February | 2019 | Birds on a Cable

Microsoft Teams – Huh?

By Sean Christopher On February 27, 2019February 27, 2019 In Application Spotlight, Tech Tips

I recently learned that Microsoft is replacing Skype for Business with an application called Teams. This was big news to me. I have used Skype for Business (aka Lync) for half a decade now, and it’s been a tremendous tool. But I think we all know Microsoft is trying hard to compete with Slack. My initial reaction was frustration, because Microsoft is replacing a popular and productive tool with a busy-looking application, and who likes change, anyway? So, what am I going to do? Complain and fight it? Take my ball home and cry? Nope! As an IT professional with 90% of his clients using Microsoft, it’s my job to learn it. So I started testing. Here are some of my take-aways, and the more valuable features of Microsoft Teams.

My Battery is Low, and It’s Getting Dark

By Laura Jean On February 20, 2019February 20, 2019 In Fun Stuff

Last week marked the cessation of NASA’s JPL (Jet Propulsion Lab) Mars Exploration mission’s efforts to reach the Opportunity Rover, after a historic dust storm wreaked havoc on practically the ENTIRE planet in June of 2018.

3D Printing Fever!

By Michael Gregory On February 13, 2019February 13, 2019 In Fun Stuff

I’ve been interested in the development of 3D printing for a few years, but the cost to get into the “hobby” was out of my price range, with most machines costing upwards of $1000 or more. Late last year I started seeing more people pop up with reviews and tips on various less expensive machines, bringing a purchase into the realm of possibility. After looking up the various options, I settled on a Creality Ender 3 for $189 from a Chinese distributor and bought it just after Christmas.

Why an Inch of Snow Shuts Down Portland

By Kristin Imperio On February 7, 2019February 7, 2019 In Fun Stuff, Misc

I, Kris Relucio, am a survivor of Midwest snowstorms. Having lived 30+ years in Illinois, I’d like to think I’ve experienced a lot of inclement weather, including rapidly falling (and rising) temperatures. I’ve had my share of snow days. But I’m realizing that nothing is more dangerous than when one inch of snow hits Portland, Oregon.