-in stereo speakers offer a 3D stereo effect, plus there's a standard 3.5 mm audio jack for headphones, a microSD slot for storage expansion, and mini USB for data transfers. Bluetooth with A2DP allows users to leverage wireless stereo headsets as well.
Users can record and playback VGA video at 30 fps with digital image stabilization. There's also TV out and support for MP3, AAC, M4A, and WMA audio files.
The GPS functionality works with the Nokia Maps application (www.smart2go.com) that includes maps for more than 150 countries. According to Nokia, these enable users to explore the world, find specific routes or locate services such as restaurants and hotels and cove more than 15 million points of interest. Users can also purchase additional features, such as city guides and voice guided navigation.
There's also Wi-Fi, 160 MB of memory, and the new Nokia Web Browser with Mini Map for an improved Internet experience. We'll be publishing a detailed review of this browser in the near future.
The N95 weighs 4.2 ounces (120 grams) and measures 4.0 x 2.0 x 0.7 inches (99 x 53 x 19 millimeters).
The N95 will be launched in India next month.
The N95 weighs 4.2 ounces (120 grams) and measures 4.0 x 2.0 x 0.7 inches (99 x 53 x 19 millimeters).
The N95 will be launched in India next month.
What a kid!!!
Years ago, footage emerged from a remote village in India. The video shows a young girl receiving surgery to separate her fingers, which were badly burned and fused together. Why did this operation make headlines around the world? The surgery was performed by a 7-year-old boy named Akrit Jaswal.
Now 13 years old, Akrit has an IQ of 146 and is considered the smartest person his age in India—a country of more than a billion people. Before Akrit could even speak, his parents say they knew he was special.
"He learned very fast," says Raksha, Akrit's mother. "After learning the alphabet, we started to teach him joining of words, and he started writing as well. He was two."
At an age when most children are learning their ABCs, Akrit was reading Shakespeare and assembling a library of medical textbooks. When he was 5 years old, he enrolled in school. One year later, Akrit was teaching English and math classes.
"He learned very fast," says Raksha, Akrit's mother. "After learning the alphabet, we started to teach him joining of words, and he started writing as well. He was two."
At an age when most children are learning their ABCs, Akrit was reading Shakespeare and assembling a library of medical textbooks. When he was 5 years old, he enrolled in school. One year later, Akrit was teaching English and math classes.
Akrit developed a passion for science and anatomy at an early age. Doctors at local hospitals took notice and started allowing him to observe surgeries when he was 6 years old. Inspired by what he saw, Akrit read everything he could on the topic. When an impoverished family heard about his amazing abilities, they asked if he would operate on their daughter for free. Her surgery was a success. Akrit, 13, is searching for a cure for cancer.
After the surgery, Akrit was hailed as a medical genius in India. Neighbors and strangers flocked to him for advice and treatment. At age 11, Akrit was admitted to Punjab University. He's the youngest student ever to attend an Indian university. That same year, he was also invited to London's famed Imperial College to exchange ideas with scientists on the cutting edge of medical research.
Akrit says he has millions of medical ideas, but he's currently focused on developing a cure for cancer. "I've developed a concept called oral gene therapy on the basis of my research and my theories," he says. "I'm quite dedicated towards working on this mechanism."
After the surgery, Akrit was hailed as a medical genius in India. Neighbors and strangers flocked to him for advice and treatment. At age 11, Akrit was admitted to Punjab University. He's the youngest student ever to attend an Indian university. That same year, he was also invited to London's famed Imperial College to exchange ideas with scientists on the cutting edge of medical research.
Akrit says he has millions of medical ideas, but he's currently focused on developing a cure for cancer. "I've developed a concept called oral gene therapy on the basis of my research and my theories," he says. "I'm quite dedicated towards working on this mechanism."
Growing up, Akrit says he used to see cancer patients lying on the side of the road because they couldn't afford treatment or hospitals had no space for them. Now, he wants to use his intellect to ease their suffering. "I've been going to hospitals since the age of 6, so I have seen firsthand people suffering from pain," he says. "I get very sad, and so that's the main motive of my passion about medicine, my passion about cancer."
Currently, Akrit is working toward a bachelor's degrees in zoology, botany and chemistry. Someday, he hopes to continue his studies at Harvard University.
Currently, Akrit is working toward a bachelor's degrees in zoology, botany and chemistry. Someday, he hopes to continue his studies at Harvard University.
Car that runs on air-2
The car
1. The end product is a light weigh vehicle that can reach speeds up to 220 kmph.
2. MDI's vehicle's have fibreglass bodies which makes them light, silent urban car. The car's body is tubular, light weight, and is held together using aerospace technology.
3. The vehicles do not have normal speed gauges. Instead, they will have a small computer screen that shows the speed and engine revolutions. The system allows for infinite possibilities such as GSM telephone systems, GPS satellite tracking systems, programs for delivery people, emergency systems, internet connections, voice recognitions, map presentation, traffic information, etc.
4. The seatbelt system is different from what we know. One part of the belt is anchored to the floor of the car, like traditional cars. The other part of the belt, in stead of being attached to the side of the car, is also anchored to the floor of the vehicle.
5. The vehicle's electric system is also revolutionary. MDI has bought a patent that is bound to reduce the importanceof electrical systems in all cars. The trick consists in using a small radio signal. The system makes the car 20 kilos lighter and considerably quieter.
6. There are no keys - just an access card that can be read by the car from your pocket.
7. In the single energy mode MDI cars consume around Rs 45 every 100 km.
8. When there is no combustion, there is no pollution.
9. The vehicle's range is close to twice that of the most advanced electric cars (from 200 to 300 km or 8 hours of circulation).
10. The recharging of the car will be done at gas stations, once the market is developed. To fill the tanks it will take about to 2 to 3 minutes at a price of Rs 90. After refilling the car will be ready to drive for 200 kms.
11. The car also has a small compressor that can be connected to an electrical network (220V or 380V) and will recharged the tanks completely in 3 or 4 hours.
12. Because the engine does not burn any fuel, oil has to be changed only after every 50,000 km.
13. The temperature of the clean air expulsed form the exhaust pipe is between 0 and 15 degrees below zero and can be subsequently channelled and used for air conditioning in the interior of the car.
MiniCAT
The smallest and most innovative: three seats, minimal dimensions with the boot of a saloon: a great challenge for such a small car which runs on compressed air. The MiniCAT is the city car of the future.
Specifications:
Airbag, air conditioning, ABS, 3 seats, 1.5 m3.
Dimensions: 2.65m, 1.62m, 1.64m
Weight: 750 kg
Maximum speed: 110 kmh
Mileage: 200 - 300 km
Maximum load: 270 Kg
Recharging time: 4 hours (Mains connector)
Recarge: 3 minutes (Air station)
Airbag, air conditioning, ABS, 3 seats, 1.5 m3.
Dimensions: 2.65m, 1.62m, 1.64m
Weight: 750 kg
Maximum speed: 110 kmh
Mileage: 200 - 300 km
Maximum load: 270 Kg
Recharging time: 4 hours (Mains connector)
Recarge: 3 minutes (Air station)
CityCAT
A spacious car with seats which can face different directions. The vehicle's design is based on the needs of a typical family.
Characteristics:
Airbag, air conditioning, 6 seats.
Dimensions: 3.84m, 1.72m, 1.75m
Weight: 750 kg
Maximum speed: 110 kmh
Mileage: 200 - 300 km
Max load: 500 Kg
Recharge time: 4 hours (Mains connector)
Recharge time: 3 minutes (Air station)
Car that runs on air-1
Tata Motors has signed an agreement with Moteur Development International (MDI) of France to develop a car that runs on compressed air, thus making it very economical to run and be almost totally pollution free. Although there is no official word on when the car will be commercially manufactured for India, reports say that it will be sooner than later.
The car, MiniCAT, could cost around Rs 350,000 in India and would have a range of around 300 km between refuels. The cost of a refill would be about Rs 90.
The technology that MDI vehicles use is not really new. Compressed air technology allows for engines that are both non-polluting and economical. After ten years of research and development, MDI is prepared to introduce its clean vehicles onto the market. Unlike electric or hydrogen powered vehicles, MDI vehicles are not expensive and do not have a limited driving range. MDI cars are affordable and have a performance rate that stands up to current standards. They are non-expensive cars that do not pollute and are easy to get around in.
Two technologies have been developed to meet different needs:
* Single energy compressed air engines.
* Dual energy compressed air plus fuel engines.
The single energy engines will be available in both MiniCATs and CityCATs. These engines have been conceived for city use, where the maximum speed is 50 km/h and where MDI believes polluting will soon be prohibited.
* Single energy compressed air engines.
* Dual energy compressed air plus fuel engines.
The single energy engines will be available in both MiniCATs and CityCATs. These engines have been conceived for city use, where the maximum speed is 50 km/h and where MDI believes polluting will soon be prohibited.
The dual energy engine, on the other hand, has been conceived as much for the city as the open road and will be available in all MDI vehicles. The engines will work exclusively with compressed air while it is running under 50 km/h in urban areas. But when the car is used outside urban areas at speeds over 50 km/h, the engines will switch to fuel mode. The engine will be able to use gasoline, gas oil, bio diesel, gas, liquidized gas, ecological fuel, alcohol, etc.
Both engines will be available with 2, 4 and 6 cylinders, When the air tanks are empty the driver will be able to switch to fuel mode, thanks to the car's on board computer.
Working of the car
MDI explains that 90m3 of compressed air is stored in fibre tanks. The engine is powered by compressed air, stored in a carbon-fiber tank at 30 MPa (4500 psi). The tank is made of carbon-fiber in order to reduce its weight. The engine has injection similar to normal engines, but uses special crankshafts and pistons, which remain at top dead center for about 70 degrees of the crankshaft's cycle; this allows more power to be developed in the engine.
The expansion of this air pushes the pistons and creates movement. The atmospheric temperature is used to re-heat the engine and increase the road coverage. The air conditioning system makes use of the expelled cold air. Due to the absence of combustion and the fact there is no pollution, the oil change is only necessary every 50,000 km.
MDI explains that 90m3 of compressed air is stored in fibre tanks. The engine is powered by compressed air, stored in a carbon-fiber tank at 30 MPa (4500 psi). The tank is made of carbon-fiber in order to reduce its weight. The engine has injection similar to normal engines, but uses special crankshafts and pistons, which remain at top dead center for about 70 degrees of the crankshaft's cycle; this allows more power to be developed in the engine.
The expansion of this air pushes the pistons and creates movement. The atmospheric temperature is used to re-heat the engine and increase the road coverage. The air conditioning system makes use of the expelled cold air. Due to the absence of combustion and the fact there is no pollution, the oil change is only necessary every 50,000 km.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)