In the realm of video editing, efficiency and quality often go hand-in-hand. For content creators and editors alike, the quest for a tool that offers both is never-ending. Enter Filmora's Instant Cutter a feature that promises to streamline your editing process without compromising on the output quality.
What is the Instant Cutter?
Filmora's Instant Cutter is a specialized tool designed to handle large video files, such as those from 4K action cameras, with ease. It allows users to trim and merge video clips quickly and effortlessly, all without the need for re-encoding. This means you can maintain the original quality of your footage while making the edits you need.
Trimming Made Simple
The Instant Cutter offers three methods for trimming your clips:
Trimming with Sliders: Drag the sliders in the timeline to select the part of the clip you want to keep.
Trim by Setting In and Out Points: Click on the 'Set in' and 'Set out' icons to define the start and end points of your clip.
Trimming by Duration: Adjust the duration of your clip if you know the exact start and end times you need.
Merging with Precision
Merging clips is just as intuitive. Import the videos you want to combine, and the Instant Cutter will do the rest, ensuring a seamless transition between clips.
User-Friendly Interface
Filmora's Instant Cutter tool is accessible directly from the main menu or the top toolbar, making it easy to jump right into editing without navigating through complex menus.
A Tool for All
Whether you're a seasoned editor or just starting, the Instant Cutter tool in Filmora is designed to make your editing process as smooth as possible. With its user-friendly interface and powerful capabilities, it's a valuable addition to any editor's toolkit.
Conclusion
Filmora's Instant Cutter tool is more than just a feature; it's a solution for those who value their time and the quality of their content. By simplifying the editing process, Filmora empowers creators to focus on what truly matterstheir creative vision.
Recently when I booted up my "WallStreet" Powerbook G3, I noticed that the default date wasn't today, as the battery has long died on the computer. Instead the default date was set to February 27, 1938.
I thought the date was a bit weird.
I did some research and discovered that the date is a tribute to Herbert L. Siegel birthday. I am unsure if this is something that is built into the Powerbook G3 "WallStreet: or was it part of the original MacOS 10 code.
Herbert L. Siegel co-founded Action Computer Enterprise. He designed and built the very first multiprocessor computer.
Herbert L. Siegel Fact Sheet
Full Name: Herbert L. Siegel
Date of Birth: February 27, 1938
Place of Birth: Not publicly documented
Education: M.A. in Mathematics from UC Berkeley
Early Career: Programmer at Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder, and Los Angeles County General
Significant Contribution: Co-founded Action Computer Enterprise (ACE) and built one of the first multiprocessors
Notable Achievement: The Discovery 1600, ACE's flagship product, was one of the market's first multi-user microcomputers
Legacy: Siegel's work on designing and building the first multiprocessor computer laid the groundwork for modern multi-core processors
Date of Passing: August 16, 2016
Herbert L. Siegel's contributions to the field of computing, particularly in the development of multiprocessing technology, have had a lasting impact on the industry. His innovative spirit and technical expertise have inspired many in the field of technology and engineering.
As part of my testing process, I occasionally require a list of words. To facilitate this, I developed a Keyboard Maestro macro that generates a list of 10 random words. Previously, I had crafted a similar script in PHP, but I've recently updated it to Python 3.
While I didn't observe any performance enhancements between the PHP and Python shell scripts, I did notice a quicker display of results when utilizing the 'Paste Results' feature.
Sample Macro
Python Code
#!/usr/bin/python3
import random
# Open the file with read permission
with open("/usr/share/dict/words", "r") as file:
words = file.readlines()
words_length = len(words)
def random_word():
# Choose a random word from the list
rand_word = random.choice(words).strip()
# Remove possessive case and capitalize the word
description = rand_word.replace("'s", "")
return description.capitalize()
# Generate and print 10 pairs of random words
for _ in range(11):
print(random_word(), random_word())
One More Thing
You'll notice that I have two different shortcuts assigned to this macro. This is a neat feature of Keyboard Maestro. You can assign multiple shortcuts to perform the same action. Useful when you may know the shortcut as different things in different projects.
Next week, I'll show you a cool way to take advantage of using multiple shortcuts for the same macro.
Apex Entertainment is a great place for a fun night out with friends or family. They offer bowling, arcade games, and even laser tag, but what if you're following a gluten-free diet? Can you still enjoy some delicious appetizers while you play?
The Answer is Yes!
This past Friday, We headed to Apex in Marlborough, Massachusetts with a group of friends, with my daughter who is gluten-free. We were happy to discover that Apex offers several appetizer options that are naturally gluten-free or can be modified to be gluten-friendly.
Here's what we tried:
Crispy Chicken Sticks: These were a huge hit! They were perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Disappeared off the plate faster than you can say "strike!" Be sure to mention your gluten-free needs when ordering to ensure they are prepared on a separate surface to avoid cross-contamination.
Fried Pickles: A classic bar staple that can often be off-limits for those with gluten sensitivities. Thankfully, Apex's fried pickles are gluten-free! These were a delightful balance of tangy and crispy, perfect for sharing (or not sharing, in our case).
Xtreme Nachos: This option is naturally gluten-free as long as you skip the tortilla chips (which contain wheat flour). Apex offers a delicious salsa and other toppings that you can enjoy with your favorite gluten-free chips brought from home or a side salad.
Overall, we were all impressed with the gluten-free options at Apex in Marlborough. With a little planning, you can definitely enjoy a delicious and fun night out, no matter your dietary restrictions.
Here are some additional tips for a gluten-free experience at Apex:
Call ahead: Let the restaurant know about your dietary restrictions so they can answer any questions you have about the menu.
Double-check ingredients: When ordering, don't hesitate to ask about ingredients to ensure your selections are gluten-free.
Player Platter: When bowling, order the Player Platter so everyone can munch on some food while they bowl.
Apex Entertainment offers a fun and inclusive environment for everyone, including those with gluten sensitivities. So grab your friends, lace up your bowling shoes, and get ready for a night of gluten-free fun!
YouTube Shorts are all the rage, offering a quick and engaging way to connect with viewers. But let's face it, a basic clip can feel a bit?well, basic. This is where Apple Clips, a free app pre-installed on iPhones and iPads, comes to the rescue.
Clips boasts a fantastic feature called "Posters" - pre-designed templates that combine text and graphics. These are perfect for creating eye-catching intros and outros that elevate your Shorts to the next level.
Some Poster designs in Apple Clips
Here's how to unleash your inner intro/outro wizard with Clips Posters:
1. Dive into Posters:
Open Clips and tap the big, round record button. You'll see several options - choose "Posters." Here, you'll find a treasure trove of templates across various styles, from bold and colorful to sleek and minimalist.
2. Find Your Perfect Fit:
Browse the Posters library and pick one that complements your Shorts' theme. Want a vibrant intro for your cooking channel? There's a "Delicious!" poster waiting. Crafting a tech review Short? The "Tech Talk" poster might be ideal.
3. Make it Yours:
Most posters allow you to customize the text. Tap the text field and type in your channel name, video title, or a catchy tagline. Play around with fonts and colors to match your Shorts' overall aesthetic.
4. Action Time!
Once you're happy with your creation, hold down the record button. This overlays your customized poster onto your video. Let go of the button when you're finished with the intro (or outro).
5. Edit and Export:
Clips offers basic editing tools. You can trim the intro/outro clip, add music, and even layer in additional effects. Once you're done, export your masterpiece! Clips allows you to save the video directly to your camera roll for easy upload to YouTube.
Bonus Tip:
For a seamless transition, film a short clip (solid color background works well) after recording the intro with the poster. This blank clip can be used as the outro by simply reversing it in your editing software.
With a little creativity and Clips' Posters, you can craft intros and outros that grab attention, establish your brand identity, and leave viewers wanting more. So get clipping and transform your Shorts into polished gems!
This photo was taken in Washington DC on the evening of December 30, 1999. The helicopter had just taken off of the White House lawn, I believe that president Bill Clinton was on board as in a few hours later he would give a speech at the Lincoln Memorial.
After taking this photo, I looked around and didn't see anyone else taking pictures of this moment. Back in 1999 people weren't taking pictures of every little thing as they do now.
I do have a better copy of this photo and will look for it.
Sometimes you need to print out a standard Classic Notebook paper because you ran out. Graph Paper Generator is a great site to get the latest Classic Writing Paper suitable for printing.
Simply pick the paper format you want and print!
Website Description
Free graph paper maker tools to make your own custom grid and graph paper printable. Generate lined pages, grid page, graph papers, dotted grid, isometric grid, hexagon grid and many more. Choose the tool of your choice to get started.
I recently stumbled on the Super Resolution functionality that's available in Pixelmator Pro. Apparently this has been in Pixelmator Pro since 2019.
I guess I don't use Pixelmator Pro that much to notice it.
Feature Description
The Super Resolution tool harnesses the power and intelligence of machine learning to upscale photos while preserving and even recreating visually important details. Super Resolution algorithm is trained to analyze the patterns and textures in a photo instead of interpolating the values of pixels mathematically as done by the regular scaling algorithms.
Not Just Images!
Did you know that you can Super Resolution Video files?
Yes!
Simply open a video file from Pixelmator Pro, and then Command - Option - U to supersize the video!
Here's a screenshot of what one of the videos looked like when I Supersized it:
Five Things I Learned
The shortcut to execute the Super Resolution to any layer is Command - Option - U.
You can find the Super Resolution in the Image > Super Resolution. In addition, it's available in the window header in the three dots in the circle - next to the "Share Image" icon.
After you apply the Super Resolution you get a before/after preview. You may have to zoom in to see any image improvements. Click Done to apply your changes.
I decided to export the changes so that I don't loose the original video file. To Export, simply type in ( Command - E )
You can also use the "ML Enhance" to fix any lighting issues with your video.
For those who grew up in the golden age of classic Mac OS, the Apple menu was a gateway to a world of functionality. Nestled amongst the familiar options like Control Panels and Favorites lay a hidden gem: Desk Accessories (DAs). These were lightweight mini-applications that offered a surprising amount of utility without the bulk of a full program.
DAs weren't exactly revolutionary ? they were essentially glorified pop-up windows. But in the resource-constrained world of early Macs, their compact size was a virtue. They loaded quickly, used minimal memory, and offered a convenient way to access essential tools without cluttering the desktop.
What kind of Desk Accessories were there?
The Apple menu offered a curated selection of DAs, but the real treasure trove was the Desk Accessories folder within the System Folder. Here, you'd find a variety of tools, including:
Calculators: From basic arithmetic to scientific functions, DAs offered a quick way to crunch numbers.
Notepads: A simple but essential tool for jotting down ideas or reminders.
Alarms and Timers: Set reminders or schedule events with a quick click. Some DAs even offered a bit more pizazz with customizable alerts.
Rulers and Protractors: Graphic designers and artists rejoiced! These DAs provided on-screen tools for measuring and drawing.
Puzzle Games: Yes, even Mac users needed a break! Simple games like Tetris or Minesweeper were popular DAs for a quick mental break.
Third-Party DAs: Developers embraced the DA format, offering a wide range of utilities like language dictionaries, currency converters, or even address books.
The End of an Era
With the release of Mac OS X in 2001, DAs faded into obscurity. The new operating system introduced a more robust application model, making DAs feel clunky and outdated. However, their legacy lives on. The concept of lightweight, quick-access tools continues to inspire modern applications and applets.
This is a "basic" macro in Keyboard Maestro to split the URL of a new copy text in the Clipboard. This piece of code demonstrates that you don't have to trigger an action in Keyboard Maestro.
In this example the macro is triggered when a URL is pasted in the clipboard. Keyboard Maestro automatically parses the Domain name in the background.
You can change this up to create a hyperlink to this URL or strip everything to the right of the domain name and creates a new entry on the clipboard.
Move over, freezer aisle staples, because there's a new kid in town, and it's bringing a taste of paradise! Dole Whip Pineapple, the iconic Disney treat, has landed in the frozen section of your grocery store, and it's ready to transport your taste buds to a tropical getaway.
A Delicious Escape
Forget complicated recipes and long lines. Dole Whip Pineapple is the ultimate hassle-free indulgence. These single-serve cups are bursting with the flavor of real pineapple, perfectly balanced with sunshine-sweetened honey for a creamy, dreamy treat.
Perfect for Everyone
But the good news doesn't stop at taste. Dole Whip Pineapple is friendly for pretty much everyone! Here's why it deserves a spot in your freezer:
Made with Real Fruit: No artificial flavors or colors here. Just pure, delicious pineapple.
No Gluten?: No problem! Dole Whip Pineapple is certified gluten-free.
Low in Calories: At only 110 calories per serving, you can indulge without guilt.
Perfect for Dairy-Free Friends: While the original Dole Whip isn't dairy-free, this frozen treat offers a delicious alternative.
Dole Whip Hacks
While these cups are delicious straight from the freezer, here are a few ways to take your Dole Whip Pineapple experience to the next level:
Let it Ripen: For an extra creamy texture, let your Dole Whip thaw for 10 minutes before digging in.
Float On!: Turn it into a tropical sundae by layering Dole Whip Pineapple over pineapple juice and topping it with a maraschino cherry.
Get Fancy!: Feeling adventurous? Blend your Dole Whip with some coconut milk and rum (for the adults!) for a pi?a colada-inspired smoothie.
Beat the Heat, Treat Yourself
So next time you're at the grocery store, don't just grab the usual frozen fare. Look for the vibrant yellow packaging of Dole Whip Pineapple and treat yourself to a taste of sunshine. It's the perfect way to cool down on a hot day or add a touch of the tropics to any afternoon.
So ditch the ordinary and Dole Whip your way to deliciousness!
Scene detection is a feature in video editing software that automatically creates cuts at scene changes. This is incredibly useful for:
Making scene-specific adjustments: Easily isolate scenes for color correction, adding effects, or trimming without manually scrubbing through footage.
While some programs lack built-in scene detection, many offer workarounds. Here's a breakdown of my experience:
Final Cut Pro: Surprisingly, Final Cut Pro lacks a native scene detection tool. Third-party options like FCPX Cut Finder exist, but they incur additional cost and steps.
Wondershare Filmora: This software shines with its user-friendly scene detection. A simple right-click on a video clip in the timeline automatically creates cuts at scene changes, saving significant editing time.
Key Takeaways:
Cost-effective: Filmora's scene detection is included with the base application purchase, unlike some paid add-ons.
Rescaling potential: Scene detection allows easy rescaling of individual scenes to fit various aspect ratios, like horizontal to vertical, for social media optimization.
Panning limitations: While Filmora excels in scene detection, it lacks a smooth panning functionality. For precise panning control, Final Cut Pro might be a better choice.
CapCut alternative: CapCut offers a similar feature called "Split Scene" but requires a premium subscription. Panning functionality is also absent in CapCut.
By incorporating scene detection into your workflow, you can significantly streamline your video editing process.
Nowadays, few things are as critical as ensuring the seamless integration of data privacy and CRM. After all, this forms the bedrock of trust between businesses and their clientele! As such, it is truly imperative for businesses to navigate this intersection with precision and integrity.
Transparency and consent
First of all, businesses must prioritize transparent practices, providing clear explanations of how client info will be used! Obtaining explicit consent is equally important, since it guarantees that customers are fully aware of and agree to the collection and usage of their information. In other words, by implementing transparent policies and obtaining consent, businesses can future-proof their operations against potential legal challenges and customer dissatisfaction! Likewise, transparent practices demonstrate integrity and respect for the rights of your clients from the start, fostering stronger relationships and loyalty!
Minimizing data collection
Embracing the principle of data minimization involves identifying and collecting only the necessary information required for CRM purposes. By streamlining info collection processes, companies can reduce the risk of breaches and enhance client trust. For instance, instead of gathering vast amounts of personal info, companies can focus on key points that enable personalized interactions. This approach mitigates privacy concerns and improves efficiency in data management! Therefore, minimizing information collection also aligns with regulatory requirements, maintaining compliance with laws like GDPR and CCPA.
Anonymization and pseudonymization
Anonymization involves removing identifiable information from customer info sets, rendering them anonymous. Meanwhile, pseudonymization replaces identifying information with pseudonyms, allowing info to be linked without revealing individuals' identities. These techniques balance data utility with privacy concerns. This way, CRM helps sales teams without causing any harm to customers! After all, by anonymizing or pseudonymizing customer information, businesses can mitigate the risk of data breaches and unauthorized access. Besides, these practices align with regulatory requirements such as GDPR, which mandates the protection of personal info!
Data security measures
Implementing robust data security practices, such as encryption and secure storage, is needed for safeguarding sensitive info from unauthorized access. By encrypting customer information, businesses can be certain that even if a breach occurs, the information remains unreadable to unauthorized parties! Secure storage methods, such as cloud-based solutions with stringent access controls, further fortify this info against potential threats. After all, examples of breaches serve as stark reminders of the importance of prioritizing security within CRM systems. Therefore, businesses must continuously assess and enhance their security measures to adapt to evolving threats and regulatory requirements!
Employee training and awareness
Educating staff about data ethics and privacy best practices empowers them to handle customer information responsibly. By incorporating privacy awareness into the company culture, employees become proactive guardians of customer information. Regular training sessions further guarantee that employees stay updated on evolving privacy regulations and cybersecurity threats! Additionally, fostering a culture of accountability encourages employees to report any suspicious activities promptly. So, prioritizing employee education in data protection is a great way to improve your business's resilience against breaches and regulatory violations.
Regular audits and compliance checks
Conducting periodic audits allows businesses to assess the effectiveness of their data privacy measures and identify any vulnerabilities. Compliance checks help guarantee that the CRM system aligns with relevant laws and regulations, such as GDPR or CCPA! From there, by regularly reviewing information handling practices and security protocols, businesses can proactively address any gaps or issues that may arise. These audits also provide an opportunity to update policies and procedures in response to changes in regulatory requirements or emerging threats. They also demonstrate a commitment to maintaining transparency and accountability in data management practices.
Ethical use of data analytics
The ethical use of data analytics is the only way for companies to improve your conversions while respecting customer privacy. Leveraging analytics responsibly involves making sure that the insights derived are used ethically and transparently! By avoiding biases and discrimination in data analysis, businesses can improve the accuracy and reliability of their insights. Implementing ethical guidelines for data-driven decision-making also means that customer interests are prioritized and respected throughout the process.
Data retention policies
Establishing clear data retention periods guarantees that customer info is kept only for as long as is necessary for business purposes. Secure deletion of outdated data also reduces the risk of unauthorized access or breaches! By regularly reviewing and updating retention policies, businesses can also adapt to evolving regulatory requirements and customer expectations. Besides, minimizing the retention of unnecessary data mitigates privacy risks and streamlines data management processes. So, implementing robust data retention policies both enhances data security and builds customer trust and confidence in the business's data handling practices!
Privacy by design
Privacy by design is a foundational approach for integrating data privacy considerations into CRM system development. By embedding privacy principles into the design process from the outset, businesses can proactively address privacy concerns and compliance requirements. Thankfully, if you collaborate with privacy experts, you can be sure that you will properly introduce privacy considerations into your system architecture!
Customer trust and reputation
Customer trust and reputation are extremely important for businesses, especially concerning data privacy and CRM. Thankfully, maintaining transparent data practices and prioritizing customer privacy rights build trust. As such, companies like Apple, known for their privacy-first approach, can easily improve their brand reputation in the long run. Conversely, mishandling customer info can lead to a loss of trust and damage to a business's reputation! Thus, businesses must always strive to follow only the best practices that will let them maintain their reputation on the market.
Addressing ethical dilemmas
Balancing business objectives with customer privacy rights requires careful consideration and ethical decision-making. However, by consulting ethical frameworks and guidelines, businesses can navigate complex dilemmas and make informed choices that prioritize customer interests! Furthermore, implementing measures to mitigate risks of bias and discrimination in data analysis ensures fairness and equality in marketing efforts.
Why you need a proper approach to data privacy and CRM
Prioritizing an ethical approach to data privacy and CRM is the only way for modern companies to thrive! After all, by maintaining a steadfast commitment to protecting customer information and upholding ethical practices, companies can foster trust and loyalty and even stay ahead of regulatory requirements!
Snippets in VS Code are lifesavers, but creating them can be a hassle. Editing JSON configuration files isn't exactly intuitive.
Here's the good news: there's a handy tool called Snippet Generator that simplifies the JSON creation process. This will help you build a collection of custom snippets and streamline your coding workflow!
Website Description
Snippet generator is a tiny React app to help you create Visual Studio Code, Sublime Text and Atom snippets. If you like the project, buy me a coffee, please.
YouTube Shorts are the platform's answer to the bite-sized video craze, offering a dynamic way to engage viewers with short, catchy content. But even with short videos, editing is key to a polished and impactful final product. Here's where Final Cut Pro comes in, with its powerful tools to help you create captivating YouTube Shorts.
Setting the Stage: Project Creation
Vertical is Key: YouTube Shorts are vertical videos, so make sure your Final Cut Pro project reflects that. When creating a new project, click "Use Custom Settings" and choose "Vertical" under Video Format. Alternatively, duplicate an existing project, change the format to "Vertical," and use the "Smart Conform" feature to automatically adjust your clips.
Time is of the Essence: Remember, YouTube Shorts have a maximum duration of 60 seconds. To keep yourself on track, add a 58-second gap clip (Option + W) at the beginning of your timeline as a reference point.
Editing Magic: Building Your Short
Embrace the Speed: Final Cut Pro offers fantastic keyboard shortcuts to streamline your workflow. Use "Q" to connect clips to the gap clip, and "Command + G" to create a connected timeline for smooth editing.
Taming Landscape Footage: If you're using horizontally shot clips, select them and go to the Video Inspector. Under "Spatial Conform," choose "Fill" to ensure your content fills the vertical frame. You can further refine the framing using the Transform tool.
Short and Sweet Transitions: Cuts are your friend in YouTube Shorts. Quick cuts keep the pace high and maintain viewer engagement. Experiment with different cut placements to find the rhythm that best suits your video.
Adding Polish: Sound and Text
Music Makes the Moment: A catchy tune can elevate your Short. Explore Final Cut Pro's sound library or import your own music. Remember to adjust the audio levels to avoid overpowering your video content.
Text for Impact: Titles, captions, and call-to-actions add clarity and interactivity. Final Cut Pro provides a variety of text templates to choose from.
Ready for Takeoff: Exporting and Uploading
Exporting for Success: When exporting your Short, choose H.264 video format and ensure the resolution matches your project settings (typically 1080x1920).
Uploading to Shine: Head over to YouTube and upload your masterpiece! Don't forget to add a catchy title, description, and relevant tags to boost discoverability.
Bonus Tip: Embrace the Overlay
While YouTube Shorts themselves don't have on-screen elements like likes and comments, you can use Final Cut Pro to add a custom YouTube Shorts UI overlay (available online) during editing. This gives your viewers a more familiar Shorts experience within your video.
With these tips and Final Cut Pro's powerful tools, you're well on your way to creating captivating YouTube Shorts that will keep your audience hooked. So grab your footage, unleash your creativity, and get ready to take the Shorts world by storm!
For many of us who were Macintosh enthusiasts in the mid-1990s, the sounds of our System 7 computers hold a special nostalgia. From the iconic startup chime to the satisfying "whoosh" of the Trash can, these audio clips were a big part of the Macintosh experience.
But what happens when you want to revisit those sounds on your modern Mac? That's where SoundApp comes in.
SoundApp: Your Gateway to the Past
SoundApp is a nifty little application designed specifically for System 9 that converts old audio files into formats compatible with today's Macintosh computers. While System 9 itself might seem like a relic of the past, it's what makes SoundApp work its magic.
Here's the process:
Fire Up System 9: You'll need a Mac running System 9, like the Powerbook G4 "Wallstreet".
Copy the Audio File: Transfer the audio file you want to convert to your System 9 machine.
Open it in SoundApp: Launch SoundApp and open the audio file.
Convert and Transfer: SoundApp will convert the file into a playable format. You can then transfer the converted file to your modern Mac.
It's a bit of a process, but for those precious audio clips from the 90s, it's definitely worth it!
A Website Stuck in Time (But Still Works!)
Even more surprising is the fact that the original website for SoundApp, created by Norman Franke in 1999, is still up and running today! https://ccrma.stanford.edu/~jos/smac03maxjos/Sound_Examples.html This is a true testament to the enduring legacy of both SoundApp and the early Macintosh community.
So, if you're looking to revisit the auditory world of your classic Mac, dust off your old System 9 machine and give SoundApp a try. It might just bring back a wave of nostalgia along with those cherished sounds of the past.
Here are some more technical information that I found about the application.
What Is It?
Ever download a sound file from the Internet and not know what to do with it? Want to create a sound file for your WWW site or to give to your PC friend? Sound App is the solution you have been looking for!
Sound App can play and convert sound files from a variety of computer platforms and in many different formats. It can be used with WWW browsers to play sounds as Sound App supports many more formats than any browser or other sound players
Sound App can play and convert from the following sound formats:
SoundCap (induding Huffman-compressed) and Studio Session Instruments
Sound Edit (inducing stereo, MACE-3 and MACE-6),
AIFF and AIFF-C (8-, 16-, 24- and 32-bit, MACE-3, MACE-6, IMA 4:1, p-law and QuickTime codecs).
System 7 sound and 'snd resource induding MACE-3, MACE-6, IMA 4:1 and p-law).
Quick Time MooV (soundtracks only, induding MIDI movies),
Sun Audio au and NeXT snd (inducing p-law, a-law, 8-, 16-, 24- and 32-bit linear, 32- and 64-bit foating point, G.721 ADPCM and G.723 ADPCM).
Windows WAVE (induding GSM-, IMA- and MS ADPCM-compressed, p-law and a-law, 8-, 16- and 32-bit linear),
MPEG audio (ayers 1, 1l and Ill, requires a PowerPC processor for playback).
Sound Blaster VOC,
Atari AVR induding stereo and 8- and 16-bit),
Many varieties of MODs, Scream Tracker 3 (SM), Multtracker (MTM), Impulse Tracker (IT).
MIDI (type 0, 1 and 2, inducing GS and XG; playback only).
Amiga IFFBSVX (induding stereo and compressed),
Sound Designer and Sound Designer II (induding split stereo),
Ensonia PARIS,
IRCAM (8- and 16-bit linear and 32-bit floating point), and
Psion Series 3 and EPOC 32 (Psion Series 5) sounds.
Don't know what those are? SoundApp does and will play them without you having to know!
What Does It Need?
Suick Time leagues secure c Time 2.0 Or greater, Maever, Ouck me 2 or to aer is come dedi ton, Playback of MIDI files using GS instruments with Quick Time requires Quick Time 3.0 or later. If you wish to play MIDI files using an extemal MIDI synthesizer, then Opcode Systems' Open Music System (OMS) MIDI driver version 2.1 or greater is required.
In 2019, Jira switched from MediaWiki to Markdown, removing shortcuts for the green checkmark and red X emojis. (See my old Jira new Comment Field) for details - Created March 18, 2019. )
Recently, Atlassian added an emoji picker shortcut. Type ":" and scroll down to choose the emoji. Frequently used emojis appear at the top for easy access.
I created a simple Keyboard Maestro macro to insert the checkmark emoji and add text to Jira comments, making it easy to indicate feature validation.
Example in Action:
Keyboard Maestro Macro
This is a screen shot of the Macro:
The pause for 1 second is needed because the macro runs much quicker than Jira's response.
Remember the Great Gluten-Free Oreo Caper of 2021? Those little black and white circles vanished faster than you could say "dunk!" Well, folks, it seems history is repeating itself with the arrival of Chips Ahoy!'s brand new gluten-free chocolate chip cookies.
Just like their Oreo counterparts, these gluten-free Chips Ahoy! seem to be experiencing a serious case of "flying off the shelves syndrome." We've hit multiple stores, shopping carts at the ready, only to be met with empty cookie aisles. Talk about a gluten-free FOMO (fear of missing out) situation!
But here's the good news: these cookies are out there, and they sound incredible. Made with a unique blend of rice and oat flour, Chips Ahoy! promises the same classic crunch and decadent chocolate chips we all know and love, minus the gluten.
Empty shelf at Stop and Shop where the Gluten Free Chips Ahoy would be.
So, for all our fellow gluten-free friends (and frankly, anyone who enjoys a delicious cookie), the hunt is on! We'll keep you posted on our quest, and hopefully, soon we'll all be enjoying a warm, gooey Chips Ahoy! gluten-free treat. In the meantime, if you see them, snag a bag (or two) and let us know where the magic happened!
On Friday, May 10th, I setup the GoPro and took a timelapse video of the Northern Lights in Ashland, Massachusetts.
Here's the video of that night:
Things to Know
I used my GoPro Hero 9 to create the timelapse.
I setup up my GoPro on the GoPro tripod.
I used a "Custom" night time settings:
Resolution: 1080p
Lens: Wide
Format: Video
Interval: Auto
Shutter: Auto
Scheduled Capture: Off
Duration: No Limit
Timer: 3s
Zoom: 1.0x
Bit Rate: Standard
EV Comp: 0
White Balance: Auto
ISO Min: 100
ISO Max: 800
Sharpness: High
Color: GoPro
This weekend, our web hosting provider upgraded to the latest version of PHP. This brings security improvements and performance benefits, but unfortunately, it also caused compatibility issues with some older sections of the website.
I'm currently working on resolving these issues. For some functionalities, converting them to Python might be an efficient solution considering my current focus on that language. However, for other sections, updating the existing PHP code might be a faster way to get things back on track.
I'll prioritize these fixes and aim to have everything running smoothly as soon as possible. In the meantime, your feedback is crucial. If you encounter any problems while browsing the site, please don't hesitate to use the feedback form (I've double-checked and confirmed it's working).
A recent upgrade to the latest PHP version by my website provider caused issues with some long-dormant code. This prompted me to explore a language switch and ultimately migrate the codebase to Python.
While PHP is traditionally favored for web development, I believe Python offers greater long-term maintainability for this project. To streamline the conversion process, I utilized codeconvert, a user-friendly tool that efficiently translates PHP code into Python.
Website Description
This free online converter lets you convert code from PHP to Python in a click of a button. To use this converter, take the following steps -
Type or paste your PHP code in the input box.
Click the convert button.
The resulting Python code from the conversion will be displayed in the output box.
This post dives into some of the features that make Microsoft Edge a compelling choice for Mac users.
1. Unleash the Power of AI with Built-in Tools:
Copilot: Get help crafting creative text formats or writing different kinds of content directly within the browser.
Microsoft Designer: Effortlessly generate stunning visuals for your projects with the help of AI-powered design assistance.
2. Smarter Shopping:
Microsoft Shopping: Ensure you're getting the best deals while shopping online. Find coupons and compare prices effortlessly.
3. Enhanced Multitasking:
Split Screen: View two websites side-by-side within a single browser window. This is ideal for tasks like comparing QA and production environments.
4. Organize Your Web Discoveries:
Collections: Effortlessly save interesting web content, including images, text, or entire web pages. Group your collections for easy organization. Perfect for trip planning ? gather potential restaurants and attractions to explore.
By leveraging these features and more, Microsoft Edge can become a valuable addition to your macOS workflow.
Many of us with fond memories of the classic Mac OS might remember a handy little utility called Scrapbook. It was a digital treasure trove, letting you store text snippets, graphics, and even sounds for easy pasting into documents. But there's a common misconception floating around the internet: Scrapbook wasn't made by Light Software, it was actually a brainchild of Apple itself!
Debunking that myth is half the fun of diving into Scrapbook's history. Pre-dating the era of fancy desktops and overflowing clipboards, Scrapbook emerged in the early days of the Macintosh, way back in 1984. It belonged to a category of programs called Desk Accessories, or DAs for short. These were mini-applications that resided on the desktop, offering quick access to essential tools.
Think of Scrapbook as the original clipboard on steroids. It wasn't limited to plain text - you could store formatted text passages, colorful graphics, and even little sound effects or short audio clips. Need to insert your company logo into every document? No problem, just toss it in Scrapbook. Working on a report and need to reference a specific quote? Scrapbook had you covered.
Sample Image that I had in my Scrapbook
Here's a quick rundown of Scrapbook's functionality in OS 9:
Store Anything and Everything: Text, graphics, sounds - Scrapbook handled it all, making it a versatile companion for various tasks.
Unlimited Capacity: Unlike a physical scrapbook, this digital one never ran out of space. You could stockpile clippings to your heart's content.
Drag-and-Drop Convenience: Need to insert a clip into your document? Simply drag and drop it from Scrapbook - a breeze for any Mac user.
Light Software: The Innovators Behind Scrapbook
The history of Light Software is as rich and varied as the features of Scrapbook itself. Founded in 1984, the company initially developed software for animation and rendering before the days of SGI workstations and graphics boards. Their innovative spirit led them to create Scrapbook, a tool that would become synonymous with digital scrapbooking for Mac users worldwide.
Mac OS X Changed Things
While Scrapbook served us well for many years, the tides eventually turned. As Mac OS evolved and multitasking became the norm, the need for a dedicated clipboard substitute diminished. Newer applications offered more robust features for managing clips, and Scrapbook faded into obscurity with the release of OS X.
Despite its departure, Scrapbook holds a special place in the hearts of many long-time Mac users. It was a testament to Apple's dedication to user experience in the early days, offering a simple yet effective solution for managing snippets and keeping our documents well-adorned.
Keyboard Maestro now offers a streamlined tool for creating macros, making it easier for users to automate tasks quickly. This intuitive interface simplifies the process without sacrificing the power Keyboard Maestro is known for.
Five Things I Learned
Macro Wizard was introduced in version 11.
To activate the Wizard select the File menu and then "New Macro Wizard." You can also use the keyboard command: OptionShiftCommandN
Guide to show you the Keyboard Shortcut needed to trigger the new Wizard.
The Macro Wizard is a quick way to jump start a new macro, especially if you just want to add a basic shortcut. It really helps reduce the number of steps. For example, if you wanted to add a shortcut #Miss for Mississippi, using the Wizard makes this easy to add.
The seven action items are: Activate an application, Open a file, Manipulate a window, Paste some text, Type some text, Select a Menu, and Add Later. These were likely selected as the most common action items people use. Once the wizard closes you still have access to the 100s more in the Actions selector.
After you click on the "Create" button. You are presented with the regular Macro section ready for all your creativity - or to paste in the text you wish.
Try it out!
Keyboard Maestro veterans will definitely appreciate the new macro creation tool. It streamlines a process they're already familiar with, boosting their efficiency. But that doesn't mean it's exclusive to them. Even for those who are absolute masters at crafting macros, this new interface can provide a welcome alternative approach, potentially even sparking new ideas for automation workflows.
This past weekend we had dinner at the Tavern in the Square in Littleton, Massachusetts. Its a bigger place than the location which recently opened in Framingham.
Juliana decided to get the Gluten Free General Tso's Chicken.
Three Things We Learned
The nice thing about going to a place that you know is that the menu is pretty much the same. Juliana was going to order a burger but decided to try something different. She ordered the Gluten Free General Tso's Chicken.
We also got some Fried Pickle Chips and Buffalo Cauliflower as appetizers. Everyone at the table enjoyed them as we were all hungry after a long wait.
We made sure to let the server know that she had a Gluten Free allergy. When the order arrived a manager hand delivered it with a little sign that said Allergy Alert. Her food arrived about a minute before the other entrees.
Great Food!
Juliana enjoyed the General Tso's Chicken, she ate all the Chicken and most of the broccoli. She told me that it was really good and that she would have it again.
In the quaint neighborhood of Point Place, Florida, an extraordinary event unfolded that captured the hearts and imaginations of people around the world. Donna Lee, a local resident, was preparing a batch of pierogis for Easter--a tradition steeped in her Polish heritage. As she cooked, something miraculous appeared before her eyes: the last pierogi on the pan bore the image of Jesus Christ.
This was no ordinary pierogi. It was a symbol of faith, a sign from above, or perhaps just a whimsical trick of the dough. Regardless, it was special. Donna, filled with awe, shared this revelation with her husband, who echoed her sentiments, proclaiming, "There's a face on our pierogi, and we choose to believe on Easter it's Jesus."
The news of the Jesus Pierogi spread like wildfire, and soon, the online auction site eBay became the stage for this divine dumpling's fate. The bidding war was fervent, and the pierogi's price soared. In the end, it was the Golden Palace Casino that placed the winning bid, securing the holy pierogi for a heavenly sum of $1,775.
The casino, known for its collection of oddities, including a grilled cheese sandwich with the image of the Virgin Mary, saw the pierogi as a perfect addition to its traveling museum. For Donna Lee, the pierogi was more than just a quirky kitchen occurrence; it was a message, a blessing, and a source of joy that transcended the ordinary.
As we reflect on the story of the Jesus Pierogi, it's a reminder that sometimes, the most mundane moments can hold a deeper meaning. Whether you see it as a testament to faith or a curious case of pareidolia, there's no denying that the Jesus Pierogi has left an indelible mark on the tapestry of modern folklore.
Our recent dance competition at Inferno in Littleton, Massachusetts, was another exciting experience. However, there were a few things I realized could have significantly improved the trip's efficiency. Here's a breakdown of what I'll be packing and researching next time:
Packing for Convenience:
Ziplock bags: These versatile bags can hold everything from ice packs for injuries to separated snacks, keeping everything organized and accessible.
Plastic utensils: Takeout meals often lack utensils, and having a reusable set tucked away in the car ensures we're prepared for any situation.
Portable phone charger: A dead phone during a competition is a nightmare. Packing a portable charger guarantees we can stay connected and capture all the memories.
Pen light: Taking notes in a darkened theater can be a challenge. A pen with a built-in light source eliminates the need to rely on a phone's flashlight, saving battery life for more important things.
Restaurant Research:
Gluten-free options near Littleton High School: Competition days are long, and knowing what restaurants near Littleton High School offer gluten-free options (including their operating hours) would have been a lifesaver. This would allow us to plan meals in advance and avoid scrambling for food choices, especially for those with dietary restrictions.
By incorporating these tips into our next competition preparation, we can ensure a smoother, more stress-free experience for everyone involved. The focus can remain entirely on the dancers and their performances!
In the digital age, photos are a ubiquitous part of our lives. We take them on our phones, cameras, and even drones. But sometimes, a photo can look a little flat or uninspired. That's where online photo editing tools come in.
One popular tool is Visual Paradigm's Online Photo Effects Studio. This tool allows you to add shadows to your photos, which can give them a more natural or three-dimensional look. The tool uses artificial intelligence to create realistic-looking shadows, and you can adjust the opacity and distance of the shadows to get the perfect effect.
Website Description
Enhance the depth and dimension of your photos effortlessly with our box shade tool. Our advanced algorithms create natural-looking shadows that add life to your subjects. Adjust the opacity and distance controls to create your desired look.
Whether you're taking portraits, product shots, or any other image that needs a touch of depth, our versatile filter is perfect for you. Try our box shade tool today and take your photos to the next level!
Pixelmator Pro recently had some new updates, including Bento Box. This design is famously used by Apple Computer to highlight features of a newly announced product. There's design for Landscape and Story. (I think the story designs needs some work - there appears to be too much white.)
All the new Bento Grid Designs.
Four Things I Learned
The iPhone image is a mockup feature and you can easily replace the inside image by clicking on the '+'. It's a good way to showcase a website or App.
You can easily replace the colors by double clicking on the shape.
The Landscape version is 1920 x 1080 and the Story version is 1080 x 1920.
There's no video version of the Bento Box template, maybe that's something to come in a future update? In the meantime you can check out some designs on Envato.com.
Illustrator EPS File Support
Pixelmator Pro also introduced Illustrator EPS File Support. This feature allows users to Open and edit Illustrator EPS files in Pixelmator Pro or batchconvert them to other formats using the Convert Image action in Shortcuts.
Four Things I Learned
It takes a long time to open and use a file that is pretty complications - such as the image above.
The layer previews are good to help identify the various objects in the layer group. Its much easier to navigate than Affinity Designer.
I have some AI files that contain a group of quotes, and it was impossible to select the quotes in the image. In Affinity Designer, I can hold down the Command key to select the region that I want to copy.
While it was neat to play around with EPS and AI files in Pixelmator, I think I stay using Affinity Designer for now.
Macintosh OS 9 stands as a testament to Apple's innovative spirit during the turn of the millennium. Among its many features, the "View as Buttons" option in the Finder was a unique and efficient way to navigate the Mac's file system. Let's take a stroll down memory lane and explore this legacy feature that made the Mac experience special.
Understanding "View as Buttons"
The "View as Buttons" option was a distinctive feature of the Macintosh OS 9 Finder. It allowed users to view the contents of a folder as clickable buttons, each representing a file or application. This view was particularly useful for quickly accessing frequently used programs and documents.
Example of View as Buttons in the Finder.
The Aesthetics and Functionality
With "View as Buttons," each item in a Finder window was presented as a large, easy-to-click button, complete with the file's icon and name displayed underneath. This not only added a visual appeal to the interface but also made it incredibly user-friendly, especially for those who preferred a more graphical approach to navigation.
Keyboard Maestro 11 elevates automation to a new level with its ability to prompt users for specific actions. This proves particularly valuable for streamlining repetitive tasks. Take my website screenshot macros, for example. Previously, I needed separate status menu items for each macro. Now, Keyboard Maestro 11 allows me to consolidate them into a single, user-friendly menu item. The user is then prompted to choose the specific website screenshot they require, eliminating menu clutter and enhancing efficiency.
Here's an example of the prompt:
This is what some of the macro looks like:
Three Key things to Remember
The variable %PromptButton% has the value of what button was selected.
Keep the information and options short, don't overload the prompt with a lot of buttons and text fields. You may find that there are better options to do what your trying to do.
I find using the prompt option on macros that are triggered by the status menu.
One More Thing
Keyboard Maestro's "Prompt for Snippet" feature was a game-changer for me, justifying the upgrade to the latest version. It streamlines my workflow by allowing me to create custom text snippets on the fly. Imagine having dynamic keyboard shortcuts that prompt you for specific details before inserting the final text. This eliminates repetitive typing and lets you focus on what matters - getting things done!
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