On Tue, 12 Jan 2010 13:43:35 +0800, karl shah-jenner <shahjen@xxxxxxxxxxxx> wrote/replied to: >heck, the only way I learned anything properly was by making mistakes and >learning to get out of the mess.. or by listening to advice, reading lots, >and experimenting to see if what I was told is true or not. My philosophy for everything is I'm the only one who can do anything right. That includes car, bike, bicycle, computer, camera, and everything else. The day a computer tech touches my computer or my bike is the day I'm 6 feet under in the cold hard ground. These 'techs' and 'mechanics' are poorly paid and trained and basically are just there to make the salary and go out Friday night and get loaded. On the other hand I have a vested interest in fixing things right. I don't expect everyone to be the real DIYer like I am, but the more you know the easier life is. Even if it only gives you enough insight to questions the bill you're given. Backups - every few months I test my backup system and get out the spare computer, restore my system to it and test it. Ghost is a good program but knowing how to do a full and healthy restore takes more than inserting the Ghost restore disc and following instructions. I pity those who have never actually tried to do a full restore until the day comes they have to - then good luck! The thing is, all these machines we use (yes cameras too), they all give us signs of trouble but most people ignore them and continue to work, as long as it works they go on. Then one day the big crash comes. They were warned but they ignored it. You hear that hard drive making a new noise? Hear that computer fan whining? How about that alternator belt screaming when you first start your car? I don't know about any of you, but if I had to call for help or 'take it in for service' every time something gave me a warning I'd never pay the rent. Everything I fix is money in my pocket, every distaster avoided is more work done. Knowledge is power! Don't throw up your hands and think you can't do it! Everyone starts from square one. You start by knowing what things actually are and how they work. It's all online so no excuses these days. Read a little every day before you know it you're a geek! -- Jim Davis, Owner, Eastern Beaver Company: http://easternbeaver.com/ - Motorcycle Electrics Check out my incredible fuse panel - the PC-8 is a hit! 1990 Honda VFR750, 1988 Honda Africa Twin 650
