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.

Happy July 4th!

Posted on July 4, 2012 by Jesse Zylstra

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?

Posted on July 2, 2012 by Jesse Zylstra

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?

Posted on July 1, 2012 by Jesse Zylstra

“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

Posted on July 1, 2012 by Jesse Zylstra

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?

Posted on June 26, 2012 by Jesse Zylstra

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)

Posted on June 7, 2012 by Jesse Zylstra

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

Posted on May 28, 2012 by Jesse Zylstra

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

Posted on May 24, 2012 by Jesse Zylstra

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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The Best Songs about Las Vegas

Posted on May 16, 2012 by Jesse Zylstra

By guest author Samantha Black: The best songs about Las Vegas Because Las Vegas is such an iconic city, it makes sense that there would be a large number of songs written about it. The bright lights, 24/7 party atmosphere, luxurious … Continue reading →

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Spambot Updates: Next steps, account activation testing

Posted on May 11, 2012 by Jesse Zylstra

We are taking the next step in our spambot experimentation, it begins today. We are once again completely resetting the test forums. The main change for this next round is to see how many bots can get past email activation. To … Continue reading →

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