~NoMaD_MCV's Lair~

New Computer, New Performance

2010-03-01T10:00:00.000+08:00

Goodbye P4, Hello i3

Well, my close-to-6-year-old desktop PC powered by the Pentium 4 processor has finally given way and refused to boot up. At first the computer failed to boot up so I had to do super clean up of my casing due to dust. And guess what, the motherboard 'died' and i get dual-reboots and blank screen with no POST/beep.
Anyway it was time to upgrade my computer which could barely play CODWOW properly under lowest graphic settings. My GPU is a GeForce 7600GT which could still play alot of newer games, just that my old P4 is too slow to process.
Upgraded to the new i3 530, I had to buy a new motherboard and DDR3 RAMs, which brought newer life for my GeForce 7600GT. It is like I suddenly am able to play CODWOW and even CODMW2, Fifa 2010 though not so power intensive, benefited from the additional performance provided by the i3 and had no more in-game lag. Even my NFS UC is smoother and could play at higher resolutions.

I would forsee my current upgraded setup will last me for at least 3 years, with GPU and RAM upgrades in between to keep up with the newest games :)

Config Setup
Intel Core i3 530 2.93GHz
Gigabyte GA-H55M-UD2H
1x 2GB PC1600 DDR3 Corsair

NoMaD_MCV

Return (not really)

2009-12-10T08:28:00.002+08:00

Back

Actually not really, I am just here to say I am still here and will be updating my blog again, but not like a year ago or so, updating it every week. I will update at most around 2 entries per month on average.

Now I am using a MAC computer in my workplace. I have not abandoned the PERSONAL computer totally, I am getting accustomed to the different features the MAC OS provides.

Technically, there is no hardware difference between a MAC and a PC as what you get in a normal PC can be found in the MAC as well. It is just how Apple put some 'stuff' in their MAC to allow the MAC OS to be installed easily.

I am 'teaching' myself to use MAC as teachers are using their own MAC as well and there is a possibility that my school workplace would buy more MACs for school use.

iMAC
C2D 3.06
2GB RAM

NoMaD_MCV

Enabling AHCI without reinstalling Windows XP

2008-10-08T21:34:00.014+08:00

Enabling AHCI without reinstalling Windows XP

This is for users who installed Windows XP using compatibility mode and those who didn't opt to press F6 during fresh installation of Windows XP.
If you tried to change the BIOS setting of the SATA Mode from: Normal/Compatibility
to: AHCI/SATA
Windows will BSOD and reboot automatically.
AHCI for SATA will enable NCQ and hot-plug support.
I got this tip/procedure from:
http://www.neowin.net/forum/index.php?showtopic=457699

Credits to the thread starter and active participants

-----------------

Supported southbridges: ICH6R, ICH6M, ICH7R, ICH7DH, ICH7M

Instructions:
1) Make sure AHCI is not enabled in your BIOS, otherwise this guide is pointless for you.
2) Back up your Windows folder and prepare a boot disk in case this guide fails!
3) Download 79im05ww.exe from http://www-307.ibm.com/pc/support/site.wss...ocid=MIGR-62909
4) Extract the file to C:\DRIVERS\WIN\SATA.
5) If you have the ICH7M southbridge, go to step 8.
5) Open C:\DRIVERS\WIN\SATA\PREPARE\IMSM_PRE.inf in Notepad.
6) Replace any instance of DEV_27C5 with the following, according to your southbridge:
ICH6R - DEV_2652
ICH6M - DEV_2653
ICH7R - DEV_27C1
ICH7DH - DEV_27C1
ICH7M - DEV_27C5
7) Save the file and close Notepad.
8) Click Start, select Run.
9) In the Open field type C:\DRIVERS\WIN\SATA\PREPARE\INSTALL.CMD and click OK.
10) Restart your computer, and enable AHCI on in your BIOS Setup.
11) Start Windows XP or Windows 2000. The Found New Hardware wizard will start automatically.
12) If running Windows XP:

1. Click No, not this time then click Next.
2. Select Install from a list or specific location (Advanced), then click Next.
3. Select Search for the best driver in these locations.
4. Select Include this location in the search: and specify the path, C:\DRIVERS\WIN\SATA, and click Next.

13) If running Windows 2000:

1. Click Next.
2. Select Search for a suitable driver for my device (recommended), then click Next.
3. Select Specify a location, then click Next.
4. Specify the path, C:\DRIVERS\WIN\SATA, and click OK, then click Next.

14) Click Finish.
15) When the System Settings Change window appears, click Yes. The computer restarts.

Please note that if you encounter 'Cannot install hardware' during when you are following step 12, please proceed to download the SATA RAID driver from your motherboard manufacturer's website. I encountered that error and then proceeded to get the SATA raid driver (boot disk type) and it worked fine.

------------------------ FAQ ----------------------------
Below small FAQ about AHCI

Advanced Host Controller Interface (AHCI) is an interface specification that allows the storage driver to enable advanced Serial ATA features such as Native Command Queuing and hot plug.

AHCI is built into chipsets with the following controller hubs:

* Intel® 82801IR/IO Controller Hub (ICH9R) - RAID and AHCI
* Intel® 82801HEM I/O Controller Hub (ICH8M-E) - RAID and AHCI
* Intel® 82801HBM I/O Controller Hub (ICH8M) - AHCI only
* Intel® 82801HR/HH/HO I/O Controller Hub (ICH8R) - RAID and AHCI
* Intel® 631xESB/632xESB I/O Controller Hub - RAID and AHCI
* Intel® 82801GHM I/O Controller Hub (ICH7MDH) - RAID only
* Intel® 82801GBM I/O Controller Hub (ICH7M) - AHCI only
* Intel® 82801GR I/O Controller Hub (ICH7R) - RAID and AHCI
* Intel® 82801GH I/O Controller Hub (ICH7DH) - RAID and AHCI
* Intel® 82801FR I/O Controller Hub (ICH6R) - RAID and AHCI
* Intel® 82801FBM I/O Controller Hub (ICH6M) - AHCI only

ICH9, ICH8, ICH7 and ICH6-based chipsets, as well as ICH5 and ICH5R-based chipsets, do not use AHCI.

Below link to ready pack with patch and latest Intel Matrix Storage Manager v7.6.1.1002 WHQL
http://rapidshare.com/files/68377915/AHCI_...WS_XP_PATCH.zip

or patch only
http://rapidshare.com/files/68378092/AHCI_...ge_Manager_.zip

How install AHCI driver:

1) Make sure AHCI is not enabled in your BIOS, otherwise this guide is pointless for you.
2) Open \\PREPARE\IMSM_PRE.inf in Notepad
3) Replace any instance of XXXX with the following, according to your southbridge:

* ICH6M - 82801FBM (Mobile) -> 2653
* ICH7R/DH - 82801GR/GH Serial ATA AHCI Controller -> 27c1
* ICH7M (ICH7-M Mobile Family) Serial ATA AHCI Controller -> 27c5
* ICH8R Intel® ICH8 Serial ATA AHCI Controller -> 2821
* ICH8M (ICH8-M Mobile Family) Serial ATA AHCI Controller -> 2829
* ICH9R Intel® ICH9 Serial ATA AHCI Controller -> 2922
* ESB2 - Intel® 631xESB/6321ESB Serial ATA AHCI Controller -> 2681
* EP 80579 - Intel® EP 80579 SATA AHCI Controller -> 5029

4) Save the file and close Notepad.
5) Run INSTALL.CMD in PREPARE directory.
1) Enable AHCI in your BIOS and save.
6) Start Windows XP, The Found New Hardware wizard will start automatically.
7) Click Cancel
8) Download latest Intel® Matrix Storage Manager from http://www.intel.com/support/chipsets/imsm/
9) Go to Intel Matrix Storage Manager directory and run Setup.exe
10) Reboot windows and enjoy.

Below other Intel chipsets (not tested) just in case.

Intel® 82801DB Ultra ATA Storage Controller - 24CB
Intel® 82801DB Ultra ATA Storage Controller - 24CB
Intel® 82801DBM Ultra ATA Storage Controller - 24C1
Intel® 82801DBM Ultra ATA Storage Controller - 24C1
Intel® 82801DBM Ultra ATA Storage Controller - 24CA
Intel® 82801DBM Ultra ATA Storage Controller - 24CA
Intel® 82801DBM Ultra ATA Storage Controller - 24CA
Intel® 82801DBM Ultra ATA Storage Controller - 24CA
Intel® 82801EB Ultra ATA Storage Controllers
Intel® 82801EB Ultra ATA Storage Controllers
Intel® 82801FB Ultra ATA Storage Controllers - 2651
Intel® 82801FB Ultra ATA Storage Controllers - 2651
Intel® 82801FB Ultra ATA Storage Controllers - 2652
Intel® 82801FB Ultra ATA Storage Controllers - 2652
Intel® 82801FB/FBM Ultra ATA Storage Controllers - 266F
Intel® 82801FB/FBM Ultra ATA Storage Controllers - 266F
Intel® 82801FBM Ultra ATA Storage Controllers - 2653
Intel® 82801FBM Ultra ATA Storage Controllers - 2653
Intel® 82801G (ICH7 Family) Ultra ATA Storage Controllers - 27DF
Intel® 82801G (ICH7 Family) Ultra ATA Storage Controllers - 27DF
Intel® 82801GB/GR/GH (ICH7 Family) Serial ATA Storage Controller - 27C0
Intel® 82801GB/GR/GH (ICH7 Family) Serial ATA Storage Controller - 27C0
Intel® 82801GBM/GHM (ICH7-M Family) Serial ATA Storage Controller - 27C4
Intel® 82801GBM/GHM (ICH7-M Family) Serial ATA Storage Controller - 27C4
Intel® ICH8 2 port Serial ATA Storage Controller - 2825
Intel® ICH8 2 port Serial ATA Storage Controller - 2825
Intel® ICH8 4 port Serial ATA Storage Controller - 2820
Intel® ICH8 4 port Serial ATA Storage Controller - 2820
Intel® ICH8 SATA AHCI Controller - 2824
Intel® ICH8 SATA AHCI Controller - 2824
Intel® ICH8M 3 port Serial ATA Storage Controller - 2828
Intel® ICH8M 3 port Serial ATA Storage Controller - 2828
Intel® ICH8M SATA AHCI Controller - 2829
Intel® ICH8M SATA AHCI Controller - 2829
Intel® ICH8M Ultra ATA Storage Controllers - 2850
Intel® ICH8M Ultra ATA Storage Controllers - 2850
Intel® ICH8R/DO/DH SATA AHCI Controller - 2821
Intel® ICH8R/DO/DH SATA AHCI Controller - 2821
Intel® ICH9 2 port Serial ATA Storage Controller 1 - 2921
Intel® ICH9 2 port Serial ATA Storage Controller 1 - 2921
Intel® ICH9 2 port Serial ATA Storage Controller 2 - 2926
Intel® ICH9 2 port Serial ATA Storage Controller 2 - 2926
Intel® ICH9 2 port Serial ATA Storage Controller 2 - 2926
Intel® ICH9 2 port Serial ATA Storage Controller 2 - 2926
Intel® ICH9 2 port Serial ATA Storage Controller 2 - 2926
Intel® ICH9 2 port Serial ATA Storage Controller 2 - 2926
Intel® ICH9 4 Port SATA AHCI Controller - 2923
Intel® ICH9 4 Port SATA AHCI Controller - 2923
Intel® ICH9 4 port Serial ATA Storage Controller 1 - 2920
Intel® ICH9 4 port Serial ATA Storage Controller 1 - 2920
Intel® ICH9 6 Port SATA AHCI Controller - 2922
Intel® ICH9 6 Port SATA AHCI Controller - 2922
Intel® ICH9M 1 port Serial ATA Storage Controller 2 - 292E
Intel® ICH9M 1 port Serial ATA Storage Controller 2 - 292E
Intel® ICH9M 2 port Serial ATA Storage Controller 1 - 2928
Intel® ICH9M 2 port Serial ATA Storage Controller 1 - 2928
Intel® ICH9M 2 port Serial ATA Storage Controller 2 - 292D
Intel® ICH9M 2 port Serial ATA Storage Controller 2 - 292D

NoMaD_MCV

Creative Sound Blaster X-Fi Surround 5.1

2008-10-01T23:01:00.003+08:00

Welcome, a new hardware (sound)

Creative SB Surround 5.1

Creative SB Audigy 2NX

I have bought a new sound card; it is the Sound Blaster X-Fi Surround 5.1 External USB Sound Card (Above). There is nothing wrong with my Sound Blaster Audigy 2NX External Sound Card (Middle), it is more of the power adapter is 'dead' after I bought a replacement adapter last year. The adapter is $40 and at the rate of it dying, it is not feasible to buy an adapter every year. Also I deferred into buying a good replacement of my Audigy 2NX as my computer is quite old.

The X-Fi is $89 and it is USB powered.

Improvements vs. Audigy 2NX:

X-Fi CMSS 3D (Improvement to older CMSS 3D)

X-Fi Crystaliser (Enhances and improves Music/Movie sound qualities)

EAX HD 4.0

Non-Improvements:

5.1 Max Speaker Support (7.1 for Audigy 2NX)

Dolby/DTS is only supported via Optical Out Pass-through (Audigy 2NX supports on-board decoding of Dolby, DTS through Pass-through)

I just need to buy an ac/dc adapter of 5V of at least 3A as my previous 5V/2.5A has 'burned' out.

NoMaD_MCV

Graduation Gift for My Sis

2008-07-16T14:40:00.002+08:00

Graduation Gift for My Sister

She has finished her degree. An Ipod is my gift to her

NoMaD_MCV

Snacks at work

2008-05-26T15:01:00.004+08:00

Tidbits yum yum!!

Veggie Crackers

Peelfresh 1Litre Tropical Mango Juice Drink

NoMaD_MCV

IT Show 2008

2008-03-09T09:25:00.003+08:00

Goodies Purchased from IT SHOW 2008
------------------------------------------------
Logitech G15 Gaming Keyboard
---------------------------------------------
Razer Krait Gamer's Mouse
---------------------------------------------
Altec Lansing VS2321 2.1 Speaker System (For my sister)

NoMaD_MCV

February CNY Month

2008-02-02T14:32:00.000+08:00

Happy Lunar New Year

I would like to wish you all a very Happy Lunar New Year 2008.
And to Mr. Din, see you again soon!!

NoMaD_MCV

New President 2008 MOA:SFA

2008-01-18T22:10:00.000+08:00

The new President of MOA:SFA

From Left: Incoming 2008 President Douglas Lim, Outgoing 2007 President Jeremy Lee handing over the Scepter of Power

We welcome President Douglas!!!

NoMaD_MCV

Nokia Wireless GPS LD-3W

2007-12-28T10:04:00.000+08:00

Nokia Wireless GPS LD-3W for my N73

I strike a deal with a fellow HWZoner at $90 to buy this module from him. Will be collecting from him this device to fully enable GPS tracking on my N73. The usual price for this module, a brand new one is priced around $150 so it is a nice buy.
Awaiting knock off today so can get this and play with it!!!

NoMaD_MCV

Blogsite for Fr. David

2007-12-11T18:51:00.000+08:00

Blogsite for Fr. David

http://frdavid-ablessedlife.blogspot.com/

Rest In Peace Father,
~You will always be in our hearts~

NoMaD_MCV

Servers Blog Page

2007-11-08T12:50:00.000+08:00

SFA Altar Servers Homepage

(Click the link above - can also be found at my links section)
Thanks to Mr STLBB for the link

NoMaD_MCV

New Toy

2007-09-06T15:41:00.000+08:00

My New iriver U10

Image courtesy of iriver.com

Never did I lose my faith in this korean branded media player.
iriver with its usual high quality sound and great design team produces fantastic players that is rightfully classified as luxury players.
The problem is that there is virtually no more shops carrying this brand in Singapore (I should think due to its cost; read--> luxury) and the distributor has changed hands several times in these few years.
To me, iriver is the best. As my dad said, korean brand appliances provide quality and performance for a cost, a cost that I won't mind paying for...

NoMaD_MCV

My Iriver has fallen!!!

2007-08-27T21:48:00.000+08:00

My Iriver has fallen

It's a sad day for my player has passed. It suddenly was unable to read my compiled CDRW. To confirm my loss, it too was unable to read any audio CD. For this 3 years, it has served me well.
And a worthy successor I shall look for to replace my then-reliable Multi-Format CD Player.

The upcoming COMEX serves as a good searching ground for a successor. If there is to be the Music player that serves worthy in this exibition, let the purchase be made.

Weee!!!

Details of COMEX can be found in my blog links

NoMaD_MCV

Toyota Wish

2007-06-24T23:39:00.000+08:00

Driving the Wish in my opinion, my feeling, is like driving an extended sedan. It's not that bad driving it after all (thanks to Mr. Jens Jeremies for the driving opportunity).
My views on driving the Wish.

I cannot see the bonnet. It feels 'low'.
The hand brake is replaced by the foot brake
It has a slow creeping speed.
The acceleration is slower than an automatic car (when pressing the accelerator slightly). (expected from a CVT). However you reach 50km/h and aboveway faster than an automatic car.
Braking power is less. (Need to step harder)
The steering is damn light (modded by Mr Jens Jeremies' dad)
And I often get my feet stuck between the brake and accelerator pedals. (They are spaced near, or rather it's my foot positioning style) haha

Thanks for the chance again Mr. Jens Jeremies.

NoMaD_MCV

CnC3 Patch

2007-06-08T17:07:00.000+08:00

Command & Conquer 3: Tiberium Wars

The patch is out, version 1.05
There are alot of fixes, about 2 pages long, which covers all factions, general fixes and map additions. Details can be found at www.commandandconquer.com or www.ea.com.sg
EA Singapore u click downloads then select patch option.

Summary of fixes include intensive balance changes for ALL 3 sides, costs and build time changes, damage changes, technology cost changes, etc...

IT is a whopping 115MB file and it justifies what has been said in the patch readme log.

Oh and it also reverts back the option of classic CNC mouse clicking gameplay style.
Currently it has the right click move, right click attack, left click cancel selection and left click build and left click box select.

Classic CNC mouse for those used to the CNC3 style ever since 1.00:
left mouse button are select unit, build unit, move/attack units
right mouse button is CANCEL!!

NoMaD_MCV

GSS and WHS

2007-05-25T15:38:00.000+08:00

GSS & WHS

Its the Great Singapore Sale months again from 25th May to 22nd Jul 07 all over the country.
On the 25th til 27th May at the Main Creative Building starts its WHS as usual. Here are the pictures of it (I got it from Creative Mailer) Click on the thumbnails for the bigger picture(s)

NoMaD_MCV

Wants/Needs

2007-05-01T21:23:00.000+08:00

Craving to buy that particular thing showing prominently at the display shelf of a shop?? Itching to have that 'toy' in your hands so you can have the feeling of satisfaction within? Come on guys, plug that leak in your wallet and think about it.. Do you really need that item??

You having the wanting feeling or the needing feeling? Personally I think most of you just want it not need it. Reasons such as, I want to buy it coz its nice, I want to buy it coz I just want to buy it are stupid reasons. If you spend that $ and then fully utilize the features of your purchased product, then good for you, it is a good buy!! If you buy it coz u just want it in your hands to 'show' the 'world' or just use it for the basic functions, leaving its advanced capabilities collecting microscopic dust, then you are wasting your $.

Stop, look and think before buying. Think of what you are looking first and search for the appropriate item that fits your needs. It is bad to just 'chiong' for a product and not use what it is meant to be used for.

NoMaD_MCV

Haagen Dazs Fondue

2007-04-25T00:33:00.000+08:00

Fondue

Haagen Dazs 35 dollar Fondue

Yummy Yummy!!!

Service Charge and GST applies, total 40.30$!! But its worth it!! :)

NoMaD_MCV

Windows Vista (First Look)

2007-04-20T14:49:00.000+08:00

Dual Boot: Windows NT 5.1 & Windows NT 6.0 :)

I'm dual booting Win XP and Win Vista Ultimate on my PC. I'm just trying out what features is in this new operating system.

I'm beginning to like the new windows, with its super performance boost in terms of loading and prefetching. With its newer cache technology and Readyboost, it loads faster than XP for as long as you keep loading the same programs and files, Vista will 'learn' your habits and pre-fetch them when you start Vista up again.

The catch is gaming performance has dropped due to increase in system requirements for Vista compared to XP. A drop of up to 30% in gaming performance is felt over almost 50% of higher hardware requirements is needed.
Drivers are still fresh and hard to find. Vista makes older hardware 'obsolete' until certified Vista drivers are released. My HP 1020 is awaiting HP's certified Vista driver. Some XP drivers will work, but don't expect stability as they are XP drivers.

In CnC3, the video in-game loading causes my game to 'lag' for 5 seconds, I should think the makers of CnC3 has a patch in the making to improve this problem.

For now XP is still the choice for gaming as it is a true and trusted OS for gaming due to its maturity.

NoMaD_MCV

2007-03-30T03:22:00.000+08:00

Command & Conquer 3: Tiberium Wars (Kane Edition) Pre-Order Version

Got my hands on my own kit!!

Here are some pictures of it.

Game screenshots coming soon

The Tiberium Frosted Bag front view with goodies in it

From the back. EA Logo!!

The GDI keychain. There is a NOD pack, with NOD (red) keychain instead

The contents of the pack. Clockwise from top, Razer Mantis (control) mousepad, GDI shirt, Game DVD, keychain, the bag

Close-up of the mousepad cylinder, shirt and Game DVD. The shirt if NOD pack is red and with NOD logo

The tech sheet found in the Game DVD box

The Tin DVD cover (right) and the plastic backing (left)

Contents of the Tin DVD package. clockwise from TOP: Game DVD, Bonus DVD, Tech tree sheet, Manual and Shortcut sheet

More to come soon (screenshots and stuff)

http://nomad_mcv.tripod.com/cnc3tw.htm (personal review)

NoMaD_MCV

2007-03-28T23:47:00.000+08:00

Command & Conquer 3: Tiberium Wars

Coming soon, my own personal review when I purchase my own copy on one fine day.

NoMaD_MCV

New Hardware!!

2007-03-23T21:00:00.000+08:00

New Toys in my Computers

Geforce 7600GTs bought for both computers. A7600GT (AGP) PX7600GT (PCI-E).
Replaced AGP Geforce 3 Ti200 and PCI-E Geforce 5750.

Of course, the price of the AGP is 60bux more than the PCI-E due to technological difference. Older hardware, more expensive to manufacture.

All graphics are very smooth man!! Awaiting C&C3 to play in both computers!!!

NoMaD_MCV

Servers Compilation Pictures

2007-03-14T23:54:00.000+08:00

Fellow Servers caught on camera

Oo, just woke up couchers!!

Terence 'robocop' Tay

The Chefs

The Dealers of 21

Mr Andrew Mari

Reward of Gazzillion Pokes to above if captured

Awww. How sweet...

More pictures as the weeks pass

NoMaD_MCV

New Old Trains

2007-02-14T00:24:00.000+08:00

I took the new old train from Boon Lay to Jurong East to go for my evening class. On first look, to me it was a normal black train (which in turn to me was the new train) but when it was braking in the station, it sounded like the older train, upon looking at the number 3002,1002,2002,2001,1001,3001, it was one of the oldest.

You all have to ride the train to visualize what I'm about to describe. Everything has been retrofitted, including seats, lighting, aircon, the whole interior and exterior. Seats are wider, the LED door closing lights are found at the top middle of the door (compared to the newer black trains at the top corners of the door)

All 66 trains to be refurbished (the old one). Here some pics from wikipedia.
So far only 4 refurbished trains have been running on track, but during peak hours only..

NoMaD_MCV

Nokia Music Phone Series Advert Song

2007-01-29T19:02:00.000+08:00

Found the song for the Nokia Music Phone Advertisement. It is actually a techno song. It sounds cool and nice for this techno song!!
Enjoy the YouTube Clip

Daft Punk - Digital Love

NoMaD_MCV

Efficient Driving

2007-01-29T00:42:00.000+08:00

The most efficient drive I had with the Ford Focus was on Friday night
It was full tank initially, and only consumed 1/8th of fuel after running for 100km.
It calculates to 5-6litres per 100KM which is actually close to 20km per litre.. EFFICIENT!!
The secret is how you control your acceleration while driving!!!

Oh the reason why O/D off lit up on the dashboard while I was driving (proving it 3rd gear at 3000RPM @ 80KM/H) was because I accidentally activated it.. Now I know... haha

Compare it to my old car entry... How different indeed!!

NoMaD_MCV

New DVD DL Drive

2007-01-17T18:40:00.000+08:00

Bought new DVD DL Drive for my existing DVD R Drive is showing signs of read failure. I bought the LG 18x Super-Multi DVD Drive with light-scribe capabilities, complementing the existing DVD recorder I have until the latter really dies and unable to read...

NoMaD_MCV

Reunion Dinner

2007-01-15T03:09:00.000+08:00

Model: Ford

Make: Focus 1.4 5dr Hatch (Rally Derivative)
Start of KM: 10km
End of KM: 110.6km
Total: 100km
Fuel Consumed: 1/4 of initial full tank
Mileage/l: Approx. 10km per litre (for the night)

Today was a nice reunion dinner day, with lots of crap n fellow friends drinking power~! Lots of topics were talked about, card games like tai-tee, poker.. Too bad Douglas not present or we would be able to experience his funny lame ass jokes.

Today did some chauffeuring to many places to send fellow servers home sprawled around the west area.. Its no wonder why drivers need to be vigilant and alert at all times when behind the wheel :)

Good night people, need to recharge my batteries as they were mostly used during driving

NoMaD_MCV

2007-01-12T13:22:00.000+08:00

Revival!! My Audigy 2 NX is ALIVE!!!

I tested the Audigy 2NX with the SPS unit which my father bought for the digital camera and it worked!! It lighted up!!.. The current rating for the SPS is 2.5A which is 1A higher than the 1.5A provided by Creative's own power supply unit. And surprisingly the power supply unit was unable to provide the current required by the Audigy 2NX after 1 year and 2 months. (My God Creative!!!! bundle much better power supplies next time, like the one bundled with the Extigy.. Made by Cambridge Soundworks!!!) And the SPS for the NX is made by Creative..

Its sad that they provide power supply units that conform to the exact specifications of the device. At least provide one that is slightly higher than the required current for the device so as the power supply unit will not burn out and overstress itself and die...

Time to go search and research for a SPS unit that provides more than 1.5A at 5Vdc

NoMaD_MCV

Happy New Year

2007-01-02T14:19:00.000+08:00

ITS 2007!!!

Back from holiday in the Philippines!! Belated Christmas greetings to all!!!
Wishing everyone a blessed Happy New Year 2007!!

NoMaD_MCV

Casino Royale

2006-12-06T00:40:00.000+08:00

Casino Royale

This latest Bond action/adventure is more of action type movie. It lacks the gadgets the traditional James Bond has. This version of Bond is very good in martial arts and can fight his way out of trouble (the previous Bond can fight but not as good as this Bond, but the former Bond is damn proficient in gadget handling and operation).

His Aston Martin car is basically a normal car with 'life-saving' gadgets, for he almost died in the movie due to drink poisoning (sorry spoilers!!!)

Still has his Walther P99 handgun, no fancy watch technology or belts or missiles in his car. He also has tons of incredibly funny jokes.. Haha

Where is Q (or R)???

Edit:: This movie is based on the first novel of Ian Fleming's James Bond. So therefore less gadgetry and Bond is new

NoMaD_MCV

1st Actual Drive

2006-12-04T01:37:00.000+08:00

Driving!! My first!! And furthest!!!

OO I had my first drive today (thanks to Terence's dad) in a Ford Focus auto car. While I was learning driving last time I had driven twice in Honda's auto car (compulsory), but the Ford car was different even though it had the same auto capabilities. They had different lever functions!!

The Ford Focus is a continental car brand. Their lever's are of opposite functions (left lever for signal instead of asian cars wiper for left) (right lever for wiper, asian cars for signal and light). The light switch is found not on the levers but below the aircon near the door. Terence's dad & mum gladly explained the difference of operating the car.

The car has firm yet super responsive steering. Firm as in you need extra force to turn the wheel with one hand. Comparing it to Honda, the car somewhat has 'loose' steering that u can 'accidentally' move left or right with less force.

It has alot of safety features and loves to warn the driver when you get out of the car and forget to switch off the headlights. Safety features such as auto-locking of car doors when you forget to do so and move off forward. It triggers the lock a few short metres from stationary.

As auto cars have lots of 'patterns' to follow, being trained specifically in manual car, I had some hitches!! :D The car boot will not pop open when the car doors are fully locked. Putting the gear in N and switching off the engine will not allow the key to disengage from the lock (must put in P). Haha well, these tips were taught during when I had my auto car lesson but it was just only 2 lessons!!! Easy to forget.

We (Jacob, Terence and I) went to drive to budget terminal and had Hans for dinner. There we met Clement and Eugene who went for the Sitex 2006 exhibition and brought back lots of brochures.. and discussions of some particular girl.. haha ooo clement clement clement..

We then went to Potong Pasir to pick Jeremy up and then drove ourselves back home. By then it was already past 12 midnight. Mr Joo Joo then wanted to buy a drink in Shell and so we did, then we went to Jurong Hill to see super brightly lighted Jurong Island!! Then off we go home, and returned the car to Terence at his house and off to home I go..

Driving's Cool!!! Muz practice alot to so call 'clock mileage and road experience'!!

NoMaD_MCV

Photocard License

2006-12-01T18:21:00.000+08:00

I got my photocard license today!!
Via registered mail. My mom took it for me on my behalf :)

Time to keep the receipt license safelty in the letter

NoMaD_MCV

QDL!!

2006-11-23T00:32:00.000+08:00

Yesterday was the day!! Wooo Hooo!!!!
After 11 months and 11 days I am now qualified to drive Class 3 vehicles.. Woo Hoo!!!
2 weeks from qualifications I will get my photocard license!! :)

Woooooooo Hoooooo

NoMaD_MCV

Upgraded Firmware

2006-11-05T03:25:00.000+08:00

SUCCESS!!

I have overclocked my Teac DV-W58G-A to Lite On SOHW-832S and enabled it to be able to burn DVD+DL discs. I haven't yet tried to do so coz the media itself is expensive and I too do not have a disc myself. But to be able to get a 'free' upgrade to DL burning capability (for a risk of losing the warranty due firmware change). Gonna get my hands on a DL soon to test my findings!!

NoMaD_MCV

Battery Care Table

2006-11-03T12:42:00.000+08:00

Tips for you guys to properly take care of your battery:

Most of you get your facts wrong, this table to help you in your battery care and knowledge

	NiMH	Li-ion
Cost	Lower Cost	Higher Cost
Weight	Heavier	Lighter
Energy Density	60+ Watt-hours per kilogram	200 Watt-hours per kilogram
Self Discharge	30% per month at 68 degrees F	5% per month at 60 degrees F
Maximum Charge Rate	Capacity divided by 10	Capacity divided by / 2
Cycle Life	~300 cycles	12 to 18 months regardless
Deep Discharge	May eventually mess it up	Will destroy the battery
Extreme Heat	Expands the cell and may cause a leak.	May detonate the battery
Safety Circuits Used	Typically a chemical catalyst added to the formulation to convert gas into water.	Over temperature shutdown Pressure Relief Gas Vent Over charging interrupt Over discharge protection Short circuit Protection
Storage Mode	Store discharged.	40% charge, refrigerated but never frozen.

NoMaD_MCV

Fifa 07 Songs

2006-11-02T00:37:00.000+08:00

I particularly like the track 'Fly' by Epik High. It is played and part of the soundtrack of Fifa 07. I find the song nice especially its beat and rythmm :)

There are plenty of nice songs in the game but this song was the first one to click in me

NoMaD_MCV

My Birthday

2006-10-26T12:10:00.000+08:00

I would like to thank the people who celebrated my birthday with a nice dinner treat for the birthday celebratees. Thank you all for the greetings and wishes. God bless your generousity!!

NoMaD_MCV

Picasa Web Albums

2006-10-23T15:45:00.000+08:00

Opened up a picasa web album for my use.
It has 250MB of account space to store pictures.
Videos are not supported yet, I should think google is in the process of implementing the feature.
Updated my links area, adding my web album link there

NoMaD_MCV

Train Accident

2006-10-19T01:04:00.000+08:00

Source: Channelnewsasia - Man dies after getting hit by train at Chinese Garden Station

I was on my way home from school, where class ended at 9:50pm. I then took a slow walk to the MRT station where it is cheaper to take Train-Bus than Bus-Bus :) I took the Siemens train and stood at my usual 2nd last blue carriage area number 1212.

When it was slowing down at Chinese Garden at 1015pm, suddenly the train performed an Emergency Brake. I thought it was just a normal EB where there could be a train ahead or just the train's safety feature kicking in. But when the train stayed stationery damn long, it felt wierd too. The aircon suddenly lost power and ventilation mode was on. Every carriage was in service-light mode, 3 lights per carriage. It was already 1030pm and there weren't any announcement about whats going on, when passengers started moving towards the head train to exit the train.

I observed the train's other carriages before 1212 (2212, 2211, 1211, 3211) had no power on its line. The station must have turned the power off. Something bad must have happened, and yes indeed. Police and Civil Defence sirens were blaring away outside the station. Cops and SCDF personnel were rushing up to assess the situation, bringing in heavy duty machinery.

No train service to boon lay due to accident - announcement :(

Shuttle bus service were deployed, and it was filled to the max, even bendy busses!!
So I waited for like 1 hour (and during that time looked at the men at work, very busy indeed) and took 180 back to Boon Lay. By that time or even before around 1115pm trains were resuming service.

Now back home.. and CNA has posted news of it too..

NoMaD_MCV

FIFA 07

2006-10-13T23:37:00.000+08:00

This game rocks!!!! Taken from an Fifa 06 engine, it really is an great improvement compared to its predecessor. On slow computer like my father's Pentium 4 2.4GHz and running with Geforce 3 Ti 200, it is considered smooth gameplay already versus Fifa 06 on that rig which is a very quick slideshow yet playable.

But Fifa 07 has lots of features man. Now using real currency. Aloy had a first hand on that game, and ironically his compuer cannot even run Fifa 06, and yet Fifa 07 can run quite considerably playable on his computer set up!!.

Get it guys!!

NoMaD_MCV

Audigy 2 NX

2006-10-12T15:55:00.000+08:00

~My AUDIGY 2 NX has moved on~

After 1 year and 5 months of usage, my NX USB sound card has died. :(

It suddenly just died. At first it tried to switch itself on but couldn't. It on and off and on and off repeatedly and finally yesterday it managed to switch on and able to use it for the night until today morning where it couldn't even be powered on anymore :(

I sent an email to the creative support and waiting their reply to what available options I have with my NX.

And my old Extigy is still working well... <-- Refurbished!!! [My NX is brand new :(] Now using my on-board Azalia HD audio, till then...

NoMaD_MCV

Re-organization of HDD's

2006-10-06T02:48:00.000+08:00

My HDD, having just returned from Seagate RMA department (hmm??) I had to perform several re-shuffling of data to and fro the high capacity Hitachi and Seagates. I removed the Hitachi and made it an external drive, giving back the Seagate it's rightful internal storage space. Videos will be stored into my Hitachi (now in it's external casing), anime to be stored in the Seagate, making my Hitachi portable and be able to use it whenever, wherever I want...!!!

NoMaD_MCV

Migrated to Blogger beta

2006-10-05T16:59:00.000+08:00

I have migrated my blog to blogger beta. It is still in beta stage, so expect some unexpected bugs or errors in the beta stage.

Just trying out the new features of blogger beta.
Also seems my cbox not working properly after migrating... hey it is also an irreversible process when u decide to migrate to the beta..!!

NoMaD_MCV

HDD back from RMA

2006-10-05T16:51:00.000+08:00

UPS came to my doorstep, delivering back a similar and repaired Seagate HDD I have mailed to them on just this week's Monday. They are really fast in analyzing and certifying of defective HDD and replacing it with another.

I have yet to install the HDD into my computer, maybe later at night I should and will do so

NoMaD_MCV

Blog problems

2006-10-01T00:49:00.000+08:00

My blog had publishing problems on 28th Sept, and it is only now that it successfully published my old saved post of 28th Sept.

I bought a new hard disk to transfer (encounterring errors along the way) data from my old 160GB dying hdd to the new 200GB Hitachi. Now it is waiting to be returned to Seagate for replacement.

NoMaD_MCV

Dying Hard Drive.. again

2006-09-28T13:20:00.000+08:00

Hard drive dying... again.. well it's not the same drive as the previous one, at least it is of same brand. My Seagate ST3160827AS (wow i can actually memorize it already having checked the validity of the warranty which runs til 2010) has been showing signs of inability to read/write to the drive thus getting bad cluster errors and worst still the drive 'disappears' when chkdsk /f is applied to fix the drive. Oh and the problem started not long ago.. I guess last month it started to be this way and the rate of the bad clusters appearing is increasing neither constantly nor exponentially..

And this drive was bought in July 2005!!!
Preparing my RMA box soon as I get my new HDD (Hitachi here I come)

NoMaD_MCV

Thumbdrive

2006-09-18T16:47:00.000+08:00

I bought a thumbdrive for my personal use and also to store school work/documents into it. 1GB is a good enough size for me, and the damage was $55 for the SanDisk Cruzer Crossfire.
White colour and tough usb protection cap locking it tight to be able to be worn upon with either it's lanyard or on your keychain.

NoMaD_MCV

2006-09-15T00:03:00.000+08:00

I rode the new Volvo B9TL Service No. 99 (SBS 7313C) low-floor wheelchair-accessible bus.
It sported a different chair configuration below, with the rear end of the seats having head rests.
The seats are yellow in colour, with the small standing area even having a cushion by the side.
There is no more validator in use, rather it uses a new ticket dispensing printer that is small and is just right beside the driver.
It is almost similar to the SBS's CNG buses, the Volvo B10BLE
One thing too: the bus shifted up to 6 gears when travelling on continuous and uninterrupted roads.

It is wider that older Superbuses, very obvious in when u look up to the 2nd floor from the outside of the bus, the chair's seem bigger, and people 'smaller'

As with the new launches of buses just rolled out of production, it smelled plasticky.. haha

NoMaD_MCV

Passport and PDL

2006-09-14T01:18:00.000+08:00

I got my passport today..
Renewed my PDL too..

Later I have driving!!..

TP coming soon...

*nervous*

NoMaD_MCV

Merger

2006-09-06T21:31:00.000+08:00

Gigabyte and Asus, 2 big manufacturers of computer hardware (most notably, motherboards and graphic cards) have together in a joint venture, to produce Gigabyte branded products.

Source Link from Asus website
Source Link from Gigabyte website

2 high end manufacturers in one house, surely drops prices for upcoming and new Gigabyte brand products.!!!!

NoMaD_MCV

IC-less

2006-09-05T11:25:00.000+08:00

I am no longer stateless

but...

IC-LESS

for a long time being...

until it's ready for collection at the nearest CDC around my area

NoMaD_MCV

Comex 2006

2006-09-01T23:51:00.000+08:00

Comex 2006, started yesterday 31st August, til Sunday 3rd September 2006

at SINGAPORE EXPO!!!! (very far :O)
Sony with some tons of advertisements promoting their products!!!

NoMaD_MCV

Stateless

2006-08-31T16:38:00.000+08:00

STATELESS!!!

I am as above!!!

as on 31st August 2006

NoMaD_MCV

Core 2 Duo (Merom)

2006-08-29T01:11:00.000+08:00

Core 2 Duo 'Merom' for laptop's become widely available for system builders by end of August.

Running at 667 PSB (166MHz)
Top CPU is T7600 running at 2.33GHz with 4MB L2 Cache
Faster by 16-20% average compared to older generation Core Duo T2600 (2.13GHz)
And spawning longer battery life!!

NoMaD_MCV

Computer Config Update August 2006

2006-08-23T18:56:00.000+08:00

Updated my reference guide for those who want to take notes in getting the right components for your future computer within your budget and needs.

I also linked it via my blog page so you can easily navigate to it straight away. It can be found at the links sidebar labeled 'Computer DIY Guide'

NoMaD_MCV

Term 2 Exam's Coming Near

2006-08-22T03:09:00.000+08:00

1 more week to exams for me!!

Intense yet spread out study week for me, to prepare myself mentally for my upcoming sch exam!!

*Study mode initiated*

Wish me luck!!

NoMaD_MCV

Hold Up

2006-08-16T22:44:00.000+08:00

My filipino friend, on his way home in a crowded mini-bus was held-up at knife point by 3 guys who wanted to take his cellular phone and wallet within the bus itself!! (can you imagine???)
As one of the guys attempted to take his phone away kept in his pocket, he reacted instictively to block but instead of holding the hand to block it, he held the knife and got cut in the process when the perpetrator pulled the knife away. Luckily he escaped with a few cuts on his hand as he forced them and himself out of the seat into the bus aisle and escaped out of the bus leaving his bag behind and out of the bus and rushed into the crowd of people to camouflauge away from the perpetrators.

Stay safe people

NoMaD_MCV

Sick

2006-08-15T09:53:00.000+08:00

Being Ill SUX!!

I've fallen ill for the 2nd time this year. My previous one was gastric flu which was a miserable 1 week of my life (the first time I even got it too).
Now I have succumbed down to common cold (without the cold ironically) of fever-headache, sore-throat and phlegm stuck in my throat.
My sore-throat came after like 9pm yesterday and it worsened at 6am today with super throbbing headache.

I couldn't even feel that I had a fever until the ear-temperature check was done. An MC was offered though I didn't need it coz I don't have sch today.

GET WELL SOON MR MIKE

NoMaD_MCV

New Skin

2006-08-15T00:56:00.000+08:00

Updated my blog skin with this new one :)
That's all for my updates for now!

NoMaD_MCV

Core 2 Duo

2006-07-30T22:47:00.000+08:00

CORE 2 DUO LAUNCHES

Ever since the release of Core 2 Duo CPU by Intel, made by Intel, many are having the thought of upgrading or buying the latest computer with the latest and by means, the fastest CPU and yet the lowest power consuming ones (for the desktop) ever released since like Pentium M!!!
Codenames for the different Core 2 Duo CPU's are Woodcrest (Server), Conroe (Desktop) & Merom (Laptop).

Having been officially launched on 27th July, it has dethroned the CPU performance king AMD off its podium place, which was held for 2 years!! (Source)

Core 2 Duo (Conroe) for desktop and Core 2 Duo (Merom) for laptops.
CPU's released are Conroe Extreme Edition running at 1066MHz FSB, X6800 (2.93GHz), Conroe (Desktop) also running at 1066MHz FSB, E6700 (2.67GHz), E6600 (2.4GHz), E6400 (2.13GHz) & E6300 (1.86GHz), Conroe (Laptop) running at 667MHz FSB, T7600, T7400, T7200, T5600, and T5500 (Source)

The letter infront of the number (e.g E6700 or T7600) denotes the typical power consumption of the CPU. E typical range is more than 50W (the Conroe CPU's are rated at 65W) whilst the T typical range is between 25W to 49W.

Prices for the Conroe based release (arranged from Extreme Edition top to slowest Conroe CPU available) are 999, 530, 316, 224 & 183. Prices are in US Dollars.

Core 2 Duo general specifications can be found in detail right here
Summary of features:
- 14 stage short and efficient pipeline
- ability to execute simultaneously 4 instructions in its very short and efficient pipeline (Wide Dynamic Execution)
- Macro-Fusion capability, ability to combine 2 instructions into 1, thus being able to execute 2 instructions at a time
- Digital Media Boost, able to execute a 128bit instruction in 1 cycle (as opposed to previous generations had to 'break' it into 2x 64bit instructions executed over 2 cycles) therefore doubling the speed of execution
- Very low power usage even at high loads

So do you want to get a Core 2 Duo based computer now? I'll be, when the time is right to upgrade my current Pentium 4 520 rig, which is still serving me well :)
And no way I am affiliated to any of these sites.. I'm just an avid computer user with keen interest in these new technologies, computer and electrical. :)

NoMaD_MCV

Blackout!!

2006-07-27T12:07:00.000+08:00

Power failure

Encountered Power Failure at 1130am just now
Went down by stairs to check if there is a notice posted below, but there was none
The Fire-Man's Lift is the only lift that is working, powered by backup power n backup lights that were so dim.
The lift made those weird 'grrr' sounds but nevertheless the firemans lift function is working as it's supposed to do so
Power was restored at 1145am

NoMaD_MCV

2006-07-26T22:57:00.000+08:00

MRT Trivia

There are :

EW-NS Line
66 C151 (1987-1989) Kawasaki Heavy Industries Trains
19 C651 (mid 1990's) Siemens Trains
21 C751B (eary 2000's) Kawasaki Heavy Industries & Nippon Sharyo Trains

NE Line
25 Alstom Metropolis Trains (2003) 6car

CLC Line
40 Alstom Metropolis Trains 3car

NoMaD_MCV

Computer Hardware Cleanup

2006-07-26T16:13:00.000+08:00

CLEAN-UP

Cleaned up the innards of my computer casing, freeing it from dust accumulated from the past year, the last time I made my cleaning session

Took 1h 30mins to make it dust free again :)

It will be another 1yr (max) I would re-open and dismantle the innards to give it a dust cleaning off session, that is provided I do not upgrade the computer in a yr from now to the newer Core 2 duo Intel CPU being released this month

Computer looks clean n runs a little quiet now due to fresh air-flow and cleaned cooling components

NoMaD_MCV

NEL Line Stall

2006-07-25T12:46:00.000+08:00

OO SBS Transit NEL Line train stall due to loose power cable

News Link

Between Outram Park, Clark Quay, Chinatown & Harbourfront, services were disrupted from 1245pm yesterday due to technical problems. Expect services to resume today (Tuesday)

NoMaD_MCV

Flying Battery Song

2006-07-22T00:36:00.000+08:00

Sonic and Knuckles Song, Flying Battery Zone Act 1 for all my blog viewers to listen

Enjoy!!!

NoMaD_MCV

Sonic the Hedgehog OST

2006-07-18T20:25:00.000+08:00

I have found the Sonic OST's (1, 2, 3 and Sonic n Knuckles) and am going to upload the Flying Battery Zone Act 1 music soon to replace the current blog music I have.

I love that soundtrack in the Sonic and Knuckles game, always play the game just to listen to the quickly beat filled song

NoMaD_MCV

Lousy

2006-07-13T13:33:00.000+08:00

LOUSY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Superman Returns

2006-07-06T22:40:00.000+08:00

SUPERMAN RETURNS

Watched Superman Returns with my darling at Eng Wah Westmall. As usual superman movies dialog is very little, but not to be disappointed there are plenty of action scenes in the movie, where superman saves a plane plummetting down from the atmosphere after a serious EMP shockwave rocked metropolis and caused serious electric and circuit problems.

More of CG in this movie, previous superman movies used 'strings' and can see superman wheel to a direction before it flies off.

Superman almost died in the last part of the movie...

Guess there is Superboy....

Engwah drink cups were made of plastic and had superman printed on it, with a reusable drink cap too..

I like the score of superman movies.. :)

NoMaD_MCV

Something

2006-06-29T23:10:00.000+08:00

My darling ask me to write something :)

So here I shall write

something..

NoMaD_MCV

Creative Warehouse Sale

2006-06-21T17:22:00.000+08:00

Creative Warehouse Sale Jun '06

Its back, starts on the 23rd June, Friday and ends on 25th June, Sunday
Opens @ 11am
Closes @ 7pm

Bargains and more information, head on here

NoMaD_MCV

ORD'ed

2006-06-19T23:12:00.000+08:00

ORD'ed 190606

Collected my BLUE IC after my last day of NSF Life
Now I am an NSMan :D
Happy Happy, Civillian Life back... I am a Civilian Soldier (As what the NSMan Handbook says)

ORD LIAO LOR!!!

NoMaD_MCV

2006-06-17T13:33:00.000+08:00

Repair Internet Explorer 6

A number of XP users have reported situations with Internet Explorer 6 becoming corrupted and reporting a number of different errors. While there is certainly no guarantee, the two procedures listed below have restored functionality to IE6 for many users experiencing problems.
Note: Both methods listed require that the Microsoft Windows XP CD-ROM be available.

Method 1: Microsoft Internet Explorer 6.x Repair for Windows XP

From the Start menu, select Run.
In the Open field, type sfc /scannow (Note: There is a space between sfc and /scannow)
Select the OK button.
Follow the prompts throughout the System File Checker process.
Reboot the computer when System File Checker completes.

Method 2: Microsoft Internet Explorer 6.x Repair for Windows XP

From the Start menu, select Search, select All Files and Folders.
Select More Advanced Options and place a checkmark beside Search Hidden Files and Folders option.
Ensure that Search System Folders and Search Subfolders are also checked.
In the All or Part of the File Name box, type ie.inf
In the Look In drop-down menu, select C: or the letter of the hard drive that contains the Windows folder.
Click the Search button.
In the search results pane, find the ie.inf file located in Windows\Inf folder.
Right click the ie.inf file and click Install on the context menu.
Reboot the computer when the file copy process is complete.

Taken from The Elder Geek

NoMaD_MCV

Self-Inflict

2006-06-10T16:13:00.000+08:00

Take care of yourself k!!
Remember that your beloved is always and forever by ur side.
Remember that you are always given the support, the love, the comfort
Remember that every action that is done, it is made and thought of just for you

Your beloved companion, today, tomorrow and for life~

NoMaD_MCV

PC SHOW 06

2006-06-04T20:54:00.000+08:00

Went to PC Show 06 at Suntec City Level 6 and purchased an LCD monitor to replace my old and half-spoilt LG CRT monitor.
I bought the Samsung SyncMaster 731BF 17" 2ms LCD monitor for a steal price of 359.
Also sis bought a laptop, the Samsung X11 Series :)

Now enjoying and getting used to the humongous screen I have right in front of my eyes

My dad going to open up the CRT monitor and find out the root of the problem

Oh ya, Kenny Rogers at Marina Square sux, service sux, and the chicken wings not even fully cooked man,.. there's blood in it even when we asked it to be re-done... Shame on you!!!

NoMaD_MCV

2006-05-30T22:52:00.000+08:00

Driving Status: Progressing Well
Next Lesson: Auto Car Lesson
When: Haven't book yet.. :D:D

Tomorrow going for the Singapore Citizenship interview.. Ain't time flies fast right~???

ER.. hmm~.. PC SHOW 06 in Suntec City Halls 6 will open on 1st June (Thursday) til 4th June (Sunday)

Gonna get a new monitor for my dying old 4yr old CRT and my sister her new laptop too.

CS TIME!!!!!!!!

NoMaD_MCV

Farewell to 2 servers

2006-05-29T00:11:00.000+08:00

BON VOYAGE FELLOW SERVER FRIENDS!!!

2 of our fellow servers are departing for reasons, one sailing for up to 9 months and the other off to study overseas

Mr Eugene Hong, taking up Dip in Marinetime Studies part of his course going off to set sail next week
Mr Dineth Mendis, going to Australia to start his Degree Course

Going to miss them both....

COME BACK SOON SO WE'LL HAVE A NICE REUNION!!!

NoMaD_MCV

New Mouse Pad

2006-05-21T21:30:00.000+08:00

After all the events done on my Sunday

RECAP

Church (Served 9am & 1030am masses)
Lunch with fellow servers, Aunt Tina & my darling at Swensens Jurong Point --> Had Teriyaki Chicken Pasta
Had soccer which supposed to start at 2pm
Still at Jurong Point at 2pm wanting to have coffee at CBTL but didn't have time
Went back to church with my darling to cut 16 candles as one of the items done during weekly maintenance
Jacob brought army shorts and adidas climacool jersey (which was very good indeed, keeping ur body cool and not making the jersey sticky) and played soccer with fellow servers
Talk cock session till the start of chinese mass
Discussed to eat at Jurong West Area with Jacob, Terence, Jeremy and my darling
Jeremy had to prepare for book in at 830, so parted for the night at 730pm.
Walked a distance with mr soo thoo back n parted ways after HYSS
Walked my darling home before leaving for JP

Then walked to CyberActive to buy the RAZER eXactMat (2 side, speed n control) for 55 bux. There was a bundle for 99 which includes the RAZER DiamondBack Gaming mouse (stand-alone price 79) and this mouse pad. But didn't opt for that coz my MX900 mouse is still alive for gaming :)
The mousepad is very very big, you will never run out of space to move your mouse around precisionly
2 sides, speed for quick movement and control for precise and accuracy

Previous mousepad feet torn apart due to excessive wear and tear. :)

This one is made of anodised aluminum, it will surely last for a very long time

Time to go play CS

NoMaD_MCV

Mothers Day

2006-05-15T14:09:00.000+08:00

HAPPY MOTHER's DAY

to

all mothers (in laws too)
to be mothers
future mothers

Blessed Mother's Day 2006 to you all

Driving in Clementi

2006-05-12T01:04:00.000+08:00

Today I learnt

Lane Changing in Heavy Traffic

Drove to Clementi Road to try out that maneuver, right turn to traffic then perform a left turn to the filter lane

IN HEAVY left lane traffic, so in this situation, the instructor said to force ur way to the left carefully and 'ask for help', that is the car behind u on the left lane u are turning to have to show courtesy and give way to you because you entered from the right lane and it is heavy traffic and you want to filter to the left.

In this case the driver didn't and honked me, which the instructor stated that the car is in the wrong, the driver has to give way due to this traffic situation.

Anyway, I didn't drive that far before, and it was rather a good experience, my camp mate said driving to Clementi is fun, just circle around n around...

Also did series of lane changing, and am improving in driving with more practice to checking my blind spots..
Did a slope turning maneuver and must practice more in releasing the hand brake.. Having 'difficulty' releasing the lever..

So good night people and... Enjoy the Vesak Day holiday

NoMaD_MCV

ORD Leave

2006-05-11T14:59:00.000+08:00

My ORD Leave officially starts

TODAY 110506

1 or 2 days will be used up to return to camp and complete my clearance forms even furthur

Yesterday was my last day of shift work and so I must say a return to my last day of work is the most shiong-est one i ever had.. Had to run around (for the last time) the airfiled to rectify radio problems, which was eventually solved, and explained slowly and indeed difficult to talk thru to the MC's.

We must and have to learn to be calm and able to talk through out of the problems we have and the questions shot out by them.. :)

Anyway it was actually fun to really have something to do in camp (albeit all the 'scoldings' and demands to be accomplished in funny impossible times) having the rank worn on your arm really the MC's will listen to you when u drill it in to them, coz you are trained to program, operate and troubleshoot these equipment, and what you learned during when you were a trainee really needs to be applied when you need to reason out with them

Today just watched some of my recorded shows, and going for driving later at 6pm.. I think today should be lane changing in fast traffic.. :)

Going to get some rest.. :)

NoMaD_MCV

Fire Alarm

2006-05-07T23:57:00.000+08:00

Action packed Sunday today :)

Served 9am mass and cutted candles while 1030am mass was on-going. It is certified safe for me to cut candles provided I do not situate myself directly under the heat/fire detector located strategically on the ceilings of the church. Gospel just started, and I just finished cutting like 2-3 pairs of candles when suddenly the fire alarm rang.

I looked up facing my behind to check if the detector lit up, it wasn't, I looked up at the other detector some 6 steps ahead of me, and it too wasn't lighted up. I then ran out by the secondary exit to check the Fire Access Panel (Supposed to check the Main Fire Access Panel and locate the fire via there or it's Sub Fire Access Panel, but then noticed the SAP Zone 1 fire LEDs lit up). It was already ringing for 1min and there was no time to lose otherwise the fire department would despatch if it rang on for a little more longer.

I broke the 'break glass in case of fire' to get the key (which the glass eventually 'spider-webbed' and had to use a key and my fingers to pull the glass out) to open, isolate and silence the sounder before proceeding to Zone 1 to locate the triggered detector. The location printed there was 'Prayer Room, Parish Hall, Corridor' so rushed to the prayer room but there was nothing (but prayer room on the MAP was not allocated Zone 11 SAP Zone 1). The map at Zone 11 SAP states Zone 1 consists of the toilet, corridor and parish hall.

Scanned the parish hall for the triggered detector. Nope
Scanned the toilets for the triggered detector. Nope
Scanned the corridor for the triggered detector. Yep, detector near the notice boards.

Some blame us for using candles in the lounge to cut the long candles short caused the alarm.. Which is wrong, please get ur facts straight.. the detector is very sensitive, yes it is, but not so sensitive that when u light a match stick or start the gas stove, the alarm goes on right..

Oh ya fellow warden stated the fire is at Zone 11.. Ah, you know the MAP cannot control every detector in the building right.. and most are allocated to SAPs placed on every floor of the church. Please refer to the fire map to check what zone 11 is first (which is SAP near the kitchen)

And the detector at that corridor has been found faulty and disabled after it went off again for no reason at about 1230pm. The company came to isolate and disable the affected alarm and reset the system all over again...

What an alarm we had ah...

If only it rang during doxology.. haha

NoMaD_MCV

Back to School!!

2006-05-06T13:30:00.000+08:00

Yesterday had my 1st day of school at Informatics School of Engineering. The subject was Electrical & Electronic Principles II, all about

Circuits

Problem solvings of electronics

Usage of Laplace Transformation

Back to what I have learnt like 3-4years ago man!!! Have to slowy refresh my learnt stuff previously in the Philippines, just read up only coz here we will be given the table of formula's for us to refer to, unlike in DLSU where had to write the formula from scratch, means have to really be on the ball and know what formula is needed as there will not be a formula list given to you

:) It is actually like Physics all over again, not the whole of the book, but just the electronics/capacitor/resistor/circuit topics and relevant

Later going to the airport to fetch my mum

Ciaoz

NoMaD_MCV

MI:3

2006-05-04T23:07:00.000+08:00

Watched Mission Impossible: 3 in the evening and found the movie to be action packed, though not that intense as the previous 2 movies, this involves Ethan Hunt's wife put into danger in his missions. More action outside, infiltration missions toned town a little, lesser than Mission Impossible: 1
Overall the movie was great to watch for its action!!!

THE NEW NOKIA N92 is there man.. but only used for..... phone calls.......... hahahaha

Bought stationery for tomorrow's first day of class for me, heck I dun even know what to bring on the first day. I have to buy new button/cell batteries for my calculator I purchased in the Philippines where I used it when I was studying there, and that was like many many many many years ago, 5 years ago!!!

Found my antique PILOT 2B pencil leads, those expensive S$2.58 ones, heck I think this was bought almost 9 years ago!!.. Even the new PILOT pencil leads cost the same, carry the same tag but different packaging.

Time to go play FIFA 06.. :)

NoMaD_MCV

Duffel Bag

2006-05-02T23:49:00.000+08:00

I brought home my duffel bag, a sign of going to ord soon :)
Finally can unpack the stuff at home and throw the un-necessary ones away

Going to search for more signatures for my clearance certificates
I only have 1 for now

NoMaD_MCV

3 Working Days Left

2006-05-01T23:18:00.000+08:00

I have

3 WORKING DAYS LEFT

I'm clearing my 4 days of off in this coming 2 weeks, so this week I go to work tomorrow and Wednesday only. The following week I go to work on Wednesday only, which is my last day.

I've got to get lots of signatures on my clearance form :)

ORD COMING SOON LOR

NoMaD_MCV

Driving on Friday

2006-05-01T00:06:00.000+08:00

I learnt U-Turning. It is actually quite difficult to execute as u need to turn the wheel faster than the car's actual u-turning speed. The instructor said to drive as fast as you are walking on the pedestrian lane.

I tried the narrow kerb u-turn (same as permitted traffic light u-turns) and wide kerb u-turns. Each u-turn is executed differently, so different methods are taken note before executing them.

I also tried the round-a-bout, which is not tested in the TP Practical and the U-Turn found in 2 way roads without kerbs.

Thats all for my driving, hope to book a slot for next month but logging on to my BBDC account, there are like virtually no slots available for driving :( hope to be able to 'squeeze' a driving slot in the month of May.

Thats all for this entry, later will be writing about us servers being the house mover's for the day

NoMaD_MCV

Driving~~!!

2006-04-27T22:37:00.000+08:00

I'm back!!
After an evening of driving (the last lesson I had was 3 weeks ago) I'm beginning to really love the clutch, my control of it. Drive the new VTI (City) car and it was really big on the outside, and quiet on the inside. I'm mastering the clutch well & able to keep the car going even in very low engine revs, low to the point its near stalling.

Today drive lots of right turns, at junctions, controlled, uncontrolled ones where minor to major or major to minor. Also learnt how to change gear while turning n controlling the turn with the hand respective to the direction where the car is told to turn (right hand turn back when turning right, left hand turn back when turning left), where to align yourself before turning which depends on what turn are you performing and its situation.

IT IS FUN~!! REALLY !!!

Tomorrow may drive in the evening again, but there is church cleaning too at 8pm!!! *think think*

My computer engineering course class is starting next week, lots of off to clear too and my ORD leave commencing in 2 weeks time..

ORD MOOD LOR!!!

NoMaD_MCV

ORD MOOD!~!

2006-04-20T11:15:00.000+08:00

I can't help but to declare this....

60 DAYS TO ORD!!!!!!

:)

2 WEEKS TO ORD LEAVE..

I have yet to fill up the Citizenship application....

but still

ORD MOOD ALREADY!!!!!

NoMaD_MCV

Holy Week

2006-04-16T23:16:00.000+08:00

HAPPY EASTER 2006

A busy and more busy holy week we servers have this 2006 year.

Involved in Easter Vigil Choir and lots of masses/service to serve.
Maundy Thursday and benediction sessions till midnight.
We too covered the main crucifix in church with the purple cloth for Good Friday came.
Also Kenneth broke the tile for supporting the Altar Candles so had to improvise with our wooden processional lamps as the makeshift Altar Candle before finding another tile to replace the broken one.

Had lots n lots of practice for servers choir and serving servers for the Easter Vigil Celebration, a 3hr mass, started at 930pm and ended at 1230am

It was a very grand celebration. The kerosene fire was so super hot, even quite a distance away the heat was so intensive and double the height of mine was how high the fire rose. Then as the light service ended and we made our way back into the church in a procession, I wantted to get back my charcoal pot but they had extinguished the fire in it and had to set up a new fire double time. *sob*
We planned to use the new metallic processional lamps for this grand occasion but due to some scientific reason, the candles burn out way faster than those used in the wooden processional lamps even though the candles used are all the same, out of the same box. The lamps are not in use already until a suitable solution is found, which we are currently brainstorming and brainstorming and brainstorming...

Easter Sunday also was a grand day too.
4 days of remembrance. Achievement for servers, setting a benchmark in what the original choir groups should do.

Good Night people and have a good easter week ahead

NoMaD_MCV

Citizenship

2006-04-11T22:55:00.000+08:00

Today got a call to my camp admin office about citizenship. I was rather amazed to hearing that I had to collect the application form and procedures for applying for Singapore citizenship. So I said, why not, let's just go and try to apply la; I accepted the offer in being interested in applying for citizenship and followed the instructions clearly printed along with the form.

Now have to go dig out lots and lots of documents required to support the application form. I have 1 month 3 weeks before the interview (citizenship interview at ICA)

Time to eat my instant noodles

NoMaD_MCV

CSI Season 4

2006-04-04T20:15:00.000+08:00

~Finally~

Guess what I have bought in Jurong Point after I booked out from camp??
Come on make a guess~~

Dun be a spoil sport... Come on.. :)
I'll give you a clue...

It is my favourite forensics show on TV.
Free to air is currently airing Season 5 and AXN (Cable) Season 6...

Oh I know that you have already guessed what it is.. :)

After seeing it in video shops put on display on its shelves for 2 months, I have finally bought and added to my collection...

C.S.I. (Crime Scene Investigation) Season 4 complete set.. :)

Channel 5 is always lagging behind due to, you know.. broadcasting issues.. competing with what Cable TV has to offer :)

You wanna borrow ah?? Hmm... You can try... It'll be hard though~..

Now time to watch the first episode of Season 4.. :)
Later people

NoMaD_MCV

Easter

2006-04-03T18:24:00.000+08:00

Easter is nearing~
Here comes the traditional easter bunny, popping out 2 days after Good Friday.
Lots of chocolates as usual, games with 'easter eggs', features or 'bugs' that make the game unique on that specific day itself.

Are you guys gonna indulge urself in chocolate feasts?

Enjoy the week ahead~

NoMaD_MCV

Stage 2

2006-03-30T14:25:00.000+08:00

Driving Galore~

Completed Stage 1 of my driving, now at Stage 2, all traffic rules and regulations and signs and driving, lots of practice on main roads, up to 70km/h worth of speed to perform lane changing/overtaking. My lane changing when there are NO cars is way better than lane changing with vehicles around. Hesitation occurs within me, which the instructor assured me that whenever there is space to do lane change, just DO IT.

I need more practice in that area.

My lane changing technique is good, just have to remember this process, rear M(irror) S(ignal), S(ide mirror), B(lindspot) before doing a lane change. The side mirror you check is dependent on where you are lane changing, left mirror if doing left lane change, right mirror if doing right lane change.

I had fun~
I know you all learner drivers did too

NoMaD_MCV

A word to the wise, wordwise

2006-03-28T22:58:00.000+08:00

Taken from The Newpaper, Monday 27th March 2006

ENGLISH can be an interesting language, one word, different meanings and pronunciations.

The bandage was wound around the wound.
The farm was used to produce produce.
The dump was so full that it had to refuse more refuse.
We must polish the Polish furniture.
He could lead if he would get the lead out.
The soldier decided to desert his dessert in the desert.
Since there is no time like the present, he thought it was time to present the present.
A bass was painted on the head of the bass drum.
I did not object to the object.
The insurance was invalid for the invalid.
There was a row among the oarsmen about how to row.
A seamstress and a sewer fell down into a sewer line.
They were too close to the door to close it.
The buck does funny things when the does are present.
Upon seeing the tear in the painting I shed a tear.
I had to subject the subject to a series of tests.
How can I intimate this to my most intimate friend.

Interesting, what say you?? :)

NoMaD_MCV

Nokia 3250

2006-03-25T23:46:00.000+08:00

The new Nokia 3250

The Nokia 3250 (Thicker version of 3230, with 2Mpix, twist keypad function to enable camera/music mode) is out, and offers from different subscribers to attract consumers.
Singtel at $298 (UP $598)
M1 new line at $398, for trade-in upgrade with $200, at $498
Starhub normal price at $608

I estimate the phone value to be at $700+-

Was eying at this phone but my contract still stands until April 2007, till then I'm on the look out for new releases previewed at the end of this year for my upgrade/purchase next year~ probably the N series.. :D hehehe
It is a cool and sleek phone with twisting capabilities~ Its moto is 'twist to the music'

NoMaD_MCV

Clearing OFF

2006-03-21T23:13:00.000+08:00

Off-In-Lieu Clearance

Tomorrow and Thursday, I am on off, taking chance to clear my excess off as in 1.5months time from now I would be starting to go for my ORD Leave. Can't believe that 2yrs 4months is going to pass soon, the smell of civilian life is nearing ever so closer and even so when the April month starts.

Also these 2 days serve as a chance to reflect upon some poor situations that I could have handled better.
It is also time to do some internal self-meditation and repentance too

Have a nice week ahead... and.....

89DAYS TO ORD~~~~
1.5MONTHS LEFT BEFORE CLEARING LEAVE~~
Muahahahahha

NoMaD_MCV

Final Theory Test

2006-03-14T21:43:00.000+08:00

~YAHOO~

I passed my final theory test just this night at about 2040H. The test was mainly 'chim' to understand due to its special grammar and most answers are based on safest and common sense.

This means I can now basically concentrate on practicals, more practicals and even more practicals to get my awaited driving license by I hope end of June :) Good ORD present too

Okay going to wrap up my night with a mug of milo, then head on to bed to sleep as I will have lots of early mornings in this week, the weekdays

NoMaD_MCV

IT related week

2006-03-11T13:23:00.000+08:00

IT Show 2006 & Creative Warehouse Sale March 2006

This 2 weeks mark 2 IT shows, one at Suntec City Level 4 9-12th March 2006, the IT Show 2006. The following week is the Creative Warehouse Sale 17-19th March 2006 at the Creative HQ, Jurong East.

The biggest IT Show for this while, covers the whole of the Suntec City Exhibition Hall, levels 3,4 and 6, making it the BIGGEST IT Related Event ever held in Singapore. But I bet it will be challenged by other brand of Computer Shows that will be coming soon, every quarter of the year. Expect lots of IT bargains and stuff, and more during the last night of the show.

Bargain hunters and seekers, can look forward to this 2 weeks of IT related sales and stuff

NoMaD_MCV