Batch File Renaming using Picasa
The filename structure of our cameras can be pretty annoying and not give any info. You can rename a batch of photos within a Folder with sequential numbers. Take care in selection the identifying label. No spaces – special characters (/&? Etc) and try and keep it short.
1. Select the photos within the Folder
2. Click on Picture – Batch Edits .-Rename or F2
3. Enter your identifier ( An example would be nameyearrmonth lind0912)
4. You can use a starting number with –1 and this number will increase
5. You will not there are other options which can be included in the new file name like full date and resolution
If you are storing your `photos in Folders based on Year and Month then this option will help you identify sections within the folder.
A search on the persons name will then display all the photos in a multitude of folders.
Sylvia Dec 09
Tuesday, December 08, 2009
Christmas Free ECards - Links
Save a Tree and Send Ecards this Christmas!
JIBJAB http://sendables.jibjab.com/
These are fun and quite easy to create. Just a few tips. First of all ADSL is a MUST!
Faces.. you will probably want to personalise the cards with faces. Rather than upload large photos it is better to use Picasa to crop the faces you want to use.. Then EXPORT the cropped version to a folder names FACES. Go back to the library and right click on the photo and select UNDO EDITS to restore to the original photo. You will always easily find the faces you want when uploading to JIBJAB.
JIBJAB ELFME has many FREE versions. You can join and there is no subscription. There is a subscription version which offers a greater selection.
When you have finished your card you can Email it to one or several recipients. It will insert a link which means the recipient is not downloading a large file.
Email it to yourself and then copy this link which means you can include it in any Email or Skype message
My sample of Save a Tree!
http://sendables.jibjab.com/view/5xW1HhquGEYdrx78OP7J
Care Ecards http://www.care2.com/ecards/
Very good site for all types of Ecards.. This is also a free service but if you register it will store and Email address Book and Event reminder
Tips:
Beside each card look for a small icon of a video camera . This indicates and animated card. A very good alternative to the Jacqui Lawson Cards. The recipient is only viewing when using the link so no download is started until that stage.
You can select a stamp for the envelope
Send a Reply to the sender
Add the recipient to address book and other options including BLAND COPY!
http://www.care2.com/send/pickup/1341-66218-10429-9046
Sylvia December 2009
JIBJAB http://sendables.jibjab.com/
These are fun and quite easy to create. Just a few tips. First of all ADSL is a MUST!
Faces.. you will probably want to personalise the cards with faces. Rather than upload large photos it is better to use Picasa to crop the faces you want to use.. Then EXPORT the cropped version to a folder names FACES. Go back to the library and right click on the photo and select UNDO EDITS to restore to the original photo. You will always easily find the faces you want when uploading to JIBJAB.
JIBJAB ELFME has many FREE versions. You can join and there is no subscription. There is a subscription version which offers a greater selection.
When you have finished your card you can Email it to one or several recipients. It will insert a link which means the recipient is not downloading a large file.
Email it to yourself and then copy this link which means you can include it in any Email or Skype message
My sample of Save a Tree!
http://sendables.jibjab.com/view/5xW1HhquGEYdrx78OP7J
Care Ecards http://www.care2.com/ecards/
Very good site for all types of Ecards.. This is also a free service but if you register it will store and Email address Book and Event reminder
Tips:
Beside each card look for a small icon of a video camera . This indicates and animated card. A very good alternative to the Jacqui Lawson Cards. The recipient is only viewing when using the link so no download is started until that stage.
You can select a stamp for the envelope
Send a Reply to the sender
Add the recipient to address book and other options including BLAND COPY!
http://www.care2.com/send/pickup/1341-66218-10429-9046
Sylvia December 2009
Secure Internet Purchasing
Have Fun this Christmas but be SECURE!
Many of us will be making purchases on the Internet this Christmas so I thought I would put out a few tips to help you keep secure.
1. Use trusted and trustworthy sites. Amazon, M&S, Tesco, Boots, Comet, PC World, Jessops etc are good examples. There are many well known outlets that would have in place Secure Payment systems.
2. If you are intent on purchasing from a supplier not known to you, then undertake a Google search with the name. It is possible to purchase domain names with .co.uk or .org . Do not assume they are UK suppliers as many are taken by Far Eastern suppliers. Some are reliable whilst others might not ship any goods. A Google search should give further information like a UK location or telephone number. If in doubt telephone them first.
3. When moving into the payment area the address bar should show https:// this indicates a secure payment site and there should also be a padlock visible on the page.
4. Credit Card payments for purchases over 100 pounds can be stopped if you are unhappy and money refunded if you have a genuine complaint. Under 100 pounds there is little security.
5. PAYPAL also offer refunds for disputed deliveries etc.
6. Many Banks also have a second level security system before accepting a charge. This is linked to your own Bank and you can register for this service. They hold on record more personal information and you go thro another level of security. An example would be a request for randomly selected letters in your password.
7. Banks also advise that you change your password on a regular basis.
Do not be afraid to make Internet purchases, just learn how to achieve them with minimum risk .
Happy & Safe Purchasing!
Sylvia December 2009
Many of us will be making purchases on the Internet this Christmas so I thought I would put out a few tips to help you keep secure.
1. Use trusted and trustworthy sites. Amazon, M&S, Tesco, Boots, Comet, PC World, Jessops etc are good examples. There are many well known outlets that would have in place Secure Payment systems.
2. If you are intent on purchasing from a supplier not known to you, then undertake a Google search with the name. It is possible to purchase domain names with .co.uk or .org . Do not assume they are UK suppliers as many are taken by Far Eastern suppliers. Some are reliable whilst others might not ship any goods. A Google search should give further information like a UK location or telephone number. If in doubt telephone them first.
3. When moving into the payment area the address bar should show https:// this indicates a secure payment site and there should also be a padlock visible on the page.
4. Credit Card payments for purchases over 100 pounds can be stopped if you are unhappy and money refunded if you have a genuine complaint. Under 100 pounds there is little security.
5. PAYPAL also offer refunds for disputed deliveries etc.
6. Many Banks also have a second level security system before accepting a charge. This is linked to your own Bank and you can register for this service. They hold on record more personal information and you go thro another level of security. An example would be a request for randomly selected letters in your password.
7. Banks also advise that you change your password on a regular basis.
Do not be afraid to make Internet purchases, just learn how to achieve them with minimum risk .
Happy & Safe Purchasing!
Sylvia December 2009
Wednesday, November 04, 2009
Install AVG9 or Upgrade
Guide for WE Users.
Download the FREE Version from CNET and save on you computer in a FOLDER
http://download.cnet.com/AVG-Anti-Virus-Free-Edition/3000-2239_4-10320142.html
Pre-Installation
As always before installing a new program or updating Create a Restore Point. If you are not sure how to do this use the HELP feature as Windows XP and Vista differ.
Option 1
Close down memory resident programs. This will show as Icons in the right hand tray. Right click on each and select Quit or Exit. If you are upgrading AVG Version 8 to 9 then you will not need to close the AVG.
Check nothing running in the Task Manager – CTR-ALT-DEL under applications select CLOSE.
Option 2
Disconnect your Internet to ensure you are offline.
Uninstall AVG old version
Close down memory resident programs. This will show as Icons in the right hand tray. Right click on each and select Quit or Exit.
After installing AVG9 you must reconnect your internet.
Installation Notes
It is not necessary to uninstall AVG 8 first but if you have programs with upgrading then it is advisable to do so.
Start the installation program that you have downloaded.
The WIZARD will take you thro
1. Language
2. Check to see if old version already installed
3. Option will be for BASIC FREE Version
4. Download necessary Files
5. Tick the Agreement
6. STANDARD or CUSTOM . Take the CUSTOM as it will show you the options that it uses using a Standard install. You can make your initial changes to scan schedules etc at this stage
7. User Name .. it will use your computer info
8. It will ask to create a Directory
9. It will list the elements it will install . Leave these as selected.
10. On the Schedule Scan Option you will note it will run Weekly. You can change the day and timing to suit
11. Next section offers you the Yahoo Toolbar. Deselect this and the option to use Yahoo as your Homepage
12. Install the User Guide
13. Select the Optimise SCAN. This must run thro without interruption and takes up to 10 mins.
14. Next it will require a system RESTART
15. At this stage you are protected by AVG9 but it is worth opening the program and request an UPDATE and then run a full SCAN as soon as possible
Download the FREE Version from CNET and save on you computer in a FOLDER
http://download.cnet.com/AVG-Anti-Virus-Free-Edition/3000-2239_4-10320142.html
Pre-Installation
As always before installing a new program or updating Create a Restore Point. If you are not sure how to do this use the HELP feature as Windows XP and Vista differ.
Option 1
Close down memory resident programs. This will show as Icons in the right hand tray. Right click on each and select Quit or Exit. If you are upgrading AVG Version 8 to 9 then you will not need to close the AVG.
Check nothing running in the Task Manager – CTR-ALT-DEL under applications select CLOSE.
Option 2
Disconnect your Internet to ensure you are offline.
Uninstall AVG old version
Close down memory resident programs. This will show as Icons in the right hand tray. Right click on each and select Quit or Exit.
After installing AVG9 you must reconnect your internet.
Installation Notes
It is not necessary to uninstall AVG 8 first but if you have programs with upgrading then it is advisable to do so.
Start the installation program that you have downloaded.
The WIZARD will take you thro
1. Language
2. Check to see if old version already installed
3. Option will be for BASIC FREE Version
4. Download necessary Files
5. Tick the Agreement
6. STANDARD or CUSTOM . Take the CUSTOM as it will show you the options that it uses using a Standard install. You can make your initial changes to scan schedules etc at this stage
7. User Name .. it will use your computer info
8. It will ask to create a Directory
9. It will list the elements it will install . Leave these as selected.
10. On the Schedule Scan Option you will note it will run Weekly. You can change the day and timing to suit
11. Next section offers you the Yahoo Toolbar. Deselect this and the option to use Yahoo as your Homepage
12. Install the User Guide
13. Select the Optimise SCAN. This must run thro without interruption and takes up to 10 mins.
14. Next it will require a system RESTART
15. At this stage you are protected by AVG9 but it is worth opening the program and request an UPDATE and then run a full SCAN as soon as possible
Sylvia November 2009
Saturday, October 24, 2009
FREE AVG 9
Download Link to CNET
Basic Rules to install
1. Download and SAVE new version
2. Set a restore point
3.Come OFFLINE
4. Uninstalle old version
5. Install New Version from saved location
6. Go back ONLINE and UPDATE
Some Reviews
AVG is a global security software maker protecting more than 80 million consumers and small businesses in 167 countries from the ever-growing incidence of web threats, viruses, spam, cyber-scams and hackers on the Internet. AVG has nearly two decades of experience in combating cyber crime and one of the most advanced laboratories for detecting, pre-empting and combating Web-borne threats from around the world. Its free, downloadable software allows novice users to have basic anti-virus protection and then easily upgrade to greater levels of safety and defense when they are ready. AVG has nearly 6,000 resellers, partners and distributors globally including Amazon.com, CNET, Cisco, Ingram Micro, Play.com, Wal-Mart, and Yahoo!
New Product Offerings Deliver 50 Percent Faster Speed, Improved Performance, and Ease of Use, with Industry’s Only Free Identity Theft Protection
Boosted by significant enhancements in speed and levels of protection, AVG 9.0 is also easier to use and improves end user experience.
Additionally, all AVG users in the U.S. will benefit from a groundbreaking identity theft offering, powered by a partnership with Intersections Inc., North America’s leading and most innovative provider of consumer identity theft prevention solutions which has served more than 25 million consumers.
AVG’s new technology products ensure that users are safe in whatever online or offline activities they undertake.
Sylvia October 2009
!
Basic Rules to install
1. Download and SAVE new version
2. Set a restore point
3.Come OFFLINE
4. Uninstalle old version
5. Install New Version from saved location
6. Go back ONLINE and UPDATE
Some Reviews
AVG is a global security software maker protecting more than 80 million consumers and small businesses in 167 countries from the ever-growing incidence of web threats, viruses, spam, cyber-scams and hackers on the Internet. AVG has nearly two decades of experience in combating cyber crime and one of the most advanced laboratories for detecting, pre-empting and combating Web-borne threats from around the world. Its free, downloadable software allows novice users to have basic anti-virus protection and then easily upgrade to greater levels of safety and defense when they are ready. AVG has nearly 6,000 resellers, partners and distributors globally including Amazon.com, CNET, Cisco, Ingram Micro, Play.com, Wal-Mart, and Yahoo!
New Product Offerings Deliver 50 Percent Faster Speed, Improved Performance, and Ease of Use, with Industry’s Only Free Identity Theft Protection
Boosted by significant enhancements in speed and levels of protection, AVG 9.0 is also easier to use and improves end user experience.
Additionally, all AVG users in the U.S. will benefit from a groundbreaking identity theft offering, powered by a partnership with Intersections Inc., North America’s leading and most innovative provider of consumer identity theft prevention solutions which has served more than 25 million consumers.
AVG’s new technology products ensure that users are safe in whatever online or offline activities they undertake.
Sylvia October 2009
!
Sunday, October 04, 2009
Know your Computer
It is a good idea to made a Log Book of your computer details and a list of the contents.
This is a good starting point. It will provide you with details of your hardware, operating system and space available on your hard disc(s)
In the list of Files is a docment
WE Group Computer Log Book
The link is to a Word document and should open and give you the option to Open or Save. I suggest you Save it and print . If it does not offer the option to Save.. Right click on the link and select Save Target as
Sylvia October 2009
This is a good starting point. It will provide you with details of your hardware, operating system and space available on your hard disc(s)
In the list of Files is a docment
WE Group Computer Log Book
The link is to a Word document and should open and give you the option to Open or Save. I suggest you Save it and print . If it does not offer the option to Save.. Right click on the link and select Save Target as
Sylvia October 2009
Wednesday, March 04, 2009
Skype Version 4
According to the Skype information :
"Version 4.0 offers a single-pane interface, puts contacts and conversations in tabs, increases video size, and improves video and audio quality"
However in reality many users have made contact with me that they do not find the new version user friendly and in some instances their web cameras s do not work or audio is poor.
I am not sure why there are technical problems but it could be that hardware drivers for the new version are not compatible with older cameras or sound cards.
But what I do recognise that Version 4 looks and acts like a different animal and this can be quite confusing. If you have not as yet downloaded and installed it, then remember BEFORE installing to create a Restore Point so that you can easily go back to the old version
If you have installed and wish to return to a version that was stable with your hardware then click on the link below.
Under previous versions : select one and download
Note Version 3.6.0.248 was stable and worked with most cameras and sound cards..
When installing it will overwrite version on your system and keep all your contacts and settings..
If anyone is happy and have used Version 4 for some time and understand the format it would be interesting to all at WE Group if they are willing to give a demonstration.
Link:
http://www.oldapps.com/skype.php
If you cannot download from the link them I have a copy of that version which can be transferred to your memory stick
Sylvia
03March2009
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Personal Data Security
Passwords on Documents and Spreadsheets
Suitable Passwords
One of the problems with passwords is that users forget them. In an effort to not forget them, they use simple things like their dog’s name, their son’s first name and birthdate, the name of the current month- anything that will give them a clue to remember what their password is.
For the curious hacker who has somehow gained access to your computer system this is the equivalent of locking your door and leaving the key under the doormat. Without even resorting to any specialized tools a hacker can discover your basic personal information- name, children’s names, birthdates, pets names, etc. and try all of those out as potential passwords.
To create a secure password that is easy for you to remember, follow these simple steps:
1. Do not use personal information. You should never use personal information as a part of your password. It is very easy for someone to guess things like your last name, pet's name, child's birth date and other similar details.
2. Do not use real words. There are tools available to help attackers guess your password. With today's computing power, it doesn't take long to try every word in the dictionary and find your password, so it is best if you do not use real words for your password.
3. Mix different character types. You can make a password much more secure by mixing different types of characters. Use some uppercase letters along with lowercase letters, numbers and even special characters such as '&' or '%'.
4. Use a passphrase. Rather than trying to remember a password created using various character types which is also not a word from the dictionary, you can use a passphrase. Think up a sentence or a line from a song or poem that you like and create a password using the first letter from each word.
For example, rather than just having a password like 'yr$1Hes', you could take a sentence such as "I like to read the About.com Internet / Network Security web site" and convert it to a password like 'il2rtA!nsws". By substituting the number '2' for the word 'to' and using an exclamation point in place of the 'i' for 'Internet', you can use a variety of character types and create a secure password that is hard to crack, but much easier for you to remember.
Destroying your Data on an old Hard Disc
Watch these video clips and see how it is done.
First
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5lVnFlFrqhE
or
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d9vzuPN2e3k&feature=related
then
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uqxtWhWTxnc
First
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5lVnFlFrqhE
or
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d9vzuPN2e3k&feature=related
then
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uqxtWhWTxnc
Enjoy.. but be safe!
Sylvia Feb 09
Picasa - Create a Video show
Picasa Video Option
Select the photos for the project and have them in the Tray. If it is a complete Folder then highlight the Folder – Edit – Select ALL
Next Click on Video Icon in the list at bottom of screen
Next Click on the Video Tab to see the options to include music, transition style, slide duration etc.
The play bar at the bottom will allow you to view the slide show. It is easy to move slide location by dragging to position
On the Slide Tab you can Add or delete any slides
Captions can be added to any slide
Play thro until satisfied and then click Create Video, Be patient as it has a lot of work to do. When 100% complete you will see several options including uploading to YouTube
Picasa Stores the Videos in a Folder under My Pictures Picasa Videos
Experiment and have a lot of fun. The video format is WMV which means Windows DVD Maker will accept the file to burn to a DVD for playing on your
Select the photos for the project and have them in the Tray. If it is a complete Folder then highlight the Folder – Edit – Select ALL
Next Click on Video Icon in the list at bottom of screen
Select the Slide Tab and Edit the Title slide. Edit Text, change font, background colour etc and experiment with options
Next Click on the Video Tab to see the options to include music, transition style, slide duration etc.
The play bar at the bottom will allow you to view the slide show. It is easy to move slide location by dragging to position
On the Slide Tab you can Add or delete any slides
Captions can be added to any slide
Play thro until satisfied and then click Create Video, Be patient as it has a lot of work to do. When 100% complete you will see several options including uploading to YouTube
Picasa Stores the Videos in a Folder under My Pictures Picasa Videos
Experiment and have a lot of fun. The video format is WMV which means Windows DVD Maker will accept the file to burn to a DVD for playing on your
Hofmann Album Software Update
Hofmann New Program
Download from
NEW VERSION with more album capacities! Novelty: the Digital Mug. More functions, e.g. undo option, alignment,... More backgrounds!
Downloading the program is very easy: you only have to click on any "Program free download" link on this website, select "Run" and follow instructions.
Once the installation process has been completed use your digital or scanned photos to design your album, poster or canvas. The powerful program offers plenty of covers, layouts, backgrounds, masks, filters, text options and other functions. If you are using the program for the first time, you may simply try everything out. There aren't any wrong choices and you will soon control all functions. If you wish so, take a look at the "Quick guide" or the "User´s manual" at the icons bar.
User Manual Can be downloaded
Notes on how to create a Copy of your Album in Video Format
When you have completed each page use a screen capture program to save
A good screen capture program is Screen Hunter and can be downloaded from
http://screen-hunter.uptodown.com/en/ There is a good Help file but it is useful to set the TO: options before starting to ensure each screen capture is stored as a JPG File and in sequence. You can set the filename sequence and location
Use Photostory or Picasa Video option to produce a video slideshow of your pages. Do not forget to add some good music!
Use Photostory or Picasa Video option to produce a video slideshow of your pages. Do not forget to add some good music!
Sylvia Feb 09