Retro Revival: Bringing a Tandy Coco Back Online with FujiNet

2024-12-20
Retro Revival: Bringing a Tandy Coco Back Online with FujiNet

This article details the author's journey in connecting an old Tandy Coco computer to the internet using the FujiNet project, an ambitious open-source initiative aiming to be the only peripheral needed for vintage computers. The author faced challenges during the assembly process, including soldering difficulties, hardware bugs, and software compatibility issues. Despite these hurdles, they successfully connected to the internet and ran various applications, including an ISS tracker and games. The experience highlights the vibrancy of the open-source community and the potential of retrocomputing, showcasing the fun of hardware repair and software development.

Read more

Berry: A Lightweight, Fast, and Powerful Embedded Scripting Language

2025-07-08
Berry: A Lightweight, Fast, and Powerful Embedded Scripting Language

Berry is a lightweight, fast, and powerful scripting language interpreter designed for microprocessors. It features a one-pass bytecode compiler and a register-based virtual machine, supporting imperative, object-oriented, and functional programming paradigms. Its simple and natural syntax, garbage collection, and easy-to-use FFI (Foreign Function Interface) make it developer-friendly. Compile-time object construction minimizes RAM usage by storing most constant objects in read-only code data segments. Its dynamic typing and flexibility make it ideal for embedding in applications, providing excellent dynamic scalability.

Read more

lstr: Blazing Fast Directory Tree Viewer in Rust

2025-06-18
lstr: Blazing Fast Directory Tree Viewer in Rust

lstr is a blazingly fast, minimalist directory tree viewer written in Rust. Inspired by the `tree` command, lstr offers a powerful interactive mode alongside a classic view. It leverages parallel directory scanning for speed, features a clean and uncluttered interface, and provides options to display file icons, permissions, sizes, and Git status. Integration with `.gitignore`, depth control, and fuzzy finding (via fzf) are also supported. You can even integrate lstr into your shell as a visual `cd` command. Whether you prefer the classic tree-like view or the interactive TUI, lstr's efficiency and clean design will enhance your file management workflow.

Read more
Development directory tree

C++-style OOP in C: Kernel Services via Function Pointers

2025-08-27
C++-style OOP in C: Kernel Services via Function Pointers

This article details how the author implemented a virtual table (vtable) mechanism in their operating system kernel using C's function pointers and structs, mimicking object-oriented programming. This approach enables unified management of kernel services like starting, stopping, and restarting, and allows for flexible scheduling policy changes without extensive code modification. The author explains the implementation and application of vtables with examples of device drivers and service management, discussing the advantages and disadvantages. While the C syntax leads to slightly verbose code, this method enhances readability and maintainability, improving kernel flexibility and extensibility.

Read more
Development

The Underrated Soft Skill: Charisma for Engineers

2025-03-18
The Underrated Soft Skill: Charisma for Engineers

Engineers often prioritize technical skills, neglecting crucial soft skills. This article argues that charisma, a frequently overlooked skill, is paramount for success. The author, through years of mentoring, emphasizes that charisma isn't innate but a learnable set of behaviors: building meaningful connections, cultivating empathy, and radiating warmth. The author encourages engineers to focus on human development, enhancing their charisma to become more impactful team members and professionals, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling career and life.

Read more

The Morro Castle Disaster: A Suspicious Fire and a Trail of Suspects

2025-01-17
The Morro Castle Disaster: A Suspicious Fire and a Trail of Suspects

In 1934, the luxury liner SS Morro Castle was ravaged by a sudden fire at sea, resulting in a devastating loss of life. The captain's mysterious death just hours before the blaze only deepened the mystery. Chaos ensued as passengers and crew struggled to escape the inferno and the stormy waters. Investigations pointed towards radio operator George Rogers, whose past and connections to the captain’s death raised significant suspicions, yet a lack of definitive proof left the case unresolved. The tragedy highlighted maritime safety failings of the era, leaving behind a lingering question mark about who was truly responsible for the disaster.

Read more

Plato's Music: Outsmarting Aristotle in Nizami's Khamsa

2025-03-27
Plato's Music: Outsmarting Aristotle in Nizami's Khamsa

A 16th-century Mughal painting depicts Plato playing an instrument surrounded by seemingly sleeping animals. This unusual scene originates from Nizami's Khamsa, specifically Alexander the Great's section. Alexander holds a contest of wisdom among philosophers. Aristotle initially dominates, but Plato's unique instrument, capable of mimicking the sounds of all creatures, lulls animals to sleep and then awakens them, demonstrating a deeper wisdom. The story reflects medieval Islamic perspectives on Plato and Aristotle, showcasing Plato as a mystic.

Read more

AI Deepfakes Trick Startup into Nearly Hiring Fake Candidates

2025-03-12
AI Deepfakes Trick Startup into Nearly Hiring Fake Candidates

Vidoc Security, a startup, narrowly avoided hiring two AI-generated imposters. These sophisticated deepfakes passed technical interviews with impressive coding skills, using fabricated resumes and AI-filtered video interviews to mask their true identities. The startup ultimately uncovered the deception and shared preventative measures, including requiring candidates to disable video filters, recording interviews, and verifying identities. This incident highlights the emerging security risks posed by AI and underscores the need for enhanced precautions in remote hiring processes.

Read more

Parquet v2: Performance Gains vs. Ecosystem Adoption Hurdles

2025-08-25

Parquet version 2 offers significant performance improvements, reducing file sizes and speeding up read/write times, especially for datasets with many numeric values. However, limited ecosystem support means many tools remain incompatible, hindering the realization of these gains. The author encountered compatibility issues firsthand, highlighting that v2's advantages primarily benefit self-contained systems, while third-party integration remains challenging. While Parquet v2 shows performance improvements, its low adoption currently limits its practical benefits. Consider adopting the latest specification only if you control the entire data processing pipeline.

Read more
Development

EU's DMA: Not Targeting US Tech Giants

2025-03-07
EU's DMA: Not Targeting US Tech Giants

EU antitrust and tech chiefs clarified to U.S. congressmen that the Digital Markets Act (DMA) aims to keep digital markets open and is not targeting U.S. tech giants. They pointed out that the U.S. has also taken antitrust actions against these companies. The act's purpose is to prevent unfair practices by large tech firms, not to tax American companies.

Read more
Tech

Go Program: Convert Security Audit JSON to Markdown Report

2025-03-23
Go Program: Convert Security Audit JSON to Markdown Report

A simple Go program converts `security-audit.json` to `security-audit.md` for use in CI pipelines. An example report is provided, along with example CI integration files (`dependency-audit.yml` and `dependency-audit-only-when-detected.yml`), the latter only creating a GitHub issue if vulnerabilities are detected. The program allows customization of input and output file paths and offers an option to fail if no vulnerabilities are found.

Read more
Development Security Audit

IBM Layoffs Hit Thousands, Cloud Classic Takes a Hit

2025-03-20
IBM Layoffs Hit Thousands, Cloud Classic Takes a Hit

IBM insiders report thousands of layoffs across the US, including a quarter of the staff in its Cloud Classic operation. While unannounced publicly, the cuts impact various teams, including consulting, corporate social responsibility, cloud infrastructure, sales, and internal systems. The layoffs are seen as part of IBM's ongoing “Resource Actions” (layoffs) and are coupled with the company's return-to-office push. Reports suggest a shift of jobs to India. The layoffs have fueled employee discontent over CEO Arvind Krishna's salary increase and comments on AI.

Read more
Tech

Trump Admin's JFK Files Release Doxes Hundreds, Sparking Lawsuits

2025-03-22
Trump Admin's JFK Files Release Doxes Hundreds, Sparking Lawsuits

In its rush to release unredacted JFK assassination files, the Trump administration inadvertently published the Social Security numbers and other sensitive personal information of potentially hundreds of former congressional staffers and others. At least one, former Justice Department official Joseph diGenova, plans to sue the National Archives for violating the Privacy Act. The released information stemmed from his involvement in the 1970s Church Committee investigation into CIA and other intelligence agency misconduct. The National Archives posted thousands of pages without a searchable format, making it difficult to assess the full extent of the breach. National security lawyer Mark Zaid confirmed the release impacted hundreds, many still alive, calling the action unnecessary and unhelpful to understanding the assassination. While DiGenova blames the Archives' sloppy review process, he doesn't fault Trump for the release itself.

Read more

Bell Labs Holmdel: From Research Hub to Thriving Tech Community

2025-03-31
Bell Labs Holmdel: From Research Hub to Thriving Tech Community

The Bell Labs Holmdel Complex in New Jersey, a former research and development facility for Bell System and Bell Labs, underwent a remarkable transformation. This iconic Eero Saarinen–designed building, once home to thousands of engineers and researchers and the site of Nobel Prize-winning work, was repurposed into Bell Works, a vibrant mixed-use development. Now a thriving community, it houses tech startups, residential spaces, retail, and entertainment, seamlessly blending its mid-century modern architecture with contemporary design.

Read more

Starlink Undercuts Major ISPs in Parts of Africa

2025-01-10
Starlink Undercuts Major ISPs in Parts of Africa

SpaceX's Starlink satellite internet service is winning a price war in parts of Africa. In at least five African countries, Starlink's monthly subscription is cheaper than leading fixed-line internet providers. While the upfront cost of Starlink hardware needs to be considered, its low monthly fee and high-speed, reliable connectivity, especially in remote areas, make it a more attractive option. This has forced local operators to lower prices and invest in their own satellite networks. However, Starlink's rapid expansion has also raised concerns about monopolies and job displacement.

Read more

Costco Rejects Shareholder Demand to Scrap DEI Initiatives

2024-12-28
Costco Rejects Shareholder Demand to Scrap DEI Initiatives

Costco's board rejected a shareholder proposal urging a reevaluation of its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) program, arguing it poses legal and financial risks. The board countered that its commitment to DEI is crucial for fostering a respectful and inclusive workplace, boosting employee morale, and driving innovation. They maintained the program's legality and emphasized ongoing evaluations of its effectiveness. The decision highlights the ongoing debate surrounding DEI initiatives in American corporations.

Read more

Near-Death Experience: A Rebirth of Consciousness

2025-09-01
Near-Death Experience: A Rebirth of Consciousness

The author recounts his battle with a brain tumor. On the eve of surgery, he undergoes a profound experience, gaining a deep understanding of time, life, and love. Post-surgery, despite a painful recovery, he cherishes life more and realizes that 'consciousness' is not just neuronal activity but also care, love, and the perception of life. This story is filled with profound reflections on the meaning of life and a delicate portrayal of love.

Read more

Apple Airlifts iPhones to Beat US Tariffs: India Emerges as Key Player

2025-04-07
Apple Airlifts iPhones to Beat US Tariffs: India Emerges as Key Player

To avoid newly imposed US tariffs, Apple urgently shipped five planeloads of iPhones and other products from India to the US in just three days at the end of March. This move aims to maintain current US pricing using existing inventory, preventing cost increases for consumers. The event highlights India's strategic importance in Apple's global supply chain. Due to tariff differences, iPhones manufactured in India offer a significant cost advantage over those made in China, suggesting Apple may further increase production in India.

Read more

AMA with AI Expert William J. Rapaport: The Future of AI and the Turing Test

2025-03-06
AMA with AI Expert William J. Rapaport: The Future of AI and the Turing Test

On March 27th, we'll be hosting a discussion with Professor William J. Rapaport, a renowned AI expert from the University at Buffalo, with appointments across CS, Engineering, Philosophy, and Linguistics. Professor Rapaport, author of the seminal book "Philosophy of Computer Science," and several key papers including recent work on AI's success and Large Language Models in relation to the Turing Test, will be available to answer your questions. Submit your questions via this form! This is a rare opportunity to engage directly with a leading AI researcher.

Read more

Photocatalysis: Unlocking Sustainable Chemical Synthesis?

2025-03-17
Photocatalysis:  Unlocking Sustainable Chemical Synthesis?

Photocatalysis has emerged as a promising technology for sustainable chemical synthesis. Researchers are harnessing light energy to drive various chemical reactions, including converting carbon dioxide to methane and using water as an electron donor for organic molecule hydrogenation. These reactions offer efficient energy utilization and reduce reliance on fossil fuels, paving the way for eco-friendly chemical industries. However, challenges remain, such as improving the efficiency and stability of photocatalysts and exploring broader applications.

Read more

DIY Telescopes: A Beginner's Guide to Amateur Telescope Making

2025-03-13

This guide explores the world of Amateur Telescope Making (ATM), tracing its history from Russell Porter's pioneering work to the modern era. It emphasizes the rewarding aspects of building your own telescope: the satisfaction of crafting a tool for celestial observation, learning about optics, and the pride of accomplishment. The guide covers mirror grinding, optical testing, and telescope assembly, providing numerous resources and links, making it ideal for beginners.

Read more
Hardware telescope making

HTML Whitespace: A Deep Dive into the Mess and Potential Solutions

2025-02-07
HTML Whitespace: A Deep Dive into the Mess and Potential Solutions

This article delves deep into the complexities of whitespace handling in HTML. Through numerous examples, the author reveals the various rules governing HTML's whitespace treatment, including the differences between inline and block elements, `

` tags, and the `white-space` CSS property, and how they lead to unpredictable rendering results.  The article also analyzes the challenges faced by automated formatters, content management systems, and minification tools when dealing with HTML whitespace.  A potential solution is proposed: using a quoting syntax to distinguish between code whitespace and user-visible whitespace, though it's acknowledged this would be a massive breaking change.  Finally, the author suggests practical tips to mitigate issues arising from HTML whitespace handling and proposes adding a new HTML entity `&ncsp;` to represent a non-collapsing space.

Read more
Development

Revolutionary 3D-Printed Hair-like Electrodes Enable 24/7 EEG Monitoring

2025-05-08
Revolutionary 3D-Printed Hair-like Electrodes Enable 24/7 EEG Monitoring

Researchers at Penn State have developed a groundbreaking 3D-printed EEG electrode that mimics human hair and uses a bioadhesive ink to adhere directly to the scalp without gels. This lightweight, flexible, and stretchable electrode stays in place even during activities like combing hair or wearing a hat, significantly improving signal quality and enabling long-term monitoring. Performing comparably to gold standard electrodes, it maintains reliable contact for over 24 hours without signal degradation, eliminating inconsistencies from electrode repositioning. The discreet design improves patient comfort, paving the way for more convenient and reliable chronic EEG monitoring. Future work aims to make the system wireless.

Read more

SpaceX and the Future of Warfare: Logistics 2.0

2025-05-17
SpaceX and the Future of Warfare: Logistics 2.0

From the ill-fated shoe-driven Gettysburg campaign to the Cold War's 72-hour Rapid Deployment Force, this article highlights the crucial role of military logistics. SpaceX's reusable rockets are revolutionizing this. The ability to deliver heavy equipment anywhere globally within an hour reshapes military strategy and tactics, potentially shifting battles from traditional frontlines to direct strikes on enemy capitals. The author emphasizes that this is a more significant change to warfare than drones and electronic warfare combined.

Read more

China's EV Giants Pivot to Humanoid Robots

2025-02-20
China's EV Giants Pivot to Humanoid Robots

A new trend is emerging in China's tech scene: leading electric vehicle companies are heavily investing in humanoid robot development. This is closely tied to the booming EV market in China, which significantly surpasses the US market share, driven by price competition, government subsidies, and well-established infrastructure. The recent appearance of dancing humanoid robots on China's New Year Gala, while sparking some technical debate, showcases China's rapid advancements in robotics. This trend could have profound implications for the global tech landscape and potentially impact policies like those of the Trump administration.

Read more
Tech

arXivLabs: Experimenting with Community-Driven Features

2025-03-03
arXivLabs: Experimenting with Community-Driven Features

arXivLabs is an experimental framework enabling collaborators to develop and share new arXiv features directly on the website. Participants, individuals and organizations alike, embrace arXiv's values of openness, community, excellence, and user data privacy. arXiv is committed to these values and only partners with those who share them. Have an idea to enhance the arXiv community? Learn more about arXivLabs.

Read more
Development

Misleading Adblocker Test Websites: A Critique from Brave

2025-02-20
Misleading Adblocker Test Websites: A Critique from Brave

Shivan Kaul Sahib, Lead for Privacy Engineering at Brave, criticizes many existing adblocker testing websites. These sites employ flawed methodologies, including arbitrary testing criteria, failure to emulate real-world scenarios, disregard for advanced features (like resource replacement), and inability to account for domain-specific rules. This leads to misleading results, even harming the adblocking ecosystem. Kaul Sahib argues that adblockers should be compared based on native support, performance, advanced features, and ethical practices, not low-quality tests. Brave refuses payments to unblock advertisers, collaborates with reputable testing sites, and strives for improved web privacy.

Read more

MacBook Air with M4: Multitasking Redefined

2025-03-05
MacBook Air with M4: Multitasking Redefined

The new MacBook Air, powered by the M4 chip, delivers a significant performance boost. Multitasking is smoother than ever, effortlessly handling video editing, demanding games like Sid Meier's Civilization VII, and numerous apps and tabs simultaneously. Its silent, fanless design enhances the user experience. The faster Neural Engine in the M4 chip brings powerful AI capabilities to the MacBook Air, enhancing everything from auto-framing in video calls to AI image upscaling and running the latest large language models, boosting productivity and creativity. With up to 18 hours of battery life and fast charging (50% in 30 minutes), you can power through your work without battery anxiety.

Read more
Hardware M4 chip

MIT Physicists Switch Magnetism with Light: A Breakthrough in Memory Chip Technology

2025-01-07
MIT Physicists Switch Magnetism with Light: A Breakthrough in Memory Chip Technology

MIT physicists have achieved a breakthrough in controlling magnetism using light. They used a terahertz laser to manipulate the atomic spins in an antiferromagnetic material, creating a new, long-lasting magnetic state. This technique offers a novel way to control antiferromagnets, potentially leading to faster, smaller, and more energy-efficient memory chips. The research, published in Nature, overcomes a long-standing challenge in manipulating these materials, paving the way for advancements in information processing and storage.

Read more
1 2 414 415 416 418 420 421 422 596 597