Field Notes.

Mac OS X RAW Support for Sony Alpha a 300

Apple's recent OS X update added support for Sony Alpha a200 and a350 RAW files, but omitted the a300. Despite hardware similarities, the a300 lacks compatibility. To address this, a script has been created to convert a300 RAW files to a200 format, available as a command-line script or an Automator Action, simplifying the process for users.

WWDC 08 LiveBlog

We arrived and are waiting in a long line, uncertain if we secured a good spot for the Keynote without needing to move to overflow rooms. The crowd is large, and one lab area still has its label covered, suggesting something new might be introduced. More updates will follow as we approach the main floor.

Preparing for WWDC

Tomorrow, my journey to WWDC begins with flights from Amsterdam to London, then L.A., followed by a drive to San Francisco. I'll be equipped with a new battery and a faster hard drive for my MacBook Pro to work on projects during the trip. I'm looking forward to the keynote and informative sessions ahead.

MacOSX 10.6 to be seeded at WWDC?

Apple may release an early seed of Mac OS X 10.6 at WWDC, focusing on security and stability features, expected in December. Anticipations include improved iPhone integration, multitouch compatibility for Cocoa, and enhanced resolution independence, potentially paving the way for new hardware. Speculation surrounds whether these updates justify another purchase so soon after Leopard's release.

SquirrelFish - 1.6 Times faster Javascript for Safari

WebKit has introduced SquirrelFish, a new JavaScript engine for Safari. Unlike traditional engines, SquirrelFish generates executable bytecode directly, improving performance for JavaScript-heavy applications. Available in nightly builds, it offers a notable speed enhancement, as demonstrated in tests with complex applications.

CoverFlux, a CoverFlow Motion / Final Cut Plugin

CoverFlow has become a key feature of Mac OS X, enhancing the graphical user interface. For those looking to incorporate similar animations into Motion or Final Cut without the complexity, CoverFlux is a free plugin that streamlines the process. However, it requires the installation of the free FxFactory2 plugin to operate.

First Preview of the Android Plattform

Google's Android showcased its touchscreen prototype at the Google IO Keynote, revealing a user-friendly interface and innovative browser options. Unlike current competitors, Android aims to fill the software gap with its Linux-based platform, positioning itself alongside Apple's OS X iPhone as a serious contender in mobile computing, while overshadowing older systems like Symbian and Windows Mobile.

More Control over your TimeMachine Backup

Time Machine provides an intuitive interface for accessing past data, but Tms by FernLightning offers a command-line alternative for those preferring a list style. This tool allows users to see differences between file versions and snapshots, making file version management more straightforward. Documentation for Tms is also available for further guidance.

WhatTheFont

I rediscovered a site where users can upload images for font identification. The tool analyzes the picture and reveals the font being used. This useful resource offers an easy way to identify fonts from various images.

Blender 2.46 is out

The Blender Foundation has released Blender 3D version 2.46, featuring significant enhancements from the development of the open source movie 'Big Buck Bunny.' Key updates include a new Hair and Fur System, a redesigned Particle system, improved Cloth Simulation, and enhanced Render Baking. This version offers tremendous capabilities for 3D modeling and animation.

Tools for Ajax performance analysis

Web 2.0, leveraging Ajax for client-server communication, enhances usability by sending only changes, unlike the older Web 1.0 model. However, this can lead to challenges in debugging and performance issues, especially with concurrent HTTP connections. A resource-rich IBM developerWorks article outlines tools to identify and resolve these performance problems, beneficial for those engaged in low-level Ajax programming.

The current (sorta sad) state of Safarilicious

In late 2005, I released 'Safarilicious' for exporting Safari Bookmarks to del.icio.us. Development stalled due to low donations and personal time constraints. Currently, the app only works on macOS 10.4 and is ineffective due to changes in del.icio.us. I’m restarting development to optimize the UI and restore functionality, with a potential GPL release planned.

First examination of the iPhone SDK

I explored the iPhone SDK and found it to be an impressive API for mobile app development. I successfully created an application and noted some challenges, particularly with the documentation. I addressed specific issues like playing sound files and retrieving UI element values, highlighting important nuances that could confuse new users. More insights will follow.

I got my iPhone

I just received my iPhone, currently running software version 1.0.2 due to carrier restrictions, and I'm impressed. While it may lack some modern mobile features, it excels in several other areas. I plan to share more insights soon.

Hamburg Quickie 2007

I recently revisited Hamburg after two years, primarily to see my cousin and friends. I explored his new centrally located apartment, shopped for clothes, enjoyed the lively Reeperbahn, and attended a vintage car meeting. The trip was a delightful mix of relaxation and socializing, showcasing the vibrant atmosphere of the city.

Das Red Bull Air Race in Portugal 2007

Ich hatte die Gelegenheit, am Red Bull Air Race in Portugal teilzunehmen, wo Kunstflugmaschinen über 400 km/h durch einen herausfordernden Parcours flogen. Die Presse-Area bot eine hervorragende Sicht auf die Strecke sowie Snacks und Getränke. Ich führte Interviews mit Piloten und genoss das tolle Wetter und die Atmosphäre während einer VIP-Party von Red Bull.

Die Freiheit die ich meine

Seltenheit beeinflusst den Wert von Gütern wie Geld und Freiheit, wobei beides sowohl artifiziell als auch naturgegeben sein kann. Ich habe festgestellt, dass ich meine eigenen Einschränkungen überwinden konnte, indem ich den Fokus von externen auf interne Einschränkungen verlagerte. Dadurch erlebte ich eine neu gewonnene Freiheit, die mir Zeit für persönliche Interessen schenkt.

RopBopDop

San Francisco was amazing, especially seeing Steven. I'll share more after my exams on the 18th. Once they're over, I plan to update the blog during the long semester break. Additionally, I bought a new camera and will try to post more photos on here and Flickr. Check out Andreas Levers’ site for impressive work.

I secured a seat in the main Conference Hall, close to the stage. The atmosphere is electric with excitement as everyone awaits Steve's presentation. I never thought I'd be here, and I'm eager to fully experience the event. Stay tuned for highlights from the keynote, which promised to be exceptional.

New feature: MiniBlog

I’ve integrated my Twitter and Jaiku data into the blog to share shorter updates due to time constraints. You can now expect more concise posts about my activities. Additionally, I combined my Twitter and Flickr feeds into a single RSS feed for easier access to my content.

Reviving this blog. I'm back.

Life is gradually returning to normal for me. I've created Twitter and Jaiku accounts for quick updates and plan to integrate them into my blog. Recent highlights include a business trip to Switzerland, focusing more on work than studies, a failed relationship, acquiring an Apple TV, and looking forward to attending the Apple Worldwide Developers Conference in San Francisco.

Back online

stylemac.com has returned online after a long hiatus. Due to personal challenges, I couldn't manage the site earlier, but Safarilicious and Tagbag are now accessible. While my availability for stylemac.com will be limited in the upcoming months, I intend to continue providing updates.

floating free

Floating through a vibrant forest, I navigate uncertainty and reflect on past decisions. Fresh air brings comfort, even amidst insecurity. Impressions spark my imagination as I ponder the long journey of change. At 3am in Münster, I feel burdens lighten, guiding me toward a hopeful future. The path ahead remains uncertain, but optimism fuels my steps.

Emission

Life has been a tumultuous journey recently, marked by a serious illness and the loss of my dog. Despite these challenges, I’ve started studying and enjoyed a vacation in Mykonos. I’m gradually returning to normalcy, including moving to Münster and acquiring a new MacBook Pro, while reflecting on the many books I've read this year.

HoudahSport - Spotlight on Dope

Spotlight's limitations frustrate power users searching for specific files quickly. HoudahSpot enhances the Spotlight interface, offering a user-friendly design with features like a meta-inspector and preview panel. It allows users to create complex queries with logical conditions, improving the efficiency of searches. A free demo with a limit of 30 queries is available for trying out this tool.

Into the finals / Beachparty 06

After six months of intense work, I finally took a much-needed week of vacation to relax and recharge. While preparing for my last busy week in Stuttgart, I enjoyed a local beach party that featured a lively atmosphere and many attendees. The celebration was a welcome break after my hectic schedule, despite the inevitable hangovers that followed.

Das Neue Mercedes Benz Museum

In der aktuellen Presse tauchen Berichte über die beeindruckende Videoinstallation im Ausstellungsraum 'Gegenwart' auf. Der Medienring präsentiert 48 synchronisierte Videos, die Mercedes-Autos weltweit zeigen, unterlegt mit authentic Geräuschen. Diese Kunstinstallation verspricht, den Betrachter in die verschiedenen Länder zu entführen, während sie die Faszination der Automarke unterstreicht.

LECCION DOS

Hace seis meses, escribí sobre mi deseo de aprender español, pero hasta ahora he avanzado poco. A pesar de la falta de tiempo, tengo buenas noticias: en agosto estudiaré en Enschede, Países Bajos, donde espero tener más oportunidades para aprender. Reconozco errores en mi texto, pero quiero seguir intentándolo.

just a small note [001]

Mutilation has sparked an unexpected renaissance, reminiscent of a phoenix rising from the ashes. This transformation, anticipated for over two years, signifies a pivotal change. Although it may not be obvious, there’s a deeper significance behind this evolution that hints at new beginnings and opportunities.

Implementation Complete

In den letzten Monaten verbrachte ich viel Zeit bei Hewlett-Packard in Stuttgart und entwickelte Software für das neue Mercedes-Benz-Museum. Kürzlich erreichte ich den Status 'Implementation Complete'. Ab August beginne ich ein Studium in Educational Design, während ich meine derzeitige Anstellung beibehalte. Ich plane zudem, auf ein MacBook Pro umzusteigen, um meine mobilen Anforderungen besser zu erfüllen.