Sunday, November 29, 2020
I have a new project in the works that requires live video/chat interaction. Popular online resources which provide this type of support, include:
After taking inventory of my hardware resources, I found that only two of my online access devices could handle today's live video/chat applications:
- Android
- Windows 10 Pro Mini PC
For various reasons, I decided I would need a dedicated platform to handle all aspects of the new project including interactive video/chat and collaborative/file sharing.
The problem with the Android, I felt it would be easier to share files and collaborate using software on a desktop or laptop system.
The Windows 10 Pro Mini- I purchased last December (2019), is dedicated to software development. Online sharing in a group environment using this dedicated platform would allow security issues I would rather not deal with.
So, I researched the purchase of a new laptop or desktop and decided again on the least expensive option, a new Windows 10 Pro Mini PC. Shown below, side by side the two Windows 10 Pro Mini PCs.
My other concerns: lighting and backdrop for these live sessions so in addition to the new Windows 10 Pro Mini PC, I also purchased a light ring/tripod stand and desktop stand to mount a standalone webcam or microphone.
Pictured below, these new additions to my live office/studio.
As I have already indicated, my new project will be part of a group setting and therefore certain aspects or requirements of the project, were preset. Though I have been a long time user of Skype (business line, etc.), I needed to setup an account with Zoom to be inline with other members of the group.
In terms of costs for the hardware for my new project, I have spent under $230.00. Yes, I did find some items on sale.
I feel this new project is a good investment and will provide more details over the coming months.
 Microphone/Webcam Stand Set  |
 Selfie Ring Light with Tripod Stand  |
 Mini PC Ιntel Celeron N3350 (Similar to my Guzila Mini PC)  |
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Saturday, November 28, 2020
It was a busy week. Shopping, cooking, preparations for a new project.
I liked this quiet holiday. I have several projects in the works, so it seemed- everyday over the last week, had any number of tasks that had to be completed, to be able to move on to the next step.
Over the last 8 months or so, I have been out a lot more doing most of the shopping and running errands. People seem busy. I am happy, because I am busy.
Sometimes people seem more upset at the holidays (for years, I have felt more like a bystander at the holidays, giving me the opportunity to observe more). This year is different. People seem busier. This makes me hopeful. Hope you are having a nice holiday.
Wednesday, November 18, 2020
Yesterday was a celebration of sorts. Normally, the birthday celebrated, is with extended family members and dinner out. Yesterday, it was dinner in.
On the menu...
- Thin Sliced T-Bone Steaks
- Baked Potato w/Sour Cream
- Broccoli
- Garden Salad w/French Honey Dressing
- Dinner Roll
- Apple Pie
One of the gifts received, an inexpensive point and shoot camera that is very easy to use. I have to say, I am pretty impressed with this camera.
Side by side comparison of photos from the inexpensive Digital Camera 2.7K Ultra HD Mini Video Camera 44MP 2.8 Inch LCD Rechargeable and my Canon EOS 50 using a Canon EF-S 55-250mm F4-5.6 IS STM Lens (need an EF-M Adaptor for this lens and camera):
The camera has plenty of features and a very useful user's manual.
Sunday, November 15, 2020
This time of year, I am normally out taking photos of beautiful autumn colors. This year is different. I find, I am spending more time ensuring the shopping, and other choirs outside of the house, are getting done.
That said, I have pulled out my camera- to take photos of the spectacular color just outside the door.
Another Fall 2020 project- "Shop My Sale" is an online marketing experiment I am undertaking, after noticing a new feature being offered by PayPal-"Sell on Social".
I have been going through rooms and taking photos of items never used- now. Things I thought about, but decided I really did not want to sell- are shown below.
Why show them here? Just to show, what I have been up to. I really did not want to sell my earrings so when I came up with a $2000.00 price tag (I paid under a $1000.00 for them in 1993 or so), I decided, I really should not add them to my sale.
Other things I have been up to?
- Yesterday, received a Cash Rewards check from one of my credit card companies, so that made me happy.
- Trying to resolve a new problem with Facebook Page Plugins. I use this resource in various places on WiredPages and this blog. For some reason, the plugin will not show the fb page content unless the visitor clicks on the Like link. The thing is, you do not even have to like the page (happens if you are not logged into Facebook), for the content to then render correctly. This is a new problem, and I am still looking for a work-around. Visitors to my pages should not need to login to obtain the public content I am trying to provide. I have been using Facebook Page Plugins for over 2 years and loved the way this worked.
- Online shopping for birthday and holiday gifts. This year, mostly, needed items and no- would love to have items.
- Attempting minor repairs to my car.
- Perusing market sales flyers (I am surprised by how much time I spend doing this, is it paying off? Yes.).
Hope your holiday planning is going well.
