How to remote into a windows environment from Linux

Our department offers remote desktop to access special software that is to expensive for me to buy. Like SAS, which has a $10K site license. Gah! I'm a poor grad student. Of course I am willing to suffer to remote desktop for free access.

IT offers some very nice instructions for Mac and Windows users. However, if you're a Linux user, SOL.

" If you are using a Linux you don't need any help from me "

Seriously? I use Linux 'cause I'm cheap. and stubborn. and willing to DIY. Not because all information is already stuffed into my brain cells. hrmph.

Here's what to do:

1. know the address of the target windows server. duh!
2. install rdesktop
• open a terminal window
• type: sudo apt-get install rdesktop
• you will be prompted for your admin password.
3. connect
• type: rdesktop dept.server.address.edu

I guess that was easy.

An alternative to Photoshop

Photoshop is expensive. I think it retails for ~$800 to the masses, and $200 for the student edition. But Mac and Linux users have an alternative. Behold the alternative (yes, even on windows).

GIMP

the GNU Image Manipulation Program

All the functionality of Photoshop, but free.

Note I said all the functionality. Not the power. One area where GIMP is lacking is a centralized distribution of actions (Photoshop will sell you packages of these), so you will need to use your interwebz research skillz to identify tutorials and scripts that fit your needs. Start with keywords "GIMP" and "actions".  Also, many of the Photoshop tutorials are applicable.

Have you ever wanted to do stop-motion photography? I have. And here's my first one:

iPhoto (part 2)

Hi there. So we were talking about the power of iPhoto, a photo-management software which comes pre-installed on Macs.

And we had these lovely shots as an example

iPhoto to the rescue (part 1 of 2)

Okay, for all you photography geeks, I know, Photoshop is the weapon of choice. However, for us poor folks, what are the options? I'm going to talk about what works on the Mac platform because that's what I'm using right now this instant. (Full disclosure: I also have a dual boot Linux/Vista tower and laptop).

Pre installed software: iPhoto

Check this before and after

Before: