Fahmi Rizwansyah says:
By Mark Ward
Technology correspondent, BBC News
Bletchley Park is best known for the work done on cracking the German codes and helping to bring World War II to a close far sooner than might have happened without those code breakers.
But many believe Bletchley should be celebrated not just for what it ended but also for what it started - namely the computer age.
The pioneering machines at Bletchley were created to help codebreakers cope with the enormous volume of enciphered material the Allies managed to intercept.
The machine that arguably had the greatest influence in those early days of computing was Colossus - a re-built version of which now resides in the National Museum of Computing which is also on the Bletchley site.
Men and machine
The Enigma machines were used by the field units of the German Army, Navy and Airforce. But the communications between Hitler and his generals were protected by different machines: The Lorenz SZ40 and SZ42.
The German High Command used the Lorenz machine because it was so much faster than the Enigma, making it much easier to send large amounts of text.
"For about 500 words Enigma was reasonable but for a whole report it was hopeless," said Jack Copeland, professor of philosophy at the University of Canterbury in New Zealand, director of the Turing Archive and a man with a passionate interest in the Bletchley Park computers. Hut 6 during wartime, Bletchley Park Trust
The Allies first picked up the stream of enciphered traffic, dubbed Tunny, in 1940. The importance of the material it contained soon became apparent.
Like Enigma, the Lorenz machines enciphered text by mixing it with characters generated by a series of pinwheels.
"We broke wheel patterns for a whole year before Colossus came in," said Captain Jerry Roberts, one of the codebreakers who deciphered Tunny traffic at Bletchley.
"Because of the rapid expansion in the use of Tunny, our efforts were no longer enough and we had to have the machines in to do a better job."
The man who made Colossus was Post Office engineer Tommy Flowers, who had instantly impressed Alan Turing when asked by the maverick mathematician to design a machine to help him in his war work.
But, said Capt Roberts, Flowers could not have built his machine without the astonishing work of Cambridge mathematician Bill Tutte.
"I remember seeing him staring into the middle distance and twiddling his pencil and I wondered if he was earning his corn," said Capt Roberts.
But it soon became apparent that he was.
"He figured out how the Lorenz machine worked without ever having seen one and he worked out the algorithm that broke the traffic on a day-to-day basis," said Capt Roberts.
"If there had not been Bill Tutte, there would not have been any need for Tommy Flowers," he said. "The computer would have happened later. Much later."
Valve trouble
Prof Copeland said Tommy Flowers faced scepticism from Bletchley Park staff and others that his idea for a high-speed computer employing thousands of valves would ever work. Valves on Colossus, BBC
"Flowers was very much swimming against the current as valves were only being used in small units," he said. "But the idea of using large numbers of valves reliably was Tommy Flowers' big thing. He'd experimented and knew how to control the parameters."
And work it did.
The close co-operation between the human translators and the machines meant that the Allies got a close look at the intimate thoughts of the German High Command.
Information gleaned from Tunny was passed to the Russians and was instrumental in helping it defeat the Germans at Kursk - widely seen as one of the turning points of WWII.
The greater legacy is the influence of Colossus on the origins of the computer age.
"Tommy Flowers was the key figure for everything that happened subsequently in British computers," said Prof Copeland.
After the war Bletchley veterans Alan Turing and Max Newman separately did more work on computers using the basic designs and plans seen in Colossus.
Turing worked on the Automatic Computing Engine for the British government and Newman helped to bring to life the Manchester Small Scale Experimental Machine - widely acknowledged as the first stored program computer.
The work that went into Colossus also shaped the thinking of others such as Maurice Wilkes, Freddie Williams, Tom Kilburn and many others - essentially the whole cast of characters from whom early British computing arose.
And the rest, as they say, is history.
Cheers, frizzy2008.
Relaxing Articles for the real estate, flower shop, news, computers, gadget, entertainment, traveling, personal and Indonesia
Blog campur-campur
Windows XP allowed to live again
Fahmi Rizwansyah says:
Microsoft has given yet another reprieve to its seasoned Windows XP operating system.
The cut off date for PC makers to obtain licenses for the software was 31 January 2009.
But now Microsoft has put in place a scheme that will allow the hardware firms to get hold of XP licences until 30 May 2009.
Previously Microsoft extended XP's life until 2010 - provided it was installed on netbooks and low-cost laptops.
Windows XP was originally due to disappear off shop shelves on 30 January 2008. It was to be removed so as to make way for Windows Vista which went on sale to consumers early in 2007.
Despite Microsoft's claims that Vista has sold well, consumers have reacted badly to its release.
Microsoft granted the reprieve largely because of customer's preference for XP.
Many PC makers also got around the restrictions by exploiting a clause in Microsoft's licensing terms that allowed them to offer a "downgrade" licence. Issued with a new PC running Vista it allowed customers to replace it with XP.
The latest reprieve affects PC makers and resellers who were working to a 31 January 2009 deadline to order licences for XP.
Many feared they would have to stockpile licences before the cut-off and hope they could sell them in the coming months.
Now, Microsoft has changed the terms allowing the resellers to order before 31 January but take delivery at any time up to 30 May.
The change in policy is another indication of the general resistance to Windows Vista.
Early versions of Windows 7, the replacement for Vista, are due to appear in late 2009.
by BBC
Cheers, frizzy2008.
Microsoft has given yet another reprieve to its seasoned Windows XP operating system.
The cut off date for PC makers to obtain licenses for the software was 31 January 2009.
But now Microsoft has put in place a scheme that will allow the hardware firms to get hold of XP licences until 30 May 2009.
Previously Microsoft extended XP's life until 2010 - provided it was installed on netbooks and low-cost laptops.
Windows XP was originally due to disappear off shop shelves on 30 January 2008. It was to be removed so as to make way for Windows Vista which went on sale to consumers early in 2007.
Despite Microsoft's claims that Vista has sold well, consumers have reacted badly to its release.
Microsoft granted the reprieve largely because of customer's preference for XP.
Many PC makers also got around the restrictions by exploiting a clause in Microsoft's licensing terms that allowed them to offer a "downgrade" licence. Issued with a new PC running Vista it allowed customers to replace it with XP.
The latest reprieve affects PC makers and resellers who were working to a 31 January 2009 deadline to order licences for XP.
Many feared they would have to stockpile licences before the cut-off and hope they could sell them in the coming months.
Now, Microsoft has changed the terms allowing the resellers to order before 31 January but take delivery at any time up to 30 May.
The change in policy is another indication of the general resistance to Windows Vista.
Early versions of Windows 7, the replacement for Vista, are due to appear in late 2009.
by BBC
Cheers, frizzy2008.
BBC Playwriting Competition
Fahmi Rizwansyah says:
Link for bahasa
The biennial International Radio Playwriting Competition is run by the BBC World Service and the British Council and is now in its eleventh year.
It is a competition for anyone resident outside Britain, to write a 60 minute radio drama for up to six characters.
There are two categories: one for writers with English as their first language and one for writers with English as their second language. The two winners will come to London and see their play made into a full radio production, which will then be broadcast on the BBC World Service. They will also each receive a £2,500 prize and there are also prizes for the runners up.
The play must be in English, unpublished and must not have been previously produced in any medium. Whether you're experienced, new, or somewhere in between, we want to hear from you.
Just check the Rules and How to Enter sections to find out more about sending us your play.
Once again, we have two first prizes: for the best play by a writer with English as their first language and for the best play by a writer with English as their second language.
These two winners will each receive £2500 sterling and a trip to London to see their play being recorded for broadcast on BBC World Service in the World Drama slot.
* £2500 sterling for the overall winning playwright of the best play written with English as a first language and a trip to London to see the play being recorded and to attend a prize-giving evening.
* £2500 sterling for the overall winning playwright of the best play written with English as a second language and a trip to London to see the play being recorded and to attend a prizegiving evening.
* A prize of a digital or short wave radio for the best radio play to be written from each of the following geographical areas: The Americas; Europe; Africa and the Middle East; South Asia; Russia and the Caucasus; Asia and Pacific.
* BBC goodie bags for all writers whose plays reach the judges' final shortlist.
Playwriting Competition 2009
BBC World Service Drama
Room 118 East Wing
Bush House
London WC2B 4PH
United Kingdom
Cheers, frizzy2008.
Link for bahasa
The biennial International Radio Playwriting Competition is run by the BBC World Service and the British Council and is now in its eleventh year.
It is a competition for anyone resident outside Britain, to write a 60 minute radio drama for up to six characters.
There are two categories: one for writers with English as their first language and one for writers with English as their second language. The two winners will come to London and see their play made into a full radio production, which will then be broadcast on the BBC World Service. They will also each receive a £2,500 prize and there are also prizes for the runners up.
The play must be in English, unpublished and must not have been previously produced in any medium. Whether you're experienced, new, or somewhere in between, we want to hear from you.
Just check the Rules and How to Enter sections to find out more about sending us your play.
Once again, we have two first prizes: for the best play by a writer with English as their first language and for the best play by a writer with English as their second language.
These two winners will each receive £2500 sterling and a trip to London to see their play being recorded for broadcast on BBC World Service in the World Drama slot.
* £2500 sterling for the overall winning playwright of the best play written with English as a first language and a trip to London to see the play being recorded and to attend a prize-giving evening.
* £2500 sterling for the overall winning playwright of the best play written with English as a second language and a trip to London to see the play being recorded and to attend a prizegiving evening.
* A prize of a digital or short wave radio for the best radio play to be written from each of the following geographical areas: The Americas; Europe; Africa and the Middle East; South Asia; Russia and the Caucasus; Asia and Pacific.
* BBC goodie bags for all writers whose plays reach the judges' final shortlist.
Playwriting Competition 2009
BBC World Service Drama
Room 118 East Wing
Bush House
London WC2B 4PH
United Kingdom
Cheers, frizzy2008.
What's your water problem?
Fahmi Rizwansyah says:
“Rotten egg” smell?
The presence of hydrogen sulfide in water gives it an unpleasant smell, sometimes even rendering it unusable.
Cloudy water?
Raw water comes into your home with any number of impurities that cause turbidity.
Chlorine taste or smell?
Municipalities use chlorine to disinfect water. However, not only does it taste and smell unappealing but it also has a drying effect on skin and hair.
Musty, earthy, fishy taste or smell?
Caused by algae, molds and bacteria that live in water and can multiply within a home’s plumbing system.
Metallic taste or smell?
Generally caused by metals such as iron and manganese, these substances not only taste and smell bad but can also be harmful to your health.
Hard water?
Calcium and magnesium ions in water create hardness, which is what causes soap scum in tubs and showers and spots on faucets and fixtures. Hard water is also what causes scaling in appliances, which results in less efficiency and costly repairs.
by Kinetico
Cheers, frizzy2008.
“Rotten egg” smell?
The presence of hydrogen sulfide in water gives it an unpleasant smell, sometimes even rendering it unusable.
Cloudy water?
Raw water comes into your home with any number of impurities that cause turbidity.
Chlorine taste or smell?
Municipalities use chlorine to disinfect water. However, not only does it taste and smell unappealing but it also has a drying effect on skin and hair.
Musty, earthy, fishy taste or smell?
Caused by algae, molds and bacteria that live in water and can multiply within a home’s plumbing system.
Metallic taste or smell?
Generally caused by metals such as iron and manganese, these substances not only taste and smell bad but can also be harmful to your health.
Hard water?
Calcium and magnesium ions in water create hardness, which is what causes soap scum in tubs and showers and spots on faucets and fixtures. Hard water is also what causes scaling in appliances, which results in less efficiency and costly repairs.
by Kinetico
Cheers, frizzy2008.
Maintaining Intimacy in Pain Management
Fahmi Rizwansyah says:
Chronic pain can cause some sexual problems. When you are in pain, the last thing you probably want to do is be intimate with your partner. But it is important to remain close to your loved one. A healthy intimate relationship can positively affect all aspects of your life.
Many people living with pain often have fears about sexuality, including:
* Fear of rejection by a partner: It is common for people with chronic pain to feel that a partner is no longer interested. You may wonder if a partner is less attracted to you because you are in pain. Share your feelings and fears with your partner and listen to your partner's concerns.
* Fear of pain associated with sex: It is natural to worry that sexual intercourse will cause you physical pain. You can address this concern by experimenting with different positions that are more comfortable.
* Fear of failure to perform: Pain, depression, alcohol and medications all may affect sexual performance or the ability to get aroused or have an orgasm. Sometimes, failure to perform is due to stress and anxiety. In many cases, patience and understanding can help in overcoming performance problems. Many medications can reduce your sexual ability and/or cause impotence. If you suspect a medication may be affecting your sexual performance, don't stop taking the drug without first consulting your doctor.
If intercourse is undesirable, there are other ways to remain close, including:
* Touching: Explore your partner's body through touch. This may include cuddling, fondling, stroking, massaging and kissing. Touch increases feelings of intimacy.
* Self-stimulation: Masturbation is a normal and healthy way to fulfill your sexual needs.
* Oral sex: This form of contact may be an alternative or supplement to traditional intercourse.
You may also want to experiment with having sex at different times of the day or in different positions. If you have more pain in the evening, having sex earlier in the day might help. Try different positions some may feel better than others. You may also want to use lubricants when there is a lack of natural lubrication. Lubricants may ease or prevent pain associated with sexual contact.
Intimacy Without Sex
Sexuality is only one form of intimacy. Non-sexual ways you can be intimate with your partner include:
* Sharing feelings: Discuss your feelings with your partner. Talking and listening can help you both better understand each other and may bring you closer.
* Participating in common interests: Couples that play together often stay together, so the saying goes. Hobbies, sporting activities, or volunteer activities can bring couples closer together when they share interests.
* Making time to be alone together: Try taking a bath together, sharing a candlelight dinner, taking a walk, or just holding each other in bed.
There are many additional ways of creating non-sexual intimacy. Explore various things that you and your partner can do together to bring you closer.
Intimacy Is Possible
You can have a healthy and satisfying relationship in spite of chronic pain. Remember that intimacy begins with honest communication. You and your partner need to talk about how you feel, what you miss, and what you want or need from your relationship. In any relationship, an effort must be made to maintain what is good and change what needs improvement. In your efforts to become more intimate, you may discover something about your partner that you did not know before. Your relationship may become stronger than it was before you faced the issue of chronic pain.
If sexual problems continue to be an issue, consider speaking with a counselor or sex therapist.
by webMD
Reviewed by the doctors at The Cleveland Clinic Center Department of Psychiatry and Psychology.
Cheers, frizzy2008
Chronic pain can cause some sexual problems. When you are in pain, the last thing you probably want to do is be intimate with your partner. But it is important to remain close to your loved one. A healthy intimate relationship can positively affect all aspects of your life.
Many people living with pain often have fears about sexuality, including:
* Fear of rejection by a partner: It is common for people with chronic pain to feel that a partner is no longer interested. You may wonder if a partner is less attracted to you because you are in pain. Share your feelings and fears with your partner and listen to your partner's concerns.
* Fear of pain associated with sex: It is natural to worry that sexual intercourse will cause you physical pain. You can address this concern by experimenting with different positions that are more comfortable.
* Fear of failure to perform: Pain, depression, alcohol and medications all may affect sexual performance or the ability to get aroused or have an orgasm. Sometimes, failure to perform is due to stress and anxiety. In many cases, patience and understanding can help in overcoming performance problems. Many medications can reduce your sexual ability and/or cause impotence. If you suspect a medication may be affecting your sexual performance, don't stop taking the drug without first consulting your doctor.
If intercourse is undesirable, there are other ways to remain close, including:
* Touching: Explore your partner's body through touch. This may include cuddling, fondling, stroking, massaging and kissing. Touch increases feelings of intimacy.
* Self-stimulation: Masturbation is a normal and healthy way to fulfill your sexual needs.
* Oral sex: This form of contact may be an alternative or supplement to traditional intercourse.
You may also want to experiment with having sex at different times of the day or in different positions. If you have more pain in the evening, having sex earlier in the day might help. Try different positions some may feel better than others. You may also want to use lubricants when there is a lack of natural lubrication. Lubricants may ease or prevent pain associated with sexual contact.
Intimacy Without Sex
Sexuality is only one form of intimacy. Non-sexual ways you can be intimate with your partner include:
* Sharing feelings: Discuss your feelings with your partner. Talking and listening can help you both better understand each other and may bring you closer.
* Participating in common interests: Couples that play together often stay together, so the saying goes. Hobbies, sporting activities, or volunteer activities can bring couples closer together when they share interests.
* Making time to be alone together: Try taking a bath together, sharing a candlelight dinner, taking a walk, or just holding each other in bed.
There are many additional ways of creating non-sexual intimacy. Explore various things that you and your partner can do together to bring you closer.
Intimacy Is Possible
You can have a healthy and satisfying relationship in spite of chronic pain. Remember that intimacy begins with honest communication. You and your partner need to talk about how you feel, what you miss, and what you want or need from your relationship. In any relationship, an effort must be made to maintain what is good and change what needs improvement. In your efforts to become more intimate, you may discover something about your partner that you did not know before. Your relationship may become stronger than it was before you faced the issue of chronic pain.
If sexual problems continue to be an issue, consider speaking with a counselor or sex therapist.
by webMD
Reviewed by the doctors at The Cleveland Clinic Center Department of Psychiatry and Psychology.
Cheers, frizzy2008
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)