Merge branch 'master' into development

- Add contact icons
- Update contact links with icons
- Merge discussion in product to personal recommendations
This commit is contained in:
Sravan Balaji
2020-01-04 00:22:28 -05:00
7 changed files with 194 additions and 26 deletions

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@@ -15,20 +15,17 @@ This is the repository for my personal website. This includes all linked files a
- [ ] Projects
- [x] Coursework
- [ ] Product Recommendations
- [ ] Software
- [x] Software
- [x] Link
- [x] Platform(s)
- [ ] Description
- [ ] Pros / Cons
- [ ] Hardware
- [x] Discussion
- [x] Hardware
- [x] Device type
- [x] Specs
- [ ] Pros / Cons
- [x] Discussion
- [ ] Favorite Games
- [ ] Ranked List
- [x] Link
- [ ] Genre
- [ ] Pros / Cons
- [x] List
- [ ] Discussion
- [ ] Upcoming Games
- [ ] Website Documentation
- [x] High-level introduction

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@@ -8,6 +8,19 @@
padding: 10px;
text-align: left;
}
table#bio_table img {
width: 250px;
}
table#contact_table td {
padding: 10px;
text-align: center;
}
table#contact_table img {
width: 200px;
}
</style>
<title>About</title>
@@ -50,7 +63,7 @@
<h1><a name="bio">Bio</a></h1>
<table id="bio_table">
<tr>
<td><img src="../Images/Profile Picture.jpg" width="250px"></td>
<td><img src="../Images/Profile Picture.jpg"></td>
<td>
I'm a Senior at the <a href="https://umich.edu" target="_blank">University of Michigan</a> pursuing dual B.S.E's in
<a href="https://me.engin.umich.edu/" target="_blank">Mechanical Engineering</a> and
@@ -66,10 +79,24 @@
<h1><a name="contact_me">Contact Me</a></h1>
<p>
Feel free to reach out to me via email if you have any questions about my website, college education, professional experience, or anything else.
If you have suggestions for the website or would like to see the source files, check out my GitHub repository.
Finally, if you would like to connect with me on LinkedIn, use the link below. I will do my best to respond to any communication in a timely manner.
If you have suggestions for the website or would like to see the source files, check out my GitHub repository. If you would like to connect with
me on LinkedIn, use the link below. Finally, if you are interested in my Steam profile, see the link below. I will do my best to respond to any
communication in a timely manner.
</p>
<h2><a href="mailto:balajsra@umich.edu" target="_blank">Email</a> / <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/sravan-balaji/" target="_blank">LinkedIn</a> / <a href="https://github.com/balajsra" target="_blank">GitHub</a></h2>
<table id="contact_table">
<tr>
<td><a href="mailto:balajsra@umich.edu" target="_blank"><img alt="Email" src="../Images/email.png"></a></td>
<td><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/sravan-balaji/" target="_blank"><img alt="LinkedIn" src="../Images/linkedin.png"></a></td>
<td><a href="https://github.com/balajsra" target="_blank"><img alt="GitHub" src="../Images/github.png"></a></td>
<td><a href="https://steamcommunity.com/id/sr98vn/" target="_blank"><img alt="Steam" src="../Images/steam.jpg"></a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><b>Email:</b> balajsra@umich.edu</td>
<td><b>LinkedIn:</b> sravan-balaji</td>
<td><b>GitHub:</b> balajsra</td>
<td><b>Steam:</b> sr98vn</td>
</tr>
</table>
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@@ -41,57 +41,201 @@
<body>
<div class="main_content">
<h1><a name="software">Software</a></h1>
<h2><a href="https://www.stardock.com/products/fences/" target="_blank">Fences</a></h2>
<h2><a name="Fences" href="https://www.stardock.com/products/fences/" target="_blank">Fences</a></h2>
<h3>Platform: Windows</h3>
<p>
Fences is a desktop management software that allows you to group your desktop icons into "fences".
These fences can be rolled up so they are tucked away neatly into a corner, allowing you to view
your desktop wallpaper while still being able to access your shortcuts when you need to.
I really like Fences because it keeps my desktop clutter-free and I get to look at my amazing
wallpaper (see <a href="#Wallpaper Engine">Wallpaper Engine</a>). I purchased Fences on
<a href="https://store.steampowered.com/app/607380/Fences/" target="_blank">Steam</a>, but you
can also get it directly from <a href="https://www.stardock.com/products/fences/" target="_blank">Stardock's website</a>.
Would definitely recommend getting it if you have a cluttered desktop.
</p>
<h2><a href="https://www.stardock.com/products/start10/" target="_blank">Start10</a></h2>
<h2><a name="Start10" href="https://www.stardock.com/products/start10/" target="_blank">Start10</a></h2>
<h3>Platform: Windows</h3>
<p>
I wasn't actually interested in Start10 when I first got it. I got it in a
<a href="https://store.steampowered.com/bundle/3675/Fences__Start10/" target="_blank">bundle</a> with <a href="#Fences">Fences</a>.
The gist of Start10 is that it allows you to customize the way your taskbar looks and the style of start menu
you would like. The options are Windows 7, Windows 10, or Modern. Windows 7 has the classic
searchbar and list of applications. Windows 10 has the list of programs and start menu "tiles"
introduced in Windows 10. Modern style is a bit of a hybrid. It has the application list from
Windows 7, but the theme looks more like Windows 10. I personally prefer Windows 10 style because
of the "tiles" that easily let you launch your favorite apps. I wouldn't necessarily recommend
getting Start10 on its own as I don't see much value in it, but it is a nice addition if you have
ever wanted to change the look of your taskbar or start menu.
</p>
<h2><a href="https://www.wallpaperengine.io/" target="_blank">Wallpaper Engine</a></h2>
<h2><a name="Wallpaper Engine" href="https://www.wallpaperengine.io/" target="_blank">Wallpaper Engine</a></h2>
<h3>Platform: Windows</h3>
<p>
Wallpaper Engine is amongst my favorite programs on this list. If you have ever seen live wallpapers on phones
and thought "can I get that on my PC?"", this is the program for you. At a regular price of $3.99, I
cannot recommend this enough. Fair warning, this will drain your battery and RAM if you plan on running
it at its highest settings with animations and other compute heavy settings. I usually run this on my laptop
so the wallpaper is static when unplugged, but animated and reactive when plugged in. There are some memory
saving options that can pause the program when another program is in full-screen and in-focus to improve
battery life and performance.
</p>
<h2><a href="https://www.notion.so/?r=542c7e5df78d4ff0bf5417dd397f26b8" target="_blank">Notion</a></h2>
<h2><a name="Notion" href="https://www.notion.so/?r=542c7e5df78d4ff0bf5417dd397f26b8" target="_blank">Notion</a></h2>
<h3>Platform: Web App, Mac, Windows, iOS, Android</h3>
<p>
This is my current favorite productivity app. I use it to keep track of things like homework, personal tasks,
gift ideas, shopping lists, personal wish lists, upcoming video games, etc. I previously used Trello and
google keep to track tasks and random bits of information, but Notion has been a game changer. While the
full experience is locked behind a paywall, you can try it out for free if you have a university (.edu) email.
If you haven't already, I would suggest giving it a try. Use this
<a href="https://www.notion.so/?r=542c7e5df78d4ff0bf5417dd397f26b8" target="_blank">referral link</a> to get
some free credit on your account to use if you decide to use any of the paid tier.
</p>
<h2><a href="https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/p/clatter/9nps35br12q8" target="_blank">Clatter</a></h2>
<h2><a name="Clatter" href="https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/p/clatter/9nps35br12q8" target="_blank">Clatter</a></h2>
<h3>Platform: Windows</h3>
<p>
Have you ever wondered if there was an app to combine all of your messaging apps into 1? Well, Clatter
is the answer. I used to keep multiple tabs and programs open so I could see all of my messaging services
at once, but with Clatter, they are all neatly packaged in one application. Any messaging service with a web
app can be accessed through Clatter. Give it a try, I'm sure you will enjoy it as much as I do.
</p>
<h2><a href="https://chocolatey.org/" target="_blank">Chocolatey</a></h2>
<h2><a name="Chocolatey" href="https://chocolatey.org/" target="_blank">Chocolatey</a></h2>
<h3>Platform: Windows</h3>
<p>
Chocolatey is Windows's answer to Homebrew. It is essentially a package manager that allows you to easily track
and upgrade/install/uninstall programs on Windows. My process when installing apps is to check if there is a
Windows app on the Microsoft Store. If not, I check Chocolatey. More times than not, it's available there.
You can easily install any programs you need via command prompt and avoid the tedious installation wizard.
</p>
<h2><a href="https://www.pocketcasts.com/" target="_blank">Pocket Casts</a></h2>
<h2><a name="Pocket Casts" href="https://www.pocketcasts.com/" target="_blank">Pocket Casts</a></h2>
<h3>Platform: Web App, iOS, Android</h3>
<p>
This is my preferred Podcast app. I have it on my Android phone and I use the Windows app on my desktop
and laptop. I purchased the web app and android app prior to the new "subscription" model that Pocket Casts
has implemented. While I don't agree with this new pay structure, I appreciate that they have implemented a
free tier that has the majority of features that most people will need.
</p>
<h2><a href="https://vanced.app/" target="_blank">YouTube Vanced</a></h2>
<h2><a name="YouTube Vanced" href="https://vanced.app/" target="_blank">YouTube Vanced</a></h2>
<h3>Platform: Android</h3>
<p>
I discovered this on a MEGA PRO TIPS post on
<a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/galaxys10/comments/bg2bb2/mega_pro_tips_make_the_most_of_your_s10_settings/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x">r/galaxys10</a>
(tip 29). All relevant information on what apps to download and a fix for a login issue can be found in the
reddit post. The gist of the app is that it removes ads from YouTube on your android phone and you can play
music while your screen is off for free.
</p>
<h2><a href="https://xodo.com/" target="_blank">Xodo</a></h2>
<h2><a name="Xodo" href="https://xodo.com/" target="_blank">Xodo</a></h2>
<h3>Platform: Web App, iOS, Android, Windows</h3>
<p>
This is the best PDF editor/reader I have found that doesn't require a paid subscription (unlike Adobe) for
all of its features. You can easily write/edit, fill out forms, and add digital signatures. All for free.
</p>
<h2><a href="https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/p/mytube/9wzdncrcwf3l" target="_blank">myTube!</a></h2>
<h2><a name="myTube!" href="https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/p/mytube/9wzdncrcwf3l" target="_blank">myTube!</a></h2>
<h3>Platform: Windows</h3>
<p>
Similar to <a href="#YouTube Vanced">YouTube Vanced</a>, this app removes ads from YouTube. The main difference
here is that myTube! is a Windows app rather than an Android app.
</p>
<h1><a name="hardware">Hardware</a></h1>
<h2>Desktop PC</h2>
A full list of my desktop PC build components can be found on <a href="https://pcpartpicker.com/user/sr98vn/saved/#view=dv8LJx" target="_blank">PCPartPicker</a>.
My current build has stayed largely the same from when I first built it, with the exception of the peripherals and monitors.
I have upgraded my keyboard, mouse, and speakers over the past couple of years as I found deals.
<h2>Laptop</h2>
<h3>Model: HP Specture x360 15"</h3>
<h3>Model: HP Spectre x360 15"</h3>
<h3>CPU: Intel i7-7500U</h3>
<h3>GPU: NVIDIA GeForce 940MX</h3>
<h3>RAM: 16 GB</h3>
<p>
My main laptop use case is for school. I wanted a touchscreen so I could take digital written notes in class and
I needed a good processor and dedicated graphics card for CAD software and for general programming applications.
I landed on the HP Specture x360 because it had a great balance of specs, amazing display, touch screen, and very
nice typing experience for a reasonable price. I was initially leaning towards a Razer Blade or Microsoft's Surface Book.
The former would be great for my use case and for gaming, but it isn't great for taking handwritten digital notes.
The latter is similar to the Spectre in regards to specs, but has a favorable display ratio. The main reason I chose
against it in the end was the high price relative to the Spectre. I was able to get very comparable specs for a much
lower price with the spectre.
</p>
<h2>Tablet</h2>
<h3>Model: Microsoft Surface Go</h3>
<h3>CPU: Intel Pentium 4415Y</h3>
<h3>RAM: 4 GB</h3>
<p>
The Surface Go is primarily used as a secondary-device and tablet. I use it for media consumption and occasional e-book
reading. It is by no means powerful enough to act as my primary device, but I like it as a secondary device that
I will occasionally use.
</p>
<h2>Phone</h2>
<h3>Model: Samsung Galaxy S10+</h3>
<p>
Got the Galaxy S10+ on sale on Amazon's Prime Day. My previous phone was a Pixel 2XL which I really liked, but I decided
to switch to a Galaxy after the Pixel 3 was a bit of a disappointment and the Pixel 4 wouldn't come out until later in the year.
Other phones I considered, but ultimately decided against were the OnePlus 7 Pro and Samsung Galaxy Note 9. In retrospect,
I would have waited to replace my Pixel 2XL until the Galaxy Note 10+ came out and the price dropped down to something reasonable.
However, I am happy with my decision as is.
</p>
<h2>Watch</h2>
<h3>Model: Samsung Galaxy Watch</h3>
<p>
I previously had a Moto 360 Sport smartwatch, but the performance was extremely disappointing. After looking at other
Android wear devices, I didn't feel that another compelling watch on the level of the Apple Watch for iPhones existed.
Thus, I decided to switch to the Galaxy watch. My primary impressions of Tizen OS vs Android Wear is the lack of
supported apps. I have found that this really isn't that big of a deal as it has great media controls for your phone
and the amazing rotating bezel interface. This is by far the superior input method for watches and I feel that
all watches should have some variant of this. Overall, the performance is great and I have come to appreciate
Samsung's brand of apps for my phone and watch.
</p>
<h1><a name="video_games">Video Games</a></h1>
<h2><a href="https://thewitcher.com/en/witcher3" target="_blank">The Witcher III: Wild Hunt</a></h2>
<h2><a href="https://elderscrolls.bethesda.net/en/skyrim" target="_blank">The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim</a></h2>
<p>
These are some of my favorite video games (on my prefered platforms) in no particular order.
</p>
<h2>Nintendo Switch</h2>
<p><ul>
<li>The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild</li>
<li>Fire Emblem: Three Houses</li>
<li>Super Smash Bros. Ultimate</li>
<li>Octopath Traveler</li>
</ul></p>
<h2>PlayStation 4</h2>
<p><ul>
<li>God of War</li>
<li>Marvel's Spider-Man</li>
<li>Bloodborne</li>
</ul></p>
<h2>PC</h2>
<p><ul>
<li>The Witcher III: Wild Hunt</li>
<li>The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim</li>
<li>Dark Souls 1 & 3</li>
<li>Borderlands 2</li>
<li>Star Wars: Jedi Fallen Order</li>
<li>Minecraft</li>
<li>Red Dead Redemption 2</li>
<li>The Sims 3</li>
<li>Monster Hunter: World</li>
</ul></h3>
<h1><a name="music">Music</a></h1>
<h2>Spotify Playlist</h2>
<p>
These are my current (approximately 100) favorite songs.
</p>
<iframe src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/playlist/28Qjnry0Pw8D6Z6n5pzxSv" width="300" height="380" frameborder="0" allowtransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe>
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