Learning Second Skill Target for 2015

After a really long considerations, I decided to involved in HSE occupation. This is only the job seeking backup plan I can think of more suitable finding new job in Brunei for me. Although the HSE course fees are not cheap, but compared to IT courses, the long term investment are much more cost-saving for further training and qualification.

This year of finding IT Technician position is basically so dead in the local market and only got one interview so far. Well, no hope at all. As long you don't have high level skills and qualifications paper in hand. Big companies don't bother to look at you nowadays.

Its too stressful continue finding the right IT courses and studying nowadays with my current salary. It's too hard to funds and too hard to catch up with the juniors. Not an excuse but the truth. Today world are not like the past. Qualification papers are necessary tool to seeks for better paid. I do feel like my IT time is over and without questioning further. I already started studying NEBOSH International General Certificate books which I borrow from friends.

People told me it's easy to qualify and the certificate. I just don't buy the story. I know myself when comes to capability in learning. I decided to take it slowly and understand the basics before jumping to the harder level since the course going to cost BND2,500.00.

Brunei Plamo Challenge 2014

Well, as mention before I didn't join the competitions. I do want to state that the photos posted here was only taken on Saturday (13th December). There are more on the last day so I miss out quite a lot of the participants. Next time I going on the last day as long my busy schedules are clear.

Microsoft Brunei Finally Making Move

Just when you thought Microsoft Brunei encourage its customers to get the genuine products to prevent Malware attack or whatsoever you might encounter on the internet these past few days. Today they made a new headline warning the local retailers to cease continuing selling pirated copies of their products. Otherwise, they may (will) face legal action.

Its been quite long after they took one of the company to court few years ago. But that stunt didn't even budge the local computer shops or companies ever since. Well, all you cunts starting from now need to pay more attention because Microsoft Brunei will start monitor and lookout for those ignore their warning.

To be honest, I do support their move. Even its very late decision at this stage. Still, I am fucking happy this is happening because it going keep my current job more control and preventing users over abuse the pirating software especially Microsoft Office, Projects and Visio. I am so tired dealing ignorance bunch of cunts not understanding the problem using pirating software that can't be update to fix bugs. Next year is going to be interesting and I want to see how my boss going to deal with these.

Patience Limit Reach and Closure

My patience reaches to the limit I no longer can turn blind eyes on. Since my own manager doesn't want to give me satisfactory answer letting me enduring and frustration all these years dealing with the kid including cleaning the mess when complains reach the door steps. This may not a good idea doing behind my boss back. I decided to bring this matter directly to the senior management for the closure.

The kid really too hard to dealt with and shows no intention of improving, worst, all the way to ignorance. Entirely lost communication between its colleagues just because of disliking and disagreement. My boss also like to overlook the kid continuous mistake and feel like nothing ever happen asking others to solve his problem in order to close complain case. Imagine while we are working half way on the site and suddenly call back to the office just to fix his shit. So what about our current work then?

During our heated exchange email conversation, he felt insulted that most of his colleagues are against him especially me. Yes, I am a cunt, and will continue do so towards him because I don't give a fuck. My issue here are about his work attitude. No one care about his personal issue. If you want people to respect, you need to respect back the others too.

The amazing thing is that he find his whole drama thing is just a small problem. That's when he started attack my performance problem at work. Does it concern me, no. Why? I can produce results and get the job done. As for the small problem he said to me, thankfully, the senior management stand with me proving he is wrong. More than two years showing no sign of improvement at work is big problem and raises more question.

I don't really want to say we both in the end had our satisfying closure with the senior management present because I still need to wait for my manager to come back during his vacation to continue the discussions the matter. He seriously need to do something about it. Nonetheless, I want this kid out of my line of sight. The rest what he does is not my concern anymore as long it doesn't interrupt my works outside.

Technology Loot December 2014

I can’t really think of anything that you can get in Brunei when it comes to computer parts. The internal HDD for headless server upgrade still had to wait because the local selling prices continue to be ridiculous not unless getting from neighbouring country. I will only hunt those that worth the spending which I recently brought a Western Digital 1TB Passport Ultra HDD and Edifier Sound to Go Plus portable speaker this week holiday sales.

The portable HDD are safe to buy in Brunei because after my trip to Singapore, I didn’t find too much the price different over there including neighbouring country. For the sake of convenient and easy warranty, BND100.00 is best way to go. Actually, the preferable portable HDD design in mind is rugged version. The reason I needed it because of often working on site and experience higher rate of drop. After a long consideration, I realize the existing home portable WD 1TB My Passport warranty left until next year. It’s about right time to get a replacement and swap for work by adding thick soft material to reduced impact in the HDD case.

As for the portable speaker, that was an unexpected selection put into the shopping cart last minute. I didn’t really want to get another but wanted one for the laptop a long time ago. It just my taste on design hasn’t been right, must be portable and sound quality is important too. After poking around longer, I finally found Edifier Sound to Go Plus. It fits the category perfectly. Slim design, great sound quality (tested) and can run with battery itself. This portable speaker is just what I needed.

LJ-ZGMF-X09A - Justice Knight Gundam

Another Gundam Seed experiment kit bash and color test. Nothing much to explain here except I didn't expect the Justice Gundam kit has lack of movement in the hip.

Maketoys MT-04 Nemesis Pre-Order Announced!

The Maketoys has announced a special pre-order for another exclusive battle tanker series, MT-04 Nemesis, at their official website. Same as Hyper Novae, this is complete with the new core figure plus tanker trailer. The selling price for Nemesis is going to be US$139.90 and allow up to three pieces if you have the cash to spare. The ship out date will be next year on February 2015.

Did I get it? Yes. My heart is telling me that this is too hard to pass compared to Hyper Novae last year. Yeah, I skip him. As far I remember the price was more than US139.90 which I entirely held back. Not Nemesis this time.

FansProject (FP-Core) - WB-002EX Deluxe Package Arrived!

Weeeee!! Seeing the arrival of both Core Trailer and Steel Core figure really brighten my day last week. Nope, I didn’t play around or even transform it. But instead unseal the box doing inspections (except Soleren Ruthen) to make sure I didn’t receive broken toys after reading someone actually did.

I got to admit, Steel Core figure is really a great toy. The quality is incredible good and the joints are beautifully tight. No regret having him staying inside the box forever. As for the trailer, I take a great peek on the inner and outer design too. It is not disappointing, nothing much fancy stuffs we might expect as usual. Like many collectors said, it definitely completes the Steel Core vehicle mode which is true. BTW, there won’t be any exclusive review in my blog since everyone already done it.

Avoid Getting Yourself with Scam Trouble

It really sad to read the news the tourists continue getting scam at Sim Lim Square in Singapore until today. The recent Vietnamese and refund money using coins back to the customer’s cases really got into the nerves of the locals. The netizen decided take the matter against the scammer by revealing his full background identity using the power of the internet. Yes, they shame him. But this whole thing gone too far and becomes harassment case instead.

There are similar cases in Brunei as well because the victims are so pissed off, they use internet to shame the persons by posting the photos circulating around. This result again can backfired to the victims because the bad guys can goes to the police to defend themselves using the law system to say they are innocents. There are no true justices in this world and the imaginary god has to step aside to watch like everyone else to see the outcome.

Bruneian also loves flying over to Singapore getting a phone. I don’t really understand the reason. If you say cheap, I personally do not see huge price different between Brunei and Singapore. Probably because of the iPhone hype the locals can’t wait to get their hands one. Well, convenience and easy warranty approach locally are easier to deal with in my policy.

Shopping in Sim Lim Square is all about doing research first and buys later. I went there three times and avoid bad shops starting from ground to second floors. Although there are genuine shops in those floors, I only choose to visit the recommended shops listed by the Singaporean. You don’t get to find much IT shops nowadays and most of them really are unknown to me. So I advise you guys to be careful and avoid asking price. Otherwise, you will become bait yourself.

Brunei Plamo Challenge 2014

To all local modelers who are not aware. The registration fee is BND25.00 at Mabohai 12th December. Not sure if I want to join but I am trying to clear off and focus finishing the 1/100 scale Seed VS Astray backlog. It’s hard for me to start at this moment. Anyway more information can be found at FB page.

The Unstoppable Gunpla Collections

It is indeed unstoppable and just can’t stop buying. The upcoming Gundam Build Fighters Try Gunpla really pierces my heart hitting the button pre-order both Gundam Ez-SR and Hyakushiki Custom. They both simply look terrible awesome! Of course I also include both the custom parts in the purchase and jumping for Powered GM Cardigan too. So far, only Lighting Gundam will be skipping in the pre-order list at the moment and deciding if I should add Lighting Back Weapon System part too. There isn’t any idea yet coming through my mind for transformable MS kit bash. At least one possible candidate in the existing stash, but requires more pictures review first for better insight.

The MG Destiny Impulse R and Gundam Astray Noir announced to re-release again next year. I really tempting placing order for two of them since this is second chance to get. It's not easy to work on 1/100 scale when comes to fully painting. I tried not to buy anymore and avoid as much as I can. However, not easy to escape the lust having in the collections. I will need to see the budgets I set for this upcoming year end spending because I am looking forward getting Transformers and Gunpla HG exclusives. Too much useless backlog going to be problematic and I wanted to avoid as many as I can.

LR-GAT-X102 Regen Duel E

Regen Duel E was my previous incomplete backlog work under Seed VS Astray theme. It’s not easy to continue without reworking and repair some mistakes. Luckily it went nicely without making it worst. My target completion was supposed to be last month. The Tamiya Gun Metal, Light Gun Metal and Gunship Grey spray paints haven’t stock up in the local shop. So I decide to try out other colors to test and second replacement in case out of stock again during painting process.

Frame Arms - Type 32-5 Zenrai Light Assault Type I

It was fun building non-Gundam model kit from time to time and this is my second time working on Frame Arms. Zenrai Light Assault type I theme use both Zenrai Assault Type and Extend Arms 01 in the mix. There isn’t much on the kit bashing because I couldn’t get much idea how to start with it. So I much more relies using option parts to do touch up some details. The only modification so far is the EA01 weaponry that I am good at messing around. It just a minor changes and turn into more alike long range gun type while maintaining its sword standard.

I am quite happy with the final result but I do feel somewhat not adding more stuffs. Anyway, I will try something different next time when I start working on Frame Arms kit again.

Investigating Missing Lappy

Usually the check up procedure is done by me weekly. After working outside more frequent than ever I now am doing it on monthly whenever I have the time. I don’t really care much about but it still my job to keep track and making sure the equipment's are available. Just recently I am playing detective investigating both missing laptop and projector in our stock.

Not like I really wanted to get myself involve and nosy on such thing but it has to be done somehow because both of these IT stuffs were missing and nobody notice at all even ask question where it rental too. I have to go through all my emails and check my own car if I ever use it on-site. Quite frustrated at that time and going through the booking log to trace back. Of course, most of us knew and already suspect that kid has forgotten to bring back. He is the person responsible on that location where the meeting took place. Since I already fed up screwing him, still, proof and evidence are require before you accuse someone.

The progress is looking good because we able to recover (by that kid) the projector in the meeting room. However, laptop is missing. Another problem is there never a second meeting took place at all. So how did it end up there? Of course the kid denied and confidently says it was retrieved back after the first meeting last month. I have to look up the listing check with each and question every person again. It sure took quite a while because only that location has lack of security cameras. I decided to question the person in charge of booking again. I know unhappy faces. But I was able to dig out a different story and point back to our kid. Never gets old about him.

Once I gather all the information, I decided to go back ask that kid yet again and so piss off confidently replies bringing back both of the laptop and notebook after the meeting. He dares me by giving the estimate exact time to look into the CCTV system to verify to proof that he brought back both the lost items on that day. Well, the CCTV shows nothing. I triple check again with other active cameras and none. In the end, only out and never return. This prove from the first meeting took place at that location never brought back all this time. I backup the video for safety measure before the CCTV overrides the data and that's when it's time to hunt him down.

My colleagues knew what I going to do to encourage me not to screw him. I tried, suppressing my anger and confronted him nicely. All I can say he has fucked up word label in his face. What can I say? From the beginning when I first trained and remind him to note down, he always chooses to be ignorance. He lost of words and escape route. My guessing he already knew he never retrieves the things when first found out the projector left in the meeting room. Another guesses he tried to cover up or maybe trying to drag us down together instead of himself cover the whole cost for new company laptop.

This is the best turn out to save myself and other colleagues before things go awry. Not like I wanted to act like a cunt to screw him or planning a set up. Actually I did dig deeper to help him if it possible to find back the laptop. The time in the meeting room without lock are simply left for too long especially it was located in no security camera zone. So it was impossible to trace back without eye witness.

This is not the first and it happens couple time that got us involved. I already don't like his working attitude and why I choose to purpose extend his probation. It just never work out from my manager so I don't give a shit whenever he done something wrong. I really hope this serve a good lesson removing his ignorance attitude. If not, he himself had to find a way out or quit.

The Struggle with X11vnc Rebuilding Ubuntu Server

And then I got stuck again getting remote access to work. It’s funny out of all the great features, only the remote access is not the friendliest in Linux setup. There is no proper standard guide so far I could find on the internet for X11VNC. However, after a long spending trying out different guide that doesn’t work at all, I can now confirm only one guides actually tested working during my struggle.

Without doubt, this whole thing is funny and stupid. But as long the X11VNC able to work in startup on my headless server is all I need to access anytime. The first guide I follow is using the steps from Digital Drugs. I tested running the script below to confirm first before I proceed further.

start on login-session-start

script

/usr/bin/x11vnc -xkb -noxrecord -noxfixes -noxdamage -auth /var/run/lightdm/root/:0 -display :0 -passwd "MyPasswd" -forever -bg -o /var/log/x11vnc.log

end script

The TightVNC in my Window machine was successfully able to connect. Well, problem occurs. The password doesn’t recognize when I key in ‘MyPasswd”. So what went wrong? I have no idea to be honest. I went on looking on the previous guide by updating another code into the last script like below.

start on login-session-start

script

x11vnc -rfbauth -rfbport 5901 -auth /var/run/lightdm/root/:0 -display /etc/x11vnc.pass -forever -bg -o /var/log/x11vnc.log

end script

There are a lot changes and code remove in the script by following others. For example like the password column I replace with -passwd "MyPasswd" to sudo x11vnc -storepasswd /etc/x11vnc.pass in the script as recommended by many. Yet again, not working.

Frustrated as usual. I tried to remember to find my last bookmark and follow the steps of 'Setting up X11vnc' at Ubuntu Forum as shown below.

1. Install x11vnc: sudo apt-get install x11vnc
2. Set the password: vncpasswd ~/.vnc/passwd (vncpasswd is included with vnc-common, which is installed by default)
3. Make it auto-start when the user logs in and show which port we're running on (useful if you run multiple vnc servers) the port will be put in ~/.vnc/port.txt: sudo gedit /usr/local/bin/sharex11vnc Paste in the following code:

#!/bin/sh

x11vnc -nap -bg -many -rfbauth ~/.vnc/passwd -desktop "VNC ${USER}@${HOSTNAME}"|grep -Eo "[0-9]{4}">~/.vnc/port.txt

# comment out the following if you don't want a popup telling you which port you're using.
zenity --info --text="Your VNC port is `cat ~/.vnc/port.txt`"

1. sudo chmod 755 /usr/local/bin/sharex11vnc


2. System->Preferences->Sessions->Startup Programs then click Add and type in sharex11vnc

Add the code and restart, it finally works. This got me into thinking, are those scripts above are all wrong in the first place? But I can ensure that the first script that I tried does indeed work, just the password doesn't work even I change the password code. I'm not good in Linux, so it's hard to argue unless someone from the experts point out the problem.

FP Core Announced Limited 1-Year Premium Membership

The number is 2609 and it blows my wallet total BND300.00. Feeling awesome and crying. For just a limited 1-year Premium FP Core membership? Nope, together with WB002ex deluxe package of WB002 Steel Core and the Core trailer.

It's true that this whole deal is rather expensive. When the Steel Core first announced, I wanted to jump into getting one (US$79.90) on 2012. But after I discover getting only one would cost the shipping itself for US$49.99. Not unless I get three pieces (US$239.99) to keep the same cost. I gave up eventually and pass because it just too much to handle during my financial problem except now.

It's good that the newsletter came in early allow me to takes time to think. Yes, I did also calculate and compare with Transformers Collector's Club Membership I previously join that now cost US$82.00. When I think back how shitty the guys were handling my toy, I decided to hop in for Premium FP Core membership for a try. Of course, review post certainly going to be happen since this is the first 3rd party membership for the collectors. 

The deluxe packages deal:

1. New WB002ex Core Trailer
2. Original WB002 Steel Core Figure
3. Soleron Ruthen (Red Core)
4. 1 Year Premium FP Core Membership
5. 3x free FP Core Exclusive Items

Local Toys Hunting in Sept 2014

Last Sunday I drive up early to capital before picking up my sister at 2PM from Singapore flight. Thinking it’s been a while I went hunting for toys in the local shop. My first stop is always at Toy R Us in Mabohai since my Stars point almost reaching 250 to claim for $10 voucher. I was hoping the Transformers Generation 3.0 would be still available there. Too bad, there aren’t any except the old triple changes stocks.

Many of them are AOE series but majority doesn’t attract my attention except the Evasive Prime for some reason. Still, I decided to spend more time looking around to decide which to go. When reaching the Lego area, I was surprise to find new theme called Ultra Agent. So far only saw Toxikita's Toxic Meltdown and Hurricane Heist set in the shelves. They both look great to be honest, but there are times you need to set a budget limit while shopping. If I happen to saw Ultra Agents Mission HQ, my reaction definitely gone crazy. Luckily it’s not there so wallet budget limit remain safe.

As for Evasive Prime, I somewhat remember the 3^rd party upgrade is coming this month. Of course, I double check the mold and design to see if it really worth the spending. Well, the toy itself overall design is not bad so I go straight getting it. As for the upgrade, I will buy next month because I spend something big this week which I later going to write later. If you wonder what 3^rd party upgrade I am looking forward next. The picture below says all

Success Deployment Home Server

Yup, my home server finally successful deploy yesterday. It sure took a while when I first assemble last month. But because of sudden switch to Linux using Ubuntu server distro as a start, I require more time to learned and get familiar with. I forgot the numbers of time I have reformat and reinstalled Ubuntu server just to find tweak the right setting.

Why I Choose Ubuntu?

I just get started relearning Linux so I believe Ubuntu is a good start since I do play with it before. I read a lot suggesting going for CentOS. Without doubt Ubuntu is one of the most widely used and supports in the world. Even you can find in the exam and free “Introduction to Linux” online course requires installing it for learning.

Installation and Setup

Installing Ubuntu is easier than before I got to admit. Although there are few options you will need to go through to understand more using server version. It is surprising you can create software RAID directly before going to the final step complete installing the OS. My setup for my two WD 160GB SATA is RAID1 configuration for the mean time until I invest mSATA and the PCI next time.

The next task will be playing around installing different GUI version to try which works best for the current system performance. However, I do made mistake using Unity in the end instead Lubuntu themes due to complicated guide causing misunderstanding the whole thing when configure remote access.

The Unity sure does sucking up the performance bad even I am running an Intel Core 2 Quad Q9400 with 6GB memory. Feel like I’m using Vista for some reason. So I switch to the Lubuntu desktop using Terminal to install. It's fast, however I discover it causes problem and back to Unity again. Not too much worry since it just a temporary setup.

Configuring X11VNC

When it comes with remote access, X11VNC is the best to go for. The only things scratch my head is configured to work properly. Yes, there are plenty of helpful guide on the internet. I am able to find the code and but got stuck in the next steps. I discover almost all of them didn’t include the crucial parts working in Terminal. It's like they expect you to know everything.

It took a while to understand after I decided to look into how-to edit file using Terminal. That was when I get the X11VNC running. Once done, I install TightVNC in my Windows, tested working and disconnect all the cables. The headless home server is finally ready.

Final Test and Network Sharing

The hardware I built does running stable despite I’m using one 4GB and 2GB memory ram mixed mode. The Transmission program is working great so far without require trying others except the sharing part.

Sharing between Windows and Linux are quite a bit tricky. I encounter some issue doing the sharing. I didn't know the Ubuntu won't mount the NTFS drives automatically other than main drive which is why the share I set always went back to default after reboot. No idea why, but I manage to found a great guide from Debian Help blog to solved most of my problem.

Well, everything is ready to roll and time to test out the Plex program streaming all my collections!

Planet Annihilation Review

First of all, I am Kickstarter who backed Planet Annihilation. I never participate in the Alpha and Beta because I trust the Uber guys able to make the game awesome. After the announcement of official released last week, I hit the Steam and update the game into full version. Run the game and not awesome. Yes, it didn’t live up my expectation. This is why I decided to post negative review and advice not to buy until the Uber issue more fixes and updates hopefully. I personally feel the game not in ‘complete’ stage yet and somewhat missing along the ways during the developments.

DIY Home Network Attached Storage Project #4 (END)

The FreeNAS is total disaster. Restoring the RAID setting after I tried to detach from the list proves to be big risk and problematic. I tried to reinstall the OS and attach as normal storage doesn’t even works because the two 160GB HDD still contains record of the RAID setting. I never thought the issue can be so complicated to fix. Luckily I am playing with empty data.

I plan to try Open Vault Media which is alternative to FreeNAS. The idea of must using the entire HDD is yet another issue because 160GB is simply too big for less than 400MB OS. I have an older IDE HDD model left around, it just very noisy when it’s running so I don’t like to be disturbed during my sleeping hours. Another option I can think of is getting low cost mSATA SSD to run. I got my eyes at KingFAST product for smaller storage size. This means I had to shell out for mSATA PCIe from eBay as well to minimize the use of the notebook storage.

To my misfortune for this month, the old car broke down and cost me BND$120.00 for repair (not including upcoming insurance and road tax). This whole thing is going to on hold for a while once I have sufficient budgets to secure the two parts. So to avoid wasting more time and effort getting FreeNAS works, I decided to hop in latest Ubuntu OS server instead. This will move to new topic.

Microsoft Office 2013 Sudden Broke

If you are one of the users who got into trouble with Microsoft latest patch update that break your OS last month especially happens on Window 8.1. The Office 2013 is no different. The problem I always face during troubleshooting is cannot open any office programs and see any errors. I have been dealing with this problem for quite sometimes and found that it was cause by June Public 2014 Update that affect Click-to-Run office version until today. When I read the news from the Info World and follow up the problem in the community. To my surprise the newer update still capable breaking the Office 2013. Microsoft seriously fuck up no matter it just impact with 1% user base in their record!

This is terrible time wasting troubleshooting ever for Office because I am supporting Acer products in the market that comes with pre-install with Office 2013 CtR version. Imagine how many customers pay that come with Office 2013 broke after silent update in the background? I don’t really care the ACER reputation but my profession is affected and requires explaining the problem comes from Microsoft mess. The worst cases you are working in the site without internet access and the license backup tool doesn’t work. I have to find a way or just go back to my office just to activate the license.

How to fix when your Office 2013 broke?

The fix is simple. First thing you need to do is get your product key ready (Genuine) or if you purchase directly from online using Office account. Just enter your email username and password during installation. Most importantly, backup your documents data before perform program uninstalling.

Using Microsoft Fix It tool is highly recommended for full clean uninstall to ensure no left over stupid update. But if you use the normal method removing Office 2013 from Program, it will still workable. However, there are chances the problem continues to remain with the download update.

DIY Home Network Attached Storage Project #3

The success upgrade and maintenance for my existing gaming rig finally allow me to complete building DIY home NAS. The previous Intel Pentium I got from eBay very dirt cheap is basically too slow and realizes it was single core version. Since the new ASROCK motherboard I brought able to support up to Intel Core 2 Quad, I decided to replace with Q9400. At the moment I am testing which OS to run my file storages so it is preferable to have ready hardware to meet some of the open source requirements.

Anyway, these are the hardware specifications for my complete custom NAS or file server builds. Many of them are existing stocks so I actually save quite a lot all this years. If you have read my previous posts for Aerocool DS Cube and ASROCK G41S-GC R2.0. The remaining purchases are new power supply unit (PSU) and pen drive.

Upgrade Intel Core 2 Quad Q9400 to Xeon E5462

Never knew there are such a way allows putting Intel Xeon CPUs (LGA771) into LGA775 motherboard not until I place a mistake bid on the Intel Xeon E5462 and sudden win. It was worrying at first because I have no idea if my existing motherboard may even work. More importantly, you will need to cut the two hinge parts on the CPU sockets carefully not to damage the pins. The reason for this requirement is due to Xeon CPUs design at different side.

Seed VS Astray Gunpla Work Continue

After a long hiatus on Gundam kits, I finally able to continue my pending work for Seed VS Astray series. Working on model scale 1/100 size really consumes a lot of time compare to 1/144. I don’t intend to sell it because we all know people nowadays are more interested building MG version. Even Bandai no longer molded HG 1/100 version after Seed VS Astray series, so better off finish it before I can continue Hizack High Mobility work.

My first completed Gunpla work for Seed VS Astray was Nix Providence 2nd Issue back in 2012. The second was Regen Duel Gundam E from beginning last year and abandon afterward I got stuck (photo above) with ideas all the time. This is why I hate HG 1/100 scale so much. Don’t get me wrong, I personally like the Seed VS Astray series. It just that squeezing in more for room improvement is the hardest part.

The Regen Duel Gundam E actually already 70% complete. Yesterday I spent few hours on the 30% remaining revising on the weaponry and sees if possible further tweak making good use on the existing left over Nix Providence parts. Everything is now ready and next week will be final paint spraying. Hopefully the existing spray paint in stocks is enough to complete my work. One of my Frame Arms misses one black paint and had to put on hold until the new stock arrive at the local shop. =_=;;

DIY Home Network Attached Storage Project #2

With the success finding the LGA775 motherboard, my next hunt will be computer casing. One problem was my disappearance senses of hunting computer parts really drive me a bit crazy. There are simply a lot of brands and nice styling designs out these days. Since I am building custom NAS system, my primary requirement will be quiet and have better cooling feature.

Gentei Kits Shop Review

Premium Bandai hobby toys are nowadays a must hunt among the collectors. While majority buyers know their way round getting it from GK Gundam Kit that based in Hong Kong. There are times you may miss the opportunity pre-order or fully booked and even went out of stocks.

Sure, we can search through Japanese shops using Rakuten system. But some shops may not shipped internationally and require to pay more using Tenso forwarder services. I can guarantee you that buyers might even encounter higher mark up amount can’t be acceptable. Gentei Kits may be your last location to seek out.

DIY Home Network Attached Storage Project #1

Building network-attached storage system is something I wanted to do a long time. The existing computer parts that I use for Linux OS are simply outdated which limited to 32bit software. Having hardware able to support both 64bit and over 4GB memory ram including SATA Hard disk drive are always best choice.

Since I already have Intel Pentium processor (less than BND$20.00 at eBay) and 4GB DDR3 memory ram I got from Kingston reward in the past. My first task is to find an affordable Intel LGA775 motherboard suitable for use for NAS build and allow possible further upgrade.

Finding LGA775 motherboard is very challenging and tricky in Brunei. I want to have a convenience way when it comes sending for hardware warranty so I willing to support the local market. However, my only condition is as long the prices are reasonable with good warranty. Turns out not the case and some of them dare took advantage quoting me outrageous price for special order, which is nearly 50% mark up. I simply cannot accept such amount that makes no sense scaring me away entirely as customer. It’s more like I am buying at eBay of some sort. If they think using the statement “because it’s an old motherboard” would affect on me, they are just huge mistake.

Of course, there are alternative ways to get. I don’t plan to get the second hand from eBay because the demand for LGA775 model will continue to exist in the market at least for another one more year I estimate. So I have to look into Malaysia market with my friends help. Finally a long patience wait, I got ASROCK G41C-GS R2.0 in hand with very good price cover with three years warranty.

The motherboard itself is new designs revisions that support both DDR2/DDR3 memory ram up to 8GB that meets the requirement needed to build a nice NAS system. It really does pack a lot of nice stuffs for such value so I think better off getting another one as backup for my gaming rig in case something happen in the future once I have enough budget.

Old Computers Reboot with Open Source #3

This is the second Linux OS 32bit test on the old custom PC I assemble. Peppermint Five was released last month built on a Long Term Support (LTS) code base, Ubuntu 14.04. It was a right timing to find out the lightweight distro that aim design for speed. So the question is, how well does it really perform? I got to admit, it’s good.

Old Computers Reboot with Open Source #2:

After success assemble an old PC from working hardware parts previously. I finally run a couple hour of test on the Lubuntu to see how well it going to perform and stability last Friday. Before that, here are the hardware specs information builds for the test are Pentium 4 2.4Ghz (Socket 478), EPOX EP-P4MKI mATX, 1GB Kit DDR RAM, 80GB IDE HDD and Geforce 2 MX 64MB Geforce 5500MX 256MB.

How good is Lubuntu in my opinion? Not entirely satisfactory. Despite many good reviews on the distribution by the Linux community, it is not entirely the true lightweight version as describe. Of course, I ran a full update before testing and moreover, my setup exceeds the system minimum requirement too. Still, it performance are very slow in many scenario for normal tasking and also discover the Python process somehow using high CPU load for no reason. I am no Linux expert, so I have to check on the web for answer.

It appears some program is causing the Python using high load CPU. I do not know as you need to run the terminal and do some command typing to trace the culprit. To be honest, the solution weren’t really helpful because you have to either kill it manually to resolve the issue or install program to reduce the CPU load. The problem will continue to come back once you open another programs so this is too troublesome for normal user.

I will continue seek out others and read more user comments on various Linux news sites for better suggestion on the lightweight Linux rather entirely reading the reviewer only. My next test will be Peppermint, Majaro and again, Linux Mint Debian version.

My Life Is Reaching An End Sometimes

Quiet life? Yes, as usual, living and trying to see what happen the next day. Looking at how people live their life does somehow impact my mind. Thinking I would able to change my own situation and wanted to create something new itself. In fact it's not that simple especially once the story begin, you can't move back and sudden turn to change no matter how stupid and regrets has been done so far.

Many friends of mine always told me that I should start to settle down and get married. Well, not like I never tried, it just never work out. But I do admit suck at asking girls out and chicken out half way. Maybe I am didn't hard enough, choosy and being such an Atheist idiot. For other reason, probably I am too over concern on my financial status not wanting the love one suffer together with me. Of course, more reason that I buy too many toys.

Even people criticize me being not a party person. Come on, I'm over 30 now, if you ask me to feel the party rave. I don't really think I can feel much enjoyment. Pub is much more suitable for me sitting there enjoying drinks and chit chat.

I'm not really sure what to do with my daily life to be honest for now. Finding for new answer are endless and sometimes feel like coming to a close of my story. But I decided to just blindly face forward hard on this year and stopping myself logging into Facebook often making me feel somewhat miserable seeing how others doing great in life. It's time to stop and start playing my Steam games I got from Summer Sales to kill off my unnecessary thought.

Old Computers Reboot with Open Source #1

Sometimes, it is personal question whether or not getting the old computers working worth your time and money. Majority people nowadays no longer care and will throw away without hesitations. They prefer buying new PC or laptop since it is so affordable and more new features with faster technology.

Old computers may be slow and worthless. But for me, it stills got the value and can help to reduced spending on certain new technology. This is where open source comes in. The only problems are in Brunei, not many of them including companies are interested even if it’s a free license. The presence of Microsoft marketing here are so strong so it going to be long for locals start interest using open source.

I personally slowly migrating and learning how to use open source especially Linux. To be honest, I do not see the reason keep sticking Windows when they going to release new operating system estimate every two years. I no longer can afford to buy new license and devices to keep up with Microsoft products. If it weren’t I am a gamer, I would have already with Linux long time. Nonetheless, the introduction of the Steam OS is going to be new future alternative gaming operating system and I am looking forward to that.

Deploying Linux operating system does indeed a bit tricky. This is why I need to find out which is the best for older PC builds. There are simply too many versions of Linux distros on the internet so I normally go for the popular version like Linux Mint. Ubuntu is out of question because I last used was left unimpressed with huge performance impact. I thought Linux Mint is better but encounter some startup lagging and displaying crash issues with my setup using Intel Pentium 4 1.8GHz (Socket 478), EPOX EP-P4MKI mATX, 1GB Kingston DDR memory ram kit (2x512MB), Western Digital 80GB IDE HDD and Nvidia Geforce 2 MX 64MB AGP graphic.

It does work pretty OK and some TV series are watchable. I decided to try much more lightweight version of Linux using Lubuntu. The next installation will include minor upgrade in the hardware after I found some more parts left cleaning my cabinets. The CPU will be replacing to Intel P4 2.4GHz and slightly faster Nvidia Geforce 4 so that it can run better and manage to run most nowadays media format.

Brunei Hobby Con 2014

Seems like I was late for this local competition next month that going to held in BSB. I rarely nowadays access to Facebook and spending more time to looking for lab kits online for my further studies training. For those local who didn’t join the Gunpla group in FB, you can get the form from Chong Hock or Half Half and the submission fee is BND$25.00.

Is Jobless Getting Improved or Become Worst?

No matter how much I read the newspapers saying how many jobs will be created and efforts organizing job fairs every few months by the Government. We still received news about increasing jobless in the country. People usually blame the private sectors paying unattractive salaries and complains about working hours. However, from what I have watching this whole time is no longer the main issues for both jobless and job seekers are facing. I believe the new issues are the local company’s struggle keeping its business alive instead

Of course there are rarely such claims or mentioning from the local news. It doesn’t mean never happen. I know the new policy was meant to help the SME so that they can hire more locals during their growth. Also this is to prevent alibaba business continue as well. The governments even go extends call on every private sectors should keep the requirement percentage hiring more locals in order to stay in business. I’m sure many of you think this is thumb up work from Government. But we fail to see the implementation actually causes problems to existing companies.

I can tell many foreign Oil & Gas companies are very cautions nowadays on the policy and if one company got too much tenders in the past records then they no longer gets the next time and must be awarded to others or SME. This control basically a huge blow to some existing international (or joint venture) Oil & Gas Company. A few entirely closes its door last year and other manage to get small contracts to sustain itself until end of this year. At the same time letting nearly 70% both locals and foreigners employees go for budgeting control. Those few who are lucky got offer to work internationally and majority will have to look for new jobs.

Salary cut or no rise also happen to be recently. One of my friends is among one of the employees facing salary cut soon by the local company and told to sign a new contract. Without any proper official explanation reason behind of such actions, I advise him not to sign no matter what happen and photocopy the contracts (if not provide) for review before deciding the next move. I understand his frustration because the management didn’t honor their words in the interview. Sometimes, running a business does have to made harsh and mean decision. But without clear explanation and straight on forcing employees to sign new contract are just wrong.

This is rather somewhat very concern issues how the Government going to handle the situations. I don’t really see improvement but more like take it and go scenario. One newly establishes company last year now facing terrible challenge and as many heard by now losing a lot of money maintaining the project due to lack of local engineers or technicians expertise in the field. Many of them switch jobs because of the pressures and escape the messy work environments. There is one simple reason that leads to such disastrous. They cannot simply hire foreigners and must be locals before involving the projects. I hate to admit. We locals are still far behind, requiring a lot of time to get experiences and training to catch up with the international standards.

AMX- 107R Rebawoo (Full Frontal Use)

Finally it’s done! When I first received the Rebawoo kit, my thought was going to be easy to build. Sorry to say this is not true. The worst are the plastic parts came from Bandai factory were somewhat fragile even easily broken and morel like bootleg. I’m not sure how many those who brought it affected but I was among one of the unlucky buyer received two out of three have such problem. There goes the Bandai premium quality. The good one will be kept as antique and the second will be kit bashing later until I got more ideas.

There are a lot of hard sanding work involve during my time spending on certain parts. This is why I say not easy. I believe the paintings are the most challenging when it comes to Sleeves crests. I never fond of it because of this kind of issue, I decided to play it simple and change the way it going to look.

The decals also took me the whole final day of patience and carefully applied on each area using the picture short story note book from the ‘One of Seventy Two’ as reference. I am glad that 70% of the Bandai 1/144 Sinanju decal is usable for Rebawoo. Of course modelers who are more creative than me can apply even better.

Anyway, this is my final work for straight build. The additional work done to the kits are adding Kotobukiya detail option parts, Model Kit World bazooka and Hobby Japan Gundam Seed upgrade parts. I actually over look the upgrade parts results which turned out weird looking thin leg. As a lesson, I will rectify it on my next Rebawoo bashing build.

Click more to view the rest of the photos!

RMS-106CB Hi-Zack Boost Custom - Work-In-Progress #1

After getting the wrong spray paint color for the Rebawoo, I decided to put on hold and start working on Hi-Zack until next month. If it wasn't when I found out my car front tires are damage, I would have already bought on my next trip back to KB town. For the sake of my safety, I have to control my budget spending and replace it. Well, May is coming very soon so do the salary next week.

As the name implies, I am working on Hi-Zack high mobility type build. I am still reviewing the parts require working on. Thanks to the recent teasing photos of the A.O.Z Reboot Hi-Zack. The design inspires me again to improve further. For now, I will concentrate improving the articulations of the body which you can find in the photos below.

The putty are getting bad (three years already), this is why I applied so much into the kit to make sure it won't felt loose. The pla-plate also serve as balance for both roll swing joints and the ball mount point positions. It helps a lot rather applying only putty.

The next one are applying putty for the MS Vernier into the Hi-Zack leg. Actually I do have second thought doing that. In the end, you just have to go for it until you know if it was mistake or not. Let's see how it goes.

TechOne Global New IT Training Competitor

Just when I was planning my new direction by abandoning remaining both Administering and Configuring Advanced Windows Server 2012 Services training courses last year. My decision change after discover much more affordable training price from Techno Rada.

Each of them cost BND$700.00 which it is basically around 60% cheaper compared to TechOne Global price for BND$1950.00 each. But you guys need to take note that it only cover training classes and food accommodation without exam voucher. From my inquires with the sales executive, you can also optionally choose to include by buying the exam voucher from them. Even so, the total amount still 40% cheaper.

I personally think this is great for those of us wanted to ease our financial planning especially without company sponsor and time focusing to the next courses or levels. It is discouraging idea not taking the exam after training. But in Brunei, not many IT employees really get pay with high salary scale. Not to mention earning MCSA: Windows Server 2012 title requires you to complete all three examinations, not just one. So there are majority of us couldn’t afford to pay such fees and needed longer time to invest instead.

Nonetheless, price are one thing. In the end goes down to how good the trainers teaches in the class. I am happy with the TechOne Global trainer because that instructor has great background teaching Window Server 2012 course and provide me very good resources on the learning. It just that I didn't pass so kinda sad.

GPB-X78-30 Forever Gundam Booster NT

Please Set Your GP Base…

Reckless Drivers Are Everywhere

If any of you read or got wind of the news posted from Facebook regarding a motorist got kill by Bruneian car at Miri last Sunday cause a quite a big fuss. Even we all seems like got criticize for being reckless drivers by many Malaysian from Sarawak driving in Miri. Let's be honest about this, reckless drivers are everywhere.

It's no use pointing who is right or wrong. No one wanted this accident happens but sadly there's no stopping every day. However, using the accident to stir up the problem between Bruneian and Mirian is just something for those who apparently have nothing to do want for attention and fun promoting their Facebook so don't blindly fall for it. No matter what race you are from, there are always good and bad human beings. Let the Malaysian police in Miri do their job investigate and wait for the reports behind this accident rather endlessly wasting time criticizing each others.

My Experience with Acer Products Quality & Services

When our company score to be part of Acer dealers, I was rather having mixed reaction based from my experience supporting these products especially their laptop lines have a lot of hardware issues including long warranty time frames. After a year run, it was freaking headache and create more unnecessary extra work.

It's true that Acer products are affordable to buy that packs with good stuffs and some newer technology compared to other products. I actually own one of the laptop from a great deal that comes with fast performance with less than $1K even slap with three years warranty. During those years of warranty cover, only one time mine were sent for warranty. The rest of the record so far are minor issues sold in year 2011 that our customers experiencing. This actually shows how much the products has improved compared to past. But that did not really last long.

Dealing with Dangerous Exchange

Past weeks was unbelievable busy and stressful dealing sudden break down of server. I got to admit working with Window Server 2012 and Exchange 2013 are not easy like PC that can be simply revert back anytime. All decisions bring risk if you are not careful or not fully prepare to face the worst which I messed up without realizing.

Thanks to the mistake I made myself had to abandon weekend and Sunday to find solutions to work around the problem for the whole days. Luckily my 5 years old PC is able to handle the current stress running multiple VMware Windows at the same time doing test on problem solving. The only are require times to find the right answer to resolved the issue which I success the next day.

I was happy to relieve myself from such incident mistake. I don't really have much problem with Window Server 2012 after I took the training last year and have much confidence to work on problem solving. But MS Exchange 2013 is freaking whole new thing and the hardest to work on because it involve emails. This is something that beginner shouldn’t mess with if you had no knowledge or understanding.

RX-79(G) GM Sniper Support Unit

There are tons of photos I always forget and promise myself to upload. But once I got back from work or exercise, everything forgotten. Now, this is the opportunity to make up for it!

Actually the GM Sniper - Support Type was built for the local Gunpla GM vs Zaku group build competition. For some unknown reason, it was cancel even the Expressive Art convention were not held (new law, maybe) last year so it was never successfully submit. Check out my last Gunpla built from last year. I will blog a short post of my work in progress later.

Silly Server Disastrous Create by Human

It was definitely silly that I have to waste my effort working over time for nothing. Yesterday, our company server suddenly went disaster when our Exchange services crash at the morning before lunch.  I thought it was normal or even maybe just some errors so I decided to remotely log in and restart the server during lunch. After that, things went nuts and the screen showing the 'Applying Computer Setting' running for more than an hour including signing into the account.

Apparently the problem shows many of the Exchange services crashes unable to start automatically which took freaking long continuously trying load. Luckily, my finding in the event logs prove I didn't screw up the server since the problem started after 11AM. Phew~! But what I'm curios was how the fuck suddenly happen like that?

Well, I’m not a god damn expect on Exchange so have to rely on Google.  I can't seem to be able to find the right answers for two and half hours sitting in the server room figuring out the right solution. I tested many methods doesn't work and did however found about turning on the IPV6 on the Local Area Connection network properties setting. Honestly, I have no confidence on the solution and afraid I might somehow screw it up even more badly. Every choices involve some risk not unless I went for the training then I dared to try. It just never did and the right answer was turning on the IPV6 then it SOLVED EVERYTHING!!!

It was solved by my colleagues at night. Very simple method and just remember when I first install Microsoft Exchange require IPV6 including connected to network to work properly even during fresh installation. No matter if you are not using you must always turn it on. Such little details I couldn’t remember.

This beg a question why it was turned off the first place? We all thought could be a server 2008 |R2 related bug since one of my colleagues who work on it never update or patching any Windows update during fresh installation. Somehow, it wasn't the case not until today it happen again in the morning. We finally caught the culprit and non other my XXXXXXX.

Yup, censor. I have my reason but if you are smart. You should already guess. Nonetheless, I am fucking pissed I work over time and rush back to HQ for nothing when someone simply screws around not even bother to check if the server is running properly or not. Even worst, not informing us he had done something on it, just keeping quiet. I really hate this kind of irresponsible people. Every day, I had to worked angrily thinking how to escape this huge mess and avoid slowly involving into it. I already sick of dealing with a dumbass who still showing no improvement at work and now another trying something silly. I am really sick and tired all of this.

New Syariah Law Create Fear

As an Atheist, I wish this is not happening and sadden by it. The introduction of the new Syariah law really cause a lot of criticisms to the country every time it hit the local news. The latest articles “Wearing indecent clothing is crime under Syariah law” already become the laughing topic of all time and the arguments are still ongoing.

I got to say the majority of the locals who are Muslim does make a good points regards of this matter. Even myself also agree Brunei are simply moving backward. Everyone understand that maintaining tradition is important task making sure the new generation won't forget the old cultures. However, our tourism are poor, less developed and now the raise of unemployment’s, even worst, crimes. Such ongoing problem becomes low priority instead. It was really stupid seeing them pouring all the unnecessary resources getting Syariah law out on April this year.

The legal officials assure us that Syariah law will not affect non-Muslim and will follow same legal system during last year citizenship induction. Now they are saying non-Muslim can be prosecuted. They did mention only unless involve with Muslim. In what manners are still left unquestioned and causing more worried. Why?

“Testimony must be from at least two witnesses, and preferably free Muslim male witnesses, who are not related parties and who are of sound mind and reliable character; testimony to establish the crime of adultery, or zina must be from four direct witnesses. Forensic evidence (i.e., fingerprints, ballistics, blood samples, DNA etc.) and other circumstantial evidence is likewise rejected in hudud cases in favor of eyewitnesses, a practice which can cause severe difficulties for women plaintiffs in rape cases.” @Wikipedia

Forensic and circumstantial evidence can be rejected in favor of eyewitnesses are definitely bullshit. Don't forget, CCTV footage too were mention recently. How can we allow trusting the eyewitnesses alone without support from the forensic finding in the court? How do we even know the eyewitnesses are not related to the parties? What if the eyewitnesses are racists? This is what everyone fears the most and how the courts going handle the cases.

Of course, I do understand why HM would resort bringing Syariah law. Let's face it, Brunei no longer consider peaceful as describe. You know, I know, people took advantage doing silly things (e.g. Government job scam, remember?) and we forget our surrounding safety. The numbers of crimes are increasing and that is the facts.

No matter what, I still don't agree going such extend taken against the Muslim. Some may like it but majority (be honest) doesn't. My most concern are hoping for the news of the citizenship status because I heard serious shit and am fucking pissed learning from someone behind it. For now, we just have to wait for the upcoming HM announcement speech on the national day.

Build Forever Gundam – W.I.P #1

Gunpla have been evolved quite unexpectedly fast after the announcement Gundam Build Fighters animation. Bandai feature even more upgrades and add-on choice for modelers to expand their ideas. Thanks to them I was able to continue most of my piling backlog collections starting with Forever Gundam.

I got it two years ago through the promotion and have no idea why bother to buy when you got plan for this kit in the first place. The release Booster packs change the entire High Grade kits combination laws. However, only three were released last year and Build Booster was my best choice.

Build Booster

The Build Booster has a flaw in the design because it no longer using rubber pieces for some parts. Everything is plastic which easily wear out the parts especially both the side thruster rotating area. To counter this issue, I use the existing Gunpla convertor joints combine with rubber pieces.

At first I did think about using poly joints over the convertor joints. Since I don't have any stocks or suitable size, the idea was abandon. But I would like to try it next time. Poly joints allow more movable   area compared to only just fixed rotating joint.

New Custom Weapons

Building a custom weapon is a tricky idea especially dealing with funnels weapon. I already use two replacing the pair beam cannon for the Build Booster. The remaining does given me some headache for hours. Once I think about the MSV Full Armor Gundam and also Gundam Age Assault Jacket weaponry. It caught my attention making into 2-Barrel Funnel Beam Gun.

Applying Citizenship Examination Halt?

Today is a good and sunny day. It's time to speak up and wondering what had happened to the Brunei citizenship this year? Since I took the examination last year, the result won't be out between June or July (as much I know). But my friends and colleagues who took the examination two years ago, the result is not yet even announce or mention until today.

What's going on? There are no newspaper reports, many speculations around and rumors. The only thing I heard something has happens inside the Government over the Citizenship system. Majority of them are baseless except one so far I recently found out that this month the registration is officially stopped in KB when one of my friend sister tried to applied two weeks ago. I'm not really sure if numbers hit the target limit and they never explain why. Still, for others who waited for two years, it definitely suck and wanted to know the answer when the Government going to announce the result.

To be honest, I don't really understand how can the governments able to delay the result for years, seriously. If the whole nation primary and secondary students can get their result within 3-4 months. There is no way less than thousand of Permanent Residents (including the retake) papers require more than a year to settle. This is just ridiculous and unbelievable system in Brunei. There are even trials and require us to wait at least another 2-3 years to get call for fully register citizenship only if we pass. everything else falling into the hand of waiting game and test us if we are going to leave the country.

It’s sad that we have to suck it up and move on. I also fully well aware some locals who work in the governments doesn't like us getting the citizenship either. I encounter of such persons and it weren’t easy to deal with. I really hope HM do something and improve this citizenship system situations. But I afraid it’s not happening because this country are changing and heading weird direction.