Download Microsoft software from DreamSpark

Microsoft is offering free downloads of many of its development and server products; the only requirement is for you to be a student. Go here to get such titles as Visual Studio 2008 Pro and SQL Server 2008 Developer: https://www.dreamspark.com/

Rich web app diagrams in Visio

This post walks you through creating a rich web app diagram in Visio 2003, along with a custom stencil for download.

Integrate Flex and JBoss Seam

Granite Data Services technology connects Flex and Java using an open source and free API. More code examples and a discussion are on the Seam Framework forum. Very promising technology, now out with Version 2.0.

Building n-tiered ASP.NET apps

A friend on the ASP.NET architecture forum pointed me to these great learning resources for building n-tiered Web apps:

• http://imar.spaanjaars.com/QuickDocId.aspx?quickdoc=416

• http://imar.spaanjaars.com/QuickDocId.aspx?quickdoc=476

• http://weblogs.asp.net/dwahlin/archive/2007/02/05/video-creating-an-n-layer-asp-net-application.aspx

• http://weblogs.asp.net/dwahlin/archive/2008/02/28/building-an-n-layer-asp-net-application-with-linq-lambdas-and-stored-procedures.aspx

Thanks, ScottyB :)

3DS Max + After Effects + 150 Euros = Amazing film

Tim Smit, a Dutch student, has assembled an amazing short film titled What's in the box? using some off-the-shelf software and a small budget. He's already getting contacted by major Hollywood studios:

Embed HD YouTube videos

A great blog post on HD YouTube embedding.

Coding inspiration

Coding isn't just about syntax, IDEs, design patterns, frameworks... It's also about inspiration. To get you going when you need a lift, here are a few pieces of music that get my brain working. What's some music you enjoy while working?

Requiem For A Dream - jared leto

End Of All Hope - Nightwish