Recent Posts

1351

Announce Your Software/Service/Product / Change of plans...err...sort of...

« Last post by wreckedcarzz on August 10, 2007, 02:51 PM »

OK, I will see what I can do about a portable version

Change of plans (schedule wise, as far as me):

At the moment, I have school on Monday and have decided to merge everything I can into a portable version to aid in my transition. Along with this I have used Mozilla Sunbird to make a calender to schedule myself, so if you need computer help you may have to wait a couple (plus?) days until I have a low homework load/programs completed on schedule. Here is my plan, and, if possible, ?

Every Saturday, release a new version of program X (whatever program is the highest "priority" at that time, currently EasyControl this Sat then SimpleStart next Sat).
Every Sunday, yard work
Every Weekday, homework load

So, if I plan this correctly, I *may* be able to get ahead of the homework and continue normally. No guarantees, but I am having a blast making something that is both useful and people enjoy (so programs would, logically/hopefully, take top priority).

EDIT: I am getting serious about permanently maintaining this "project" of mine, and at the moment I am scanning the web for the specifics on different license types (still keeping it free but not open source).
EDIT 2: I have setup an EULA just to save my bacon as far as if your computer blows up, catching your local bank on fire and killing your wife, I am not liable

1352

Announce Your Software/Service/Product / Re: Free computer help online (tune-ups, customization, etc)

« Last post by wreckedcarzz on August 09, 2007, 08:57 PM »

EasyControl only uses Download.com for the initial setup- and checking, FileHippo.com does NOT have it on their servers (the Update > Update other programs and drivers)

I will look into setting up an update system AND seeing if I can switch the Advanced WindowsCare initial setup link to MajorGeeks. Thanks for letting me know

Oh, before I forget.

Would it be of interest to make a pre-complied, ready to go zip for USB drives (somewhat like the PortableApps.com setup)? I was thinking about doing it (just got a Geek Squad 4GB drive) but don't want to make something no one will use. Thoughts?  / ?

1353

General Software Discussion / Re: Top 3 programs you use

« Last post by wreckedcarzz on August 09, 2007, 02:11 PM »

1) Pidgin
2) Mozilla Thunderbird w/ Lightning
3) Opera/Firefox

-Laughing Man (August 09, 2007, 12:54 PM)

Already listed, I use all 3 myself

1354

General Software Discussion / Re: Top 3 programs you use

« Last post by wreckedcarzz on August 09, 2007, 02:09 PM »

wreckedcarzz: since your project is called SimpleStart and it is for "easy starting of commonly used apps", wouldn't it be like Farr or LaunchBar Commander? just wondering..

-lanux128 (August 09, 2007, 08:02 AM)

Somewhat, just with a really REALLY basic way of doing it. It doesn't have a fancy GUI like LBC or FARR, though.

1355

General Software Discussion / Re: Top 3 programs you use

« Last post by wreckedcarzz on August 09, 2007, 12:30 AM »

Awesome, keep the programs coming!

Firefox and Opera have places in the program guaranteed, FARR and Xchat might also. (Maxthon is included, but only 2.0)

1356

General Software Discussion / Re: Top 3 programs you use

« Last post by wreckedcarzz on August 08, 2007, 09:41 PM »

I was wondering the same thing...its not like he does actual work

1357

General Software Discussion / Top 3 programs you use

« Last post by wreckedcarzz on August 08, 2007, 09:14 PM »

OK, not sure if this has been asked before (if so feel free to close topic), just its for a project I am doing, and the fact that I am looking to try new (good) software, so here goes.

What are the top 3 programs/games you use on a daily basis? (You don't need to post 3, just no more then 3 please)
EDIT: It would also help, if possible, to also link to the program (I need to install it myself for the project).

After a few days I will take down the apps/games and count them off, and the top 25 or so will get added my project, SimpleStart (easy starting of commonly used apps) that I am releasing later this month.

To start off, mine are...
Pidgin
Firefox
Halo 2 Vista

1358

Announce Your Software/Service/Product / Re: Free computer help online (tune-ups, customization, etc)

« Last post by wreckedcarzz on August 08, 2007, 08:31 PM »

Here we go, this will be bundled with the next release, but here it is if your having trouble.

Feedback PLEASE (my first attempt at a FAQ/Help file combo)

1359

Announce Your Software/Service/Product / Re: Free computer help online (tune-ups, customization, etc)

« Last post by wreckedcarzz on August 08, 2007, 04:52 PM »

Off the topic of software, does anyone need actual help with anything? (Software or hardware)?

1360

Announce Your Software/Service/Product / Re: Free computer help online (tune-ups, customization, etc)

« Last post by wreckedcarzz on August 07, 2007, 07:47 PM »

Yes, you just restart EasyControl. Thats it. You then just wait for it to boot back up, then you can run the programs at your convenience.

A couple people have been confused about that, but it means exactly what it says. It will NOT do anything unless you tell it to.

EDIT: And it is a lot easier to just click OK and have it close all the windows for you, then to have to do it manually isn't it?

EDIT 2: OK, I clarified it in the program itself, in bold (people tend to read larger font, instead of one long paragraph of the same font clashing into itself).

@Curt: Although you don't need it, you can download the new version now (above, same place) if you want. Just uninstall then install (again).

1361

Announce Your Software/Service/Product / New Version :D

« Last post by wreckedcarzz on August 07, 2007, 01:49 PM »

OK, here it is. And here is the list of changes:

-New splash screen
-More open interface
-Changed tabs to buttons
-Added pictures to top of tabs (not the tabs themselves, but the body of the tab where the buttons and things are)
-Added a tray menu
-Added the ability to close and re-open via tray menu
-Fixed installation bug of AutoOptimize programs
-Added tray bubble slogan
-Added About ASCII Art (see Tray Menu > About)
-Made interface more organized
-Added setup wizard
-Combined features
-SpywareBlaster & Spyware Terminator support postponed
-Fixed bug with Shutdown/Reboot (would run maintenance and then not shutdown/reboot)
-Changed version to 3.0
-other fixes

This is a big update, and everyone should get it. It simplifies several things and fixes a few things, so get it as soon as you can.
(Uninstall, then Install )

EDIT: I am running an update of the program now, see the below 2 posts.

New version here now!

EDIT: Please see page 6 post...4 I believe for latest version.

1362

Announce Your Software/Service/Product / New Version!

« Last post by wreckedcarzz on August 07, 2007, 12:10 PM »

OK, somewhat resuming work on this, and somewhat not. Here is why:

I REALLY want to release the version I have on hand. As far as I know there are no problems.
I REALLY want to add more levels, making single player hit 50 and dual hit 25 (minimum).

I don't want to add crummy, repetitive levels into the game though. And I am out of ideas. Running on fumes, I need help if I am gonna add new levels/enemies. I have school in 6 days, so I can probably get some somewhat decent ideas there, but for now, I will upload the version that I have on hand.

Here is what has changed:

Explosion now occurs commonly, when it should be logically triggered
Made improvements to Player Assistant
Updated Player Assistant
Fixed the Player Assistant
Added laser
Added levels
Changed internal things
Cleaned up internal things
Changed theme
Made clickable buttons (indent when clicked)
Made explosion smaller
Updated readme

That isn't a complete list, but most of it. Sorry about the lack of info, I have been dwelling into the world of AHK scripting and my mind is not back into normal mode yet.

I will have the new game version uploaded in about an hour.

The game has been uploaded, as well as an updated downloader (you can use your original downloader, also (if you still have it...))

1363

Living Room / Re: MacOrPc Rap Music Video

« Last post by wreckedcarzz on August 05, 2007, 07:32 PM »

Oh yea, I have been hooked on that for a while now. It was playing in my head when I read the post, too
You get the high-quality one at http://www.macorpc.org (as noted in the video, too).

1364

Announce Your Software/Service/Product / Re: Free computer help online (tune-ups, customization, etc)

« Last post by wreckedcarzz on August 05, 2007, 07:26 PM »

Be sure to refresh, I have already got most of them!

Single click? hmm...
Ill see what I can do
It takes 2 clicks, but they are both just 1 click

EDIT: Figured I would remove this cause there is no point in continuing to edit this post endlessly with what I just did

I won't upload yet, gonna take a stab at a couple more things on my list ^ first.

 

-Brandon

EDIT (again): I am going to run testing on this before uploading it to make sure everything is working properly. It appears that the installation problem is fixed, I am not certain though.

There *might* be picture buttons in this release, but don't expect them. I will work on making it bigger and less repetitive, though. DONE!

EDIT 2: --- I am lucky enough to have a friend who is an artist and is fluent with Photoshop CS2, and there is now a MUCH BETTER slash screen!!! No more Microsoft Paint!

1365

Announce Your Software/Service/Product / Re: Free computer help online (tune-ups, customization, etc)

« Last post by wreckedcarzz on August 05, 2007, 06:21 PM »

A bit off-topic (well...yea...off-topic ):

I am also hosting other apps similar to this one on my website (click the little earth below my name, or click here http://www.incredisims.com)

Back on topic:

I have found a new function I have been DYING to add in (finally!) to all my programs, being the AMAZING (*coughs* not *coughs again*) ability to actually close when you hit the X (it usually drops to the tray, becoming useless). (Now works normally, right click and open YAY )

To do list for EasyControl (and, eventually, all programs):

I am going to (try) add the ability to restore itself from the tray when double clicked, so I can make it like it should have been in the first place.
Make the tabs not look like crap!
Add pictures into the buttons (maybe next release, *sigh*)
Make it more user friendly, most people I have talked to say they get lost trying to set it up 
Fix the friggen problem with the AutoInstall of the optimization programs. I still have yet to exactly find out what the heck is going on, but I think it is still there
Make a status bar/progress bar to show how much has been done (I was able to get a WINDOW, but no progress bar )
Make a help file!
Make a cleaner interface

There - this is kind of a request for some help, if anyone has the time. (Everyone who helps gets their name in the top of the script that can't be read , although i might make a little place in the About tab...)

Oh well, off to do my to-do list...*sigh*

-Brandon

1366

Living Room / Re: new PC options:-

« Last post by wreckedcarzz on August 05, 2007, 06:05 PM »

It wasn't cutting it as the graphics were not up to par (lower FPS then expected; to be more specific, like 25-50% loss) because of lack of power (as far as I could tell) and the system was about the same speed as my old 1.6GHz P4

I got a new Ultra X Connect VX 700W PSU now though, and its working great (and I overclocked the card to the max, still no problems)

1367

Living Room / Re: new PC options:-

« Last post by wreckedcarzz on August 05, 2007, 05:55 PM »

Hi tomos:
As far as PSU:
I had an Intel Celeron D 360 (3.46GHz), 2GB DDR2-4300RAM, an ATi Radeon X1650 Pro (somewhat OverClocked), a 7200RPM Seagate hard drive (the maker escapes me ), a Memorex DVD\CD-RW and a Sound Blaster Audigy SE powered by a 430W Mad Dog Multimedia PSU, and it wasn't cutting it. But I do extra hardcore insane gaming, so I kinda push the limits of everything. It was fine on my Intel Pentium 4 Willamette 1.6GHz, 768MB-DDR RAM, dual Western Digital hard drive, ATi Radeon X1300 setup, but newer computers and hardware (obviously) need more juice.

As far as a GPU (graphics card):
I have had a horrible (personal) experience with nVidia (I have another name for them, but Ill save that for another time ) and I have converted over to ATi 100%- no problems at all (all 4 computers in my house are ATi, no problems at all with them). Including overclocking them (using ATi Overdrive, not the old fashoned way).

As far as CPU:
As I recall, Intel is faster, but AMD has a larger on-board cache. Just depends on pricing and what your needs are, I guess.

RAM:
Photo editing takes lots, and if your going for Vista, a lot more. I use (on boot time with vista) about 28% of 2GB
Get at least 1GB, preferably more if your going to get really large files and lots of programs open.

I can't help much more myself, I haven't moved comfortably into the motherboard market yet, but just make sure that you have what you need, and then some. It always helps to have more then you need, as opposed to needing more then you have!

1368

General Software Discussion / Re: XP or Vista user — take the poll!

« Last post by wreckedcarzz on August 04, 2007, 11:02 AM »

I voted a couple days ago and forgot to comment -

I am happily running Vista on 3/4 of my computers, and I really don't see why (except for hardware issues) not to upgrade. You can upgrade from XP Home to Vista Home Basic for practically nothing, and if your a student (anywhere) you can get Home Premium (upgrade) for $90. And its not really bloated, either (a lot easier to use, too)

Unless of course an app you use hasn't converted yet...there really isn't any reason not to.

I am still unsure about the debate on 95 vs Vista - what one is better though. Windows 95

1369

Announce Your Software/Service/Product / Re: Free computer help online (tune-ups, customization, etc)

« Last post by wreckedcarzz on August 02, 2007, 07:53 PM »

POST NO LONGER NEEDED, SEE BELOW FOR NEW VERSION

1370

General Software Discussion / Re: Best corrupted file recovery software for .qex files?

« Last post by wreckedcarzz on August 02, 2007, 07:49 PM »

The patch was not available before the crash; and yes I have, same thing.

1371

Announce Your Software/Service/Product / Re: Free computer help online (tune-ups, customization, etc)

« Last post by wreckedcarzz on July 31, 2007, 09:28 PM »

Update: I will release the EasyControl w/ DelEmpty in the next couple days in the latest build I have. I fixed a couple bugs (don't really remember what they were) but the addition of DelEmpty is a large boost (IMO).

@Skrommel: I will remove DelEmpty on request if you wish.

Also: I am removing the old downloads, as I forgot and people are getting wierd versions left and right. All users just download the new file coming and everything will be good.

1372

General Software Discussion / Re: Best corrupted file recovery software for .qex files?

« Last post by wreckedcarzz on July 31, 2007, 09:23 PM »

I was using Quicken 7 without the patch, but yes- they were working perfectly.

I am checking out RecoverMyFiles right now. Might just be what I need. *crosses fingers*

1373

General Software Discussion / Re: Best corrupted file recovery software for .qex files?

« Last post by wreckedcarzz on July 31, 2007, 05:17 PM »

Yes, its Quicken Expensable 7. I have the Vista patch installed too (not that it makes a difference).

When I open any of the tax files, Quicken tells me that "The file you have tried to open is not an ExpensAble file."

I had the computer crash on me randomly, no warning, no signs of problems, and took it to Firedog (Circuit City) after failing to be able to boot and get the files off. I now have the files, but they aren't worth anything.

I don't *think* opening them in notepad (or any text application) would be logical, as its (as I said) about 6 years of every transaction made.

File recovery (or ... de-corruption - for loss of a better word) program is what I am seeking, but none of the ones I have found support qex files )

1374

General Software Discussion / Best corrupted file recovery software for .qex files?

« Last post by wreckedcarzz on July 30, 2007, 11:25 PM »

After scanning the internet to an extent that is frightening (even to me!) I can not find a decent file recovery program that will recover files with the .qex extension! I have looked in a huge panic for the last hour or so, as I have about 6 years of taxes that have gotten corrupted, and conveniently nothing I can find will recover them. Freeware or shareware, it doesn't really matter, I just need anything that will work. Can anyone help me?

1375

Announce Your Software/Service/Product / Re: Free computer help online (tune-ups, customization, etc)

« Last post by wreckedcarzz on July 30, 2007, 10:24 PM »

AHH! I just booted up my house (YAY) computer and am reading all the posts...*eyes spin*

5 years with no work on it isn't all that bad, but EasyCleaner shouldn't make problems...try the beta

As far as I can tell, defragging does help (XP and Vista)

Eusing seems to run really well, although the nag screen thing has been bothering me from the start- not sure what to do though

Yea, the registry cleaning is mainly for old program links/extensions and such, but I think its necessary just to keep it as clean as possible. (I am picky about that )

-End Summarized Answers-

Anyone know of a different reg cleaner then, as that has been bugging me and its obviously doing the same to others. I will search for some and see if I can get a list, but at the moment I am working on my desktop, my dad's desktop, my dad's laptop, unpacking and so forth...