Sikander Rashid

Sharan Kalwani, president of SEMCO, will start the meeting and make general announcements.

Starting May 12, 2024 we will be using a Hybrid Zoom and IN PERSON format for our meetings.

For In Person location see below.

Zoom details are same as before. Click here to be connected to the meeting.

Please join the meeting around 1:00 PM or later. This link will be active on the day of the meeting.

Members will also receive an e-mail on the day of the meeting, with the link and any further details and instructions about how to log into the meeting.

When: Sunday, June 9, 2024 at 1:15 P.M.
Where: In person at the office of i3Detroit, located at 1481-A Wordsworth St, Ferndale, MI 48220.

(For more detailed directions and parking information please click on the About SEMCO tab on this site).

SIG Computing Topic: All about Ham Radio

Presented by Tom Allen

This talk will cover what Ham radio is and the history of Ham radio. 

We will cover ham radio privileges and also discuss how to become a Ham. 

Additional resources will be given.

Tom Allen is a retired software engineer with BS and MS from U of M in computer science and electrical engineering.  He is a licensed ham radio operator.  He now does consulting in computer technology and gives presentations.

Also: Questions and Answers following the presentation.

When: Sunday, June 9, 2024 at 1:30 P.M.

Where: Meetings will be Hybrid in person and online. Details shown above.

SIG-Linux Topic: Recent XZ utils backdoor issue

Presented by Sharan Kalwani

During some routine testing a developer noticed odd behavior and upon further  investigation, found that the XZ Utils – which is used for compression/decompression – had some text files added as a binary which added a backdoor.

We will describe this in some detail and of course you don’t need to worry too much about it since it has been very quickly addressed. More fun details in the actual talk itself.

Also: Questions and Answers following the presentation

When: Sunday, June 9, 2024 at 3:00 P.M.

Where: Meetings will be Hybrid in person and online. Details shown above.

Sharan Kalwani, president of SEMCO, will start the meeting and make general announcements.

Starting May 12, 2024 we will be using a Hybrid Zoom and IN PERSON format for our meetings.

For In Person location see below.

Zoom details are same as before. Click here to be connected to the meeting.

Please join the meeting around 1:00 PM or later. This link will be active on the day of the meeting.

Members will also receive an e-mail on the day of the meeting, with the link and any further details and instructions about how to log into the meeting.

When: Sunday, May 12, 2024 at 1:15 P.M.
Where: In person at the office of i3Detroit, located at 1481-A Wordsworth St, Ferndale, MI 48220

SIG Computing Topic: AI – Artificial Intelligence

Presented by Tom Allen

 This talk will cover AI: how AI is used,

the advantages and disadvantages of AI,

and a little insight as to how it is implemented. 

AI apps will also be covered.

Tom Allen is a retired software engineer with BS and MS from U of M in computer science and electrical engineering.   He worked at Ford Research on AI to control transmissions.  He now does consulting in computer technology and gives presentations.

Also: Questions and Answers following the presentation.

When: Sunday, May 12, 2024 at 1:30 P.M.

Where: Meetings will be Hybrid in person and online. Details shown above.

SIG-Linux Topic: Recent XZ utils backdoor issue (Postponed to next month)

Presented by Sharan Kalwani

During some routine testing a developer noticed odd behavior and upon further  investigation, found that the XZ Utils – which is used for compression/decompression – had some text files added as a binary which added a backdoor.

We will describe this in some detail and of course you don’t need to worry too much about it since it has been very quickly addressed. More fun details in the actual talk itself.

Also: Questions and Answers following the presentation

When: Sunday, May 12, 2024 at 3:00 P.M.

Where: Meetings will be Hybrid in person and online. Details shown above.

Sharan Kalwani, president of SEMCO, will start the meeting and make general announcements.

We will be using Zoom for this meeting. This link will be active on the day of the meeting.

Click here to be connected to the meeting. Please join the meeting around 1:00 PM or later.

Members will also receive an e-mail on the day of the meeting, with the link and any further details and instructions about how to log into the meeting.

When: Sunday, Apr 14, 2024 at 1:15 P.M.
Where: Meetings will be online until further notice.

Sig Computing Topic: My Tools for Computer Support

Presented by Mike Bader

I have a USB stick which I carry along with a to-do checklist when I install new, update, troubleshoot, or tuneup computers. I will show my favorite web browsers and web browser settings as well as browser add-ons and extensions. I will discuss antiviruses. I will explain what a firewall is and why I use one. 

I use multiple email addresses for certain types of emails such as friends, associates, businesses, clubs, and mailing lists. I also use multiple email providers and will explain why. I use VPNs and will explain how to choose one. I update my Windows, web browsers, drivers, and utilities daily to stay safe. I will explain private or incognito mode.

Mike Bader has been in IT since 1968. He is a long time member and past President of SEMCO.

Also: Questions and Answers following the presentation.

When: Sunday, Apr 14, 2024 at 1:30 P.M.

Where: Meetings will be online until further notice. Click on the link shown above.

SIG-Linux Topic: What is TBD tbd

Presented by Sharan Kalwani

This month we will TBD tbd….

When: Sunday, Apr 14, 2024 at 3:00 P.M.

Where: Meetings will be online until further notice. Click on the link shown above.

Sharan Kalwani, president of SEMCO, will start the meeting and make general announcements.

We will be using Zoom for this meeting. This link will be active on the day of the meeting.

Click here to be connected to the meeting. Please join the meeting around 1:00 PM or later.

Members will also receive an e-mail on the day of the meeting, with the link and any further details and instructions about how to log into the meeting.

When: Sunday, Mar 10, 2024 at 1:15 P.M.
Where: Meetings will be online until further notice.

Sig Computing Topic: Your Heart’s Best Friend: Monitoring Heart Rate AND Fall detection with a Smartwatch, as explained by a Physician.

Presented by Ron Brown

In March we will have a dual set of back to back presentations by Ron Brown of the Tech for Seniors web site.

Part 1: Your Heart’s Best Friend: Monitoring Heart Rate with A Smartwatch

Part 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 – Fall detection explained by a Physician.

.Ron would like to be known as a retired technologist. His career started as a Flight Surgeon after having graduated in Medicine at the University of Alberta in 1976. In 1981 he settled in the Comox Valley on Vancouver Island after leaving the military to start a Family Practice. At that time, PC’s were just being produced and Microsoft Windows was going to integrate everything. He wanted an electronic office and bought interest in a start-up software company in Calgary that made an Electronic Patient Records. As his Family Practice grew so did his software company. Over the next 20 years it grew into an International Company and had him traveling across Canada and the US giving papers at many conferences. The topics ranged from patient management, Lab integration, security, and data input.

At 55 his two children were well on their way in their own careers and his wife really wanted to get to know him. He retired and sold his medical practice and other business interests. Retirement has many rewards and one of them is being able to produce the, ” Tech for Senior” project. He have two shows a week, 500 on-line videos, and a Podcast. This project is growing exponentially and he now have another full time job without pay!!! He works with the greatest people in the world and am having so much fun. Details can be found @ www.techforsenior.com

Also: Questions and Answers following the presentation.

When: Sunday, Mar 10, 2024 at 1:30 P.M.

Where: Meetings will be online until further notice. Click on the link shown above.

SIG-Linux Topic: What is New in Linux Apps

Presented by Sharan Kalwani

This month we will do a whirlwind round up of what is new in the world of Linux Apps, which will cover things like health care app, new distros, productivity aid, new browser, Linux app to manage personal finances, taking notes, new file manager, system monitor, and a reminder tool.

Of course time permitting we will take a look at new stuff in the Linux kernel which makes it more versatile in the cloud/high performance computing and AI worlds….

When: Sunday, Mar 10, 2024 at 3:00 P.M.

Where: Meetings will be online until further notice. Click on the link shown above.

Sharan Kalwani, president of SEMCO, will start the meeting and make general announcements.

We will be using Zoom for this meeting. This link will be active on the day of the meeting.

Click here to be connected to the meeting. Please join the meeting around 1:00 PM or later.

Members will also receive an e-mail on the day of the meeting, with the link and any further details and instructions about how to log into the meeting.

Election of Officers and Board Members-at-Large. Based on the receipt of completed ballots received by Jan 21, 2024, the results of the election will be announced for the open positions of President, Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary, and two Board Members‑at‑Large.

When: Sunday, Feb 11, 2024 at 1:15 P.M.
Where: Meetings will be online until further notice.

Sig Computing Topic: Technology Always Seems To Be Changing The Way We Listen to Music at Home and In The Car

Presented by Ray Baxter

We’ve all experienced the changes technology has provided over the last several decades in just about every facet of our lives. I’m of the opinion the way we listen to our favorite tunes at home and in our cars has probably seen the most changes.
I’ll review how we’ve listened to the music we choose in our homes starting with the 78-rpm record, and all the devices in between bringing us up to date with today’s various streaming options. Then the focus will move to how we consume music on the road starting with when it was so “cool” to have a push-button AM radio in the car. I’ll also focus on how to utilize your existing Compact Disc collection now that new cars no longer have a CD player, as well as streaming from an online service, using Bluetooth, flash drives, smartphones, and more.

Ray was born and raised in New York City. His 40+ year banking career started in “back office operations” and progressed to marketing and management positions in both NYC and Los Angeles with three different major international financial institutions.

Ray’s first introduction to personal computers came with a Radio Shack purchase in 1986, and it has been a constant learning experience since then looking to stay current with the changes in technology.

Today Ray lives in central Arizona’s Rim Country where in the past he taught three computer courses at the Payson campus of Eastern Arizona College. Ray was the long-time President of the Payson Area Computer Association and has reformed PACA into a “meet-up” computer club with those attending via Zoom including those from outside the local area. Ray first joined APCUG as the Region 9 Advisor in 2013. Two years later he was elected a Director while also filling the Officer role of Treasurer. Ray is now the President as well while continuing as the Chair of the Finance committee, and a member of the Contests, Legacy, and Membership committees. 

Also: Questions and Answers following the presentation.

When: Sunday, Feb 11, 2024 at 1:30 P.M.

Where: Meetings will be online until further notice. Click on the link shown above.

SIG-Linux Topic: No topic this month

Presented by Sharan Kalwani

This month the Sig Linux time is donated to Sig Computing, since their talk covers a vast spectrum of topics .

When: Sunday, Feb 11, 2024 at 3:00 P.M.

Where: Meetings will be online until further notice. Click on the link shown above.

Sharan Kalwani, president of SEMCO, will start the meeting and make general announcements.

We will be using Zoom for this meeting. This link will be active on the day of the meeting.

Click here to be connected to the meeting. Please join the meeting around 1:00 PM or later.

Members will also receive an e-mail on the day of the meeting, with the link and any further details and instructions about how to log into the meeting.

Election of Officers and Board Members-at-Large. Based on the nominations in the Dec 2023 meeting, ballots were mailed to all members. All ballots must be mailed in. The closing date for receipt of completed ballots is Jan 21, 2024.

The open positions are President, Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary, and two Board Members‑at‑Large. You can nominate any member including yourself for any of the positions. Please consider running for these positions.

When: Sunday, Jan 14, 2024 at 1:15 P.M.
Where: Meetings will be online until further notice.

Sig Computing Topic: New Chips on the Block

Presented by Sharan Kalwani

In the last 3 years (2020-2023), we have had several new chips – such as the IBM POWER10, (open source) RISC-V, Apple Silicon (M1, M2 and now M3) as well as a few AI-geared designs: AMD Instinct and of course not to forget – the NVIDIA GH200 (Grace CPU & Hopper GPU) – appear on the immediate horizon, all of which have excited the world of personal computing, embedded systems, high-performance computing and AI world. We will take an architectural look at the hardware of these new processors and share a little insight on what all this means for us.

Sharan Kalwani is an industry technology specialist with 25+ years of experience. He has degrees in both Engineering and Computer Science. He has worked in many diverse areas and is a sought after speaker at many conferences and seminars: such as Supercomputing, HPC Advisory Council, SIAM, Infiniband Trade Association, etc. Sharan is a senior member of IEEE, an Emeritus member of Michigan!UNIX/user group (mug.org), ACM and SEMCO. He enjoys teaching, holds an Adjunct Faculty position at several local educational sites. He has published one book “Linux and Internet Security” and is now working on his second text, about a new computer programming language. He is a recipient of the 2018 IEEE MGA Achievement award for his contributions to IEEE activities. 

Also: Questions and Answers following the presentation.

When: Sunday, Jan 14, 2024 at 1:30 P.M.

Where: Meetings will be online until further notice. Click on the link shown above.

SIG-Linux Topic: No topic this month

Presented by Sharan Kalwani

This month the Sig Linux time is donated to Sig Computing, since their talk covers a vast spectrum of topics .

When: Sunday, Jan 14, 2024 at 3:00 P.M.

Where: Meetings will be online until further notice. Click on the link shown above.

Sharan Kalwani, president of SEMCO, will start the meeting and make general announcements.

We will be using Zoom for this meeting. This link will be active on the day of the meeting.

Click here to be connected to the meeting. Please join the meeting around 1:00 PM or later.

Members will also receive an e-mail on the day of the meeting, with the link and any further details and instructions about how to log into the meeting.

Nominations for Officers and Board Members-at-Large. We will be taking nominations for candidates to run for our 2023 Officers and Board of Directors at the beginning of our meeting.

The open positions are President, Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary, and two Board Members‑at‑Large. You can nominate any member including yourself for any of the positions. Please consider running for these positions.

When: Sunday, Dec 10, at 1:15 P.M.
Where: Meetings will be online until further notice.

Sig Computing Topic: Rise of computing in Automobiles

Presented by Sharan Kalwani

The growth of electronics within the automobile has been nothing short of phenomenal. In 2015 it accounted for 13% of the total value of the car and in 2018 it had jumped to 20%. A large portion of that has been purely due to the rise of computing components, such as ADAS, ECUs, etc. New technologies such as 3D laminated glass, haptic sensors, and augmented reality heads-up displays — which offer drivers alerts, safety aids, and warnings on invisible screens embedded in the windshield — have entered the vocabulary of traditional suppliers. Large navigation and entertainment display screens in the dashboard, offer Web-based information and media, as well as data arrays picked up from networked roads and other cars. The autonomous car will further up the ante, and soon. This talk will focus on many of what is the “under the hood” computing portions, technologies and the accompanying massive software baggage that needs to go with it. It is time we got more familiar with the computing technologies and underlying foundations that go with it.

He will introduce many terms, concepts and issues to help folks in Automotive technologies get better prepared for the future (or is fusion a better word?) world of automotive & computer tech. 

Sharan Kalwani is an industry technology specialist with 25+ years of experience. He has degrees in both Engineering and Computer Science. He has worked in many diverse areas and is a sought after speaker at many conferences and seminars: such as Supercomputing, HPC Advisory Council, SIAM, Infiniband Trade Association, etc. Sharan is a senior member of IEEE, an Emeritus member of Michigan!UNIX/user group (mug.org), ACM and SEMCO. He enjoys teaching, holds an Adjunct Faculty position at several local educational sites. He has published one book “Linux and Internet Security” and is now working on his second text, about a new computer programming language. He is a recipient of the 2018 IEEE MGA Achievement award for his contributions to IEEE activities. 

Also: Questions and Answers following the presentation.

When: Sunday, Dec 10, 2023 at 1:30 P.M.

Where: Meetings will be online until further notice. Click on the link shown above.

SIG-Linux Topic: No topic this month

Presented by Sharan Kalwani

No topic this month

When: Sunday, Dec 10, 2023 at 3:00 P.M.

Where: Meetings will be online until further notice. Click on the link shown above.

Sharan Kalwani, president of SEMCO, will start the meeting and make general announcements.

We will be using Zoom for this meeting. This link will be active on the day of the meeting.

Click here to be connected to the meeting. Please join the meeting around 1:00 PM or later.

Members will also receive an e-mail on the day of the meeting, with the link and any further details and instructions about how to log into the meeting.

When: Sunday, Nov 12, at 1:15 P.M.
Where: Meetings will be online until further notice.

Sig Computing Topic: iOS 17 Intro & Apple News 

Presented by Jerry Rogan

 iOS 17 doesn’t seem to have to many sweeping changes, as we have seen in some past updates, however the new features and enhancements do make it a very desirable upgrade. In fact, there are over 350 changes.  You’ll learn many of the major enhancements in this presentation.

Jerry will also present other news from Apple and answer any Apple questions that he can.

Jerry Rogan served in the US Air Force as a software engineer.  After the service he started an industrial software company, which was later sold. He then became the CEO of a software company in Europe, which had seven offices around the globe, until his retirement. 

He now spends summers in Iowa with his family, and winters in Arizona, where he enjoys golf and is currently a member of the Sunland Springs Village Technology Group, the Payson Computer Meet Up Group and a member of the APCUG Speakers Bureau.

Also: Questions and Answers following the presentation.

When: Sunday, Nov 12, 2023 at 1:30 P.M.

Where: Meetings will be online until further notice. Click on the link shown above.

SIG-Linux Topic: no topic this month

Presented by Sharan Kalwani

When: Sunday, Nov 12, 2023 at 3:00 P.M.

Where: Meetings will be online until further notice. Click on the link shown above.