Someone - Stephen, maybe? - suggested that I look at a Wacom tablet to 
deal with an issue I have with writing (really bad cramps in my right 
hand).  I had a chance to try out a Graphire tablet last week and really 
liked it - so I've now bought an Intuos4 medium tablet.

I *really* like this.  Took a couple hours to get configured correctly on 
my Linux systems (the latest driver supports the Intuos4, which is 
relatively new), but it works *great*.

The next problem I have to solve is finding a good clear space on my desk 
for it.

Thanks for the suggestion!

Jim

Post a reply to this message

On 17 Sep 2009 12:14:04 -0400, Jim Henderson <nos### [at] nospamcom> wrote:

>Someone - Stephen, maybe? - suggested that I look at a Wacom tablet to 
>deal with an issue I have with writing (really bad cramps in my right 
>hand).  I had a chance to try out a Graphire tablet last week and really 
>liked it - so I've now bought an Intuos4 medium tablet.
>
>I *really* like this.  Took a couple hours to get configured correctly on 
>my Linux systems (the latest driver supports the Intuos4, which is 
>relatively new), but it works *great*.
>
>The next problem I have to solve is finding a good clear space on my desk 
>for it.
>
>Thanks for the suggestion!
>

My pleasure :)

I found that for everyday use the small tablet is better. I have an A3 sizes one
and seldom use it. Even on my small tablet I only use a small rectangle for
navigating, about the size of a laptop touchpad.

Don't be afraid of not using the whole area.
-- 

Regards
     Stephen

Post a reply to this message

On Thu, 17 Sep 2009 18:29:14 +0100, Stephen wrote:

> My pleasure :)
> 
> I found that for everyday use the small tablet is better. I have an A3
> sizes one and seldom use it. Even on my small tablet I only use a small
> rectangle for navigating, about the size of a laptop touchpad.
> 
> Don't be afraid of not using the whole area.

I opted for the medium one largely for the OLED labels (which of course I 
can't use in Linux yet) and the additional buttons that are provided.  
Finding space on my desk has been a challenge.

Getting the Linux drivers working didn't take very long once I stopped 
trying to configure options that didn't make sense - like the "mode" for 
the pad buttons being "absolute" or "relative" - no meaning, and X didn't 
like me setting that option at all.

It was interesting to me as well that it sent through actual keystrokes 
for the button press - CTL+ALT+SHIFT+F1 dumped me to tty1.  Caught me by 
surprise because I was expecting Firefox to launch. ;-)

I'm no artist, just been spending time playing in the Gimp and Inkscape.  
And Xournal, which is a pretty neat app for just doodling.  I may even 
take my whiteboard down now. :-)  (But I doubt it)

Jim

Post a reply to this message

Stephen wrote:

> Don't be afraid of not using the whole area.

OK, now I'm puzzled... Tablets use absolute positioning. So how do you 
only use a small area?

-- 
http://blog.orphi.me.uk/
http://www.zazzle.com/MathematicalOrchid*

Post a reply to this message

Orchid XP v8 wrote:
> Stephen wrote:
> 
>> Don't be afraid of not using the whole area.
> 
> OK, now I'm puzzled... Tablets use absolute positioning. So how do you 
> only use a small area?
> 

Two ways: I have mine set to match my monitor's aspect ratio, and you 
can also set it to relative mode, or mouse mode.

-- 
~Mike

Post a reply to this message

On Thu, 17 Sep 2009 20:38:07 +0100, Orchid XP v8 wrote:

> OK, now I'm puzzled... Tablets use absolute positioning. So how do you
> only use a small area?

Because tablets don't use absolute positioning.  The Wacom driver for all 
platforms (Linux, Windows, and Mac) lets you choose whether you're using 
absolute or relative positioning.

In fact, the Wacom tablets let you set this depending on the tool you're 
using.  So when I'm using the cordless mouse, it uses relative 
positioning (so I can move off the edge of my screen and onto the next 
system the way I always have), but the stylus and eraser are configured 
for absolute positioning.

You can also configure the area, and even can configure within some 
applications for "Window" or "Screen" mode (meaning the area applies only 
to the current window or to the entire screen).

Jim

Post a reply to this message

On Thu, 17 Sep 2009 20:38:07 +0100, Orchid XP v8 <voi### [at] devnull> wrote:

>Stephen wrote:
>
>> Don't be afraid of not using the whole area.
>
>OK, now I'm puzzled... Tablets use absolute positioning. So how do you 
>only use a small area?

Map a small area to the full screen area.

Think of moving a mouse the actual distance the cursor moves onscreen. Not very
ergonomic is it? For quick movements I can map the screen diagonal to be a
couple of inches movement on the tablet. That means that I can keep the heal of
my hand stationary and just move my thumb and forefinger for the courser to
transverse the whole of the screen. If I want a fine control, by tapping a
button on the tablet I can toggle to the whole tablet to being the area of the
screen. 
Also I can use gestures for keyboard functions. If I draw a line that is down
then right I get an "Enter" action, a capital P prints, a cap S saves the
document etc.
 
-- 

Regards
     Stephen

Post a reply to this message

On 17 Sep 2009 15:15:21 -0400, Jim Henderson <nos### [at] nospamcom> wrote:

>
>I'm no artist, just been spending time playing in the Gimp and Inkscape.  
>And Xournal, which is a pretty neat app for just doodling.  I may even 
>take my whiteboard down now. :-)  (But I doubt it)

Practicing signatures is fun as is using a pressure sensitive drawing package. 
-- 

Regards
     Stephen

Post a reply to this message

On Thu, 17 Sep 2009 23:49:11 +0100, Stephen wrote:

> On 17 Sep 2009 15:15:21 -0400, Jim Henderson <nos### [at] nospamcom> wrote:
> 
> 
>>I'm no artist, just been spending time playing in the Gimp and Inkscape.
>>And Xournal, which is a pretty neat app for just doodling.  I may even
>>take my whiteboard down now. :-)  (But I doubt it)
> 
> Practicing signatures is fun as is using a pressure sensitive drawing
> package.

Yeah, the Gimp picks that up - and contrary to the linuxwacom web page's 
assertion, the current release of Gimp understands tilt as well (when 
applied through the calligraphy tool).

One nice use (in conjunction with an online meeting tool) is something 
that behaves a lot more like a whiteboard.  It's so difficult to "write" 
with a mouse.  If I were still teaching, this would be a great way to 
handle drawing diagrams for the class.

Jim

Post a reply to this message

On 17 Sep 2009 19:15:22 -0400, Jim Henderson <nos### [at] nospamcom> wrote:

>> Practicing signatures is fun as is using a pressure sensitive drawing
>> package.
>
>Yeah, the Gimp picks that up - and contrary to the linuxwacom web page's 
>assertion, the current release of Gimp understands tilt as well (when 
>applied through the calligraphy tool).
>

I've not used mine for about 6 months as I've been meaning to send my laptop off
for repair. I did not bother installing the software after my last system crash
and reinstall.

>One nice use (in conjunction with an online meeting tool) is something 
>that behaves a lot more like a whiteboard.  It's so difficult to "write" 
>with a mouse.  If I were still teaching, this would be a great way to 
>handle drawing diagrams for the class.

With out a doubt.
-- 

Regards
     Stephen

Post a reply to this message

On Fri, 18 Sep 2009 11:02:19 +0100, Stephen wrote:

>>Yeah, the Gimp picks that up - and contrary to the linuxwacom web page's
>>assertion, the current release of Gimp understands tilt as well (when
>>applied through the calligraphy tool).
>>
>>
> I've not used mine for about 6 months as I've been meaning to send my
> laptop off for repair. I did not bother installing the software after my
> last system crash and reinstall.

I find I'm actually using both the touchpad and the tablet; the touchpad 
is on the keyboard tray, but the tablet's too big for the tray - so if I 
am working on something that uses the keyboard extensively, I'm tending 
not to use the tablet.  I definitely need to rearrange things on my desk 
a little. :-)

And a wrist-rest would probably also be useful, as I otherwise end up 
resting my hand on the edge of the desk, which is glass.

Jim

Post a reply to this message

On 18 Sep 2009 14:30:02 -0400, Jim Henderson <nos### [at] nospamcom> wrote:

>
>I find I'm actually using both the touchpad and the tablet; the touchpad 
>is on the keyboard tray, but the tablet's too big for the tray - so if I 
>am working on something that uses the keyboard extensively, I'm tending 
>not to use the tablet.  I definitely need to rearrange things on my desk 
>a little. :-)
>

I found that too so I bought a smaller one. I used ebay so it was not too
expensive.

>And a wrist-rest would probably also be useful, as I otherwise end up 
>resting my hand on the edge of the desk, which is glass.

Yes, I've found that too especially at work as I move from project to project.
In the meantime you can use a small folded hand towel. I know that we all carry
one ;)
-- 

Regards
     Stephen

Post a reply to this message

On Sat, 19 Sep 2009 09:12:50 +0100, Stephen wrote:

> On 18 Sep 2009 14:30:02 -0400, Jim Henderson <nos### [at] nospamcom> wrote:
> 
> 
>>I find I'm actually using both the touchpad and the tablet; the touchpad
>>is on the keyboard tray, but the tablet's too big for the tray - so if I
>>am working on something that uses the keyboard extensively, I'm tending
>>not to use the tablet.  I definitely need to rearrange things on my desk
>>a little. :-)
>>
>>
> I found that too so I bought a smaller one. I used ebay so it was not
> too expensive.

In my case it's not that the desk isn't big enough, just that there's too 
much clutter.  Maybe I'll clean it up this afternoon. :-)

>>And a wrist-rest would probably also be useful, as I otherwise end up
>>resting my hand on the edge of the desk, which is glass.
> 
> Yes, I've found that too especially at work as I move from project to
> project. In the meantime you can use a small folded hand towel. I know
> that we all carry one ;)

Hey, that's a good idea, and I have one right here...of course, it's 
autographed so I probably don't want to use it for that... ;-)

Jim

Post a reply to this message

On 19 Sep 2009 14:46:45 -0400, Jim Henderson <nos### [at] nospamcom> wrote:

>
>In my case it's not that the desk isn't big enough, just that there's too 
>much clutter.  Maybe I'll clean it up this afternoon. :-)
>

And did you? :P

>>>And a wrist-rest would probably also be useful, as I otherwise end up
>>>resting my hand on the edge of the desk, which is glass.
>> 
>> Yes, I've found that too especially at work as I move from project to
>> project. In the meantime you can use a small folded hand towel. I know
>> that we all carry one ;)
>
>Hey, that's a good idea, and I have one right here...of course, it's 
>autographed so I probably don't want to use it for that... ;-)

Show off ;)
-- 

Regards
     Stephen

Post a reply to this message

On Sat, 19 Sep 2009 23:48:28 +0100, Stephen wrote:

> On 19 Sep 2009 14:46:45 -0400, Jim Henderson <nos### [at] nospamcom> wrote:
> 
> 
>>In my case it's not that the desk isn't big enough, just that there's
>>too much clutter.  Maybe I'll clean it up this afternoon. :-)
>>
>>
> And did you? :P

Not yet. ;)

>>>>And a wrist-rest would probably also be useful, as I otherwise end up
>>>>resting my hand on the edge of the desk, which is glass.
>>> 
>>> Yes, I've found that too especially at work as I move from project to
>>> project. In the meantime you can use a small folded hand towel. I know
>>> that we all carry one ;)
>>
>>Hey, that's a good idea, and I have one right here...of course, it's
>>autographed so I probably don't want to use it for that... ;-)
> 
> Show off ;)

At least *someone's* impressed by it. ;-)

Jim

Post a reply to this message

On 19 Sep 2009 19:30:05 -0400, Jim Henderson <nos### [at] nospamcom> wrote:

>
>Not yet. ;)
>

Tsk! Tsk!

>>>Hey, that's a good idea, and I have one right here...of course, it's
>>>autographed so I probably don't want to use it for that... ;-)
>> 
>> Show off ;)
>
>At least *someone's* impressed by it. ;-)

Don't panic :-)
-- 

Regards
     Stephen

Post a reply to this message

On Sun, 20 Sep 2009 08:20:37 +0100, Stephen wrote:

> On 19 Sep 2009 19:30:05 -0400, Jim Henderson <nos### [at] nospamcom> wrote:
> 
> 
>>Not yet. ;)
>>
>>
> Tsk! Tsk!

Ended up with other things on my mind....like not being able to get the 
key out of my car's ignition today.  With it stuck in the "Accessory" 
position - can't turn it on fully, can't turn it off fully. :-(

And some work related stuff that's keeping me awake tonight.

>>>>Hey, that's a good idea, and I have one right here...of course, it's
>>>>autographed so I probably don't want to use it for that... ;-)
>>> 
>>> Show off ;)
>>
>>At least *someone's* impressed by it. ;-)
> 
> Don't panic :-)

Indeed. :-)

Jim

Post a reply to this message

On 20 Sep 2009 04:35:58 -0400, Jim Henderson <nos### [at] nospamcom> wrote:

>Ended up with other things on my mind....like not being able to get the 
>key out of my car's ignition today.  With it stuck in the "Accessory" 
>position - can't turn it on fully, can't turn it off fully. :-(
>

Never heard of that before. Did you get it working?

>And some work related stuff that's keeping me awake tonight.

The only time work keeps me awake was when I worked offshore or when I couldn't
find any. :(
-- 

Regards
     Stephen

Post a reply to this message

On Sun, 20 Sep 2009 10:16:54 +0100, Stephen wrote:

> On 20 Sep 2009 04:35:58 -0400, Jim Henderson <nos### [at] nospamcom> wrote:
> 
>>Ended up with other things on my mind....like not being able to get the
>>key out of my car's ignition today.  With it stuck in the "Accessory"
>>position - can't turn it on fully, can't turn it off fully. :-(
>>
>>
> Never heard of that before. Did you get it working?

Nope.  Gotta have it towed to the dealer, probably to replace the 
ignition switch cylinder.  The car is 10 years old, and things wear out.  
But I can't have that looked at by the dealer until Monday.

>>And some work related stuff that's keeping me awake tonight.
> 
> The only time work keeps me awake was when I worked offshore or when I
> couldn't find any. :(

There are days I wish I could just switch my mind off; today's one of 
those days.  Trying to explain what I see as a bad decision to people who 
have authority but only a few years' experience with the company's 
history (compared to 20+ years for me in various capacities - customer, 
employee, and shareholder - though arguably not many shares, but enough 
to understand that the decision is bad for my share value) in a way that 
gets me listened to and doesn't make it personal is not easy.

Jim

Jim

Post a reply to this message

Jim Henderson wrote:
> The next problem I have to solve is finding a good clear space on my desk 
> for it.

Better yet, attach it to a hinged arm that you can swing wherever you 
want it to (and out of the way of the keyboard when needed).

-Mike

Post a reply to this message

On 20 Sep 2009 05:31:32 -0400, Jim Henderson <nos### [at] nospamcom> wrote:


>> Never heard of that before. Did you get it working?
>
>Nope.  Gotta have it towed to the dealer, probably to replace the 
>ignition switch cylinder.  The car is 10 years old, and things wear out.  
>But I can't have that looked at by the dealer until Monday.
>

Bummer :(

 
>> The only time work keeps me awake was when I worked offshore or when I
>> couldn't find any. :(
>
>There are days I wish I could just switch my mind off; today's one of 
>those days.  Trying to explain what I see as a bad decision to people who 
>have authority but only a few years' experience with the company's 
>history (compared to 20+ years for me in various capacities - customer, 
>employee, and shareholder - though arguably not many shares, but enough 
>to understand that the decision is bad for my share value) in a way that 
>gets me listened to and doesn't make it personal is not easy.
>

I see the problem but can't advise as that is not the sort of thing I'm good at.
I am good at saying "you should have listened to me." :-)

I've got a problem at my new job with authorities and user profiles. I'm
supposed to be copying the configuration of a SAP system to an upgraded system
(4.7 to ERP6). Besides the security clearance which will take at least another
week and the guy that I am replacing leaving on Tuesday. The access level
supplied (in a copy of the production system) is that of a technician who can
only create work orders but not process them. So how on earth can I see that
happens when I step through the processes to configure them similarly? I might
not last long ;-)

Anyway night, night :)
-- 

Regards
     Stephen

Post a reply to this message

On Sun, 20 Sep 2009 10:43:49 +0100, Stephen <mcavoysAT@aolDOTcom> wrote:

>So how on earth can I see that happens

What happens :)
-- 

Regards
     Stephen

Post a reply to this message

On Sun, 20 Sep 2009 10:43:49 +0100, Stephen wrote:

> On 20 Sep 2009 05:31:32 -0400, Jim Henderson <nos### [at] nospamcom> wrote:
> 
> 
>>> Never heard of that before. Did you get it working?
>>
>>Nope.  Gotta have it towed to the dealer, probably to replace the
>>ignition switch cylinder.  The car is 10 years old, and things wear out.
>>But I can't have that looked at by the dealer until Monday.
>>
> Bummer :(

Yeah.  Having done a little research online, looks like the part is about 
$75 and should take less than an hour to replace, complete with 
rekeying.  But if the dealership doesn't have the part, I may not be able 
to drive to the office on Weds (and I need to do that).

>>> The only time work keeps me awake was when I worked offshore or when I
>>> couldn't find any. :(
>>
>>There are days I wish I could just switch my mind off; today's one of
>>those days.  Trying to explain what I see as a bad decision to people
>>who have authority but only a few years' experience with the company's
>>history (compared to 20+ years for me in various capacities - customer,
>>employee, and shareholder - though arguably not many shares, but enough
>>to understand that the decision is bad for my share value) in a way that
>>gets me listened to and doesn't make it personal is not easy.
>>
>>
> I see the problem but can't advise as that is not the sort of thing I'm
> good at. I am good at saying "you should have listened to me." :-)

Historically I've been quite good at that as well, but I'm trying to 
translate that skill to a more proactive (and hopefully thus *useful*) 
place.  The good news is that after one round of e-mails with two of our 
top execs, I still have a job.  I must've done something right. ;-)

> I've got a problem at my new job with authorities and user profiles. I'm
> supposed to be copying the configuration of a SAP system to an upgraded
> system (4.7 to ERP6). Besides the security clearance which will take at
> least another week and the guy that I am replacing leaving on Tuesday.
> The access level supplied (in a copy of the production system) is that
> of a technician who can only create work orders but not process them. So
> how on earth can I see that happens when I step through the processes to
> configure them similarly? I might not last long ;-)

Ouch.  Security clearances are almost always a problem, aren't they?

> Anyway night, night :)

Eventually, 4 AM here now.

Jim

Post a reply to this message

On Sun, 20 Sep 2009 05:42:10 -0400, SharkD wrote:

> Jim Henderson wrote:
>> The next problem I have to solve is finding a good clear space on my
>> desk for it.
> 
> Better yet, attach it to a hinged arm that you can swing wherever you
> want it to (and out of the way of the keyboard when needed).

Not a bad idea; I have it sitting in front of my monitor right now, and 
have used it on my lap even (which was actually quite comfortable) - so 
maybe something where I could store it under the desk surface would do 
the trick.

Jim

Post a reply to this message

Jim Henderson <nos### [at] nospamcom> wrote:
> Not a bad idea; I have it sitting in front of my monitor right now, and 
> have used it on my lap even (which was actually quite comfortable) - so 
> maybe something where I could store it under the desk surface would do 
> the trick.

  A friend of mine has had bad experiences about using a tablet directly
on his lap. Namely, his tablet got broken, and the reason might be that he
used it so often on his lap that the bending forces might have broken it.
Some tablets might not have been designed to be used that way, but instead
on a flat surface.

  Maybe use some plywood or whatever on your lap and use the tablet on top
of it, to be safe.

-- 
                                                          - Warp

Post a reply to this message

On Sun, 20 Sep 2009 06:22:25 -0400, Warp wrote:

> Jim Henderson <nos### [at] nospamcom> wrote:
>> Not a bad idea; I have it sitting in front of my monitor right now, and
>> have used it on my lap even (which was actually quite comfortable) - so
>> maybe something where I could store it under the desk surface would do
>> the trick.
> 
>   A friend of mine has had bad experiences about using a tablet directly
> on his lap. Namely, his tablet got broken, and the reason might be that
> he used it so often on his lap that the bending forces might have broken
> it. Some tablets might not have been designed to be used that way, but
> instead on a flat surface.
> 
>   Maybe use some plywood or whatever on your lap and use the tablet on
>   top
> of it, to be safe.

Good thought, I probably wouldn't have thought of that.  I don't apply 
that much pressure to it, but it may not take a lot, and I'd hate to 
break something I paid $300 for....

Jim

Post a reply to this message

On 20 Sep 2009 06:15:14 -0400, Jim Henderson <nos### [at] nospamcom> wrote:

>> Bummer :(
>
>Yeah.  Having done a little research online, looks like the part is about 
>$75 and should take less than an hour to replace, complete with 
>rekeying.  But if the dealership doesn't have the part, I may not be able 
>to drive to the office on Weds (and I need to do that).
>

That's one of the advantage of living in a big city :D

>> I see the problem but can't advise as that is not the sort of thing I'm
>> good at. I am good at saying "you should have listened to me." :-)
>
>Historically I've been quite good at that as well, but I'm trying to 
>translate that skill to a more proactive (and hopefully thus *useful*) 
>place.  The good news is that after one round of e-mails with two of our 
>top execs, I still have a job.  I must've done something right. ;-)
>

If no one speaks out … :)

>
>Ouch.  Security clearances are almost always a problem, aren't they?
>

No, this is only the second job that I've had to have clearance. Normally I get
the authority I need just by asking. If my security clearance isn't high enough
to be given the knowledge to understand the processes then they should either be
raised or the company should get someone who has the clearance. It is not as if
I would ever work in the Middle East, anyway.

>> Anyway night, night :)
>
>Eventually, 4 AM here now.

Tomorrow's Sunday, no work. :)
-- 

Regards
     Stephen

Post a reply to this message

On 20 Sep 2009 06:16:10 -0400, Jim Henderson <nos### [at] nospamcom> wrote:

>On Sun, 20 Sep 2009 05:42:10 -0400, SharkD wrote:
>
>> Jim Henderson wrote:
>>> The next problem I have to solve is finding a good clear space on my
>>> desk for it.
>> 
>> Better yet, attach it to a hinged arm that you can swing wherever you
>> want it to (and out of the way of the keyboard when needed).
>
>Not a bad idea; I have it sitting in front of my monitor right now, and 
>have used it on my lap even (which was actually quite comfortable) - so 
>maybe something where I could store it under the desk surface would do 
>the trick.
>

I keep my big tablet under my keyboard.
-- 

Regards
     Stephen

Post a reply to this message

On Sun, 20 Sep 2009 12:04:10 +0100, Stephen wrote:

> On 20 Sep 2009 06:15:14 -0400, Jim Henderson <nos### [at] nospamcom> wrote:
> 
>>> Bummer :(
>>
>>Yeah.  Having done a little research online, looks like the part is
>>about $75 and should take less than an hour to replace, complete with
>>rekeying.  But if the dealership doesn't have the part, I may not be
>>able to drive to the office on Weds (and I need to do that).
>>
>>
> That's one of the advantage of living in a big city :D

Indeed.  I might go down to the auto parts store today and see if they 
have what I need and can walk me through the installation.

>>> I see the problem but can't advise as that is not the sort of thing
>>> I'm good at. I am good at saying "you should have listened to me." :-)
>>
>>Historically I've been quite good at that as well, but I'm trying to
>>translate that skill to a more proactive (and hopefully thus *useful*)
>>place.  The good news is that after one round of e-mails with two of our
>>top execs, I still have a job.  I must've done something right. ;-)
>>
>>
> If no one speaks out … :)

Exactly what I thought.

> 
>>Ouch.  Security clearances are almost always a problem, aren't they?
>>
>>
> No, this is only the second job that I've had to have clearance.
> Normally I get the authority I need just by asking. If my security
> clearance isn't high enough to be given the knowledge to understand the
> processes then they should either be raised or the company should get
> someone who has the clearance. It is not as if I would ever work in the
> Middle East, anyway.

Well, yeah, same thing here as well (I had to have a background security 
check before being employed by Novell since we deal with export-
controlled software), but I meant that getting them when needed tends to 
be a problem.  And of course getting turned down can be a severe career 
limiting move, since that shows up in the next background check....

>>> Anyway night, night :)
>>
>>Eventually, 4 AM here now.
> 
> Tomorrow's Sunday, no work. :)

Heh, I wish.  I seem to be saying that a lot today.  Gathering statistics 
and my thoughts for a discussion this coming week.  Finally starting to 
get tired, almost 6 AM now...

Jim

Post a reply to this message

On Sun, 20 Sep 2009 12:05:48 +0100, Stephen wrote:

> On 20 Sep 2009 06:16:10 -0400, Jim Henderson <nos### [at] nospamcom> wrote:
> 
>>On Sun, 20 Sep 2009 05:42:10 -0400, SharkD wrote:
>>
>>> Jim Henderson wrote:
>>>> The next problem I have to solve is finding a good clear space on my
>>>> desk for it.
>>> 
>>> Better yet, attach it to a hinged arm that you can swing wherever you
>>> want it to (and out of the way of the keyboard when needed).
>>
>>Not a bad idea; I have it sitting in front of my monitor right now, and
>>have used it on my lap even (which was actually quite comfortable) - so
>>maybe something where I could store it under the desk surface would do
>>the trick.
>>
>>
> I keep my big tablet under my keyboard.

That would make it difficult to use. ;-)

Jim

Post a reply to this message

On 20 Sep 2009 07:53:40 -0400, Jim Henderson <nos### [at] nospamcom> wrote:


>Indeed.  I might go down to the auto parts store today and see if they 
>have what I need and can walk me through the installation.
>

Sounds like a plan :D

>>>
>> If no one speaks out ? :)
>
>Exactly what I thought.
>

Right!

>Well, yeah, same thing here as well (I had to have a background security 
>check before being employed by Novell since we deal with export-
>controlled software), but I meant that getting them when needed tends to 
>be a problem.  And of course getting turned down can be a severe career 
>limiting move, since that shows up in the next background check....
>

We don't want to get two only semi related things mixed up. Personally I can't
see any reason why I shouldn't get clearance, it's not very high. But it is
talking the SAP security guys into understanding the situation in a way that
doesn't put their backs up. The very tight timeline and fixed price budget is a
concern.

>>>> Anyway night, night :)
>>>
>>>Eventually, 4 AM here now.
>> 
>> Tomorrow's Sunday, no work. :)
>
>Heh, I wish.  I seem to be saying that a lot today.  Gathering statistics 
>and my thoughts for a discussion this coming week.  Finally starting to 
>get tired, almost 6 AM now...
>

One o'clock here. -_-
-- 

Regards
     Stephen

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On 20 Sep 2009 07:54:01 -0400, Jim Henderson <nos### [at] nospamcom> wrote:

>> I keep my big tablet under my keyboard.
>
>That would make it difficult to use. ;-)

Mostly I only use a very small area for navigating with the pen instead of a
mouse (about 2" X 3"). If I want to use it properly then I move it out.
Just a thought.
-- 

Regards
     Stephen

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Jim Henderson wrote:
> Not a bad idea; I have it sitting in front of my monitor right now, and 
> have used it on my lap even (which was actually quite comfortable) - so 
> maybe something where I could store it under the desk surface would do 
> the trick.
> 
> Jim

Another option is one of those little laptop stands, like these:

http://images.google.com/images?hl=en&source=hp&q=laptop+table&gbv=2&aq=f&oq=&aqi=g2

-Mike

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Jim Henderson wrote:
> Nope.  Gotta have it towed to the dealer, probably to replace the 
> ignition switch cylinder.  The car is 10 years old, and things wear out.  

I've never heard of this, unless you've broken off the key in the switch, 
and my dad was an auto mechanic for 30+ years...

In the "is it turned on, is it plugged in" category, do you have a locking 
steering wheel? If so, try turning the wheel a bit. Is the car securely in 
parking gear?  Almost always when I get stuck, it's one of those two things.

-- 
   Darren New, San Diego CA, USA (PST)
   I ordered stamps from Zazzle that read "Place Stamp Here".

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Darren New wrote:
> Jim Henderson wrote:
>> Nope.  Gotta have it towed to the dealer, probably to replace the
>> ignition switch cylinder.  The car is 10 years old, and things wear out.  
> 
> I've never heard of this, unless you've broken off the key in the
> switch, and my dad was an auto mechanic for 30+ years...
> 
> In the "is it turned on, is it plugged in" category, do you have a
> locking steering wheel? If so, try turning the wheel a bit. Is the car
> securely in parking gear?  Almost always when I get stuck, it's one of
> those two things.
> 

That happens quite often with both of my motor bikes. Not the key
getting stuck, though that has occurred, but the steering lock getting
an attitude. I think it comes from the cylinder being mounted
vertically, which is just bad design.

Post a reply to this message

On Sun, 20 Sep 2009 13:01:24 +0100, Stephen wrote:

> On 20 Sep 2009 07:53:40 -0400, Jim Henderson <nos### [at] nospamcom> wrote:
> 
>>Indeed.  I might go down to the auto parts store today and see if they
>>have what I need and can walk me through the installation.
>>
> Sounds like a plan :D

Assuming I can stay awake long enough....And the auto parts store is open 
today.

>>> If no one speaks out ? :)
>>
>>Exactly what I thought.
>>
> Right!

It seems I'm not alone in thinking that way, either.  The question is 
whether those "up top" will consider the input in the spirit it is given 
or just receive it as feedback saying "we didn't sell this idea well 
enough".

>>Well, yeah, same thing here as well (I had to have a background security
>>check before being employed by Novell since we deal with export-
>>controlled software), but I meant that getting them when needed tends to
>>be a problem.  And of course getting turned down can be a severe career
>>limiting move, since that shows up in the next background check....
>>
> We don't want to get two only semi related things mixed up. Personally I
> can't see any reason why I shouldn't get clearance, it's not very high.
> But it is talking the SAP security guys into understanding the situation
> in a way that doesn't put their backs up. The very tight timeline and
> fixed price budget is a concern.

Yeah, that also makes things difficult, when you have to play politics so 
people get get defensive....

>>>>> Anyway night, night :)
>>>>
>>>>Eventually, 4 AM here now.
>>> 
>>> Tomorrow's Sunday, no work. :)
>>
>>Heh, I wish.  I seem to be saying that a lot today.  Gathering
>>statistics and my thoughts for a discussion this coming week.  Finally
>>starting to get tired, almost 6 AM now...
>>
>>
> One o'clock here. -_-

amazing, 1:30 PM here now. ;-)

Jim

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On Sun, 20 Sep 2009 09:42:24 -0700, Darren New wrote:

> Jim Henderson wrote:
>> Nope.  Gotta have it towed to the dealer, probably to replace the
>> ignition switch cylinder.  The car is 10 years old, and things wear
>> out.
> 
> I've never heard of this, unless you've broken off the key in the
> switch, and my dad was an auto mechanic for 30+ years...

My wife's father (whom we called) has worked on cars for 50-ish years; he 
said the replacement cost cost between $100 and $800 - he's done a few 
himself over the years - but not enough to know off the top of his head 
how much it might cost to replace.

Doing a search online, it seems that there is a particular issue with 
some Saturn models where this can happen.  Seems not uncommon in the Ion, 
for example.

> In the "is it turned on, is it plugged in" category, do you have a
> locking steering wheel? If so, try turning the wheel a bit. Is the car
> securely in parking gear?  Almost always when I get stuck, it's one of
> those two things.

Those are all things we tried - the steering wheel locks, but only when 
the key is in the "lock" position (when it can normally be removed).  The 
wheel turns freely (but with difficulty because the vehicle is stationary 
and the power steering isn't engaged).  Tried shifting in and out of park 
several times, pushing hard (I've run into that one as well).  No dice.  
We also tried bouncing the steering column with the tilt lever, and that 
didn't do it either.  The cylinder is just locked solid, as if the key 
was the wrong key for the car.

Except that it is the right key for the car.  John (my FIL) said that as 
old as our car is (10 years now), a little wear on the key or the lock 
mechanism could cause this, but he seemed to think it was more likely 
that one of the pins in the lock had either worn down.

The locksmith I talked to on the phone said that there's a clip and he's 
seen that clip break, causing the same issue; he also said that he was 
not equipped to deal with that particular problem.

Jim

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On Sun, 20 Sep 2009 08:05:19 -0400, SharkD wrote:

> Jim Henderson wrote:
>> Not a bad idea; I have it sitting in front of my monitor right now, and
>> have used it on my lap even (which was actually quite comfortable) - so
>> maybe something where I could store it under the desk surface would do
>> the trick.
>> 
>> Jim
> 
> Another option is one of those little laptop stands, like these:
> 
> http://images.google.com/images?hl=en&source=hp&q=laptop
+table&gbv=2&aq=f&oq=&aqi=g2

Perhaps.  Space is a little tight here...

Jim

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On 20 Sep 2009 15:31:46 -0400, Jim Henderson <nos### [at] nospamcom> wrote:

>> Sounds like a plan :D
>
>Assuming I can stay awake long enough....And the auto parts store is open 
>today.
>

On the Sabbath? :)

>
>It seems I'm not alone in thinking that way, either.  The question is 
>whether those "up top" will consider the input in the spirit it is given 
>or just receive it as feedback saying "we didn't sell this idea well 
>enough".
>

Indeed!

>
>Yeah, that also makes things difficult, when you have to play politics so 
>people get get defensive....
>

That's life :)


>>>statistics and my thoughts for a discussion this coming week.  Finally
>>>starting to get tired, almost 6 AM now...
>>>
>>>
>> One o'clock here. -_-
>
>amazing, 1:30 PM here now. ;-)
>

Gosh I travelled 200 miles north and it is 11pm.
-- 

Regards
     Stephen

Post a reply to this message

On Sun, 20 Sep 2009 15:24:42 -0400, Sabrina Kilian <ski### [at] vtedu> wrote:

>
>That happens quite often with both of my motor bikes. Not the key
>getting stuck, though that has occurred, but the steering lock getting
>an attitude. I think it comes from the cylinder being mounted
>vertically, which is just bad design.

Reminds me of the time when I was learning to ride and had just found out that
you could steer by banking rather than turning the handle bars, I rode about
three miles through the city only to find that I had the steering lock on when I
parked. Luckily I had put the lock on wrongly and could turn left and drive
straight but not turn the handlebars right.
I don't like to think of the times I killed myself. Thank god for parallel
universes :)
-- 

Regards
     Stephen

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On Sun, 20 Sep 2009 22:59:43 +0100, Stephen wrote:

> On 20 Sep 2009 15:31:46 -0400, Jim Henderson <nos### [at] nospamcom> wrote:
> 
>>> Sounds like a plan :D
>>
>>Assuming I can stay awake long enough....And the auto parts store is
>>open today.
>>
>>
> On the Sabbath? :)

Yeah, imagine that.  Had a look at inventory in the two nearest stores, 
though, and they don't have it. :-(

>>It seems I'm not alone in thinking that way, either.  The question is
>>whether those "up top" will consider the input in the spirit it is given
>>or just receive it as feedback saying "we didn't sell this idea well
>>enough".
>>
> Indeed!

And, of course, if I can get to the office on Weds.

>>Yeah, that also makes things difficult, when you have to play politics
>>so people get get defensive....
>>
> That's life :)

That it is...

>>>>statistics and my thoughts for a discussion this coming week.  Finally
>>>>starting to get tired, almost 6 AM now...
>>>>
>>> One o'clock here. -_-
>>
>>amazing, 1:30 PM here now. ;-)
>>
> Gosh I travelled 200 miles north and it is 11pm.

The slow and steady advance of time....

Jim

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On Sun, 20 Sep 2009 22:59:43 +0100, Stephen wrote:

>>Yeah, that also makes things difficult, when you have to play politics
>>so people get get defensive....
>>
>>
> That's life

Get get?  Definitely tired here.... ;-)

Jim

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On 20 Sep 2009 18:21:16 -0400, Jim Henderson <nos### [at] nospamcom> wrote:

>>>>>starting to get tired, almost 6 AM now...
>>>>>
>>>> One o'clock here. -_-
>>>
>>>amazing, 1:30 PM here now. ;-)
>>>
>> Gosh I travelled 200 miles north and it is 11pm.
>
>The slow and steady advance of time....

Quarter to three and one fire alarm later. Joy!
-- 

Regards
     Stephen

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On Mon, 21 Sep 2009 02:45:07 +0100, Stephen wrote:

> On 20 Sep 2009 18:21:16 -0400, Jim Henderson <nos### [at] nospamcom> wrote:
> 
>>>>>>starting to get tired, almost 6 AM now...
>>>>>>
>>>>> One o'clock here. -_-
>>>>
>>>>amazing, 1:30 PM here now. ;-)
>>>>
>>> Gosh I travelled 200 miles north and it is 11pm.
>>
>>The slow and steady advance of time....
> 
> Quarter to three and one fire alarm later. Joy!

Oh, fun!

Jim

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