iFixit has posted a fantastic, step-by-step tutorial tutorial explaining how to swap out the new Mac Mini’s optical drive for a second hard drive.
I am typing this on a 9-inch, 3G-equipped, almost-pocketable computer, running the best consumer OS money can currently buy. It costs around $US400. Do you want one too? Here’s how to get yours.
Digital Photography School has a tutorial on how to photograph fire. Basically, spot focus on the flame and overexpose a few stops to compensate for the fire’s brightness. [DigitalPhotographySchool via Lifehacker]
Your PC could always be faster–always. So before you drop the dough on a whole new system, here’s a list of upgrades for squeezing a few more months, years even, out of ol’ faithful, during these trying economic times.
newVideoPlayer("iphone_tutorial_gawker.flv", 475, 376);
People buying new iPhones with 1.1.2 software will find that it’s not possible to install applications, like the must-have LucasArts game emulator. This video tutorial will teach you how to easily install applications and bypass activation in the iPhone. It’s not as straightforward as previous versions, but anyone can follow it.
Connecticut’s Secretary of State released a video on YouTube explaining how to use the state’s new optical scan voting machines. The video is also available for download to something called an “iPOD.” It is frightening to think of an electoral process where you’re encouraged to watch a training video over and over. What happens to the people who don’t have “iPODs” or YouTube-ready PCs? But the funniest thing is that this dorky-ass video, straight out of the public-service playbook, is specifically supposed to appeal to young people.
There’s no rock music, no B-actor on a skateboard, no spunky cheerleaders. The video, which you can watch for yourself, has nothing that would even apparently appeal to a youngin’ besides the fact that it comes in .mov form. Nevertheless, Conn’s Sec O’ State says, in her own press release:
“In today’s world it’s difficult to reach voters, especially younger ones, unless you’re using the same technology they use. So, I took a cue from my teenage children and decided we’d produce videos that people could download, and then watch when and where they want.”
My favorite line from the film is when they say the ballot looks like a “standardized test or lottery ticket”—they left out “depending on whether your collar is white or blue.” [YouTube and Conn Secretary of State via AP]
