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, Sept 11, 2022, at 1:15 P.M.
Where: Meetings will be on line until further notice.

SIG Computing Topic: Computer Buying Guide

Presented by Rob Truman

Getting ready to invest in a new computer?  Totally confused about all of the terminology and specifications? Rob will provide some basics when it comes to picking your next machine. If you are looking for a pre-purchase buying guide, then this presentation is for you.

Rob is a member of Computer Booters of Sun Lakes Computer Club and serves on their Board of Directors as their Web Director. He has over 40 years of experience in Information Technology and Internet-related fields. He is a retired U.S. Navy Chief Electronics Technician and has worked as a Technical Support professional for Microsoft over the years.  Rob holds a Master of Arts degree in Adult Education and a Bachelor of Science degree in Information Technology (BSIT).  He is a staunch proponent of lifelong learning and runs a website/blog called Geezer Tek which focuses on helping the senior community with their technology needs. Rob also volunteers and teaches adult education technology classes through his local community college and their lifelong learning program: New Adventures in Learning..

Also: Questions and Answers following the presentation.

When: Sunday, Sept 11, 2022 at 1:30 P.M.

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

SIG-Linux Topic: Linux Mint distro

Presented by Sharan Kalwani

After last month’s presentation on MX (the #1 distro) I decided to focus on the next popular distro – Linux Mint. While it is rated #3, I chose it because this is also based on Debian and Ubuntu LTS, so that makes it possible to demo a number of good features and why several recommend it as a good choice for 1st time Windows and Mac OS users.

Also: Questions and Answers following the presentation.

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

When: Sunday, Sept 11, 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, Aug 14, 2022, at 1:15 P.M.
Where: Meetings will be on line until further notice.

SIG-Computing Topic:  Google Docs and Apps

Presented by Tom Allen

This talk will cover what Google services are available and why you should use them.  A hands on demonstration of some of the more obscure and common Google apps will be given.

Tom Allen is a retired software and mechanical engineer.  Currently he does web design and computer consulting.  He also is a frequent speaker on a wide range of technical topics.

Also: Questions and Answers following the presentation.

When: Sunday, Aug 14, 2022 at 1:30 P.M.

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

SIG-Linux Topic: MX distro 

Presented by Sharan Kalwani

In August we plan on doing a review of the MX distro

Also: Questions and Answers following the presentation.

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

When: Sunday, Aug 14, 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, July 10, 2022, at 1:15 P.M.
Where: Meetings will be on line until further notice.

SIG-Computing Topic:  The Cloud is Here – Don’t Get Left Behind

Presented by Judy Taylour

Are you using the Cloud? Unfortunately, many people still answer no. We seem to need buzz words to define anything related to computers, which seems to mystify people. You will be surprised when you find out how much we are all using the Cloud and how much more is out there that we can take advantage of.

We no longer have just one computer; we have a smartphone, a tablet, and probably a second computer. How can we keep our data files in sync on all of them? We want to share files with family, friends, and associates, but emailing them is inefficient. Is there a better way? 

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, July 10, 2022 at 1:30 P.M.

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

SIG-Linux Topic: Porteus 

Presented by Sharan Kalwani

This month will be take a look at Porteus, which is a portable operating system based on Slackware. It does not require installation and can be run from fixed and removable media, such as a USB flash drive or compact disc. It is available in both 32 and 64-bit versions..

Also: Questions and Answers following the presentation.

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

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

When: Saturday, July16, 2022, at 2 PM.

The June meeting is cancelled.

Rick Fink will talk about a new game he is working on. Also, he is now running Python on Linux Mint Cinnamon.
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 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, June 12, 2022, at 1:15 P.M.
Where: Meetings will be on line until further notice.

SIG-Computing Topic:  Declutter Your Digital Life

Presented by Judy Taylour

You spend a lot of money on your equipment – learn to optimize your devices to make them last longer and help you be more productive. Digital clutter slows down your computer over time and routine device decluttering is necessary for top performance. Judy’s presentation will show you how you can declutter your digital life and be more organized to work faster and smarter and less stressed. 

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, June 12, 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, June 12, 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, 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.