High-End Wood Computer Peripherals

High-End Wood Computer Peripherals

So you want that stylish Steampunk wooden PC look, but have more money than time/woodworking skills? Well WoodContour has the solution for you. I've linked to their sale page, but you are still going to have to cough up some serious coin for these babies. The above complete set, available in mahogany or purple heart runs $1800! For some reason it is cheaper to buy the components seperately, PS2 mouse is $50, wireless mouse is $150, keyboard (used) is $400, 17" LCD display is $400. I'm guessing the complete set comes with a new keyboard and that is considerably pricier than the used one. Still $450 for a nice wooden cased LCD and mouse isn't too bad, you could pay that if you weren't doing much comparison shopping, anyway. And it could be just the thing to finish off your Electro-Automated Binary-Data Computational Engine, or whatever wacky title you've come up for Steampunk project.
These are also available in Stone, if you are going for that Fred Flintsone NeoLithic Punk vibe.

Punk Photographer: DIY tripod

Punk Photographer: Pocket Tripod
instructables : Pocket Tripod
The Dragon has been lusting over the Gorillapod, mini-tripod with flexible legs meant to wrap around just about anything for sometime now. I seem to prefer shooting in low-light scenarios, and despise flashes. I actually like the strange effects that digital photo-sensors produce in low-light situations with long exposures. But the effects I like come from the movement of the subjects, not of the camera, and most tripods are too bulky for my purposes, i.e. won't fit in my shoulderbag.

This contraption is pretty cool though. Ugly as sin, but if you're punk enough that won't matter, and might even be a selling point... Plus, you can't beat the price. Could be just the thing for a photography major, you could save that extra money for something necessary like film or beer. Although, thinking about it, $20 is that much for a tripod. I quess being 35 now, I feel like I've earned the right to pick and choose my punk-rock affectations... "What a drag it is getting old..."

step 1Get Supplies
you need 4 things:3 Stiff pieces of wire, 10+ inches long (old coat hangers, copper house wiring); a 1/4" bolt that fits camera mounts, there pretty common; electrical tape; pliers

via LifeHacker

More info on the coming L series from CMSI

More info on the coming L series from CMSI

Steve over at TheScooterScoop, has the skinny on the new Lambretta wannabe that CMSI has in the works. A lot of people have been poo-pooing these, but it's looking pretty hot to me.

Unfortunately we don't have the tech specs and details on it's release, but from the images and discussions we had in the booth it seems that CMSI isn't in it just for the business, but also the passion. The design and aesthetics are in fact closely derived from the last models Innocent, binding together this classic look with an updated, more ecologically friendly power plant that is now readily available. It's the same motor that found on the Vespa GTS.

The Hot Toddies, "Motorscooter"

www.myspace.com/thehottoddies

Illnoise over at 2StrokeBuzz has a link up to these ladies' page due to the catchy pop-stylings on the song "Motorscooter." Kind of an early sixties pop vibe. I predict it will be running through my head as I shift gears this winter...

Build Your Own Virtual Motorcycle Company - The Kneeslider

Build Your Own Virtual Motorcycle Company - The Kneeslider

The Kneeslider has a very interesting article up on Virtual Manufacturing. Very interesting... I think this is still a little ways off, for something as indepth as vehicles, though I guess it is basically what Cafepress is doing if you look at it right.
Maybe it's time for me to polish up those designs for a camper trailer for two-wheelers...

In the United States and elsewhere, manufacturing jobs are heading overseas, factories large and small can no longer compete selling the one thing they sell, but if they can re-purpose some of their machines and rent out the capacity along with their skilled operators, maybe you can build that motorcycle and your neighbor can build that car and the guy down the street can start a furniture company, kinda makes you think doesn’t it? Rent every piece you need from initial design and engineering to manufacturing to warehousing to shipping, … a virtual company manufacturing and selling physical products.

Islam Outlaws Female Genital Mutilation

Islam Outlaws Female Genital Mutilation:

Praise to be Allah! (And it's about freaking time!) I am speechless with joy at this news.

RAUSDORF, Germany, December 4 -- Ten of the highest ranked scholars from all over the world met at the Azhar University under the patronage of the Grand Mufti of Egypt, Prof. Dr. Ali Goma'a. After listening to several international physicians, they pronounced the sensational decision to classify the custom of female genital mutilation (FGM) as punishable aggression and crime against humanity. As a result, the custom can no longer be practiced by Muslims. Now awareness of this decision has to be spread in the 33 affected countries.

Piaggio Promoting MP3 Test Rides in London

Piaggio Promoting MP3 Test Rides in London

Well the Dragon certainly can't advantage of this, but I know I've got some international audience, so I hope some of you lucky Brits take Piaggio up on this. Oh, and if you do, drop a comment on the experience, and you'll have a friend for life. (or at least a day or two...)

Now it’s your chance to test ride Piaggio’s radical MP3 three-wheeled scooter.
Piaggio is inviting you to come and test ride its MP3 on December 8-10 at its dealers across London.
To find your nearest participating dealer phone 0800 818 29800.