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Mac OS X: Use a second monitor as a digital photo frame February 23, 2008

Posted by Kathy in Software.
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Even though it’s simple enough to make a screensaver out of my photos, the downside of a screensaver is that you can’t see it when you’re working at the computer.  I learned how to use my secondary monitor on my Mac to get the effect of an always-on digital photo frame.   I did this on Mac OS X 10.4 (Tiger).

  1.  First, get a secondary monitor and plug it into your Mac.  Doesn’t matter what kind, but a flat-panel LCD works nicely.
  2. Set your Mac to extended desktop mode, not mirroring mode.  This creates a second desktop using the extra monitor.  (Mirroring mode displays the same content on both monitors.)
  3. Bring up the Desktop and Screensaver Preference Pane.  You should have two different settings windows, one on each display.  Make sure
  4. Selected the Desktop tab for changing the desktop background.
  5. On the secondary display, choose a folder containing photos you wish to use.  Then check the box marked “Change picture…” and choose the desired time interval.  I chose 5 seconds and also selected Random Order.
  6. Quit this Preference Pane, and you’re done!
What I love about this is that I can still work on my second desktop without stopping the slideshow.  When I’m not using it, it makes a gorgeous display, especially if you have a large screen.  Of course, this doesn’t work when the second monitor isn’t connected.
 
By the way, you can still do this with just your primary display, but all your applications  and desktop icons will be in the way, and if you actually use your computer to do stuff you’ll never get to enjoy the show.

Protect yourself on public wireless networks: HotspotShield — FREE February 21, 2008

Posted by Kathy in Internet, Software.
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Hotspot Shield logo
When using a public wireless network (such as in a coffee shop or library), the information you send over the Internet may not be safe.  Did you know that e-mail is normally transmitted “in the clear?”  Prevent sensitive data from being intercepted by hackers — try the free Hotspot Shield  service from Anchor Free.  Works on both Windows and Mac with the aid of a software download.  Recommended by PC Magazine.

Visit Hotspot Shield

Are you infected?: NanoScan February 21, 2008

Posted by Kathy in Internet, Software.
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This web site instantly (almost) scans your computer for tell-tale signs of viruses and other bad software on your machine.  The scan is quick (mine took exactly 53 seconds).  Ironically, the web site requires you to install software on your computer.

 Get scanned at NanoScan.com