Thursday, August 25, 2005
Wednesday, August 24, 2005
Month(ly) roundup!
It's not that I've been overly busy (ish) but I really haven't had the inclination to update the site, post links or, well, pretty much anything. It's not been the greatest of months to be entire honest. My saving grace is Gemma. Having her home is awesome (cool US wording included) and there have been some nice highlights (my Brother's engagement party was great fun; as well as Kingsley's do). But the 911 is going soon (yeah I know!) due to mounting debt, inadequate storage and a few other "issues".
To top it off, work is pretty bleak (redundancy is looming in one form or another). I've had one really good interview, but whether I fit the bill is up to them now. I really hope I do! More on that later in the week (I hopeskycopter).
Back to the cars? Well the 911 is as good as sold. If the trader doesn't want it, someone else will. It pains me to sell it but then again, it pains me to keep it. So I would rather keep the monthly loan payments and be a bit lighter on the debt front instead. Hopefully I can go back to 911 ownership one day - or perhaps something else ;)
The Calibra hasn't moved so I can't really update that side of things. I do intend to get out there and play with it but so far I've not had the time. She does appear to run quite well though so that's something!
I've started reading Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince - I'm only a few chapters in but it's so far quite enjoyable. I know you and the rest of the world has already read it but... nerr - I was busy!
WoW is going okay. I'm a bit behind with my playing (can't be bothe...etc) but I've started a new character on the Archimonde server (again, Arbilac - a NE Druid). Only level 10 at the moment but that will soon change!
Why? Well Archimonde is a lower population server (less lag) and it's also a PvP (Player vs Player) server so it's more dangerous to roam about without being attacked! It's a different challenge and I look forward to progressing further!
Anyway - on I must go. I will update the site soon with news of 911s and hopefully jobs. Then I might even get some pics uploaded etc!
To top it off, work is pretty bleak (redundancy is looming in one form or another). I've had one really good interview, but whether I fit the bill is up to them now. I really hope I do! More on that later in the week (I hopeskycopter).
Back to the cars? Well the 911 is as good as sold. If the trader doesn't want it, someone else will. It pains me to sell it but then again, it pains me to keep it. So I would rather keep the monthly loan payments and be a bit lighter on the debt front instead. Hopefully I can go back to 911 ownership one day - or perhaps something else ;)
The Calibra hasn't moved so I can't really update that side of things. I do intend to get out there and play with it but so far I've not had the time. She does appear to run quite well though so that's something!
I've started reading Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince - I'm only a few chapters in but it's so far quite enjoyable. I know you and the rest of the world has already read it but... nerr - I was busy!
WoW is going okay. I'm a bit behind with my playing (can't be bothe...etc) but I've started a new character on the Archimonde server (again, Arbilac - a NE Druid). Only level 10 at the moment but that will soon change!
Why? Well Archimonde is a lower population server (less lag) and it's also a PvP (Player vs Player) server so it's more dangerous to roam about without being attacked! It's a different challenge and I look forward to progressing further!
Anyway - on I must go. I will update the site soon with news of 911s and hopefully jobs. Then I might even get some pics uploaded etc!
Thursday, August 18, 2005
Because I'm lazy...
I present to you, the VGCats forums thread on Best Pics. It's about as random as you can get - and some are unreal (as in, really funny!). Looksee and enjoy. Or else. Yeah you!
Tuesday, August 16, 2005
Monday, August 15, 2005
Thursday, August 11, 2005
Unconventional engines thread
Over on VWVortex. It's a good one too, because there are a ton of engine designs I had no idea even existed!
Wednesday, August 10, 2005
Monday, August 08, 2005
Good god, the site is out of date!
Yup - just checking through and I REALLY need to get this place cleaned up! The Calibra is all but done - and that needs a BIG update. I really need a decent camera.. lol.
I'll do my best over the next week or so - get some show pics up etc. Useless :(
I'll do my best over the next week or so - get some show pics up etc. Useless :(
Thursday, August 04, 2005
P.J. Tracy
I've just finished reading the third book from mother/daughter team P.J. Tracy. Starting with "Want to Play" (or Monkeewrench) and on to "Live Bait" and now "Dead Run". I won't go in to them too much (click the links) but I must say I've thoroughly enjoyed every single page. If you enjoy reading - then read. :)
Monday, August 01, 2005
Rain.com/pour
Fortune favours the bold. Or in my case, everyone but me.
It's been a busy few weeks (hence I don't have time for blogging) and things are moving to a "finale" with the Calibra. To what end? I don't really want to think about it to be honest. I know how I am and how I work and I don't see me being happy with it running "right". Or at all. It's future is not assured any more than the 911's is.
I now have the following:
MBE 941 ECU: It's no longer made but does everything I need to get my car over 400bhp (or much more if the engine itself could handle it). It's pre-mapped with a spec not too far off what I have - which is nice. Fitting it doesn't look all that hard either - but I'll make sure Jamie is on hand as he's done it several times before.
500cc MSD injectors: Sure it doesn't mean a lot on screen but think that my old ones were 280cc (or thereabouts) you can see how much difference these will make. I could squeeze 300/350bhp out of the old ones (flow wise) so these should do for 400+bhp.
Wasted-spark ignition: This bit saves me spending a lot of distributer caps, rotor arms and coils. No moving parts = Good.
A few hours work (I have an oil leak that needs attention) and I should be up and running again. There is - of course - more to come update-wise ;)
Now - the rain/pour bit. My 911 is a hard top - not a cabrio. Yet it believes otherwise and has allowed water in to the cabin. Lots of it. This is annoying in the least as the leak appears to be coming from my "bond-in-only" rear screen and that sounds expensive. The leak itself has interferred with the electrics of the car as well and the rear spoiler no longer does it's job (it'll only move manually) and (and?!) my dash electrics are playing up. Being a 911, it's not something I want to mess with so it's going to Camtune to be looked at. I am not looking forward to that at all. If it works out to be very expensive I may just have to work out if I really need a 911. LOL.
In other news, the Clio appears to be fine. :p
It's been a busy few weeks (hence I don't have time for blogging) and things are moving to a "finale" with the Calibra. To what end? I don't really want to think about it to be honest. I know how I am and how I work and I don't see me being happy with it running "right". Or at all. It's future is not assured any more than the 911's is.
I now have the following:
MBE 941 ECU: It's no longer made but does everything I need to get my car over 400bhp (or much more if the engine itself could handle it). It's pre-mapped with a spec not too far off what I have - which is nice. Fitting it doesn't look all that hard either - but I'll make sure Jamie is on hand as he's done it several times before.
500cc MSD injectors: Sure it doesn't mean a lot on screen but think that my old ones were 280cc (or thereabouts) you can see how much difference these will make. I could squeeze 300/350bhp out of the old ones (flow wise) so these should do for 400+bhp.
Wasted-spark ignition: This bit saves me spending a lot of distributer caps, rotor arms and coils. No moving parts = Good.
A few hours work (I have an oil leak that needs attention) and I should be up and running again. There is - of course - more to come update-wise ;)
Now - the rain/pour bit. My 911 is a hard top - not a cabrio. Yet it believes otherwise and has allowed water in to the cabin. Lots of it. This is annoying in the least as the leak appears to be coming from my "bond-in-only" rear screen and that sounds expensive. The leak itself has interferred with the electrics of the car as well and the rear spoiler no longer does it's job (it'll only move manually) and (and?!) my dash electrics are playing up. Being a 911, it's not something I want to mess with so it's going to Camtune to be looked at. I am not looking forward to that at all. If it works out to be very expensive I may just have to work out if I really need a 911. LOL.
In other news, the Clio appears to be fine. :p
Thursday, July 28, 2005
It's coming...
Monday, July 25, 2005
Google maps.. now MSN Earth
As reported on The Register, MSN is having a stab at the whole "maps.. blah" thingy with MSN Virtual Earth. The Earth being Northern America, of course.
Blah. Etc.
Blah. Etc.
Quite the interesting engine conversion...
Basically it's this: Put M3 running gear in to a 4-door 323i. Sounds simple I would have guessed.
Not really. Here's his own site.
The thread is over 90 pages long right now (and growing) but it's worth reading. Amazing work and kudos to the owner!
Not really. Here's his own site.
The thread is over 90 pages long right now (and growing) but it's worth reading. Amazing work and kudos to the owner!
Friday, July 22, 2005
Days
Fly by when you're off work! :)
That's primarily why I've not posted. I should be back on form next week when I have some time to kill (or doing a rebuild.. lol).
So I've been busy as usual. Mostly throwing out stuff from the house (making space) and getting rid of stuff I don't need. Even making a few bob too. This is mainly due to having to find several hundred squids to pay for my upcoming ECU/injectors etc that are coming my way! So the Turbo will finally be all-but finished. About bloody time too.
The 911 has been my trusty steed recently too. You gotta love that German build quality. I really need to get it serviced (well, an oil change) and sort some minor bits out but it's being a rock. Love it.
London got bombed again. Great. Can't really understand why though. It's not like it's making a point (still). Sad world we live in.
If you've not seen War Of The Worlds then do so. It's rather fab. I won't go in to detail as there really should be no need. You should all know the story! Spielburg has done a great job. :)
I have to say the same for as well - a great movie that reboots the franchise nicely. I'll be watching this one again soon. And the sequel is pretty much assured.
As is the Fantastic Four I should think. This one is only out today so I've yet to go see it but I expect to soon. It looks good - probably not Spiderman good, but good.
One last one, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. I want to see this - rain is expected this weekend so maybe I'll go then.. and report back later!
Ah WoW news. I'm level 60 now - have been for a week or so now :) It rules - now I just need some time to get some decent raids and PvP time under my belt. All in good time! :D
Need to get back to working out.. later.
That's primarily why I've not posted. I should be back on form next week when I have some time to kill (or doing a rebuild.. lol).
So I've been busy as usual. Mostly throwing out stuff from the house (making space) and getting rid of stuff I don't need. Even making a few bob too. This is mainly due to having to find several hundred squids to pay for my upcoming ECU/injectors etc that are coming my way! So the Turbo will finally be all-but finished. About bloody time too.
The 911 has been my trusty steed recently too. You gotta love that German build quality. I really need to get it serviced (well, an oil change) and sort some minor bits out but it's being a rock. Love it.
London got bombed again. Great. Can't really understand why though. It's not like it's making a point (still). Sad world we live in.
If you've not seen War Of The Worlds then do so. It's rather fab. I won't go in to detail as there really should be no need. You should all know the story! Spielburg has done a great job. :)
I have to say the same for as well - a great movie that reboots the franchise nicely. I'll be watching this one again soon. And the sequel is pretty much assured.
As is the Fantastic Four I should think. This one is only out today so I've yet to go see it but I expect to soon. It looks good - probably not Spiderman good, but good.
One last one, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. I want to see this - rain is expected this weekend so maybe I'll go then.. and report back later!
Ah WoW news. I'm level 60 now - have been for a week or so now :) It rules - now I just need some time to get some decent raids and PvP time under my belt. All in good time! :D
Need to get back to working out.. later.
Monday, July 18, 2005
F1 drivers.. will they strike?
Check it out.
Personally this has made F1 more interesting than actually watching it (I can't.. it bores me to tears). Go soapy drama!
Personally this has made F1 more interesting than actually watching it (I can't.. it bores me to tears). Go soapy drama!
Thursday, July 14, 2005
Thursday, July 07, 2005
The UK's very own 9/11
Of course, the UK has had a very full history of bombings. From the Second World War through to the IRA bombings of the eighties. However, since 9/11 this has become a very different thing. Now the whole world is being attacked by, what appears to be, Al Queda. It's not certain at this time of writing - and no one has held their hands high to admit to it.
But because no one has taken blame, the bombings appear to have no point. Why simply blow people and property up? It has no point.
"We bomb you because you bomb us" would be a point. Not a good one (eye for an eye?) but still a point.
I await that. As does the rest of the UK and the world.
Is this our WTC? No. I fear that has yet to come.
But because no one has taken blame, the bombings appear to have no point. Why simply blow people and property up? It has no point.
"We bomb you because you bomb us" would be a point. Not a good one (eye for an eye?) but still a point.
I await that. As does the rest of the UK and the world.
Is this our WTC? No. I fear that has yet to come.
Tuesday, July 05, 2005
Bored
It's true. There is work to do but.. bored.
I made 58 in WoW this weekend. That's just 2 levels from game-end. I won't be able to play now until next week but I'm pretty much there :D
Thankfully, my Gemma is home for the summer (what there is of it). She came home yesterday - and although I haven't seen her yet, I'm happy! Can't wait to see her :)
The weather sucks. It's cold and wet. Typical. I'm hoping it clears up for Billing this weekend (I probably won't take pics). If not, then I'll get wet. Meh. Hopefully it'll be warm and balmy and I can stroll about and just relax.
If you too are bored, check out Dumpalink. Full of silly movies, links and games to keep you amused. Also, check out Kadz for some Celebrity Jeopardy.
I made 58 in WoW this weekend. That's just 2 levels from game-end. I won't be able to play now until next week but I'm pretty much there :D
Thankfully, my Gemma is home for the summer (what there is of it). She came home yesterday - and although I haven't seen her yet, I'm happy! Can't wait to see her :)
The weather sucks. It's cold and wet. Typical. I'm hoping it clears up for Billing this weekend (I probably won't take pics). If not, then I'll get wet. Meh. Hopefully it'll be warm and balmy and I can stroll about and just relax.
If you too are bored, check out Dumpalink. Full of silly movies, links and games to keep you amused. Also, check out Kadz for some Celebrity Jeopardy.
DTA Competition Engine Management Systems
DTA Competition Engine Management Systems - This will be my new ECU. I just need some money (about £1500 total) to do it all! :(
Friday, July 01, 2005
1955 LeMans
After this year's LeMans, and Corvette's win - I think I really want to go and see it for myself. And I shall.
However, a thread on Rennlist shows that it has had it's problems.
These links are mind-blowing. I had no idea - and although they are not "graphic" by todays standards, they may still shock. According to what I read, this incident is labelled "deadliest motorsport incident ever" - and that "record" still holds today.
Autoweek article
AOL user page
Guardian article
However, a thread on Rennlist shows that it has had it's problems.
These links are mind-blowing. I had no idea - and although they are not "graphic" by todays standards, they may still shock. According to what I read, this incident is labelled "deadliest motorsport incident ever" - and that "record" still holds today.
Autoweek article
AOL user page
Guardian article
Little Computer People
Do you remember this game? (Playable in your browser!). I do.. I had it on both my C64 and my Amiga. I never could quite work out how it played, and that's not surprising since you don't actually "play" it. An interesting article on 1up about it as well for you ;)
Goodwood 2005 pics and info
Firstly a VWVortex link on the show with some pics (easier for someone else to do the picture taking!). Then some links from within that article:
http://www.g0rd.com/gallery/Goodwood-2005
http://bonneville-speed-week.smugmug.com/gallery/614675
Goodwood Festival of Speed 2005 - Review
http://www.classicdriver.com/uk/magazine/3700.asp?id=12523
Alfa Romeo Brera:
http://www.italiaspeed.com/2005/events/festival_of_speed/alfa_romeo/brera/brera_blue/goodwood_gallery.html
Maserati Birdcage 75:
http://www.italiaspeed.com/2005/events/festival_of_speed/birdcage_75th/goodwood_gallery.html
Cartier 'Style et Luxe' Concours d'Eleganza:
http://www.italiaspeed.com/2005/events/festival_of_speed/cartier/goodwood_gallery.html
http://www.italiaspeed.com/2005/events/festival_of_speed/cartier/goodwood_gallery_2.html
Cathedral Paddock - Ferrari:
http://www.italiaspeed.com/2005/events/festival_of_speed/historic_ferrari/goodwood_gallery.html
I'll see if I can dig up some more photos (of maybe the stands/stalls) and post them too!
http://www.g0rd.com/gallery/Goodwood-2005
http://bonneville-speed-week.smugmug.com/gallery/614675
Goodwood Festival of Speed 2005 - Review
http://www.classicdriver.com/uk/magazine/3700.asp?id=12523
Alfa Romeo Brera:
http://www.italiaspeed.com/2005/events/festival_of_speed/alfa_romeo/brera/brera_blue/goodwood_gallery.html
Maserati Birdcage 75:
http://www.italiaspeed.com/2005/events/festival_of_speed/birdcage_75th/goodwood_gallery.html
Cartier 'Style et Luxe' Concours d'Eleganza:
http://www.italiaspeed.com/2005/events/festival_of_speed/cartier/goodwood_gallery.html
http://www.italiaspeed.com/2005/events/festival_of_speed/cartier/goodwood_gallery_2.html
Cathedral Paddock - Ferrari:
http://www.italiaspeed.com/2005/events/festival_of_speed/historic_ferrari/goodwood_gallery.html
I'll see if I can dig up some more photos (of maybe the stands/stalls) and post them too!
Thursday, June 30, 2005
Wednesday, June 29, 2005
Wil Wheaton interview over on /dot
It's right here for your perusal.
I've personally read his books and I love them - he's a geek - I'm a geek. It's nice company.
I've personally read his books and I love them - he's a geek - I'm a geek. It's nice company.
Michelin Tweel
Here's a Google images link to Michelin's new "Tweel". A tyre/wheel combination that requires no air and can never go flat. It's being developed for the building/military industries but may yet prove valuable in the automotive industry as well. It looks wacky - and it is. I doubt the "dub" boys would like these to replace their 24 inch spinners. :)
Empire Strikes Back re-written
(Shamelessly stolen from MIG)
Yes, the end of the Empire Strikes Back is to be rewritten to fit in with the new trilogy. The new ending is as follows:
INT: BESPIN GANTRY - MOMENTS LATER:
(A furious lightsaber duel is underway. DARTH VADER is backing LUKE
SKYWALKER towards the end of the gantry. A quick move by Vader chops
off Luke's hand. It goes spinning off into the ventilation shaft. Luke
backs away. He looks around, but realizes there's nowhere to go but straight down.)
Darth Vader : Obi Wan never told you what happened to your father.
Luke : He told me enough! He told me you killed him!
Darth Vader : No, Luke... I am your father!
Luke : No! It's not true! It's impossible.
Darth Vader : Search your feelings... you know it to be true...
Luke : NO!
Darth Vader : Yes, it is true... and you know what else? You know that brass droid of yours?
Luke : Threepio?
Darth Vader : Yes... Threepio... I built him... when I was only 7 years old...
Luke : No...
Darth Vader : Seven years old! And what have you done? Look at
yourself, no lightsaber, no hand, no job, and couldn't even levitate your own ship out of the swamp...
Luke : I destroyed your precious Death Star!
Darth Vader : When you were 20! When I was 10, I single-handedly
destroyed a Trade Federation Droid Control ship!
Luke : Well, it's not my fault...
Darth Vader : Oh, here we go... "Poor me... my father never gave me
what I wanted for my birthday... boo hoo, my daddy's the Dark Lord of the Sith...waahhh wahhh!"
Luke : Shut up...
Darth Vader : You're a slacker! By the time I was your age, I had
exterminated the Jedi knights!
Luke : I used to race my T-16 through Beggar's Canyon!
Darth Vader : Oh, for the love of the Emperor... 10 years old, winner
of the Boonta Eve Open... Only human to ever fly a Pod Racer... right here baby!
Darth Vader : And by your age I'd gotten my girlfriend pregnant... older woman too, and ex queen. And you?? WTF you want to bone your sister?? you're one sicko kid!
(Luke looks down the shaft. Takes a step towards it.)
Darth Vader : I was wrong... You're not my kid... I don't know whose
you are, but you sure ain't mine...
(Luke takes a step off the platform, hesitates, then plunges down
the shaft... Darth Vader looks after him.)
Darth Vader : Get a haircut!
Yes, the end of the Empire Strikes Back is to be rewritten to fit in with the new trilogy. The new ending is as follows:
INT: BESPIN GANTRY - MOMENTS LATER:
(A furious lightsaber duel is underway. DARTH VADER is backing LUKE
SKYWALKER towards the end of the gantry. A quick move by Vader chops
off Luke's hand. It goes spinning off into the ventilation shaft. Luke
backs away. He looks around, but realizes there's nowhere to go but straight down.)
Darth Vader : Obi Wan never told you what happened to your father.
Luke : He told me enough! He told me you killed him!
Darth Vader : No, Luke... I am your father!
Luke : No! It's not true! It's impossible.
Darth Vader : Search your feelings... you know it to be true...
Luke : NO!
Darth Vader : Yes, it is true... and you know what else? You know that brass droid of yours?
Luke : Threepio?
Darth Vader : Yes... Threepio... I built him... when I was only 7 years old...
Luke : No...
Darth Vader : Seven years old! And what have you done? Look at
yourself, no lightsaber, no hand, no job, and couldn't even levitate your own ship out of the swamp...
Luke : I destroyed your precious Death Star!
Darth Vader : When you were 20! When I was 10, I single-handedly
destroyed a Trade Federation Droid Control ship!
Luke : Well, it's not my fault...
Darth Vader : Oh, here we go... "Poor me... my father never gave me
what I wanted for my birthday... boo hoo, my daddy's the Dark Lord of the Sith...waahhh wahhh!"
Luke : Shut up...
Darth Vader : You're a slacker! By the time I was your age, I had
exterminated the Jedi knights!
Luke : I used to race my T-16 through Beggar's Canyon!
Darth Vader : Oh, for the love of the Emperor... 10 years old, winner
of the Boonta Eve Open... Only human to ever fly a Pod Racer... right here baby!
Darth Vader : And by your age I'd gotten my girlfriend pregnant... older woman too, and ex queen. And you?? WTF you want to bone your sister?? you're one sicko kid!
(Luke looks down the shaft. Takes a step towards it.)
Darth Vader : I was wrong... You're not my kid... I don't know whose
you are, but you sure ain't mine...
(Luke takes a step off the platform, hesitates, then plunges down
the shaft... Darth Vader looks after him.)
Darth Vader : Get a haircut!
Tuesday, June 28, 2005
Long time, no post
Partial laziness on my part and also because time most flies by when you're busy - or having fun - or just sat around doing nothing.
Firstly, a rather disturbing Mario cartoon from VGCats... that link will change next Monday so click "Back" if it's been updated..
Secondly, my 911 is fixed! Yey! Oh.. you want to know what was wrong with it? Um. Yeah, sure.
It wasn't much - a fault fuel gauge meant I couldn't really drive her about as I never knew when it'd just stop. So I rewired the sender and I'm good to go (a break down in the wiring somewhere). Also, after Mrs. Focus bounced off my rear bumper I was enjoying the passenger side tail pipe making contact with my bumper and melting it (plus it looked rubbish). I removed the exhaust and remounted it and it's fine now. So I'm happily pottering around in that now.
I also did a couple of jobs on the Calibra and that's almost ready to be washed in time for Billing. Nearly.
Lastly, the Clio's exhaust is blowing. Yeh. So I have to sort that out now too. Woo.
I made 55 in WoW and am halfway to 56. I'm hoping I can make 60 soonish. Captastic.
Si and I also visited Goodwood's Festival of Speed last Friday. Brilliant day out (and just left before the heavens opened) and even enjoyed the S-Class copping it. I have pics uploaded, I just need to make a page up (it's only GM.. but meh).
Later!
Firstly, a rather disturbing Mario cartoon from VGCats... that link will change next Monday so click "Back" if it's been updated.
Secondly, my 911 is fixed! Yey! Oh.. you want to know what was wrong with it? Um. Yeah, sure.
It wasn't much - a fault fuel gauge meant I couldn't really drive her about as I never knew when it'd just stop. So I rewired the sender and I'm good to go (a break down in the wiring somewhere). Also, after Mrs. Focus bounced off my rear bumper I was enjoying the passenger side tail pipe making contact with my bumper and melting it (plus it looked rubbish). I removed the exhaust and remounted it and it's fine now. So I'm happily pottering around in that now.
I also did a couple of jobs on the Calibra and that's almost ready to be washed in time for Billing. Nearly.
Lastly, the Clio's exhaust is blowing. Yeh. So I have to sort that out now too. Woo.
I made 55 in WoW and am halfway to 56. I'm hoping I can make 60 soonish. Captastic.
Si and I also visited Goodwood's Festival of Speed last Friday. Brilliant day out (and just left before the heavens opened) and even enjoyed the S-Class copping it. I have pics uploaded, I just need to make a page up (it's only GM.. but meh).
Later!
50th Anniversay Porsche "Club"
I had to post this.
It's colour is a personal taste thing, but the 381bhp is to everyone's taste. That's the most powerful N/A 911 to date. At $99k it's not that expensive either (probably £99k though.. which is!).
It looks great. I want. ;)
It's colour is a personal taste thing, but the 381bhp is to everyone's taste. That's the most powerful N/A 911 to date. At $99k it's not that expensive either (probably £99k though.. which is!).
It looks great. I want. ;)
Thursday, June 23, 2005
Remember the 3DFX?
And the ability to run twin cards?
Well it's back in force with both ATi's Crossfire and NVidia's SLi systems.
Check out The Register for current news and reviews on both products... crazy!
Well it's back in force with both ATi's Crossfire and NVidia's SLi systems.
Check out The Register for current news and reviews on both products... crazy!
Wednesday, June 22, 2005
Next "Skyline".. no, wait.. "Infinity".. or.. "GT-R".. ah sod it.
It's a VWVortex thread but it has pics.. so, who knows what the next one will be. Or when. Or if it'll even be sold here (as..?). lol.
Tuesday, June 21, 2005
Monopoly Live
It's an odd GPS-based online game to celebrate the release of the (expensive) updated game (millions rather than tens of pounds..). Have a look.. and stuff.
Superdickery
This is a great site showing all the odd, weird and wonderful stuff that's been in comics over the years. Worth a gander.
Monday, June 20, 2005
Daft
So it's "Summer", which means only one thing. We're British, so we're gonna moan.
It's too cold in the winter, too hot in the summer - and this weekend was no exception. I loved it - sweat 'n all. I know why it is, it's because it's never "one thing" in this bloody country. Except wet.
So this weekend I went down and saw Gem - very nice it was too (if brief). She's now finished her exams and will home at the beginning of July. Hopefully I'm going to take her away during the summer - a bit of an early 21st :) Can't wait to have her back either way.
I made 54 in WoW and joined the "Sacred Legion".. reminds me, I should sign up on their site. Anyway, should mean end game content will open up for myself, Dean et al. Good of me wasn't it? Heh... I see Si has joined up too - I can only guess Dean got him in. He needs to power level (as Dean found out - Maral is too low at 52) to make use of the Guild. But that will happen!
Happened upon this today. Mad.
It's too cold in the winter, too hot in the summer - and this weekend was no exception. I loved it - sweat 'n all. I know why it is, it's because it's never "one thing" in this bloody country. Except wet.
So this weekend I went down and saw Gem - very nice it was too (if brief). She's now finished her exams and will home at the beginning of July. Hopefully I'm going to take her away during the summer - a bit of an early 21st :) Can't wait to have her back either way.
I made 54 in WoW and joined the "Sacred Legion".. reminds me, I should sign up on their site. Anyway, should mean end game content will open up for myself, Dean et al. Good of me wasn't it? Heh... I see Si has joined up too - I can only guess Dean got him in. He needs to power level (as Dean found out - Maral is too low at 52) to make use of the Guild. But that will happen!
Happened upon this today. Mad.
Friday, June 17, 2005
New F1 rules
Today the FIA announced that they would make public the proposed changes to the regulations for the 2008 Formula One World Championship. The following is a the second part of a press release from the sports governing body, the FIA.
Some suggested objectives
We have prepared a first draft of the 2008 rules with the following objectives:
the rate of increase in performance of the cars should not exceed the rate of improvement in measures to protect the public, marshals and competitors;
the rules and the means of enforcing them should be clear so that everyone competes on the same basis;
the rules and methods of enforcement must be sufficiently flexible to deal with unforeseen technical innovation;
costs should be contained in order to (i) decrease the likelihood of a manufacturer leaving after poor results (ii) enable a private team to be competitive without the support of a major manufacturer and (iii) reduce the performance deficit of the less well-funded teams;
expensive technology which is invisible to the public and known only to a tiny band of specialist engineers should be eliminated where possible;
expensive materials or designs should not be used as a substitute for good engineering;
driver aids should be eliminated as far as possible. In particular the use of electronic devices should not be allowed to replace driver skills;
downforce should be drastically reduced and “mechanical” grip increased substantially for closer racing.
This, then, has been our approach to 2008. Criticism, constructive or otherwise, is welcome. All comments received during the July consultation period will be carefully considered when the FIA technical department finalises its proposals, which it will do in consultation with those teams and race organisers which have indicated their intention to participate in the Formula One World Championship from 2008 onwards. We will also take full account of the results of the FIA/AMD survey of public opinion. Once finalised and approved by the World Motor Sport Council and FIA General Assembly, the rules must be published before the end of 2005 as required by the Concorde Agreement. Thereafter the 2008 technical regulations cannot be changed without the agreement of everyone concerned.
Changes for 2009 will still require two years’ notice (ie publication before 31.12.2006). Thereafter notice of changes which affect the design of the car (sporting or technical) will be announced no later than 30 June to come into force for the next-but- one season (ie a change for 2010 will be announced before 30.6.2008).
Summary of the main changes proposed for 2008
ENGINES
All components of the engine will be controlled by an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) which has been manufactured by an FIA designated supplier to an agreed specification
The ECU may only be used with FIA approved software and may only be connected to the control system wiring loom, sensors and actuators as specified by the FIA
All control sensors, actuators and FIA monitoring sensors will be specified and homologated by the FIA
The control system wiring loom connectivity will be specified by the FIA
A 3 litre V10 engine will remain an option for teams unable to obtain a 2.4 litre V8, but subject to similar strict performance limitations as in 2006 and 2007
Reasons
to eliminate the use of driver aids such as traction control
as teams will not be able to develop their own ECUs, expenditure on electronics will be considerably reduced
to allow the FIA to check testing mileage and other elements
to keep engine costs low for the smaller independent teams
GEARBOXES
All cars will be fitted with gear ratios, final drive ratios and differentials which have been manufactured by an FIA designated supplier to an agreed specification
Gear changing will only be permitted by the use of a manually operated mechanical linkage to the gearbox
Clutches will only be operated via a foot pedal connected mechanically to a release mechanism
Reasons
to restore control over the clutch and gear changing to the driver
the use of standard gearbox internals will result in a very significant reduction in expenditure
BODYWORK
Downforce will be reduced to approximately 10% of current levels
Drag will be maintained at current levels
Overall car width will be increased
By stipulating maximum and minimum dimensions cars will be “cleaned up” with devices such as barge boards, flip ups, winglets and other small add on parts removed
Total advertising area on the car to remain unchanged
Reasons
to reduce the reliance upon downforce as a means of improving performance
by increasing mechanical grip the likelihood of one car being able to follow another closely in corners, and hence be in an attacking position at the end of the following straight, will be increased
eliminating winglets, bargeboards, etc, will reduce costs as well as the danger of debris on the circuits
drag should remain unchanged in order to ensure straight line speeds do not increase significantly
WHEELS AND TYRES
Tyres will be supplied by one manufacturer appointed by the FIA after an invitation to tender. Such an appointment will be conditional upon :
a suitable supplier being available ;
a suitable system to ensure tyre testing is carried out in an equitable manner ;
no team being disadvantaged by the appointment of a single supplier (detailed regulations will be written to ensure this would not be the case) ;
there being no legal impediments during the process of appointing a supplier
Slick tyres will be introduced for use in dry weather
Lower profile tyres will be introduced
Significantly larger wheels with minimum and maximum sizes stipulated for front and rear will be permitted
Tyre blankets and other heating devices will be prohibited
All tyre regulations will reside in the Technical Regulations
Reasons
a single supplier would allow a bigger safety margin
the absence of competitive tyre testing would reduce costs
as relatively small differences in tyre compound and construction can have a significant effect on lap times, a single tyre supplier would simply ensure that no team would be adversely affected by being contracted to the “wrong” supplier
slick tyres would be re-introduced as a part of the low- downforce and high-mechanical-grip package
lower profile tyres would be introduced in order to give the wheels and tyres a more modern look and also permit more freedom on brakes and suspension
a ban on tyre heating devices would eliminate this significant but unnecessary expenditure
CHASSIS
The minimum height of the centre of gravity of the chassis will be specified
The minimum weight for a chassis will be specified
Energy of all impact tests will be increased
Loads for all static tests will be increased
Side intrusion test requirements will be increased
Ballast will be reduced to minimal levels
Reasons
to ensure that weight is distributed throughout the chassis
the centre of gravity requirement should result in less pure ballast being used, the minimum weight will have to be achieved by the construction of a stronger chassis
by raising the impact test speeds, the static load criteria on structures such as roll hoops and increasing the penetration resistance, drivers will be even better protected than they are at present
BRAKES
All cars will be fitted with brake discs, pads and callipers which have been manufactured by an FIA designated supplier to an agreed specification
Reason
to reduce the cost of continual development of new materials and designs, the FIA specified products will be designed to work on all types of track and last an entire Grand Prix weekend
DATA ACQUISITION AND TELEMETRY
With specific exceptions, any data acquisition system, telemetry system or associated sensors additional to those associated with the ECU will be physically separate and completely isolated from the control electronics
Pit to car telemetry will be prohibited
Reasons
to ensure that any data acquisition system used by a team cannot interfere with the FIA specified ECU and sensors
to ensure teams are unable to send messages to a car and potentially affect its performance
MATERIALS
Limitations, similar to those within the 2006 engine regulations, will be imposed on all parts of the car
Reason
costs will be reduced as research into exotic materials will be unnecessary
STARTER
All cars will be equipped with a driver operated starter which is capable of starting the car without outside assistance a minimum number of times
Reasons
to simplify the operation of starting a car, at present it is massively complex
to give the driver a chance of starting a car unaided in the event of it stopping on the track
to reduce the number of personnel needed at an Event and hence reduce costs
NOTICE OF CHANGE
Notice periods for changing the rules will be related to the effect (if any) of a change on the design of a car rather than an artificial distinction between “sporting” and “technical” regulations. There will no longer be a distinction between changes to the engine, transmission or chassis.
Reason
to ensure that changes may be made to the regulations in a timely and more realistic way
SPARE CARS
Spare cars will be prohibited, i.e. no team may have more than two built-up cars available at an Event at any one time. Spare chassis will be permitted but precisely what constitutes a car in this context will be clearly defined
Reason
by taking one car less to races teams will be able to save considerable sums of money as, apart from the cost of the car itself, fewer personnel will be needed
TESTING
Testing will be limited to 30000km per team between 1st January and 31st December, subject to a single tyre supplier being appointed
Reason
To reduce the enormous amounts of money currently being spent on testing
CAR ACQUISITION
Teams will be free to buy a complete car or any part of a car from another constructor
How constructor’s points are to be allocated will be clearly defined after further discussion
Reason
to enable a team to buy a complete car, or any part of a car, from another constructor. As a result teams will be able to save considerable sums of money on the design and development of their cars.
E.A.
Source FIA
Some suggested objectives
We have prepared a first draft of the 2008 rules with the following objectives:
the rate of increase in performance of the cars should not exceed the rate of improvement in measures to protect the public, marshals and competitors;
the rules and the means of enforcing them should be clear so that everyone competes on the same basis;
the rules and methods of enforcement must be sufficiently flexible to deal with unforeseen technical innovation;
costs should be contained in order to (i) decrease the likelihood of a manufacturer leaving after poor results (ii) enable a private team to be competitive without the support of a major manufacturer and (iii) reduce the performance deficit of the less well-funded teams;
expensive technology which is invisible to the public and known only to a tiny band of specialist engineers should be eliminated where possible;
expensive materials or designs should not be used as a substitute for good engineering;
driver aids should be eliminated as far as possible. In particular the use of electronic devices should not be allowed to replace driver skills;
downforce should be drastically reduced and “mechanical” grip increased substantially for closer racing.
This, then, has been our approach to 2008. Criticism, constructive or otherwise, is welcome. All comments received during the July consultation period will be carefully considered when the FIA technical department finalises its proposals, which it will do in consultation with those teams and race organisers which have indicated their intention to participate in the Formula One World Championship from 2008 onwards. We will also take full account of the results of the FIA/AMD survey of public opinion. Once finalised and approved by the World Motor Sport Council and FIA General Assembly, the rules must be published before the end of 2005 as required by the Concorde Agreement. Thereafter the 2008 technical regulations cannot be changed without the agreement of everyone concerned.
Changes for 2009 will still require two years’ notice (ie publication before 31.12.2006). Thereafter notice of changes which affect the design of the car (sporting or technical) will be announced no later than 30 June to come into force for the next-but- one season (ie a change for 2010 will be announced before 30.6.2008).
Summary of the main changes proposed for 2008
ENGINES
All components of the engine will be controlled by an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) which has been manufactured by an FIA designated supplier to an agreed specification
The ECU may only be used with FIA approved software and may only be connected to the control system wiring loom, sensors and actuators as specified by the FIA
All control sensors, actuators and FIA monitoring sensors will be specified and homologated by the FIA
The control system wiring loom connectivity will be specified by the FIA
A 3 litre V10 engine will remain an option for teams unable to obtain a 2.4 litre V8, but subject to similar strict performance limitations as in 2006 and 2007
Reasons
to eliminate the use of driver aids such as traction control
as teams will not be able to develop their own ECUs, expenditure on electronics will be considerably reduced
to allow the FIA to check testing mileage and other elements
to keep engine costs low for the smaller independent teams
GEARBOXES
All cars will be fitted with gear ratios, final drive ratios and differentials which have been manufactured by an FIA designated supplier to an agreed specification
Gear changing will only be permitted by the use of a manually operated mechanical linkage to the gearbox
Clutches will only be operated via a foot pedal connected mechanically to a release mechanism
Reasons
to restore control over the clutch and gear changing to the driver
the use of standard gearbox internals will result in a very significant reduction in expenditure
BODYWORK
Downforce will be reduced to approximately 10% of current levels
Drag will be maintained at current levels
Overall car width will be increased
By stipulating maximum and minimum dimensions cars will be “cleaned up” with devices such as barge boards, flip ups, winglets and other small add on parts removed
Total advertising area on the car to remain unchanged
Reasons
to reduce the reliance upon downforce as a means of improving performance
by increasing mechanical grip the likelihood of one car being able to follow another closely in corners, and hence be in an attacking position at the end of the following straight, will be increased
eliminating winglets, bargeboards, etc, will reduce costs as well as the danger of debris on the circuits
drag should remain unchanged in order to ensure straight line speeds do not increase significantly
WHEELS AND TYRES
Tyres will be supplied by one manufacturer appointed by the FIA after an invitation to tender. Such an appointment will be conditional upon :
a suitable supplier being available ;
a suitable system to ensure tyre testing is carried out in an equitable manner ;
no team being disadvantaged by the appointment of a single supplier (detailed regulations will be written to ensure this would not be the case) ;
there being no legal impediments during the process of appointing a supplier
Slick tyres will be introduced for use in dry weather
Lower profile tyres will be introduced
Significantly larger wheels with minimum and maximum sizes stipulated for front and rear will be permitted
Tyre blankets and other heating devices will be prohibited
All tyre regulations will reside in the Technical Regulations
Reasons
a single supplier would allow a bigger safety margin
the absence of competitive tyre testing would reduce costs
as relatively small differences in tyre compound and construction can have a significant effect on lap times, a single tyre supplier would simply ensure that no team would be adversely affected by being contracted to the “wrong” supplier
slick tyres would be re-introduced as a part of the low- downforce and high-mechanical-grip package
lower profile tyres would be introduced in order to give the wheels and tyres a more modern look and also permit more freedom on brakes and suspension
a ban on tyre heating devices would eliminate this significant but unnecessary expenditure
CHASSIS
The minimum height of the centre of gravity of the chassis will be specified
The minimum weight for a chassis will be specified
Energy of all impact tests will be increased
Loads for all static tests will be increased
Side intrusion test requirements will be increased
Ballast will be reduced to minimal levels
Reasons
to ensure that weight is distributed throughout the chassis
the centre of gravity requirement should result in less pure ballast being used, the minimum weight will have to be achieved by the construction of a stronger chassis
by raising the impact test speeds, the static load criteria on structures such as roll hoops and increasing the penetration resistance, drivers will be even better protected than they are at present
BRAKES
All cars will be fitted with brake discs, pads and callipers which have been manufactured by an FIA designated supplier to an agreed specification
Reason
to reduce the cost of continual development of new materials and designs, the FIA specified products will be designed to work on all types of track and last an entire Grand Prix weekend
DATA ACQUISITION AND TELEMETRY
With specific exceptions, any data acquisition system, telemetry system or associated sensors additional to those associated with the ECU will be physically separate and completely isolated from the control electronics
Pit to car telemetry will be prohibited
Reasons
to ensure that any data acquisition system used by a team cannot interfere with the FIA specified ECU and sensors
to ensure teams are unable to send messages to a car and potentially affect its performance
MATERIALS
Limitations, similar to those within the 2006 engine regulations, will be imposed on all parts of the car
Reason
costs will be reduced as research into exotic materials will be unnecessary
STARTER
All cars will be equipped with a driver operated starter which is capable of starting the car without outside assistance a minimum number of times
Reasons
to simplify the operation of starting a car, at present it is massively complex
to give the driver a chance of starting a car unaided in the event of it stopping on the track
to reduce the number of personnel needed at an Event and hence reduce costs
NOTICE OF CHANGE
Notice periods for changing the rules will be related to the effect (if any) of a change on the design of a car rather than an artificial distinction between “sporting” and “technical” regulations. There will no longer be a distinction between changes to the engine, transmission or chassis.
Reason
to ensure that changes may be made to the regulations in a timely and more realistic way
SPARE CARS
Spare cars will be prohibited, i.e. no team may have more than two built-up cars available at an Event at any one time. Spare chassis will be permitted but precisely what constitutes a car in this context will be clearly defined
Reason
by taking one car less to races teams will be able to save considerable sums of money as, apart from the cost of the car itself, fewer personnel will be needed
TESTING
Testing will be limited to 30000km per team between 1st January and 31st December, subject to a single tyre supplier being appointed
Reason
To reduce the enormous amounts of money currently being spent on testing
CAR ACQUISITION
Teams will be free to buy a complete car or any part of a car from another constructor
How constructor’s points are to be allocated will be clearly defined after further discussion
Reason
to enable a team to buy a complete car, or any part of a car, from another constructor. As a result teams will be able to save considerable sums of money on the design and development of their cars.
E.A.
Source FIA
Ooh blimey
It's Friday already. I don't really know where the week has gone (but I do know I need a few hours sleep).
It's been a busy one too - the evenings have been a scrabble for work and WoW (I'm on a mission to cap level 60 within a month.. with a +1 bonus for being an uber g33k) and that meant logging on to WoW at midnight last night and staying on until 2am... without caffine. hehe.
I have plans.
The Calibra is not yet finished. However, I have plans. I've already asked some questions and checked some prices. I'm hoping I can get a hand with these... plans.
More on that later. :)
I still can't get through to the woman that hit me in the 911. So I guess I'll have to push it through insurance (the damage done does not warrant a claim though). A shame really - but what else can I do? Hmm.. maybe ask the insurance company to chase them?
The "Foo" has arrived. The album (so far) is fantastic and I recommend anyone to go out and make the purchase. I'm awaiting Jamiroquai's new one now.
Thank god it's Friday - see Gemma tomorrow! (It's been a LONG month).
It's been a busy one too - the evenings have been a scrabble for work and WoW (I'm on a mission to cap level 60 within a month.. with a +1 bonus for being an uber g33k) and that meant logging on to WoW at midnight last night and staying on until 2am... without caffine. hehe.
I have plans.
The Calibra is not yet finished. However, I have plans. I've already asked some questions and checked some prices. I'm hoping I can get a hand with these... plans.
More on that later. :)
I still can't get through to the woman that hit me in the 911. So I guess I'll have to push it through insurance (the damage done does not warrant a claim though). A shame really - but what else can I do? Hmm.. maybe ask the insurance company to chase them?
The "Foo" has arrived. The album (so far) is fantastic and I recommend anyone to go out and make the purchase. I'm awaiting Jamiroquai's new one now.
Thank god it's Friday - see Gemma tomorrow! (It's been a LONG month).
Wednesday, June 15, 2005
Triumph the insult dog at the MJ trial
It's not in good taste. Nor does it reflect any opinion I may or may not have.
It IS funny though.
See it here.
It IS funny though.
See it here.
Tuesday, June 14, 2005
Tuesday (Two day)
Well I watched the "trial" live last night and saw MJ get cleared. Odd really as I didn't expect anything else (it was on in the background). Good to know it was on all 10 counts.
What next for Peter Pan though? Is this the beginning of the end for him or will he come back stronger than ever with a new record? Only time will tell.
I managed a tiny, insignificant amount of XP in WoW last night. I didn't have the energy to do any thing of value (or length). Maybe I'll do a quest tonight.. maybe I'll sleep. lol
Gemma has finished her penultimate exam today. One to go!
Adam, a friend through CC (he bought my black turbo) has just written his 16v off. See the damage here. Nice work.. he's fine though, except for a bruised ego.
Si, last weekend, had his second Zap Cats event. The engine went "pop" (his words) on lap one or race one. So he became a girl (his words) and managed a few races. One day I'll go watch them complete a race..
What next for Peter Pan though? Is this the beginning of the end for him or will he come back stronger than ever with a new record? Only time will tell.
I managed a tiny, insignificant amount of XP in WoW last night. I didn't have the energy to do any thing of value (or length). Maybe I'll do a quest tonight.. maybe I'll sleep. lol
Gemma has finished her penultimate exam today. One to go!
Adam, a friend through CC (he bought my black turbo) has just written his 16v off. See the damage here. Nice work.. he's fine though, except for a bruised ego.
Si, last weekend, had his second Zap Cats event. The engine went "pop" (his words) on lap one or race one. So he became a girl (his words) and managed a few races. One day I'll go watch them complete a race..
Monday, June 13, 2005
Monday (one day)
So the weekend started on Friday with the gym and a nice run on a sunny, balmy afternoon. Lovely.
Then home and straight back out to look at Laura's rear brakes (my old 8v - see the relavant page on the right!). That done, I took it round the block only to find more noises. I think a CV joint maybe on it's way out. Hmm. Anyway - pizza and a beer and back home made a nice end to the week in a "if-I-do-say-so-myself" kinda way :P
Saturday was a long one! Up early-ish and straight out to replace the Calibra's rocket gasket. These things aren't cheap (for a piece of rubber) and she's on number three already. Harsh. Anyway - that probably won't solve my oil woes - next job is the oil pressure spring adjustment which involves removing the engine mount and bumper and a reasonable amount of swearing. Joy.
Dad came down so that wiped out a couple of hours (more pizza.. but only a slice instead of the whole thing for me!) and then out to sort the 911.
She'd not seen water (other than rain) since my purchase so I did the works. Hovered, cleaned, polished, baby-oiled the seats (hmmm.. soft!) and autosol on the wheels (they have seen better days). I couldn't take any decent pics but I will soon - yum. I need professional help with the fuel gauge as I have no idea. Pah.
The quote came through for the damage done by Focus-lady. £440+VAT - and it's all labour. Oh well - I couldn't get through to her so I'll keep trying. It's not all bad really but the exhaust is wonky!
Saturday night brought level 52 in WoW - oh yes. Power levelling!
So yesterday I did very little (oh.. I did three weeks ironing Saturday too! Blimey) and just played WoW and messed around on the Mac with some video. Made 53 at 2am this morning (cripes). But when you're on a roll...
Then home and straight back out to look at Laura's rear brakes (my old 8v - see the relavant page on the right!). That done, I took it round the block only to find more noises. I think a CV joint maybe on it's way out. Hmm. Anyway - pizza and a beer and back home made a nice end to the week in a "if-I-do-say-so-myself" kinda way :P
Saturday was a long one! Up early-ish and straight out to replace the Calibra's rocket gasket. These things aren't cheap (for a piece of rubber) and she's on number three already. Harsh. Anyway - that probably won't solve my oil woes - next job is the oil pressure spring adjustment which involves removing the engine mount and bumper and a reasonable amount of swearing. Joy.
Dad came down so that wiped out a couple of hours (more pizza.. but only a slice instead of the whole thing for me!) and then out to sort the 911.
She'd not seen water (other than rain) since my purchase so I did the works. Hovered, cleaned, polished, baby-oiled the seats (hmmm.. soft!) and autosol on the wheels (they have seen better days). I couldn't take any decent pics but I will soon - yum. I need professional help with the fuel gauge as I have no idea. Pah.
The quote came through for the damage done by Focus-lady. £440+VAT - and it's all labour. Oh well - I couldn't get through to her so I'll keep trying. It's not all bad really but the exhaust is wonky!
Saturday night brought level 52 in WoW - oh yes. Power levelling!
So yesterday I did very little (oh.. I did three weeks ironing Saturday too! Blimey) and just played WoW and messed around on the Mac with some video. Made 53 at 2am this morning (cripes). But when you're on a roll...
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