Articles
Many are adapted from material I wrote for PC Plus magazine. I wrote hundreds over the years and these are just a selection, plus some articles written specially for this site.
Multiple web sites on one host
I chronicle my adventure trying to put more than one web site on a shared hosting plan.
Randomisation in Excel
Random numbers that don't repeat, randomly-ordered lists and generating lottery numbers.
Investigate the Martingale system of betting
Can you beat the roulette wheel? This article tests a popular system and has a Javascript Martingale simulator.
Quick tips for better looking documents
Six easy ways to make your documents look better, more professional and easier to read.
Compiling PHP on a Ubuntu system
The story behind the skull-shaped indentations in my desk can now be told.
Site notes: how this site is built
A simple PHP script saves hours of work when making site updates.
Investigate APR with Excel
When comparing loans Annual Percentage Rate (APR) is a vital statistic. This article explains why, and how to calculate it yourself.
Build a transparency/negative scanner adaptor
A pair of mirror tiles and some scraps of wood are all you need, and the results can rival adaptors provided with budget scanners.
Using PosiTweak to correct scanned negatives
A companion to the previous article, this shows how my PosiTweak utility helps remove the blue cast from your scans.
I-Search, a mini database search for your Web site
Server-side script / database not allowed by your Web host? This JavaScript tool is embedded in HTML and runs on the browser.
How to place a voice call from the Start menu
Describes a small utility that enables you to create shortcuts to frequently dialled phone numbers. Works using your modem to dial.
Random tiling patterns with Excel
Discusses patterns that are random but don't look it, and patterns that look random but aren't. Download a spreadsheet for D-I-Y and professional tilers.
Streamlining a design
Some thoughts on design optimisation, spurred by work on my Excel planner spreadsheet and my wicked past as a pioneer Tetris cloner.
All iansharpe.com site content and software © Ian Sharpe May 2008. Nothing may be reproduced without permission. See the full copyright statement. Use of iansharpe.com programs, information and advertisers signifies acceptance of the disclaimer. A privacy statement may be read here. Small donations towards my running costs are welcome – please click here.
