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 February 2011 Newsletter

Computer Transition Services, Inc.
Computer Transition Services, Inc.  The CTSI Tech Times
 

Monthly Updates from Your Trusted Technology Partner
February, 2011 - Vol 3, Issue 2
 

 

In This Issue
HP AirPrint Technology
Tech Trivia
Internet Explorer in Kiosk Mode
Staff Spotlight
Helen's Recipe of the Month
Quick Links



Find us on Facebook Follow us on Twitter View our profile on LinkedIn

Upcoming Area Events

  
2/18/11 - Baseball v. Western Michigan, Dan Law Field, 6:00 PM
 
2/19/11 - Women's Basketball v. Baylor, U.S.A., 12:30 PM
- Baseball v. Northwestern, 2:30 PM
- Baseball v. Utah Valley, 6:00 PM, Dan Law Field.
 
2/20/11 - Baseball v. Northwestern, Dan Law Field, 1:30 PM

2/23/11 - Men's Basketball v. Colorado, U.S.A., 6:30 PM

2/24/11 - Baseball v. BYU, Dan Law Field, 5:00 PM

2/25/11 - Eli Young Band, Wild West, 9:00PM
- Baseball v. BYU, Dan Law Field, 4:00 PM
 
2/26/11 - Women's Basketball v. Oklahoma St., U.S.A., 5:00PM
- Baseball v. Northern Illinois, Dan Law Field, 4:00 PM

2/27/11 - Baseball v. Northern Illinois, Dan Law Field, 12:00 PM

March
 
3/1/11 - Baseball v. UNLV, Dan Law Field, 5:00 PM 
 
3/2/11 - Men's Basketball v. Oklahoma, U.S.A., 6:30 PM
- Baseball v. UNLV, Dan Law Field, 1:00 PM

3/4/11 - Baseball v. TCU, Dan Law Field, 5:30 PM

3/5/11 - Women's Basketball v. Oklahoma, U.S.A., 2:00 PM
- Baseball v. TCU, Dan Law Field, 5:00 PM

3/6/11 - Baseball v. TCU, Dan Law Field, 1:00 PM


To have your event listed, pleasecontact us
Microsoft Help Links
Jeremy Howard Joins TCG Team
 
Jeremy Howard has recently joined the Technical Consulting Group at CTSI. Jeremy has been with CTSI for 5 years, first working in Technical Services.

 

Jeremy graduated from Lubbock Christian University in 2001, and spent 4 years working in the Texas Tech Health Sciences Center's IT department. He came to work with CTSI in 2005.

 

 
From David's Desk...

David D. Baucum 
In our ongoing efforts to keep you updated about technology's latest innovations, it's time to discuss HP's newest gadget--the HP Slate 500 Tablet PC. With the success of Apple's iPad, other companies have and will continue to launch competitors to it. HP's Slate, however, does not seem to be a direct competitor to the iPad. For comparison purposes, the Slate is more like a notebook computer than an iPad. Below, I'll highlight some of the features of the Slate and discuss its intended use.

 

First and foremost, the Slate is intended for business use. According to HP's website, they are marketing the tablet specifically as "the ideal PC for professionals who don't usually work at a traditional desk, yet need to stay productive in a secure, familiar Windows environment."  Businesses require quick action at times, and with the Slate, users would have access to most, if not all of the information typically stored on a full-featured desktop computer while on-the-go.

 

Perhaps the Slate's biggest asset is the Windows 7 operating system. In addition to having the ease of use and familiarity that Windows provides, the Slate also has the capability for running the entire Microsoft Office suite, which will allow the user to read and edit spreadsheets, presentations, Word documents, and email. The Slate also features a VGA camera, giving users the ability to web conference, or to take still photographs with the 3 megapixel camera.

 

CTSI recently setup and installed Slates for a couple of clients. Some of the positive feedback from our technical support team members who worked with the Slate included "the overall size was good" (the Slate features an 8.9 inch diagonal wide-angle touch screen), and "running a full version of Windows 7 allowed for easy software installation and ease-of-use, while the built-in Bluetooth allowed for easy connection of a keyboard and other accessories."

 

On the negative side, we observed that "battery life was only four hours while watching video presentations," and "responsiveness was a bit sluggish at times, especially when powering on."

 

In summation, the Slate appears to be ideal for users who spend intermittent periods of time away from the office, yet still need a fully-featured desktop PC in a small tablet form factor.  A device like this one seems to suit real estate agents, public relations professionals, and the growing workforce looking to get work done without spending the night at the office.  However, if you're looking for a device to watch movies on all day, we recommend you wait until HP refines the Slate a bit, as the current incarnation is clearly aimed at businesses. 

 

If you would like more information on the HP Slate or any other piece of technology you may have questions about, feel free to contact myself or a member of our Technology Consulting Team and we'll be glad to help you.

 

Until Next Time, 

David D. Baucum
President & CEO, CTSI

HP ePrint Technology Now with Apple AirPrint™

HP ePrint printers are teaming up with Apple devices in their latest push for complete integrated printing usage. With the free release of the new iOS 4.2 software, AirPrint is the first app-free way to print wirelessly from your iPad®, iPhone®, and iPod touch®. 

AirPrint iPad Image: Online Photo, hp.com/sbso/printing/mac/hp-airprint.html

So what exactly is ePrint and how does it work?

Well ePrint is an HP creation based around email. It works by allowing any user (with an internet- connected ePrint printer) to send any business document, picture, or PDF to the email address specifically assigned to your printer. The printer then receives your document and prints it so it is waiting for you or your colleagues.

 HP ePrint

 Image: Online Photo, hp.com/about/eprint

What is the difference between AirPrint and ePrint?

 

AirPrint is a service provided to any HP ePrint printer owner who wishes to print from their iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch wirelessly. While ePrint requires you to send your document to your printer's email address, AirPrint allows any Apple device in wireless range to send a document to an ePrint printer just by pressing the print button, which is now integrated in the Safari, Mail, and Photos applications. The biggest plus is that there is no additional software to download, drivers to install, or cables to connect.

 

What are the advantages and disadvantages?

AirPrint is an integrated part of the operating system of Apple devices, which makes it a very convenient option for Apple users. However, you must be in wireless range of your network in order for the AirPrint function to work. ePrint can be used from anywhere in the world, so even though you have to send the document you wish to print in an email to your printer, there is no range limiting your printing options. Plus, with the option of ePrint always available, you can print from any device with email capabilities and not be limited to only Apple devices.

 

Supports iOS 4.2 devices (iPad, iPhone 4, iPhone 3GS, and 3rd and 4th generation iPod touch) that support multitasking. Works with HP ePrint-enabled printers and All-in-Ones. AirPrint and iOS 4.2 devices require an 802.11 wireless network connection to the printer. Wireless performance is dependent upon physical environment and distance from the access point. AirPrint and the AirPrint logo are trademarks of Apple Inc. iPad, iPhone and iPod touch are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.

Tech Trivia

Question: 

Prior to coming to Texas Tech as head coach in waiting, Dan Spencer won back-to-back College World Series titles as an assistant coach.  Can you name the University he accomplished this with?

 

Look for the answer at the end of the newsletter.

Tip of the Month
Open Internet Explorer in Kiosk Mode
IE kiosk

Internet Explorer can open in Kiosk mode. In this view, there is nothing at the top, and nothing at the bottom. No toolbars, no taskbar. Kiosk mode can be useful if you wish to provide a computer for Internet usage, but do not want the user doing anything else. You can see an example of this mode in the screenshot to the left.


You can set Internet Explorer up that so it enters this mode automatically. You can use the current icon, or create a new one. We recommend creating a new one, so you're not locked into Kiosk mode.

Start by right-clicking an empty area on the desktop. Select New>>Shortcut. In the box, enter "C:\Program Files\Internet Explorer\IEXPLORE.EXE" -k. Click Next. Then name it IE Kiosk.

Of course, there are no navigation buttons. So you have to substitute keystrokes. For instance, there is no Back button, so you must use the Backspace key. There's no Forward button, either. So you use Alt+Right Arrow. And to close the window, you can press Ctrl+W.

Staff Spotlight - Lindsey Gutierrez

Lindsey

Lindsey Gutierrez joined CTSI in late January as part of the Technology Consulting Group. Her title is Associate Consultantand she will be focusing on inside sales and client communication.

 

Lindsey grew up in Lubbock and earned a degree in Advertising from Texas Tech in May 2010. Some of her hobbies include reading, spending time with friends and family, and swimming. Additionally, she loves animals and has two dogs--  a Boston terrier named Koko, and a cocker spaniel named Hobie. Music is a passion of hers, as she learned to play the piano and guitar at a very young age. She likes to travel and her favorite places include Santa Fe and San Antonio.

 

She is very happy to be a new addition to the CTSI team and looks forward to what the future has to bring!

 

Helen's Recipe of the Month
Helen Burns, CTSI's Purchasing Manager, has been with the company for the past ten years.  In addition to her purchasing duties, Helen serves as our unofficial party coordinator. Helen (with help from our administrative assistant, Nancy Clark) makes sure we celebrate every staff member's birthday as well as various holidays by providing a wide range of delectable treats. Without further ado, from Helen's kitchen to you! 
   

 

Hamburger Pot PieChicken Pot Pie

1 lb lean hamburger meat, browned well, crumbled, and drained

1 ½  cups frozen hash brown-style potatoes

1 ½ cups frozen mixed vegetables

1 small onion, diced

1 packet dry onion gravy mix (any brand works well)

1 ½ to 2 cups water

Pepper, to taste

 

2 unbaked pie crusts

 

 

In a large skillet or saucepan, combine the first 7 ingredients, mix together well, and heat almost to boiling. Allow to simmer (covered) about an hour, stirring at intervals to prevent scorching. Prepare bottom crust in a deep dish pie pan. Spoon hamburger mixture into the crust and cover with the remaining pie crust and seal the edges. Make several small holes in the top crust and bake at 350 for 45 minutes or until brown.  When done, cut pie into 6 or 8 slices and serve warm.

Tech Trivia Answer: 
Dan Spencer spent 11 seasons with Oregon State, before coming to Texas Tech. In his last three seasons with Oregon State, he helped the Beavers to become the first back-to-back World Series Champions since LSU back in the 1990's. The Oregon State Beavers won World Series Championships in 2005, 2006, and 2007.
Computer Transition Services, Inc.

Computer Transition Services, Inc.
Computer Transition Services, Inc.  The CTSI Tech Times
 

Monthly Updates from Your Trusted Technology Partner
February, 2011 - Vol 3, Issue 2
 

 

In This Issue
HP AirPrint Technology
Tech Trivia
Internet Explorer in Kiosk Mode
Staff Spotlight
Helen's Recipe of the Month
Quick Links



Find us on Facebook Follow us on Twitter View our profile on LinkedIn

Upcoming Area Events

  
2/18/11 - Baseball v. Western Michigan, Dan Law Field, 6:00 PM
 
2/19/11 - Women's Basketball v. Baylor, U.S.A., 12:30 PM
- Baseball v. Northwestern, 2:30 PM
- Baseball v. Utah Valley, 6:00 PM, Dan Law Field.
 
2/20/11 - Baseball v. Northwestern, Dan Law Field, 1:30 PM

2/23/11 - Men's Basketball v. Colorado, U.S.A., 6:30 PM

2/24/11 - Baseball v. BYU, Dan Law Field, 5:00 PM

2/25/11 - Eli Young Band, Wild West, 9:00PM
- Baseball v. BYU, Dan Law Field, 4:00 PM
 
2/26/11 - Women's Basketball v. Oklahoma St., U.S.A., 5:00PM
- Baseball v. Northern Illinois, Dan Law Field, 4:00 PM

2/27/11 - Baseball v. Northern Illinois, Dan Law Field, 12:00 PM

March
 
3/1/11 - Baseball v. UNLV, Dan Law Field, 5:00 PM 
 
3/2/11 - Men's Basketball v. Oklahoma, U.S.A., 6:30 PM
- Baseball v. UNLV, Dan Law Field, 1:00 PM

3/4/11 - Baseball v. TCU, Dan Law Field, 5:30 PM

3/5/11 - Women's Basketball v. Oklahoma, U.S.A., 2:00 PM
- Baseball v. TCU, Dan Law Field, 5:00 PM

3/6/11 - Baseball v. TCU, Dan Law Field, 1:00 PM


To have your event listed, pleasecontact us
Microsoft Help Links
Jeremy Howard Joins TCG Team
 
Jeremy Howard has recently joined the Technical Consulting Group at CTSI. Jeremy has been with CTSI for 5 years, first working in Technical Services.

 

Jeremy graduated from Lubbock Christian University in 2001, and spent 4 years working in the Texas Tech Health Sciences Center's IT department. He came to work with CTSI in 2005.

 

 
From David's Desk...

David D. Baucum 
In our ongoing efforts to keep you updated about technology's latest innovations, it's time to discuss HP's newest gadget--the HP Slate 500 Tablet PC. With the success of Apple's iPad, other companies have and will continue to launch competitors to it. HP's Slate, however, does not seem to be a direct competitor to the iPad. For comparison purposes, the Slate is more like a notebook computer than an iPad. Below, I'll highlight some of the features of the Slate and discuss its intended use.

 

First and foremost, the Slate is intended for business use. According to HP's website, they are marketing the tablet specifically as "the ideal PC for professionals who don't usually work at a traditional desk, yet need to stay productive in a secure, familiar Windows environment."  Businesses require quick action at times, and with the Slate, users would have access to most, if not all of the information typically stored on a full-featured desktop computer while on-the-go.

 

Perhaps the Slate's biggest asset is the Windows 7 operating system. In addition to having the ease of use and familiarity that Windows provides, the Slate also has the capability for running the entire Microsoft Office suite, which will allow the user to read and edit spreadsheets, presentations, Word documents, and email. The Slate also features a VGA camera, giving users the ability to web conference, or to take still photographs with the 3 megapixel camera.

 

CTSI recently setup and installed Slates for a couple of clients. Some of the positive feedback from our technical support team members who worked with the Slate included "the overall size was good" (the Slate features an 8.9 inch diagonal wide-angle touch screen), and "running a full version of Windows 7 allowed for easy software installation and ease-of-use, while the built-in Bluetooth allowed for easy connection of a keyboard and other accessories."

 

On the negative side, we observed that "battery life was only four hours while watching video presentations," and "responsiveness was a bit sluggish at times, especially when powering on."

 

In summation, the Slate appears to be ideal for users who spend intermittent periods of time away from the office, yet still need a fully-featured desktop PC in a small tablet form factor.  A device like this one seems to suit real estate agents, public relations professionals, and the growing workforce looking to get work done without spending the night at the office.  However, if you're looking for a device to watch movies on all day, we recommend you wait until HP refines the Slate a bit, as the current incarnation is clearly aimed at businesses. 

 

If you would like more information on the HP Slate or any other piece of technology you may have questions about, feel free to contact myself or a member of our Technology Consulting Team and we'll be glad to help you.

 

Until Next Time, 

David D. Baucum
President & CEO, CTSI

HP ePrint Technology Now with Apple AirPrint™

HP ePrint printers are teaming up with Apple devices in their latest push for complete integrated printing usage. With the free release of the new iOS 4.2 software, AirPrint is the first app-free way to print wirelessly from your iPad®, iPhone®, and iPod touch®. 

AirPrint iPad Image: Online Photo, hp.com/sbso/printing/mac/hp-airprint.html

So what exactly is ePrint and how does it work?

Well ePrint is an HP creation based around email. It works by allowing any user (with an internet- connected ePrint printer) to send any business document, picture, or PDF to the email address specifically assigned to your printer. The printer then receives your document and prints it so it is waiting for you or your colleagues.

 HP ePrint

 Image: Online Photo, hp.com/about/eprint

What is the difference between AirPrint and ePrint?

 

AirPrint is a service provided to any HP ePrint printer owner who wishes to print from their iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch wirelessly. While ePrint requires you to send your document to your printer's email address, AirPrint allows any Apple device in wireless range to send a document to an ePrint printer just by pressing the print button, which is now integrated in the Safari, Mail, and Photos applications. The biggest plus is that there is no additional software to download, drivers to install, or cables to connect.

 

What are the advantages and disadvantages?

AirPrint is an integrated part of the operating system of Apple devices, which makes it a very convenient option for Apple users. However, you must be in wireless range of your network in order for the AirPrint function to work. ePrint can be used from anywhere in the world, so even though you have to send the document you wish to print in an email to your printer, there is no range limiting your printing options. Plus, with the option of ePrint always available, you can print from any device with email capabilities and not be limited to only Apple devices.

 

Supports iOS 4.2 devices (iPad, iPhone 4, iPhone 3GS, and 3rd and 4th generation iPod touch) that support multitasking. Works with HP ePrint-enabled printers and All-in-Ones. AirPrint and iOS 4.2 devices require an 802.11 wireless network connection to the printer. Wireless performance is dependent upon physical environment and distance from the access point. AirPrint and the AirPrint logo are trademarks of Apple Inc. iPad, iPhone and iPod touch are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.

Tech Trivia

Question: 

Prior to coming to Texas Tech as head coach in waiting, Dan Spencer won back-to-back College World Series titles as an assistant coach.  Can you name the University he accomplished this with?

 

Look for the answer at the end of the newsletter.

Tip of the Month
Open Internet Explorer in Kiosk Mode
IE kiosk

Internet Explorer can open in Kiosk mode. In this view, there is nothing at the top, and nothing at the bottom. No toolbars, no taskbar. Kiosk mode can be useful if you wish to provide a computer for Internet usage, but do not want the user doing anything else. You can see an example of this mode in the screenshot to the left.


You can set Internet Explorer up that so it enters this mode automatically. You can use the current icon, or create a new one. We recommend creating a new one, so you're not locked into Kiosk mode.

Start by right-clicking an empty area on the desktop. Select New>>Shortcut. In the box, enter "C:\Program Files\Internet Explorer\IEXPLORE.EXE" -k. Click Next. Then name it IE Kiosk.

Of course, there are no navigation buttons. So you have to substitute keystrokes. For instance, there is no Back button, so you must use the Backspace key. There's no Forward button, either. So you use Alt+Right Arrow. And to close the window, you can press Ctrl+W.

Staff Spotlight - Lindsey Gutierrez

Lindsey

Lindsey Gutierrez joined CTSI in late January as part of the Technology Consulting Group. Her title is Associate Consultantand she will be focusing on inside sales and client communication.

 

Lindsey grew up in Lubbock and earned a degree in Advertising from Texas Tech in May 2010. Some of her hobbies include reading, spending time with friends and family, and swimming. Additionally, she loves animals and has two dogs--  a Boston terrier named Koko, and a cocker spaniel named Hobie. Music is a passion of hers, as she learned to play the piano and guitar at a very young age. She likes to travel and her favorite places include Santa Fe and San Antonio.

 

She is very happy to be a new addition to the CTSI team and looks forward to what the future has to bring!

 

Helen's Recipe of the Month
Helen Burns, CTSI's Purchasing Manager, has been with the company for the past ten years.  In addition to her purchasing duties, Helen serves as our unofficial party coordinator. Helen (with help from our administrative assistant, Nancy Clark) makes sure we celebrate every staff member's birthday as well as various holidays by providing a wide range of delectable treats. Without further ado, from Helen's kitchen to you! 
   

 

Hamburger Pot PieChicken Pot Pie

1 lb lean hamburger meat, browned well, crumbled, and drained

1 ½  cups frozen hash brown-style potatoes

1 ½ cups frozen mixed vegetables

1 small onion, diced

1 packet dry onion gravy mix (any brand works well)

1 ½ to 2 cups water

Pepper, to taste

 

2 unbaked pie crusts

 

 

In a large skillet or saucepan, combine the first 7 ingredients, mix together well, and heat almost to boiling. Allow to simmer (covered) about an hour, stirring at intervals to prevent scorching. Prepare bottom crust in a deep dish pie pan. Spoon hamburger mixture into the crust and cover with the remaining pie crust and seal the edges. Make several small holes in the top crust and bake at 350 for 45 minutes or until brown.  When done, cut pie into 6 or 8 slices and serve warm.

Tech Trivia Answer: 
Dan Spencer spent 11 seasons with Oregon State, before coming to Texas Tech. In his last three seasons with Oregon State, he helped the Beavers to become the first back-to-back World Series Champions since LSU back in the 1990's. The Oregon State Beavers won World Series Championships in 2005, 2006, and 2007.
Computer Transition Services, Inc.

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South Plains Electric Co-op

 

              
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