March 2004

  • PostgreSQL is a relational database that has evolved over the past 25 years or more. As a database that is packed with features, there are many which are often overlooked and to people writing applications based around databases, some can prove infinitely useful. This talk will be a short introduction to some of the advanced features of PostgreSQL, and how they can make life much easier when working with databases.

May 2004

  • This talk will cover the use of ReportLab with Python and the database of your choice to generate well-presented PDFs and printed reports. A method for dynamically generating PDFs for web use, cgi-script style, will also be covered.

June 2004

  • Playing with Ruby-SDL by Leon Brooks

    Have you ever wondered what it takes to write a computer game? Have you ever wondered how object oriented languages work? Have you ever wanted to be Horatius Cocles at the Sublician Bridge, the sole hero that “everybody” turns to for their survival?

July 2004

  • Linux, Laptops and Life by Bernard Blackham

    This talk will cover tips, tricks and traps with Linux on laptops. More specifically, getting hibernation working, power-saving techniques and generally getting the most out of your laptop.

August 2004

  • Introduction to Linux by James Levin, Bernard Blackham, Michal Wirski

    This is a special post-Installfest talk, aimed at introducing newcomers to their Linux systems. Topics to be covered include navigating the shell, basic system administration, and protecting yourself with a firewall. A large part of the talk will be distribution neutral, though upon request, distribution-specific demonstrations may be done.

September 2004

  • This talk will be a short introduction to shell scripting, followed by some examples from real shell scripts illustrating how the concepts fit together. Some basic programming knowledge and a moderate understanding of Linux command-line usage will be assumed.

October 2004

November 2004