Why TechBeast?

Well, the wife’s nickname for me is Beast (don’t ask me why, I haven’t worked that out either) and I like my technology, whether it be UNIX/Linux software, gaming hardware or photo-related hardware & software.

Photography

I’m currently using a Nikon D80, a Nikkor 50mm F1.8 AF-D, a Nikkor 18-55 VR and a Sigma 70-300 AP0 DG Macro lens. A Manfrotto 055 XPRO-B tripod and a handful of B&W, Hoya and Cokin filters. I have a burning desire to own something old and Soviet at some point in the future. I loved the Zorki 4 when I had one on loan, but I’d also like a Kiev 88 so that I may dabble in medium format film. You can see my best effort here.

Computers

Currently Was running a self-built i7 920, 6gb RAM and a Geforce GTX 275. It is now lying dormant following a spectacular meltdown, starting with my graphics card and then the PSU. My linux distro of choice is Ubuntu, although I will admit it isn’t always perfect and it’s a bit “populist” – well, as much as a linux distro can be.

I’m now running an iMac and an iPad 2 and I’m quite happy with that. I use Aperture 3 for my photos and the next computer will also be a Mac.

Gaming

I’m a PS3 man, me. I had a 360 at launch, but it broke down so often I was scared to use it in case I had to spend another half hour on the phone to MS to get it collected, replaced and returned. Had a PS3 since it launched here in March 2007 and haven’t had a moment’s trouble (touch wood). It’s just as handy for blu-ray movies as it is for games, so I’m happy with that.

Contact Me

If you’d like to get in contact with me directly, you can either follow me on Twitter @gavomatic57, you can leave a comment here or email me at techbeast.net at googlemail.com (change the “at” to the @ obviously).

I hope you find something useful here and thanks for stopping by.

If you are on Onlive, you’ll find me as gavomatic57 there too.

I’m also here on Google+

I’ve had a few email requests from students asking for interviews lately. Rather than do that, you are welcome to email me a few questions instead and I’ll do my best to answer them. I do a full time job during the day, so don’t have all that much free time these days.