Using only a photograph a couple of German software engineers are able to reconstruct an entirely working 3D model of a person’s head. Click here [wired.com] to watch. Who needs actors, anyway?
Author: lesliedare@gmail.com
Microsoft Surface
Using the same ‘multi-touch’ technology popularized by the iPhone, Microsoft engineers have been developing what they call ‘surface computing.’ This video [popularmechanics.com] shows off what features your coffee table’s been missing.
Student Portal Live!
The first release of the new Student Information System (SIS) launched today at 8:00 a.m.
All features of this release are accessed through university portal, and there are aspects that impact faculty and staff as well as students. If you don’t have Faculty/Admin or Student access, you may not be able to see these features. I encourage you to find a student and ask them to let you watch over their shoulder while they click through. (But be sure to cover your eyes when they enter their password! 
http://mypack.ncsu.edu/
Highlights include:
1. The launch of the new Student Portal. Any person who is enrolled as a student will see a For Students” tab once they log into the portal. Within this tab is a default view of a number of sections called pagelets. You will see Student Affairs departments, programs, activities and services throughout.
We spent a great deal of time talking to students and Division staff to develop the content and organization that you currently see. Obviously this will be an ever-changing website and we’ll continue to adjust as needed. If you have feedback, please send that to me.
2. Faculty and Staff/Administrative Access. You can now find these services through the portal.
3. Admissions information. While some information will still be available through RUMBA, most all Admissions information can now be found through the portal for those who have that access.
4. Student Information. The usual PackTracks info (class schedules, grades, personal information) and Student Financial info (Cashier’s Office info) are now accessed ONLY through the new portal.
For more detailed information, see:
http://www.fis.ncsu.edu/sis/communication/enews_0807.htm
FYI, there are several other major modules within the new SIS that will launch over the next 18-24 months, including Financial Aid, Housing, Records, Advising and more. I’ll continue to post updates.