March iiNews
editor's note
3 months into 2008. Where does the time go? I'll spare you the obligatory sports and weather dialogue, but you're not escaping an indulgent review of my March to date.
In short, I've spent an uncharacteristic amount of time lately playing tech support for the family. Not that I mind this, of course, it just struck me recently that between my brothers, parents and even my dear old nan, I've been engaged in a perfect storm of technical advisement.
My dad and I spent the better part of Easter Sunday trying to get wireless working through a thick, solid concrete wall. On the back of this, my brother wants his Sydney PC to hook up with my machine back in Perth, so he can teach me a thing or two about online gaming (pfft). Nan meanwhile is still on dialup and making loud noises about an upgrade to broadband, no small thing for someone introduced to the virtual world about a year ago.
I'm not usually big on advertorials, but what genuinely surprised me was the amount I could handball to our online support tools - not all of it, of course... I mean, a concrete wall is a concrete wall... but it's no coincidence that I'm backing our tech tip all the way this month, as our knowledge team CSR James 'Jimbo' Hanlon talks us through some of the more common functions in Toolbox that may save you an unnecessary phone call to support.
Also this month, we're excited to offer our first live sports match through the iiNet Freezone - the Portugal vs Greece international friendly is shaping up to be a scorcher, well worth a look!
In business news, learn more about our latest offerings this month in Multiline VoIP and free Computer Support for Business.
We're giving away another bundle of fresh music too, courtesy of the top folk at EMI, and site scan this month focuses on combating one of my own demons, that of personal organisation.
As always, it's a pleasure to have you aboard this month. Full steam ahead.
Niaal Holder
iiNews Editor
Views and suggestions welcome at iinewsfeedback@iinet.net.au
news
iiNet LIVE Football - Greece vs Portugal
With Euro 2008 just around the corner, international friendlies are heating up - practice matches between rival nations offer a sneak preview of how the favourites are looking, ahead of the tournament. One such fixture is that between Greece and Portugal this Thursday, re-staging the dramatic Euro 2004 final between these two rough and ready sides.
iiNet is excited to be able to offer this showdown live to our customers, Thursday 27th March at 4:30am WDT (6:30am EDT). We'll be streaming the game from kick-off, covering all play throughout the morning - if you're keen to catch the action, simply visit our match broadcast page and follow the instructions from there.
Remember also to check in on our Barclays Premier League On Demand page to check out our latest EPL matches - we've had some absolute rippers this week, the Arsenal vs Chelsea and Man United vs Liverpool matches in particular are well worth checking out.
All you'll need to watch the action is an iiNet broadband account and a browser tied in with Windows Media Player (like Internet Explorer). All match coverage also falls under the iiNet freezone, so don't worry about denting your quota - as an iiNet customer, it's all free!
business news
This month sees the launch of Multiline VoIP, our business grade service that uses broadband to send and receive calls. It works just like your traditional phone service, without the traditional call prices.
With Multiline VoIP you enjoy 15c untimed local and national calls, Free VoIP to VoIP calls between offices using iiNet and great features including voicemail, call waiting and caller ID.
To find out how much money you can save your business call 13 24 49, or visit www.iinet.net.au/business/mlv.
Peace of mind with free iiNet Computer Support for Business
Got a problem with your computer? Need help installing new software? iiNet Computer Support can help.
Computer Support is a dedicated on-call phone service you can access 24 hours a day, 7 days a week provided by Quick Knowledge, an approved iiNet partner, for a range of problems you may with your computer or other electrical equipment. Computer Support covers all on-call phone support for operational matters relating to software troubleshooting and fault resolution, error messages, printers, scanners, multi function centres, digital still cameras, webcams, microphones and speakers.
For more serious problems, technicians are available to look into things further. If so, a technician can visit you for onsite escalation if the issue cannot be resolved within 10 minutes by phone. Costs associated with an onsite visit are at the expense of the customer and will be estimated prior to undertaking any work.
To access iiNet Computer Support, call us on our priority Business Sales & Support line on 13 24 49.
support & services
Broadband for Baby Boomers
Earlier this year we introduced a series of workshops called 'Broadband for Baby Boomers'. Held at our Adelaide Terrace office in Perth and delivered by iiNet staff, these workshops introduce participants to just some of what the internet has to offer. The workshop is split into two modules:
Module 1 - If you're brand new to the internet this workshop is for you. Topics include general information about the internet, finding information, online shopping, local entertainment, online radio, and video sites such as YouTube.
Module 2 - A continuation of Module 1 this workshop is for people wanting to find out more about what the internet can offer. Topics include online banking, travel and booking holidays, communities and networking, online music stores such as iTunes®, and internet security.
The next set of workshops is scheduled for:
- Wednesday 2 April (Module 1) 6:30pm - 8:00pm
- Wednesday 9 April (Module 2) 6.30pm - 8.00pm
If you would like to register, email sponsorships@iinet.net.au with your name, contact phone number, email address and workshop preference (Module 1 only, Module 2 only, or both Module 1 and Module 2).
tech tip - understanding Toolbox
with James Hanlon
Sometimes, calling support to solve tiny issues almost feels like overkill. This month, we're going to go over some of the features of Toolbox that might go some way to helping you avoid an unnecessary support call. In a few clicks, technical and accounts-based issues can be resolved without you needing to pick up a phone at all.
To access Toolbox, all you need is your username and your password. Using your Internet browser, head to toolbox.iinet.net.au and enter your login details (alternatively, you can also log in from our homepage at www.iinet.net.au). This opens up a whole bag of tools to solve a variety of common issues. Note that once you are logged in, all of these options can be accessed by clicking the 'Account Tools' dropdown menu (next to the name of your broadband or dialup plan) and selecting the appropriate option.
Speed Connection Manager
This is a great tool to experiment with the speed of your Internet connection, either to push your connection speed to its limit, or bring it down a notch if it starts dropping out.
If you find your connection sometimes drops out, try the 'Safe' or 'Controlled' profiles, which prioritise stability above speed. For those who want to get the highest speeds from their connection, the 'Thrillseeker' profile will push your line to the limit. Finally, there's the new 'Gamer' profile, for those who need their connection's reflexes to be a quick as their own. This connection type ensures the most responsive connection.
Volume Usage
This tool graphs and details how much data is travelling over your connection and at what time. This is a great way to tell if the kids or a housemate are putting a significant dent in your monthly quota. Selecting 'Volume Usage' from the dropdown box will open up a graph that shows a breakdown of your usage for the current month. You can also look back at previous months' patterns; clicking a specific date on the left will give you more detailed statistics on that day's usage.
Edit My Details
This is the section that allows you to view and change your contact, payment and address details. Not only does this tool allow you to check the method of payment you're using, it allows you to update these details, including address and telephone contact, without having to make a phone call.
Create New Mailbox
If you have a dialup account, your account gives you up to four additional mailboxes. If you're signed up for ADSL or Naked DSL you're entitled to nine. Use this tool to create additional mailboxes alongside your main account.
Change Password
In the world of the Internet, keeping your connection secure is extremely important. It's a good idea to change your password periodically to prevent any unauthorised access to your connection or to your email account.
Please note that with a broadband service, you will need to ensure you have saved the password into your modem or router. On a dialup service, you'll be required to change the password before you hit the 'Connect' button.
By knowing the extent of your control over your service, you can maximise your online experience and get the most out of your Internet connection!
security watch
top 5 viruses reported to Sophos in February
List provided by Sophos. Remember, all iiNet plans come with industry leading Sophos email anti-virus and Ironport spam protection that is automatically kept up-to-date with the latest virus threats. However, to fully protect your system, we recommend that you use our email anti-virus in conjunction with a personal anti-virus product such as those listed on this page.
iipeople
staff profile
Name: Michael Inglis
Title: Customer Service Representative
What does your current role involve?
At the moment I'm part of a team that's working on a series of articles and guides to make things easier for our support staff. Some of these will appear in the support section of the iiNet website, so keep checking back for updates.
What did you do before you came to iiNet?
Before iiNet I was working as a sub editor at a sports paper here in Perth. I went through politics and then journalism at uni but after a bit of time overseas I settled into a tech support role at iiNet.
What is the best thing about working at iiNet?
The best thing about iiNet is the working environment. Things are always changing and we're often under pressure, but we have a young and dynamic team that's always ready for a challenge.
Your favourite website?
www.facebook.com
competitions
Our buddies at EMI have tipped a bevy of new tunes in our gift basket this month; as usual we're giving away 10 CD packs including all the artists featured below. All you need to do to get your good self in the running is email competitions with 'March Music Competition' in the subject line, with your username, full name and address by 5pm April 15th, 2008, along with the answer to this question: which two European teams are playing in iiNet's featured live football broadcast this month?
Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds
DIG, LAZARUS, DIG!!!
Finding new ways to be the Bad Seeds is an ongoing mission for Nick Cave and company, and in the last two years, this evolutionary quest has sped up to an intoxicating pace. Nick Cave And The Bad Seeds return here with their fourteenth album.
The Last Goodnight
Poison Kiss
Poison Kiss, The Last Goodnight's major-label debut, offers a selection of cinematic, singular songs, rife with '80s musical references and classic rock influence; piano-driven but guitar heavy, and at once rhythmic, lush and soulful.
The Slim Dusty Family
Reunion
Despite the obvious loss and longing, the overriding sense from listening to Reunion is one of joy. There's a balance between fond memories and the hopes and aspirations of those who've gathered - looking forward, looking back.
Jonas Brothers
Jonas Brothers
The highly anticipated follow-up to the New Jersey siblings. 2006 debut is a high-energy offering, overflowing with catchy hooks and mature songwriting that reveals just how much growing up the boys have done since their last outing.
Moby
Last Night
Moby returns to the dance floor with a vengeance on his new album, a dance music tour de force spanning rave anthems, hip hop and downtempo vibes that looks back at Moby's deep roots in the club scene at the same time as it embraces the future.
entertainment
two minute games review - Dawn of War: Soulstorm
Back in my high school science class, we used to do a lot of things with burners and chemicals, so it was important to put on safety glasses. In the safety cabinet, there was one particular pair I would race to pick up - horn-rimmed, thick-framed black glasses that were so uncool they were cool. Just wearing them made me more suave and intelligent on the spot.
In the world of realtime strategy gaming, those horn-rimmed glasses are the Dawn of War series - nestled in between Tiberium Wars (with its heavy reliance on dull bludgeoning and tank spam) and Supreme Commander (intricate, mathsy and lacking in character), DoW is a blend of involved intelligence and accessible depth and personality. Long a fan have I been, no surprises this month we're checking out the latest expansion, Dawn of War: Soulstorm.
The series to date (DoW, Winter Assault and Dark Crusade) has built on itself with steady benefit. Originally featuring four playable races, with the inclusion of Soulstorm to the series we're now able to choose from a bountiful nine races, through single player or online multiplayer matches. The gameplay itself hasn't changed much over time - as an RTS, DoW is predominantly squad and vehicle management alongside standard base deployment, encouraging attentive micro-management and an agressive play style. Tank spam has no place here - DoW requires outward deployment to capture more resources, scattering your areas of control over wider terrain. Managing these as part of your attack is crucial, if you're not capturing more resource points you're not funding your troops, and you'll lose hard-styles.
The standout reason any DoW fan will want to snatch this one up is the inclusion of the additional races, the Dark Eldar and the Sisters of Battle. First up, the Dark Eldar are right nasty, whereby a job ain't done right if the enemy doesn't end up screaming in fits of agony - in some ways to the Eldar what the Chaos are to the Space Marines. This is reflected in their play style, while not overly powerful alone they are backed up by a volley of special powers, as generated by the harvesting of souls after battle. They are quick skirmishers and while not overly resilient, slippery to face thanks to a wide array of debuffs and healthy use of hovering vehicles.
The Sisters of Battle are the fanatical, all-female zealots of the Imperial government, devout followers of the Emperor and strong believers in setting things on fire. If they're not burning everything to the ground with their own flame guns, vehicles and turrets, they're spreading the almighty word of the Emperor (which coincidentally, still involves things being set alight). The Sisters play similarly to the Space Marines, and while slightly less pure-combat than their male counterparts, are still resilient and formidable in battle thanks to a faith-based side serve of special powers.
Soulstorm also adds to the success of Dark Crusade with a slightly deeper single-player campaign of non-linear planetary conquest. This time around, you'll be thrown into the mix with 8 races other than your own for control of four new planets, interlinked by moons and webway gates for a poo-fight of grand proportions. The old races aren't left behind either, each side is presented with new flying units to keep things fresh on all counts. The Tau in particular seem to go from strong to stronger with their new Barracuda flying units.
Soulstorm, as an expansion, brings a deal of fresh meat to your already laden plate. With two new races, more skirmish maps and a solid elaboration on the Dark Crusade planetary conquest mode, there's every reason to pick it up. If you're new to the series, the past three releases are going dirt cheap - you'll be able to pick up the full set of four for under $100 if you ferret around ebay. Do it.
movie review - Jumper
Hayden Christensen, Samuel L Jackson
Sci-fi fans these days will be quick to tell you the raw deal we're getting as followers of the genre. For every healthy jaunt on the science-fantasy front, ten dodgy releases stand in our way - which wouldn't be a huge problem, but the curse of sci-fi fandom is that we desperately want to like them all, want there to be good sci-fi flicks to the point that even mediocre eases the pain.
Jumper is a perfect example of a great sci-fi idea, realised poorly for the screen. David Rice (Hayden Christensen) discovers early in his youth that he has a special gift: the ability to 'warp' through space to any place he can visualise in his mind. As a moody youth, this gift presents him with a conduit for pure teen escapism - running away from home, robbing banks guilt-free, winning pub brawls and the like.
Things become a little less free and easy with the arrival of Roland (Samuel L Jackson), a religious zealot leading a group known as the Paladins, sworn to protect the world from hedonist Jumpers like David. With the Paladins chasing David across the planet (co-incidentally, through a series of picturesque tourist hot-spots), he meets fellow Jumper Griffin (Jamie Bell) who reluctantly teaches him to not only survive, but actually turn and hunt down the Paladins themselves.
As a concept, the space-folding 'jumps' tickle the mind's fancy and trigger a welcome range of 'what if' questions, some of which the film does a decent job of answering on the spot. The special effects are a satisfying compliment on this front, although the jump-filled fight scenes made my brain ache for lack of any visual continuity.
Scriptwise, it all falls down. The film's human aspects, in particular the motivations of lead characters like love interest Millie (Rachel Bilson), push themselves into a shallow hyperdrive seemingly for the sake of plot advancement. There's no emotional investment due to any of the characters, a fact done no service by Christensen's signature monotone repartee. It's also difficult to see what Jackson brings to the table in what feels like an unnecessarily over-cast role.
I wanted to like it, and in parts, there's a bit to offer fans of the genre. Sadly though, I'm casting this one in the same basket as films like The Time Machine and Hypercube - great idea, now do something with it.
site scan
Remember the Milk
A tricked-out bag of goodies for personal task and time management. Dump and arrange your to-do list, setup email and SMS reminders, map them to real world locations - all you need to bring is your head.
Trip It
Mail your travel confirmation emails to Trip It and via the magic of the 'Itinerator', you'll receive an involved master itinerary, detailing weather, maps directions, city guides and more.
Sandy
Enlist the help of Sandy, your own virtual personal assistant. She does all the hard remembering things for you and lets you know what's coming up, all friendly-like right there in your inbox.
