Archive for the 'Geeky Stuff' Category

VPNs for Social Networking in China

Friday, November 13th, 2009

While living in China is a cultural treat, it can be also become a huge headache particularly if you’re going to use the internet there. Unfortunately, the country doesn’t only have practically every social networking and video sharing site in the English language blocked, the blank rectangles on virtually every website you try to visit is like a mocking reminder that a photo or video has hit the Great Firewall. You’re not getting the complete internet experience – just the heavily-edited bits of it. It’s like trying to enjoy a lukewarm coffee.

A paid VPN or virtual private network poses the best solution for those who are in countries that implement serious web filtering such as Iran, Turkey, Saudi Arabia and China, of course. But there are actually 18 of these countries and states that have web police on 24/7 rounds on the internet. Free VPNs might work but they can still get easily blocked by the internet police and you have next to no customer support option to help you.

VPNs offer a great solution to sidestepping net censorship but if you’re going with a paid service, you might as well be more particular on how long the provider can actually get around the web police. All VPNs attempt this by routing the internet connection through their dedicated linux servers which are based in other countries. The servers are usually located in the US, Europe and probably in freer parts of Southeast Asia. These virtual private networks are ideally backed by sufficient customer service which probably explains why you have to pay for them.

Windshield Replacement Service

Tuesday, November 3rd, 2009

The most frustrating experiences of owning a car is when you need to replace or fix a chipped windscreen. Windscreen replacement is not an easy task; it involves strength, a steady hand, and a willingness to follow instructions cautiously.

All cars are unique, but in general, loosening the urethane that supports the windscreen in place will be the first step, then cautiously lifting it out. Next, the left over urethane must be cleared away with a utility knife to make room for the windshield replacement. It is then affixed in place with the added security of bolts to keep it in place. The most important step is to make sure that the new urethane seal is put in place the right way, because any outflows can cause wind to enter the car, completely ruining the experience of driving.

If you discover a chip on the windshield, it may be feasible to repair it. windscreen repair is a considerably easier process. All auto parts store these days have repair kits, and involves sealing the chip with resin. The resin dries clear, and once the procedure is finished, it is almost impossible to notice that the windscreen was ever chipped. The repair kits can often be unreliable for fixing large cracks, however, and can sometimes make the problem worse, requiring a replacement. This job is generally better left to professionals.

If you decide to let a professional handle your windscreen repair or replacement, you may be delighted to find that very often you do not need to bring your car to the garage. Many repair companies offer mobile services, which can be completed in a matter of an hour or less, even if the windshield needs to be replaced completely. Mobile windscreen repair services are able to perform the service at your home, or at work, making the process an extremely convenient one.