Historic Computer Experiences

Those studying for the Bar exam need a break, and it's summer for everyone, so enjoy this slide show revealing the dramatic changes in web design since nine of the most popular websites--including Google, Facebook, and the New York Times--were first introduced.  Brought to you by Mashable.com, "What the World's Biggest Websites Looked Like at Launch" also has some brief information about each home page's initial design.

And, long before they were mobile, Lexis and Westlaw were truly stationary--usable only at the dedicated computer terminals of the 1980's in law libraries and offices. Experience a brief close encounter with the first computer-assisted legal research terminal, introduced by Lexis-Nexis in 1980 and now on display in the Computer History Museum, Mountain View, California.  

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Computer Chronicles

Exams are coming, but things could be worse.  For example, it could be 1987, when law students were handwriting all of their exams with pens for three solid hours.  The "portable computer" or laptop of the day, as this amusing You Tube video from the TV series Computer Chronicles (broadcast on PBS stations from 1983 to 2002) clearly demonstrates, would have been a hopeless hindrance, not a help. The Computer Chronicles episodes, while seriously documenting twenty years of impressive progress and innovation, today provide a very entertaining window as well on the earliest years of browsers, laptops, email and video games.  They also make great short study breaks.  Enjoy, and be grateful for the blessings of 2013 technology!

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Research Resources: Computer Technology Law Report (BNA)

If you are interested in a semi-monthly publication that provides legal developments in liability and insurance coverage issues relating to computers, try the Computer Technology Law Report. The report also offers coverage of computer technology issues on the federal, state and international levels.  Dates of coverage are from May 5, 2000 to the present.
To access the Computer Technology Law Report (BNA):

• Go to the Library's home page, click "Online Resources"
• Then, click "Intellectual Property" link
• Scroll down, click the " Computer Technology Law Report(BNA)" link

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Google Glass v. Apple iWatch

For a laugh, and possibilities for upcoming birthday presents, check out this Google Glass v. Apple iWatch cartoon: http://on.mash.to/14hXhGd.

The Google Glass Project (augmented reality glasses): http://bit.ly/15qfhgm is competing with the Apple iWatch: http://read.bi/WRjcjZ as the next "must have" device.  And amid rumors that Apple rival Samsung is working on a competing watch, it shouldn't be long before Apple puts the iWatch into production.

Which do you want?

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

To Keep or Not to Keep: Java

There have been security issues lately with running Java on your computer, but you think you need it, right?  Should you uninstall or not?  Will you be able to access what you need?

For answers to these questions, check out "How to Safely Keep Java in Your Browser," which noted "[f]or the last year or so, Java seems to have spawned a never-ending flow of security bugs, partly because of the software environment's invisibility to end users and partly because of the system access it allows. In January alone, two different Java vulnerabilities were attacked by widespread browser exploit kits."

Need it or not? It is up to you!

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Pondering a New Tablet?

If you are in the market for a tablet, check out the the pros and cons of 10 available tablets here: http://bit.ly/THHtqI.

The new Apple iPad came out on top when compared to its competitors, according to Laptop Mag's website.  They list 5 tablets they recommend you buy (and 5 tablets you should avoid). Don't make a costly mistake.  Check out their list before you buy!

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Cyber Intelligence Sharing and Protection Act (CISPA)

Cyber Intelligence Sharing and Protection Act (CISPA) Passes the House of Representatives

CISPA is headed for the U.S. Senate.  So, what is CISPA and how did it get to the Senate?  "CISPA’s designed to let private business share information about cybersecurity threats with one another and with the U.S. federal government."

(Read more about the CISPA controversy here: http://mashable.com/2012/04/29/where-cispa-stands-now/)

Although the cybersecurity legislation has many supporters, there are others who do not believe that citizens' privacy is adequately addressed.  "In a statement, Michelle Richardson, [the American Civil Liberties Union] ACLU legislative counsel, said that “CISPA goes too far for little reason. Cybersecurity does not have to mean abdication of Americans’ online privacy. As we’ve seen repeatedly, once the government gets expansive national security authorities, there’s no going back. We encourage the Senate to let this horrible bill fade into obscurity.”"

(For more information about CISPA supporters and critics, see: http://www.washingtonpost.com/business/technology/cispa-whos-for-it-whos-against-it-and-how-it-could-affect-you/2012/04/27/gIQA5ur0lT_story.html)
Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

"Do Not Track" for the Internet?

Whatever your opinion on the importance of Internet privacy, you should know that the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) released a report last week that will be an essential tool in charting the future of American consumer privacy policy. The report, "Protecting Consumer Privacy in an Era of Rapid Change: A Proposed Framework for Businesses and Policymakers," includes a proposal to develop a national "Do Not Track" tool for Internet users. The FTC has asked for comments, and business, consumers, and Congress are weighing in. In an Information Today feature article, columnist George Pike discusses pros, cons, differences from the "Do Not Call" registry concept, and early reaction to the proposal in Congress, where a House subcommittee hearing on the issue was also held last week.
Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Computer History

Not impressed by your cell phone, Blackberry or Iphone? You might be when you realize that this giant supercomputer from 1972 has about the same computing power as your phone. The supercomputer lives at the Computer History Museum in Silicon Valley. If you don't have time for a trip to California, take a look at this photo gallery -- it is fascinating.


Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat