PC or Mac fan/user, you have to admit that’s its pretty rare to hear of a virus, or security vulnerability that effects a Mac computer. However, there has recently been news of a security hole which does effect Microsoft Excel for the Mac. It’s a significant issue, as the security vulnerability that was found could possibly allow for remote access by a third party/hacker.
How did this happen? The virus is being spread to Mac via infected Excel files. So when the user receives an infected excel file and opens it (perhaps via email), the virus will then of course infect their machine. It only affects the older .xls sheet extension, and is not present in the newer .xlsx. If you use a Mac with Excel, you’ll probably want to keep your eyes open until a remedy patch is released by Microsoft.
It sure does seem that all the major robotic discovered come out of Japan, but I suppose some people will question how “major” this one is. Nevertheless, I found it interesting. Japanese researchers have just released the world’s (thought to be) first robotic mall security guard. It’s basically a two foot robotic “cop” which movies around on wheels. It has the ability to conduct surveillance shoplifters who are running, and even deploy a “restraining web”
The robot is called T-34, and is not a novelty item, but sincerely designed for mall business functions, or other security matters. It does seem as though a home version (for guarding residential property) may eventually be developed. Personally, I can’t wait to see this thing in action, and wonder how it determines which folks are “criminals”.
For many of the college kids I know, the most important aspect of going back to school is not what you might think. It’s not the friends, the parties, or the chance to get a great education – I mean those are all givens. The exciting part for many kids is picking out a brand new student laptop! Okay, well at least that was the case for me, and seems to be for some of the people I know. So, I got to think, what is it that a student really needs in a laptop, and which laptop choices are the most convenient for students?
Of course, while some students (like those enrolled in graphic design, etc) will need ultra capable machines with tons of memory, most students will do well with a more modest laptop. I mean, unless the student is looking to do design work or some serious gaming outside of class, an entry level model will probably fare just fine. One thing such students may want to splurge on is paying extra to get a lightweight laptop, as packing a heavy machine around from class to class can be a little trying. Otherwise though, as long as the laptop (or netbook even) has a suitable amount of RAM and can run basic internet and office programs, it really should suit the average student just fine.
