Author Archives: Jesse Zylstra

About Jesse Zylstra

Hey! My name is Jesse Zylstra, and I am the administrator of this website. I used to write about free software and programs, online web applications, and new technology -- especially open-source. Now I just write udder nonsense. I also play pipe organ, which I'm told is a fun and interesting fact about me. In the past, I studied network administration. Now I've been trying to pursue a real fake bachelors degree for the last, oh, 10 years or so.

Review: Google Drive

Google Docs had been showing me a banner advertising to me a new tool that Google has to offer: Google Drive. Overall, I’m not that impressed. It isn’t entirely useless, but I just don’t see it as being very successful. … Continue reading

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Lenovo Laptops, Ideapad Y570

I bought a new laptop a few months ago. I spent many prior months thinking about this decision, reading about manufacturers, researching hardware components, and deciding on a price. Prior to my purchase, I had figured out a few things: I … Continue reading

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Happy July 4th!

A non-technology article: I’d like to wish everyone a safe and fun July 4th. As someone who isn’t very nationalistic, I identify these kinds of holidays as a good excuse to get together with family and friends and just have … Continue reading

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Why Not Dot Matrix?

In a recent post that I published about computers and hardware and their quality, I mentioned my DOT Matrix printer. I own a Citizen GSX 140 color dot-matrix printer, built in the late 80’s. I also use it often. You … Continue reading

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Can you refill a dot matrix printer ribbon with WD40?

“Can you refill a dot matrix printer ribbon with WD40?” Yes, you can! This even works on color ribbons. Just open the cartridge up carefully, being sure not to break any plastic parts.   Spray WD40 liberally inside the cartridge. Close the cartridge. … Continue reading

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July Site Updates

I have not published a site updated for a while now, however some changes have happened that I thought were notable. Uptime has been great 99.78% uptime over the last 30 days (that was 10 instances of the site going … Continue reading

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Computer Components: What really lasts?

I have repaired computers for normal everyday computer users for a very long time. I have also spent a lot of time repairing computers for a local school district. I’ve seen all major brands, and have used and repaired computers … Continue reading

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The Kindle E-Reader (The $79 Wonder)

I ended up with an Amazon Kindle, the $79 “just plain Kindle” with no special features. Prior to having a Kindle, I always thought that they were strange devices. I had a hard time understanding the concept of abandoning a … Continue reading

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Google Memorial Day Doodle

A reader recently asked me about my previous Google Doodle post that I made after Memorial Day of last year, this is an excerpt of what I wrote back: “Myself, I have a lot of respect for people who have … Continue reading

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Free Ebooks (in many formats, including PDF and Mobi) for E-Readers

These are a few of the more interesting sites I have found for free ebooks for the Kindle and other devices. Many of them only have PDF files. The OpenLibrary also features books  that can be “checked out” like a … Continue reading

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