If you're of "a certain age," you might remember when "computer literacy" equaled "everyone will be a programmer." Unfortunately, the limitations of BASIC (line numbers leading to incomprehensible "spaghetti code," primitive graphics, and no syntax checking) made most would-be programmers dropouts. I haven't written a computer program in over 20 years, but Microsoft has introduced a modern, easy-to-use language designed for the masses (and for dropouts like me): Small Basic. Small Basic, available in pre-release version 0.2 , runs on Windows Server 2003, Windows Server 2008, Windows Vista, Windows Vista 64-bit Editions Service Pack 1, Windows XP, Windows XP 64-bit. It relies on .NET Framework 3.5 SP1, which you will need to install if you don't have it already. This Ain't Your Daddy's BASIC Microsoft says that Small Basic "is a project that is aimed at making computer programming accessible to beginners. The project comprises a ...
(link)
Windows XP: It Keeps Going, and Going, and Going
technologyexpert.blogspot.com 12/23/2008 — Windows XP: it's not an Energizer battery, but it still seems to keep going. Microsoft has given yet another reprieve, of sorts, to the operating system that many refuse to switch from.
BBC NEWS | Technology | Windows XP allowed to live again
news.bbc.co.uk 12/22/2008 — Microsoft has given yet another reprieve to its seasoned Windows XP operating system. The cut off date for PC makers to obtain licenses for the software was 31 January 2009. But now Microsoft has put in place a scheme that will allow the hardware ...
Microsoft: Rumors of Upcoming Microsoft Cut-Backs
minimsft.blogspot.com 12/23/2008 — Rumors. Microsoft layoff and cut-backs and Reduction In Force rumors. That's all I have for you. Rumors and second-hand speculation and the comments left by the fine, good-looking folks who participate in the conversation here. So pour yourself some ...
Windows XP gets Another Stay of Execution —
Maximum PC all RSS Feed 12/23/2008
Microsoft recently announced to its system-building partners that they would extend the pull date on Windows XP past the originally announced January 31, 2009. These system builders are going to be allowed orders of XP all the way up until ...
Mac fans see MS porn everywhere —
The Register 12/23/2008
Accuse Redmond of spewing out river of filth Microsoft's Seadragon graphics viewing application has come under fire for allegedly distributing pornography to unsuspecting iPhone users, presumably those unfamiliar with the way the internet works ...