Monthly Archives: February 2004

The Flexible Brain

Posted on February 14, 2004 by Stephen Dawson

A couple of months ago I remarked on the misformatted picture of Saddam Hussein: What is interesting is that the distorted image is still recognisably Hussein. The image processing and facial recognition circuitry in the human brain is truly an … Continue reading →

Posted in Imperfect perception | Leave a comment

The Economic way of looking at things

Posted on February 13, 2004 by Stephen Dawson

David Friedman, a scholar in law and economics, has published several fascinating books over the years including one of my favourites: The Machinery of Freedom. His latest (next?) book, Future Imperfect, is available on the Web in draft form, complete … Continue reading →

Posted in Computer | Leave a comment

Film ratings, a private alternative

Posted on February 13, 2004 by Stephen Dawson

When I was a student at Sydney University in 1976/77 I heard over the air waves for the very first time the F word. It was broadcast on the student-run low-powered experimental University radio station. And its broadcast was somewhat … Continue reading →

Posted in Cinema | Leave a comment

Star Wars finally to come to DVD

Posted on February 11, 2004 by Stephen Dawson

It has taken forever, seemingly, but the release of the first three (in chronologically filmed-time terms) Star Wars movies onto DVD has been announced. The date is set for September this year. Here’s part of what the press release has … Continue reading →

Posted in Disc details, DVD | Leave a comment

Philips backs recordable DVDs in a big way

Posted on February 11, 2004 by Stephen Dawson

The Australian arm of electronics giant Philips says that it won’t be selling VCRs any more. Philips seems to be the first of what will eventually be many makers pulling out of the field, although I expect that it won’t … Continue reading →

Posted in DVD, Equipment, Recorders, Video tape | Leave a comment

I’m back, plus a beaut link

Posted on February 10, 2004 by Stephen Dawson

What can I say? Sorry. But now the kids are back at school so I’ll try to be a bit more regular here. For those interested in the evolution of audio systems used in cinemas, have a look at Nick’s … Continue reading →

Posted in Admin, Audio, Codecs | Leave a comment