Codename: Orcas

Orcas is the alias for Microsoft Visual Studio 2008 and was first released to MSDN Subscribers last November 19, 2007 and now available for everyone. It was the descendant of Visual Studio 2005 and primarily focused on development of Windows Vista, 2007 Office system, and Web applications.

Microsoft Visual Studio 2008 conveys key advances for software developers in three primary pillars: RAD or rapid application development, effective team collaboration, break through user experiences.

Visual Studio supports languages by means of language services, which allow any programming language to be supported by the code editor and debugger, provided a language-specific service has been authored. Built-in languages include C/C++ (via Visual C++), BASIC (via Visual Basic .NET), and C# (via Visual C#). Support for other languages such as F#, Python, and Ruby among others has been made available via language services which are to be installed separately. It also supports XML/XSLT, HTML/XHTML, JavaScript and CSS.

The Microsoft Visual Studio 2008 is consist of Visual Basic .NET 2008, Visual C# 2008, Visual C++ 2008 and Visual Web Developer 2008. Later on, SQL Server 2008 would be joining onto the list.

It brings a new language feature, LINQ or Language Integrated Query, a Windows Presentation Foundation visual designer, and improvements to the .NET Framework. It is also packed with powerful built-in tools like the forms designer for building GUI applications, web designer, class designer, database schema designer and visual designer for domain-specific languages or toolsets for other aspects of the software development lifecycle. Visual Studio 2008 can have plug-ins to be added as well, that enhances its functionality. It also features a new HTML/CSS editor influenced by Microsoft Expression Web. Unlike in Visual Studio 2005, J# is not included in 2008 version of Visual Studio.

Visual Studio 2008 includes a code editor supporting: IntelliSense – an auto completion that serves as documentation and disambiguation for variable names, functions and methods using metadata reflection; and refactoring – a computer program's code that improves its readability or simplifies its structure without changing its results. The integrated debugger works both as a source-level debugger and a machine-level debugger.

Let’s have a glimpse on each of the products within Microsoft Visual Studio 2008. First, is the Microsoft Visual Basic 2008 – which also refer as Visual Basic .NET 2008, Visual Basic 9.0, VB 9.0 or simply VB 2008 is ideal for first time or casual Windows programming. Visual Basic 2008 is the ideal tool for productively building object-oriented applications for Windows on the .NET Framework.

Microsoft added new and exciting features in Visual Basic 2008. New features that the developer may notice are the true ternary operator “If“ (followed by Boolean, variable or value), to replace the IF function, anonymous types, support for LINQ, Lambda expressions, XML Literals, Type Inference.

The second that we have in our list is the Microsoft Visual C# 2008 which is also ideal tool for productively building object-oriented applications for Windows on the .NET Framework like Visual Basic 2008.

The common features available between Visual C# 2008 and Visual Basic 2008 as well as other .NET languages was the garbage collection – a form of memory management that attempts to reclaim garbage, or memory used by the objects that will never be accessed or mutated again by the application.

Third on the list is the Microsoft Visual C++ 2008 – which can also be called as Visual C++ 9.0. Discover the latest features of the Windows Platform SDK starting with the streamlined installation. Visual C++ can be used to create native Win32 applications. Make fun by creating first person shooters, puzzles, real-time strategy games and much more. Developers can focus on making exciting games and not the technical issues. 2D and 3D games are made possible by The Game Creators GDK.

Last that we have in our list is the Microsoft Visual Web Developer 2008. It provides an ideal environment for creating powerful Web applications with easy to use environment for dynamic Web application development.

Developers can use the new split view pane which shows both the visual designer as well as the corresponding markup. Users can build CSS enabled pages with the new Manage Styles and CSS Properties windows to easily design, preview, and apply CSS styles to your Web page. JavaScript and AJAX-enabled applications can now be build more easily with the new and improve JavaScript IntelliSense and debugging and built-in support for ASP.NET AJAX. And to spice to your web pages, the web developer may download the free AJAX Control Toolkit which includes over 30 AJAX controls including rounded corners, drop shadows, animation, ratings, slide shows, ratings, and more.

Enjoy the easy publishing and sharing by download Popfly Explorer to publish HTML, CSS, and JavaScript pages directly to your free Popfly site. Use the built-in Copy Web Site tools to publish both ASP.NET pages and SQL Server databases to any hoster that supports FTP or FrontPage Server Extensions.

Have fun and get your personal Web site up-and-running quickly using ASP.NET Starter Kits like the DotNetNuke portal kit, the Personal Site kit, the Blog Engine kit, or the Club Site kit. The web developer may also wish to build custom Facebook applications using the Facebook Developer Toolkit which includes easy-to-use .NET classes for Facebook friends, groups, events, and more. And for much easier development, use the Coding4Fun Development Toolkit's Web service wrappers to easily connect to popular Web services like Amazon, Digg, and Flickr.

Visual Studio 2008 integrates 2D and 3D graphics, and now capable of audio and video controls. The developer may now add cool effects, fun controls using the C4F Developer Toolkit and the C4F Vista P2P Developer Kit to their application.

Building your applications is now made easier with drag and drop controls which includes features like Smart Tags, source code, QuickStart documentation and much possible with the combination of Visual Studio 2008 and Windows Vista.

Microsoft .NET Framework 3.5 is a software requirement for Visual Studio 2008 and by default, configures compiled assemblies to run on it but it also supports multi-targeting which lets the developers choose which version of the .NET Framework – 2.0, 3.0, 3.5, Silverlight CoreCLR or .NET Compact Framework, the assembly runs on. Visual Studio 2008 also includes new code analysis tools, including the new Code Metrics tool. Expect that you would be needing higher computer specification to satisfy yourself when using Microsoft Visual Studio 2008 since is was a GUI based development tool and contains graphical components that need more space.

Software developers would surely enjoy the new features integrated within Visual Studio 2008 counting on with more than 250 new features, includes significant enhancements in every edition. Developers of all levels are welcome - whether they are novices or professionals, and hobbyists to enterprise development teams in facing complex challenges and building innovative solutions and makes a difference in our everyday living through computerization. Visual Studio's role is to improve the process of development and make the work of achieving breakthroughs easier and more satisfying. Developers would have a consistent, secure and reliable solution for developing applications for the latest platforms: the Web, Windows Vista, Windows Server 2008, the 2007 Office system, mobile devices and beyond.

-Ronald C. Dionisio

[BLOG COLUMN] Joystick

Game Reviews and More

This is the first time for CURSOR to have a blog column about game reviews. Expect more on the next blog columns and you Explorers can also suggest what game reviews you want to be inside this column. You can send your suggestions to cursor_newsletter@yahoo.com.

On our very first game review, I have picked a unique one which is not your usual pc or video game you play. I just want to share with you how great and talented Filipinos are in terms of Information Technology that we can also create innovative games however the main problem is that we have the skills but unfortunately, we lack the resources and the support we need. I’m not in favor to anyone but I just want you to share the truth.


I have been a PBA die hard fan since my elementary days. I do always watch every game when I have time even while I’m doing my homework. For me, it is the game of the Gods as players are treated with high respect.

EA sports invented the NBA Live for all basketball gamers. And for me I vent my frustrations in being a player by playing the game religiously. I even have to starve myself to death just to save money so that I could play NBA Live.

During the year 2003, a MOD (or modification) for PC gamers was built by Mr. Panelo and some talented patchers making the first ever PBA live game for PC. It was a blast and it is nicer because it has a touch of belongingness. I mean we can root for Detroit Pistons, Los Angeles Lakers or Chicago Bulls but Ginebra, Purefoods, and San Miguel sounds much better because we always feel we know these players more rather than those NBA millionaires.

Last year, the release of PBA live 2007 in which a volume of visitors downloaded the free MOD got a good review from some basketball critics. When a friend told me that there is PBA Live 07 in a computer café near the University, I came to be very excited to play it and as I’ve expected, this game is a total conversion mod for NBA Live 07. It has accurate and up-to-date rosters to choose from- All-Filipino & Import-reinforced -including North & South All-Star teams and Team Pilipinas. They also added some tweaked gameplay files for a more realistic PBA game feel plus complete cyberface, portrait graphics for each player, recent team jersey and court graphics resemble real life counterparts. Where in you can select Araneta Coliseum, Cuneta Astrodome, PhilSports Arena, or even court in TOKOSHIMA where FIBA Asia was held as a play venue. But the thing is that it was very exciting to use PBA players who are on your own hands as you control the players’ movement, the play of the team you are going to execute and how well you can get the momentum shift and then win the game.

Now let’s get inside the areas for improvement. Since it is a modification, the features of NBA LIVE 07 is still the same except of the rosters of players and teams, the theme songs in the main menu, the loading screens, the videos played on the background of the main menu, the main menu itself and the advertisements . When you play it, you will notice that the audio for the announcers are not modified, it still the same voice you will hear from NBA Live 07. Another one is the freestyle superstar of selected superstar players. For example is Jayjay Helterbrand of Barangay Ginebra, he is known to be a point guard and his freestyle superstar trigger is a playmaker and tight guard. When you try to switch the superstar trigger of Helterbrand, you will be surprised that it has also other triggers such as power, inside scorer, high flyer and shooter. Imagine a power type player on Jayjay Helterbrand who dunks over Marlou Aquino which must only be known for Asi Taulava or Kelly Williams. In short, the same NBA players that has a different look and jersey they are wearing.

For you to play it, you need first the original NBA Live 07. PBA Live 07 is a total modification add-on for NBA Live 07, the same system requirements as NBA Live 07 and it is for PC Platform only. Game consoles such as PlayStation, XBOX are not supported. And as I’ve researched on it, is not affiliated with the Philippine Basketball Association as well as all the company products, logos, brands appearing in the game. These were merely put to make the game more visually realistic.

Downloads are available at http://pbalive.yebaweb.com. Hope we all continue to support PBA Live and all the Pinoy patchers making this dream a reality.

There are no limits, just do it.
-Jeffrey O. Santos

jeffreysantos16@yahoo.com.ph

A Picture of Reality

Endless search for answers… You are searching for something elusive… A journey to life is bursting of both blissful and melancholic stop-overs. Some would say that student life is very simple. You just need to attend class, and focus yourself in your studies. They would probably think that there are no difficulties. But the true stipulation is…

Inside the back-pack of an ordinary student, this is what you will find--a small amount sufficient for his whole day expenditures, pens that somewhat running out of ink, books with marks made during his review for their examination and a hopeful pair of eyes aiming to speed up his studies for him to be able to help his family. From these, we could have clear shots of how Filipino youths strive for formal education even if the country’s approaching low on budget and peace.

But what really ensues is the construction of fragile dreams and false hopes under the honest society. There are so many families who can’t afford sending their children in school due to scarce resources and lesser opportunity for employment. It bears despair to them. Yes, scholarships determined them to finish their studies and enthusiastically faced challenges in their everyday lives and say goodbye to unworthy and undesirable things as part of being a youth, to give way for EDUCATION, from which they believe will be the answer to their questions. But, it seems insufficient for millions of aspiring innocent souls.

Some would woke up early each morning with lavish foods to eat, elegant clothes to wear and more than enough penny to spend for some requirements in school. Ironically, this is definitely NOT the real picture of a Filipino student, who has nothing much of the material things but only has a handbag of hope and a wallet of knowledge. Different faces of different masks were encountered within the places we’ve been through. Searching for answers is also an endless search for more questions… Questions with a blur answers… Of questions... And what’s more???

What is really waiting for them??? Answer???

-Nelsielene S. dela Paz

John Roman Tolentino Proves to be an Excellent Leader

Even though all graduating students are busy on their OJT. John Roman C. Tolentino, President of (ACTS) Association of Computer Technology Students who is also a graduating student still accomplishes his tasks and duties as a president. Since this is his final year in the position, here is his statement. “Being an ACTS President, ayos naman, hindi rin naging ganun kadali kasi kailangan lahat nasa ayos. Dapat laging mayroong communication sa organization kahit simple lang. Nakakatuwa kasi marami din akong natutunan”. He also tells about the plans and projects that he wants to procure for ACTS, “marami pa sana akong gustong gawin, yun nga lang busy masyado sa work at OJT pero nakikipagcommunicate pa rin ako at gumagawa pa rin ako ng paraan para magawa yung mga balak kong projects. Actually I am planning to have a free seminar for our members. Hopefully matuloy yung balak ko.”
Proving his words, Engr. Jason J. Villafuerte, adviser of ACTS was satisfied with his performance. “I am really happy to have Roman as ACTS President. He is very active in his post and very anticipating. He knows what and when to do tasks and he always consults us in any decision that he would have. I salute him for dedication to his work. “
Evidently, you can notice the success of ACTS with his leadership and hard work and he had established himself as a role model for the upcoming leaders. Explorers, two thumbs up for John Roman Tolentino!

-Jeffrey O. Santos

BulSU’s 13th Consecutive Championship

Bulacan State University once again, bagged the championship at SCUAA (State Colleges and Universities Athletic Association). It was BulSU’s 13th consecutive championship and now we bagged 161 gold medals. Yes you heard it right! 161 gold medals confirmed by the Dean of IPERS (Institute of Physical Education and Recreation and Sports) – Ms Raquel M. Mendoza from January 31 - February 04, 2008.
The SOC Olympics (another term for SCUAA) was held at Ramon Magsaysay Technological University at Iba, Zambales. We joined all the sport competitions and champed all of it except for football, table tennis women and baseball but nevertheless; we won and performed good at every game. They competed with different State Universities all throughout Region 3.
The CICT also participated during the SCUAA. In fact, some players who won were from our own College. “Masaya. Nakakanerbyos nung laban na. Okay yung allowance pero grabeng hirap ng training kasi napaka-strict ng trainer namin.” – A statement from a CICT athlete who competed in the track and field, their team won.
Some faculty members also participated during the said competition. Mr. Gerriper T. Bernardo to work for the documentation, Mr. Reylan M. Evale as a coach for chess, Mr. Ernesto C. Bernal, Mr. Adam A. Mangulabnan, and Mr. Ruel F. Paraiso was also present to support the team. The Father of CICT, Dean Fausto S. Hilario was also there to give the players moral and financial support.
“I am really grateful for everything your College has done to help our school bag another championship round this year. The players from your College are really good. I am also thankful to your dean because he was there and supported even the IPERS players in any ways. He is really supportive. The students have given all their efforts.”- said by Dean Raquel Mendoza.
Once again, it was another success sport story and a proof that CICT students have also the guts to be involve not only in the field of computer knowledge but also in sports and camaraderie.

-Mirasol V. Buenaflor

Radical! Liberal! Reactionary! Activist!

The crowd seems to be more interested in the label a candidate of office wears than his actual ability. Was this true with us Explorers?

Well, you have the right to put scales to their performance level as they grab their own throne being the newly elected Supreme Student Council!

CURSOR presents TALK 101 – The 2008 Local Student Council- CICT forum...

We will give you the might to track down their promises as we present right before your eyes all their pledge and words of security for our college.

“What is beauty if the brain is empty? Kung mananalo ka dahil maganda ka lang, ano’ng silbi nun diba?”

“Wala kaming binibitawan na ganung plataporma o kahit anu na no to tuition fee increase, para sakin isa siyang napakaimposible di ko sinasabi na di kaya mawala yun pero huwag tayong…”

--- want to know who actually said that? Then we dare you to visit CURSOR office, 3^rd floor CICT building or contact Jeffrey Santos at 09157976811 and we will GIVE YOU A FULL COPY OF THE VIDEO COVERAGE of the said TALK 101 for FREE!!!

Listen..Observe..Spot..React..Judge!

Note: Kindly bring your own data storage device.

Attention: Night Party for Explorers

March 14 is the most awaited date for the Explorers as ACTS (Association of Computer Technology Students) and SWITS (Society for the Welfare of Information Technology Students), the two major organizations in the college arrange a night of social gathering in different venue.

ACTS on their Night Out

With the supervision of Engr. Jason Villafuerte (ACTS adviser) and Mrs. Eunice Custodio ( Head, BIT-Comtech Program) ACTS will soon be having a night party for all the Computer Technology students.

ACTS is still in preparation according to the organization’s president, Roman Tolentino. 500 students are expected to come on the night to be held at Valencia Hall (BulSU Gymnasium). The required attire is semi-formal.

A bunch of activities, catering services for foods, and souvenirs to be given to those who will attend the gathering are most anticipated on the night. “Mas ma-eenjoy ng mga Comptech ang pagkain ngayon at masa-satisfied sila kaysa nung acquaintance”, JR Domingo assured, one of the ACTS officers.

SWITS on their Sweet Night

Hawaiian or summer attire made SWITS night appeals interesting. The night will be held at Villa Rosalinda, Caingin, City of Malolos. Preparation is headed by SWITS president, Kristina Evagelista with the supervision of Dr. Victoria Valenzuela, SWITS adviser.

“Hindi ito magiging isang plain party kundi magsisilbing team building para sa mga estudyante lalo na sa mga third year, para sa mga bonding moments nila.” Dr. Valenzuela said.

The party will start at 5:00 pm onwards. This social gathering made possible through full cooperation of Mrs. Evangeline Gonzales, Head- BSIT Program.

A time to enjoy…

According to the officers of both organization, the outcome of the event will also reflect their leadership ability for this is the first time that they will organize a gathering separately. Dean Fausto Hilario shows his full support for the upcoming night of acquaintances.

Nelsielene S. dela Paz

ASAP and PDM held their Annual Debate

As part of the preparation for the Election Day, the annual debate of the opposing parties of the Alliance of Students for Action and Progress (ASAP) and the Partido Pagkakaisa ng Demokratikong Mag-aaral was held at Heroes Pak of Bulacan State University yesterday, conducted by the candidates of both party sponsored by Cong. Wilhelmino Sy-Alvarado and the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Bulacan.

The program started with the singing of the National Anthem conducted by the IAL Choir almost 3:10 in the afternoon. BulSU President Mariano C. de Jesus have his opening remarks followed by Dr. Antonio Del Rosario who also showed his support to the candidates of the Supreme Student Council. For the first part of the program, the candidates presented their different platforms. The debate started with the topic “Dapat bang panghimasukan ng pribadong sektor ang pamamalakad sa Bulacan State University?” They used the British Parliament style for the debate composed of two opposing teams who has the stand of government and opposition. ASAP party played as the government and the PDM played as the opposition.

ASAP President Ms. Sarah Velasquez said that private sectors should enter our university for our own benefit because they can give more financial help to the school while the PDM President Ms. Bianca Michaela Espeleta opposed these words of Ms. Velasquez that private sectors should not invade BSU for it will become semi private and this cause a higher tuition fee. The other members of the team followed this word with their stand.

The debate ended with the presentation of the different candidates of the Local Student Council from the different colleges and Institutes of the opposing teams for their platforms. The incumbent Board Member of BS Information Technology, Ernest Timothy Flores initiated the introduction of candidates of ASAP while the standard bearer of PDM for President Bianca Michaela Espeleta led their party.

While the rivalry becomes more intense, the students are expecting for better results after the election, elected officers will lead the University for more progress. The Election Day will be on Thursday, March 6.