Meetings

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 day of meeting.

Click here to be connected to the meeting. Please join the meeting about 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 on to the meeting.

When: Sunday, May 8, 2022, at 1:15 P.M.
Where: Meetings will be on line until further notice.

SIG-Computing Topic:  Complete Robocall Defense

Presented by John Krout

John’s presentation provides an eye-opening look at the scope of the robocall problem, and a clear description of how robocall systems work. Finally, step by step, the presentation describes and shows how to configure your phone so that only calls from your contacts ring your phone, and how to create a custom voicemail greeting that convinces robocall systems not to leave a message and not to call you again.. 

John Krout is a retired software engineer, and has been writing about creative uses of personal computers since the 1980s. Recently he has also written about smart phones, tablets and digital cameras. During his career, he worked for federal contractor companies providing software requirements analysis, design, coding, documentation and training for many US government agencies in the Washington DC region. He lives in Arlington Virginia.

Also: Questions and Answers following the presentation.

When: Sunday, May 8, 2022 at 1:30 P.M.

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

SIG-Linux Topic: Modicia 

Presented by Sharan Kalwani

In the world of Linux distros, there are so many to choose from. As a multimedia enthusiast, Modicia appealed to me, as it is built by web designers for web site builders. In the case of Modicia O.S., it’s basically for multimedia users, but it’s suitable for everyone. This Linux distro is the brainchild of an Italy-based community. The distro is mostly a general purpose computing platform that works just out of the box. The operating system is based on Xubuntu and also features the mid-weight Xfce with more spice. They call the desktop environment Anabolized Xfce – a greatly modified version of Xfce4.

Also: Questions and Answers following the presentation.

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

When: Sunday, May 8, 2022, at 3:00 P.M.

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 day of meeting.

Click here to be connected to the meeting. Please join the meeting about 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 on to the meeting.

When: Sunday, Apr 10, 2022, at 1:15 P.M.
Where: Meetings will be on line until further notice.

SIG-Computing Topic:  Useful Tips in using Windows 10

Presented by Bill James

Bill will be giving a hands-on tour of Windows File Explorer Secrets and Creating a Restore Point in Windows 10.. 

Bill is a member of the APCUG Speakers Bureau and a member of the Computer Club of Oklahoma City which he serves as VP of Operations. He is also the APCUG Region 8 advisor serving the states of Oklahoma, Kansas, Missouri, Louisiana and Alabama. He has been a member of both organizations for over 30+ years.

Also: Questions and Answers following the presentation.

When: Sunday, Apr 10, 2022 at 1:30 P.M.

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

SIG-Linux Topic: Nitrux Distro

Presented by Sharan Kalwani

Previously Sharan had shared info about what is new in the Linux 5 release. Also mentioned were several distros to be reviewed. On that list was Nitrux , which was touted by TechRadar as a good distro for under-powered machines and beginners. He will put that to the test and share his findings.

Also: Questions and Answers following the presentation.

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

When: Sunday, Apr 10, 2022, at 3:00 P.M.

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 day of meeting.

Click here to be connected to the meeting. Please join the meeting about 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 on to the meeting.

When: Sunday, Mar 13, 2022, at 1:15 P.M.
Where: Meetings will be on line until further notice.

SIG-Computing Topic:  AnyDesk/ Teamviewer  – Providing free tech support from the comfort of your home

Presented by John Kennedy

John will show us how these programs will make your tech support a lot easier.  He will be focusing on AnyDesk and share a little about Teamviewer. A “picture is worth a thousand words,” as we are told. The same goes for being able to “see” people’s computer problems. These programs allow you to see someone else’s computer screen and even talk about their problems. And when they are having trouble trying to do what you tell them, you can take over their keyboard with yours and take over their mouse with your mouse. For example, he has solved a computer problem with Remote Access in about 10 minutes that he could not do after 25 minutes over the phone.  In addition, using Remote Access will allow you to be “at their side”, while avoiding long travels and traveling in bad weather. 

John Kennedy is the APCUG Advisor for Regions 3 and 6; and a member of the East Central Ohio Technology User Club. John is also a member of the APCUG Speakers Bureau and has done several web presentations for computer groups and at regional conferences in Ohio, Nevada, and Florida. John got his feet wet with computers in the early 80’s with his first Atari 400 and continued on to different PCs running Windows and Linux.

John taught elementary school for 25 years and taught computer skills in middle school for 10 years. He also conducts computer classes for seniors. John also spends many hours trying to help both Windows users and Linux users with their computer problems. He co-hosts ECOTUC’s “Linux SIG/Help Desk” that meets twice a month.

Also: Questions and Answers following the presentation.

When: Sunday, Mar 13, 2022 at 1:30 P.M.

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

SIG-Linux Topic: What’s New with Linux

Presented by Sharan Kalwani

This month we will do the annual “what’s new with Linux” and briefly talk about a few new distros..

Also: Questions and Answers following the presentation.

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

When: Sunday, Mar 13, 2022, at 3:00 P.M.

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 day of meeting.

Click here to be connected to the meeting. Please join the meeting about 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 on to the meeting.

When: Sunday, Feb 13, 2022, at 1:15 P.M.
Where: Meetings will be on line until further notice.

SIG-Computing Topic:  Cutting the Cord in 2022

Presented by Tom Allen

This talk will cover strategies for reducing your cable bill and still getting the channels you want.
The new over the air TV standard and the various streaming services will be covered.
Selecting and evaluating a TV antenna will also be covered.  

Tom Allen is a retired software engineer.  He has worked at various positions in the automobile industry.  He holds masters degrees in software engineering and management from the University of Michigan Ann Arbor.

Also: Questions and Answers following the presentation.

When: Sunday, Feb 13, 2022 at 1:30 P.M.

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

SIG-Linux Topic: Computer Aided Engineering – part 2

Presented by Sharan Kalwani

This month we continue with part 2 about CAElinux and the wealth of Open Source Engineering Design tools. CAE which is short for “Computer Aided Engineering” is the general abbreviation applied to everything computer aided in the digital based engineering world. (CAD/CAM/CAE/FEA/CFD etc.). We will briefly look at the CAELinux distro and all the goodies that come with it..

Also: Questions and Answers following the presentation.

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

When: Sunday, Feb 13, 2022, at 3:00 P.M.

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 day of meeting.

Click here to be connected to the meeting. Please join the meeting about 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 on to the meeting.

Election of Officers and Board Members-at-Large. Based on the nominations in the Dec 2021 meeting, ballots were mailed to all members. All ballots must be mailed in. The closing date for receipt of completed ballots is Jan 16, 2022.

The open positions are President, Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary, and two Board Members‑at‑Large. You can also write in any member including yourself for any of the positions.

When: Sunday, Jan 9, 2022, at 1:15 P.M.
Where: Meetings will be on line until further notice.

SIG-Computing Topic:  Purchasing a printer in 2022

Presented by Ron Brown

Purchase considerations for a printer in 2022: Choosing a printer depends on how much you print but more important is the frequency of printing.  What is the most economical printer for your use?  There are many other printing options for color pictures or documents.  What are ecotank printers, and what is HP’s new Neverstop laser printer that you fill-up the laser cartridges yourself?  Printing options for 2022 discussed. 

Ron is a retired technologist. He is the program director for a very active Computer Club in the Mesa Arizona area, that now has a membership of about 200.  He loves technology and spends his spare time doing presentations and teaching a variety of programs.

Ron started his career as a Flight Surgeon in Alberta, Canada. While running his Family Practice, he also started up a company that developed software for keeping Electronic Patient Records and other patient data management programs for the Medical field.

Also: Questions and Answers following the presentation.

When: Sunday, Jan 9, 2022 at 1:30 P.M.

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

SIG-Linux Topic: Computer Aided Engineering

Presented by Sharan Kalwani

All about CAElinux and the wealth of Open Source Engineering Design tools. CAE which is short for “Computer Aided Engineering” is the general abbreviation applied to everything computer aided in the digital based engineering world. (CAD/CAM/CAE/FEA/CFD etc.). We will briefly look at the CAELinux distro and all the goodies that come with it..

Also: Questions and Answers following the presentation.

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

When: Sunday, Jan 9, 2022, at 3:00 P.M.

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 day of meeting.

Click here to be connected to this meeting. Please join the meeting about 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 on to the meeting.

Nominations for Officers and Board Members-at-Large. We will be taking nominations for candidates to run for our 2022 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 12, 2021, at 1:15 P.M. Detroit Time
Where: Meetings will be on line until further notice.

SIG-Computing Topic: using GIMP for Editing Photos

Presented by Arthur Gresham

This is a demonstration of just a few of the features of GIMP software (GNU Image Manipulation Program). GIMP is a cross-platform image editor available for GNU/Linux, OS X, Windows and more operating systems. Art will be demonstrating just a few of the many tools, using specific examples of actual works that he has produced. This will not be a full demonstration of how to install and use all its features as there are many available Youtube and tutorials available. A primary emphasis will be on the concept of “layers” and a couple of other unique tools, showing how you can enhance a photo or drawing, or even create an entirely imagined result.

Art retired from the US Navy, during which he earned a Bachelors Degree in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science. He served in various computer and technology assignments, which lead to civilian jobs in Computer Programming. He joined the Heath User Group of San Diego in 1982 after building his first computer. The group transitioned to the Under the Computer Hood User Group as the home and business computer industry grew. He served in several positions with the UCHUG, including the current job as Editor of the group’s Drive Light newsletter since 1996.

Also: Questions and Answers following the presentation.

When: Sunday, Dec 12, 2021 at 1:30 P.M.

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

SIG-Linux Topic: GIMP presentation continues

Presented by Arthur Gresham

The GIMP presentation continues. Any time remaining will be available for open discussion.

Also: Questions and Answers after the presentation.

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

When: Sunday, Dec 12, 2021 at 3:00 P.M.

When: Saturday, April 16, 2022, at 2 PM.

Rick Fink will continue discussing the use of recursion on a member’s program.
All are welcome to attend.

Where: Richard Jackson’s home. Call Richard Jackson at 248-546-3694 for directions.

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 day of meeting.

Click here to be connected to this meeting. Please join the meeting about 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 on to the meeting.

When: Sunday, Nov 14, 2021, at 1:15 P.M. Detroit Time
Where: Meetings will be on line until further notice.

SIG-Computing Topic: Ergonomics: You, Your Computer, Tablet, and Smartphone

Presented by Judy Taylour

Sit straight! Shoulders rounded! Arms relaxed! Feet on the floor! Wrists/hands floating! Cumulative trauma! Repetitive stress syndrome!

We have all been using technology for many years; are we still practicing good ergonomics? Or, are we stressing our bodies every day without realizing it by extending our wrists, slouching, sitting without foot support, and bending our head to look at poorly placed monitors?

Along the way, we started using tablets and smartphones which have a different set of ergonomic issues. This presentation will take us down memory lane on computer ergonomics and give us ideas on the proper use of our tablets and smartphones.

Judy is a 34-year member of the Santa Clarita Valley Computer Club, where she serves as President, Editor, and Webmaster. In addition, she was co-facilitator for the Southern California Regional User Group Summit (SCRUGS), for over 20 years.

She spent 23 years involved with the Southwest Technology Conference held in San Diego, serving as co-chair and chair. Every year she scheduled the speakers and was the volunteer coordinator.

Judy taught adult education tech classes for over 20 years through her local high school district. She is a member of the Pierce College Computer Applications and Office Technologies (COAT) Advisory Committee that meets annually to suggest courses and hardware for the next school year. Judy is a firm believer in life-long learning and enjoys giving presentations via APCUG’s Speakers Bureau.

Also: Questions and Answers following the presentation.

When: Sunday, Nov 14, 2021 at 1:30 P.M.

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

SIG-Linux Topic: The great Chip shortage

Presented by Sharan Kalwani

The great chip shortage of 2021 is a current topic of discussion, in which the demand for integrated circuits is greater than the supply, impacting several industries and has led to major shortages and queues amongst consumers for video cards, video game consoles, cars and other electrical devices. This talk will give some background information plus a historical perspective as well. 

Disclaimer: We are not soothsayers, just researchers and purveyors of the facts.

Also: Questions and Answers after the presentation.

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

When: Sunday, Nov 14, 2021 at 3:00 P.M.

When: Sunday, October 16, 2021, at 2 PM.

Rick Fink will continue the discussion adding new tables and working with them in his game program.
All are welcome to attend.

Where: Richard Jackson’s home. Call Richard Jackson at 248-546-3694 for directions.

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 day of meeting.

Click here to be connected to this meeting. Please join the meeting about 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 on to the meeting.

When: Sunday, Oct 10, 2021, at 1:15 P.M. Detroit Time
Where: Meetings will be on line until further notice.

SIG-Computing Topic: An Introductory look at “Windows 11”

Presented by Francis Chao

This presentation will consist of a lively demonstration of the initial version of “Windows 11” that will be/was released on October 5, 2021. After this demonstration, Francis
will also talk about:
1. Stringent hardware requirements for “Windows 11.” relative to those for “Windows 10.”  
2. Determining if your existing computer can run “Windows 11..”
3. End of Life for “Windows 10” on October 14, 2025

4. The improvements over “Windows 10”

5. “Windows 10” features that will be deprecated in “Windows 11”

6. Differences between “fresh install” and “Out of the Box Experience” between “Windows 11 Home”  and “Windows 11 Pro” and how they both differ from “Windows 10.”

Francis is a member of APCUG’s Speakers Bureau. He is a member of the Tucson Computer Society and was a frequent presenter at the TCS when he lived in Arizona. He has given presentations at the Southwest Technology & Computer Conference as well as several at APCUG’s Virtual Technology Conferences.

Also: Questions and Answers following the presentation.

When: Sunday, Oct 10, 2021 at 1:30 P.M.

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

SIG-Linux Topic: Kernel 5 – an overview

Presented by Sharan Kalwani

What is new with the latest Linux kernel 5, a brief overview…..

Also: Questions and Answers after the presentation.

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

When: Sunday, Oct 10, 2021 at 3:00 P.M.