Archive for June 4th, 2003

A Test on Customer Services

Published by
James
at 17:03 HKT Jun 4, 2003 in Computing. 3 Comments

One of the biggest pat peeves I have with notebook computers is that their screens are not very viewable under direct sunlight. My Fujitsu B-2548 is not even viewable under open shades. It has to be used indoors. This demeans the purpose of having a portable device.

While contemplating between the new Fujitsu P-5010 and the IBM X31 as a replacement, the question remains as nowadays, hardly any local computer retailers are ground level shops here in Hong Kong. When most of the computer shops are deep inside shopping centers, it is unlikely that a computer retailer would let any Joe Average walk-in customer take a sample notebook computer outdoors under direct sunlight for a look-see. And even if one managed to give that a try, one has to time the visit with the sun.

A true test on the customer services of any computer shops.

Fungal Attack

Published by
James
at 1:20 HKT Jun 4, 2003 in Health. 0 Comments

From a program on Discovery Channel.

Cryptococcus neoformans var. gattii is a form of fungus that has been striking down residents on the Vancouver Island, BC, Canada since 1999. The fungus is found in decaying wood or trees. It is thought to have been originated in the tropical forest of Australia where the Aussies may have developed immunity over long term but subtle exposures. Specific means of migration from Australia to Vancouver Island is still unconfirmed. The fungus is contracted via airborne and can infect both animals and human and even porpoises. Infected human patients can develop pneumonia and an untreatable form of meningitis. Symptoms are flu like at the beginning and then could turn into heart attack like chest pains. More information here.