Comfort Cell

Researching Wallpapers for Hot Rodders

Juan — Sat, 14 Jan 2012 00:37:28 +0000

While most web searches for hot rod pinups and wallpapers wouldn’t expect to find a careful history of art nouveau in the research, the web of history is far-reaching, and the points of connection are as fascinating as the images themselves. There are some hot rod enthusiasts who love the look of centerline wheels, and are looking for images of cars only, but in the hot rod world, it’s virtually impossible to avoid the pin up. It is a part of the culture, and it’s also a big part of art history in general. The roots are twining constantly between the popular and the underground, and the hidden sources are sometimes the most fruitful.

In general, there are three iconic images one will see when looking at hot rod wallpaper: a car, a woman, or a car and a woman. There are some exceptions to this, of course. However, even the wild popularity of cartoon rats and cars doesn’t reach the level of the pinup in terms of its currency. This isn’t because hot rod enthusiasts are used to looking at women and cars together all the time, and that’s why it’s reflected in the art. The gearheads of the world are certainly trained to recognize american racing wheels within a split second of seeing them, and the pinup comes from another kind of training altogether.

The female figure in art is one that has been a constant throughout the history of visual cultural practices, and it is the singularly most depicted subject. It’s not that the pinup, or even innovations in art, like photography, has made it a more popular subject. Its popularity precedes the hot rod, and the car, and perhaps even the wheel itself. Pinup art is a continuation of a very long tradition of the object of desire as the subject matter. As low culture and high culture come to reflect each other in the 20^th century, and continue to reflect into the next century, it’s not possible to know necessarily which is speaking first, art history, or popular culture, and for some art historians, it doesn’t really matter. For most hot rod fans, it may not matter so much either, except that an understanding of why the image is what it is, and the traditions from which it may come, can shed light on the desktop wallpaper, and make it that much more interesting.

Researching Wallpapers for Hot Rodders is a post from: Comfort Cell

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Is Google Really Going to Start Charging For Maps?

Juan — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 02:37:27 +0000

The simple answer is yes, Google is going to start charging for maps. The more informed answer is that Google is going to start charging for more than 25,000 map downloads per day.

For your average person and for most small businesses, this is not going to impact them at all. If you have more than 25,000 map hits a day you can likely afford to pay for maps, but why would you when you can get them for free elsewhere. Google is offering plans that charge in blocks of 1,000 for downloads over the limit, and they are offering a premier membership. If you run a site that consistently highly exceeds the 25,000 mark, you will likely find the premier membership worth your money. However, Google has not given many hints as to the overall cost of the membership. The premier membership offers some extra benefits. Just a few of these services include increased map requests (100,000), increased resolution, and more readily available technical support options. In addition, there are numerous customization options and the maps can be ready for mobile phone browsers. If a site generates excess hits, Google will allow opportunities for the site to reduce their usage or enroll and pay for the service. This will take a period of exceeding usage, so the maps will not immediately stop working once your quota is met for the day.

It seems this will have a dramatic impact on travel booking sites and popular attractions and shopping centers. There are alternatives such as mapquest and yahoo that sites can lean on for right now. Apple is also working hard on a similar service to compete with Google. This could be relief from Google’s pricing, or it could just open the market for other companies to start charging. Until the program takes off and the fees start rolling in from Google, it is unclear whether this will hurt the use of Google maps on business sites.
Google maps are highly used by those traveling and planning travel. The question is whether consumers will be just as satisfied with a website that uses map services provided another company. Google has estimated these new charges will affect roughly 4,000 websites. With Ask City and Microsoft Live Search available, businesses may find Google’s added benefits for premier membership are not worth the cost.

Emily is an Internet marketer and contributing writer for Invesp.com, a site that helps clients improve their landing page design in order to improve overall conversion optimization.

Is Google Really Going to Start Charging For Maps? is a post from: Comfort Cell

Texting and Driving

Juan — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 01:32:45 +0000

The generational differences among people with cell phones are rather marked, as anyone with a grandmother can testify. But some of the key behaviors associated with cell phone use are starting to shift. Sometimes, these shifts are in directions that are not in the best interests of the safety of the public at large. Incidents of texting while driving would be innocuous in themselves, but the only reason they are noted is because of their relationship with traffic accidents.

Anyone looking at the latest statistics would be hard-pressed to think there is not a direct correlation. While not all accidents are tragic, and some might only require an online chrysler repair manual to take care of minor problems. But there certainly are very serious accidents, and it is the hope of safety organizations that a little education can go a long way. Some states have enacted tough laws about texting and driving, and the trends certainly look as though most of the others will follow suit very quickly. While some go even further, and limit cell phone use while driving, one of the best tools is awareness. Teaching beginning drivers about the dangers of distracted driving should help in getting the numbers down in terms of fatal accidents.

Accidents, of course, will always happen. There is no way to completely cut out the possibility of things going wrong, especially when it comes to vehicles. But as we move very quickly into a digital age, where directions come through gps systems and basic car repair can be managed through a gmc online repair manual, there is a possibility of coming to terms with technologies and how they affect our habits, including driving. The real trouble with texting while driving is that it involves the three most dangerous areas of distraction: motor activity, visual distraction, and conscious attention. Perhaps because these are still fairly new technologies, people are unaware of how they affect everything else that we do.

In terms of generations, young people who grow up with texting and the older folks who have learned to talk with their thumbs only recently. But differences in behaviors are becoming less noticeable, as nearly everyone is learning how to communicate in new ways. These new ways do change not only the way we communicate, but how our bodies and minds work when communicating. This also necessitates acquiring new habits of thought about how we use these communications technologies.

Texting and Driving is a post from: Comfort Cell

Financial Safety Nets

Online Reading Effects on Culture

Juan — Sun, 04 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0000

Ebooks and online reading is seemingly taking over our reading habits and occupying a great deal of our personal time. Other techno books and magazines are also contributing to this new era of literature. They seem to be taking over not only our attention, but real life bookstores. And along with this major transformation in the way we read our books comes with it a change, or evolution , in the materials we read. And while many people complain that the computers and technological aspects of our lives are contributing to a decline in reading and math skills, there are also some benefits to them.

The ease of access and relative low cost of reading materials today is contributing to a greater interest in diversifying our sources and genre interests. Greater numbers of writers are finding publication resources and outlets for their material. And consumers are more interested in exploring new writers and various topics and styles of literature. So, it should be all well and good. However, as is true for every new door that opens, there are some potential concerns.

Many people get lost online, their minds flow forward with various website topics and they’re frequently enticed to follow the next shiny object, or rather click on it. This lends itself to the topic of memory and online reading, or virtual existence. It is believed that most people remember much less of what they’ve read online, than if having read the same thing holding it in their hand, and that doesn’t mean by a Kindle or other techno device. There could be a few different reasons for this, though it is recognized as one of the potential issues. In addition, it has been suggested that while people might be reading more, their actual reading and comprehension skills are suffering. And while this seems to be slightly contradictory, various English test subjects and academic studies suggest it is true. It’s also commonly acknowledged that orally based cultures have the strongest memories.

What does this all mean for society and our future? Are we destined to become mindlessly active online? Are we going to bury our faces and futures in mechanical devices? Before we go running to the fireplaces with all of our gadgets and computers, sit back and reflect a bit, if we still possess the ability. Let’s remember all of the great advances and cultural evolutions that are occurring due to technology and keep a mind out for the possible intellectual set back that might occur. If we acknowledge the potential dangers and take precautions against them, we should be able to – wait, what did I just read?

Online Reading Effects on Culture is a post from: Comfort Cell

Buying Truck Tires Online

Technical Problems that Require Outside Help

Juan — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 23:30:52 +0000

There is no doubt that the pace of technological change is increasing. Every generation of new products demands new interfaces and connections of every variety. OEM companies will increasingly rely on electronic manufacturing companies to design, prototype and build a wide array of cable assemblies, wire harnesses and printed circuit board interfaces.
Solutions for Every Industry
From industrial through medical to advanced aerospace applications, engineers and technicians can refine and produce the most exacting of designs. From the simplest cable assembly to the most complex wire harness, technicians can produce any type of interface or connection that you require. In addition, they provide all supplementary services to quickly and efficiently bring your product to market.
Adaptability
Adapting to changing technologies does not mean merely adapting the current technologies for different needs. Revolutionary designs sometimes require the development of proprietary interfaces. It is impossible to foretell the future, but they are confident in their ability to design and manufacture any interface that you design.
Technical Support
Responsibility to the clients does not end once a product is delivered. Technical support is provided throughout the roll out of any new product. Success depends on the development of long term partners and not just one time customers.

Technical Problems that Require Outside Help is a post from: Comfort Cell

Web Design Should Fit Like a Glove

Should you get insurance on your new iPhone?

Juan — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 05:03:03 +0000

As the cost of cell phones is going up, more and more people are looking at insuring their cell phones. With the new iPhone 4s costing on the low end $200, the idea of having to replace it out-of-pocket it frightening. While a manufacturer’s warranty will cover a phone that is faulty, it will not cover accidental damage. So if you drop your beautiful new iPhone and it breaks, it’s up to you to pay to replace it. So does that make getting AT&T’s cell phone insurance a slam dunk? The answer actually appears to be no.

To begin with, the insurance is not a one-time charge, as most other electronic equipment insurance is. AT&T, along with almost every other cell provider, adds a monthly charge to your bill for the insurance. In the case of AT&T it is $6.99 a month. Now, that doesn’t sound too terrible, but here’s what does. There is a mandatory Non-Refundable Deductible of $199 to replace your iPhone. So, in addition to the $6.99 you pay a month, if they end up replacing your phone, there is a very expensive deductible. (For less high-end phones the deductible is less, but $50 is the minimum.)

And after you pony up the $199, plus the monthly insurance fee, AT&T does not even guarantee a new phone. You may end up with a refurbished phone, which is a used phone that has been fixed from prior defect or damage. Additionally, these insurance policies do not cover everything. Depending on the insurance contract, water damage may not be covered, which is an extremely common cause of cell phone damage. You also have to have your claim approved; this is not something that is absolute. You may have to attempt to have the manufacturer replace or fix the phone, before they will even consider replacement.

The best solution may still be to get insurance to cover things the manufacturer won’t. There are many third-party insurance companies that will insure you for less than $100 over a two-year period. The most important thing is to research the company, read the fine print, and go from there. While cell phone insurance seems like a good idea, make sure you understand everything you’re getting into.

Always be sure you aren’t paying too much for your other insurance costs with sites like Policy Expert.

Should you get insurance on your new iPhone? is a post from: Comfort Cell

The Good, The Bad and…The New iPhone 4s!

Juan — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 04:33:07 +0000

The Apple iPhone 4s has arrived. As any iPhone aficionado knows, these phones go way beyond just being “smart”. There are literally hundreds of applications for the iPhone, but with these apps came a few problems. The main one was battery life. The challenge for all smart phone designers is to build a phone that doesn’t run out of juice. They are mini computers which require software that is completely in sync with the type of battery used. The main problem with smart phones has been putting the cart before the horse. The dual core A5 chip has finally caught up with the sophisticated software iPhone users have come to expect.

With this advanced A5 dual core processor, Apple may have finally solved their glitches. For those who do not know what a dual core A5 chip can do, in simple terms, this chip allows all programs to run as smooth and fast as possible. The dual core chip is also able to intelligently ramp up its power load when needed, then lower it when not in demand.

There are two very big innovations in the 4s, the Siri system and the camera. Siri is a voice command system which is able to recognize the context of a question or command and answer intelligently. Ask Siri for directions, set reminders, set an alarm clock or check the weather. The possibilities are endless.

Another great highlight of the Apple 4s is the eight mega pixel camera. The picture quality is superlative. This camera uses the same technology that is in top of the line DSLRS. It has a 2.4 aperture which lets in maximum light. There is also an infrared filter which eliminates infrared light, allowing colors to be much more natural. Candlelight shots come out beautiful along with many other tricky exposure situations.

The iCloud system wirelessly sends all of your data, whether it be photos, videos, ibooks, apps, really anything to all of your wireless devices, whether you have one or three. All of your wireless devices are updated at once. No repetitive downloading. This saves much time and aggravation.

The new IOS 5 operating system is outstanding. Your phone is only as good as its operating system and this one is excellent. One of the new great feature of IOS 5 are ad free articles on the web. No distractions, just pure reading pleasure.

The one thing I would like to see in future iPhones is a guarantee that the Cloud system is completely secure. The Cloud system security remains to be proven.

If you are someone who enjoys saving money, then check out Coupon Croc and find deals on clothes with an asos discount code and other things so you can save money and splurge on the new iPhone 4s. Overall, it is well worth it!

The Good, The Bad and…The New iPhone 4s! is a post from: Comfort Cell

The Best Technology for Your Business

Juan — Sun, 02 Oct 2011 05:00:00 +0000

Technology is growing at an ever-increasing rate. We have all been victims of buying that newest technological device only to have something newer, and more advanced, come out a couple months later. The Internet is available on your phone or touchpad nearly everywhere you go. With so many advancements it can be a real challenge to keep up with it all, which probably isn’t a big deal to the average person, but for business owners it could be detrimental.

The most basic technology that every business should have is a website . If you don’t have a website yet you need to get one. Most consumers do a large part of their searching, buying, and researching online. Gone are the days of looking up a phone number or address in the phonebook. Your website is a great way to generate new customers and let people know that you are there. To really increase your business’ online presence you can work with a digital marketing agency that specializes in SEO and online reputation management; Elixir Interactive videos can show you more about what’s involved. For business owners that are very technologically savvy there are programs that allow you to track a lot of this information yourself, for example the ILOG Elixir Interactive demo .

Developing social media profiles for your business is also a good way to get your business out there and attract potential clients. With thousands of users on Facebook and Twitter, it is a great place to advertise specials and make your business more visible.

Every business is different so it is difficult to say exactly which devices will work best for every business but there are a lot of great ways out there that can be adapted to fit a variety of different businesses.

There has been some debate between users as to which phone is better –the iPhone or the Android. There are a lot benefits to both and a wealth of apps that can be used on either. Typically it is best to stay with the platform you are already using for your business. Both allow you to maintain your contacts, conduct business, send and receive email and upload documents.

Tablets are also great devices to invest in for your business. Like Smartphones, most are Wi-Fi enabled and have access to an app store. The added benefit is that they are very much like a portable computer and you can easily share documents, correspond with business associates, and even read a book.

Technology is changing the way we live and the way that we run our businesses. We are no longer tied to a single location. With technology we can go wherever business takes us.

The Best Technology for Your Business is a post from: Comfort Cell

Browsing for Shelter

Juan — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 01:14:40 +0000

Although this should work in theory, in practice there might be a whole other series of problems. In theory, however, the gadgets of the last few years should cut the amount of clutter in our lives to less than half. Less than half might seem like an extraordinary amount, but the newest devices really have made themselves so entirely indispensable that they have changed the way people do things. It’s not simply a revolution of thought and information, where the things we used to memorize in school are now available at our fingertips at roughly the same speed of a very intelligent college senior. Some of the biggest changes have to do with our own process for doing daily things.

It wasn’t even a generation ago when something like finding quality apartments was something that would go on for weeks and weeks. One would need to begin by collecting local newspapers, gather up the “for rent” circulars outside the convenience stores, and start looking for flyers posted at the Laundromat. From there, it was a long and tedious process of phone calls and visits, more phone calls and visits, disappointments at appointments that got missed, and plenty of time. Some of the most enjoyable parts of this involved complaining to your friends about how tough it was looking for a place to live.

Today, it’s a different story altogether. With a laptop or phone that can fit into a small bag, one can have more information at the fingertips than anyone could have imagined. From a small town on the other side of the world, one can access pictures and descriptions of apartments on another continent, and ask questions and obtain information, or even send a tweet @TransGlobe_MGT. It’s not that this information wasn’t available before, but that it was impossible to know what questions to even ask to begin such a search. The gadgets that were designed to make our lives easier have succeeded, and there are more opportunities and more convenience than we could have ever expected. At the same time, it doesn’t always seem like life is suddenly easier. Perhaps the stress of any moment always makes it seem more difficult than the one that came before. There are no longer messes of papers and notes covering the kitchen table in the middle of a search for a new place to live, but there are probably plenty of stickie notes that will open up when the ipad is on again. It is a big difference, and we don’t always notice that until the next storm of the season dies down.

Browsing for Shelter is a post from: Comfort Cell

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Google to buy Motorola’s Mobile Devices Division.

Juan — Tue, 30 Aug 2011 23:57:42 +0000

On August 15, 2011 Google stunned the world by announcing that it plans to purchase Motorola Mobility for $12.5 Billion. Stunning, but not entirely unexpected. Rumors have been circulated for years of a possible Motorola Mobility buy-out – it’s just that most people didn’t think that Google would be the company to do the buying. However, it worth noting that Google’s purchase does not include the entire Motorola company just the company’s mobile devices division. Motorola mobility is a division of Motorola that specialize in producing and manufacturing mobile phones and accessories and more recently tablet computers such as the company’s XOOM tablet. After the release of the Blackberry and the iPhone, Motorola Mobility began to fall into disarray as the company struggled to develop a competing smartphone. However things turned around for Motorola when it released its first Android smartphone – the Droid – on Verizon Wireless It doesn’t just mean that Google will be in control of phones, but tablets as well. The original press release from Google can be seen at this link here.

Google’s purchase is big news for any company that makes mobile applications like Marlabs Inc or Gameloft, as many people believe that the new Motorola mobility will help Google control Android’s development more closely. In the past, Motorola had actually been one of the companies that had employed their own custom theme called “MotoBlur” on top of core Android operating system on their phones like the Motorola CLIQ, much to the annoyance of Android enthusiasts. Custom theme likes Motorola’s Motoblur and HTC’s sense have become nearly universally hated among Android users as it been shown to slow down the operating system and often significantly delays core Android updates, if not prevent them entirely. With Motorola Mobility, Google will have full control over the a portion of the Android market and at the very least it’s likely that Motoblur has seen its last days.

However, Google’s recent purchase has not been seen as a positive though. Companies like INQ and who have relied on Android in the past has expressed their concerns over the Motorola Mobility buyout by Google claiming that such a person may have put Android’s future in jeopardy. In response to the buyout INQ issued a statement claiming that the company is now looking at Microsoft’s Windows Phone 7 platform as a suitable replacement for Android for future INQ smartphones. Many analysts predict that in the coming years Windows Phone 7 users will eclipse Research in Motion — makers of the Blackberry — largely in part to the reported ease of developing applications for Windows Phone 7. Some people believe that Google’s purchase could even possibly dissauade application developers like Marlabs from developing on Android as companies feel like Google may be asserting too much control over the mobile phone market.

Google to buy Motorola’s Mobile Devices Division. is a post from: Comfort Cell