Firefox, GAZ-3937, and the end of civilization
Now that some massive homework sets are over with, can post again.
First, Firefox (at least versions 1.0x) has the unfortunate tendency to take up all the memory on one’s computer. I have seen instances of Firefox taking up more than 512M. Apparently, this is due to a memory leak in the Flash and Java plugins — and here is a guide for fixing it. After I set browser.cache.memory.capacity in about:config to 128000, Firefox has been noticeably better-behaved.
Second, GAZ-3937 was a very interesting, innovative project for a Humvee-like vehicle put forward by Russia’s GAZ sometime during the mid 90’s. As far as I can tell, the project never finished due to lack of money. Which is a shame — considering unique features like the ability to transform the 3937 from a people-carrier to a gun platform to a recovery vehicle to an ambulance to a command post etc. under battlefield conditions. Pictures here.
And third, Slashdot had a discussion on what kind of data one should put on one’s encrypted USB drive in case of a Katrina-type emergency. Some crazy survivalist nut replied. If any readers fear armageddon, perhaps they will find 145172’s comments useful.