Geeks in Phoenix

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Beta testing Windows 7 - Part6 (software overview)(Video)

This video gives an overview of the key features that I built the Windows 7 test system to evaluate, Quad-cores, 64-bit operating systems/applications, and Virtualization Technology (Virtual Machines).

Using Dual Monitors in Windows for users who have impaired vision (Video)

I little while back, I wrote an article on using Dual Monitors. In it, I wrote how a person with a visual impairment could use two monitors. Here's a snippet:

"This scenario also works well for those with visual impairments that require a magnification utility. You can use a larger monitor as the ‘main’ display and a smaller monitor as the ‘secondary’ display. Using the main display for all standard functions, the secondary display shows a magnified view of the main display. And without the need for matching monitors, you could pick up a cheap used one to run as secondary. Try your local Goodwill, Savers, thrift shop, etc."

Here's a video showing how to use dual monitors in Windows for users who have impaired vision.

Using Dual Monitors in Windows (Video)

A little while back, I wrote an article on using Dual Monitors. Here's a snippet:

"With newer computers having the ability to run multiple displays, here is a ‘Geek Tip’ for those of you thinking about using two monitors on one computer. There are various scenarios, and I am going to describe just a few. I currently have two systems here with dual monitor setups."

Here's a video showing the two different computer scenarios I have that use dual monitors in Windows.

Beta testing Windows 7 - Part5 (BIOS and installation)

I finished assembling the Windows 7 test system in about three hours. The wring for the Antec Skeleton case proved to be a challenge. But I was ready for it, like the Antec P-180 I have also has a unique wring layout (the power supply is located at the bottom of the case, instead of the top, as with most mid-tower designs).

Click here to see it in operation

I was a little taken away the first time I started it up. The 250mm multi-led fan on top does a great job of cooling and looks very cool when running. Still, photos just cannot capture the look of this system in operation. So I am creating a video of the system running and will post the link here to it on YouTube when it's finished. The first thing I did was go into the system BIOS.

Windows 7 test system BIOS screen 1

The Main screen shows that the Intel Core2 Quad Q8400 processor has a 64-bit architecture, and Core Multiplexing Technology is enabled.

Windows 7 test system BIOS screen 2

The Security screen shows that Intel VT and Intel VT for Directed I/O is enabled. We are ready to load up Windows 7 RC1. I booted to the installation DVD, started the install and had it done in about 20 minutes.

Windows 7 test system System Properties dialog box

The System properties dialog box shows the system type as the 64-bit version. I am ready to load some software.

Beta testing Windows 7 - Part4 (Antec cases)

Antec cases have always been great investments, as I have owned several. They range from ...

Antec AT Server Tower
an old Antec AT Server Tower, circa '97-98,
Antec Mid-tower
Antec Mid-tower
Fuax Stone and Chalkboard
of course, the Faux Stone and Chalkboard is one,
Antec P180
and my Antec P180, with dual air-flow chambers

I guess it won't be a surprise when I tell you I decided to go with Antec. Their designs are terrific. And the latest one is sweet. It's called the Skeleton. Click here to see it in operation.

Here are the specifications on it:

Case Type Open Case Design
Color Metallic Silver
Dimensions 13”(H) x 14.8”(W) x 16.5”(D)
33.02 (H) x 37.6 cm (W) x 41.9 cm (D)
Weight 15.5 lbs / 7 kg
Cooling 1 x Super Big Boy 250mm Multi-LED Fan
1 x 92mm Hard Drives Fan
Drive Bays 2 x Quick Release 5.25” Bays
2 x Quick Release 3.5” Bays
4 x Externally Mounted 3.5” Bays
Motherboard Size Mini-ITX, MicroATX, Standard ATX
Front I/O Panel 1 x IEEE 1394 Firewire
2 x USB 2.0
1 x eSATA
AC’97/HD Audio In and Out

It's build time.

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