modernization Archives

Tech Optimizer

June 2, 2025

Streamline code conversion and testing from Microsoft SQL Server and Oracle to PostgreSQL with Amazon Bedrock

Organizations are transitioning from legacy database systems like Microsoft SQL Server and Oracle to open-source alternatives such as PostgreSQL to reduce costs and enhance scalability. This migration process involves several steps, including schema conversion, business logic transformation, data migration, application changes, and performance tuning. Amazon Bedrock aids this process by automating schema and code conversion, data transformation, identifying code compatibility issues, and generating test cases for validation. The migration challenges include adapting database objects to PostgreSQL's syntax, converting stored procedures and functions, executing ETL processes for data accuracy, modifying application code, and optimizing performance. Amazon Bedrock utilizes generative AI to simplify these tasks, significantly reducing manual effort and errors. An example of code conversion from Microsoft SQL Server to PostgreSQL is provided, illustrating how to convert a stored procedure into a PostgreSQL function while generating corresponding test cases. The process involves using the Amazon Bedrock chat interface to submit prompts for conversion and validation. To support the migration, table creation scripts for the Employees and SalaryUpdateLog tables are included, along with test data that covers various employee scenarios. This data allows for comprehensive testing of the converted function, ensuring it correctly applies salary updates based on specified criteria.

Winsage

May 28, 2025

The Windows File Explorer is still so bad when it comes to networked drives

File Explorer in Windows 11 has usability issues, particularly with sluggish search functionality and problems accessing networked drives. Users often experience drives disappearing after reboot, inaccessibility to files, and freezing of File Explorer, with error codes like c0000375 indicating deeper issues. The networked drive feature relies on outdated technology, as Microsoft has deprecated older protocols like SMBv1, complicating file sharing. Users can mitigate freezing by restarting File Explorer and ensuring network settings are correctly configured, such as setting Wi-Fi to private and enabling file sharing options. Excessive pinned items in Quick Access can cause crashes, and clearing the cache may resolve these issues. Alternatives to File Explorer, like XYplorer and File Pilot, can provide better access to networked drives. Overall, the challenges stem from outdated technology and the corruption of the Quick Access cache, with third-party solutions available for relief.

Tech Optimizer

May 6, 2025

Crunchy Data Validates Postgres for Red Hat OpenShift Virtualization Workloads

Validation for Crunchy Postgres on Red Hat OpenShift Virtualization has been officially announced. Crunchy Data has expanded its collaboration with Red Hat to enhance support for Red Hat OpenShift Virtualization, enabling customers to deploy production-ready Postgres infrastructure. The validation allows Red Hat customers to implement Postgres for various applications within Red Hat OpenShift Virtualization-based virtual machines. Key features of Crunchy Postgres include automated deployment, comprehensive backups, disaster recovery capabilities, high availability, connection scaling, performance optimizations, and robust monitoring tools. This announcement continues the collaboration between Crunchy Data and Red Hat, which includes previous certifications and a shared commitment to open source software.

AppWizard

April 19, 2025

After a disappointing sequel and a cancelled remake, the original Fear Effect is coming to PC ‘for the first time ever’

Fear Effect is set to make its debut on PC, published by Limited Run Games, without any remastering or modernization. A remake titled Fear Effect Reinvented was announced in 2017 but was informally canceled by developer Forever Entertainment in 2023. The only other entry in the series, Fear Effect Sedna, was released in 2018 as an isometric stealth action title and received a 'Mixed' rating on Steam, with only 44% of reviews being positive. The upcoming rerelease is anticipated but details are limited, with Steam stating it is "Coming soon."

AppWizard

March 14, 2025

Amtrak Enhances Mobile App to Improve the Travel Experience

Amtrak is modernizing its trains, stations, and infrastructure to meet the increasing demand for rail services across over 500 destinations in 46 states and parts of Canada. The company is focused on enhancing the travel experience and expanding accessibility while promoting environmentally friendly travel options. Travelers can access information through Amtrak.com, the Amtrak app, and social media platforms. Amtrak offers a Guest Rewards program that allows members to earn points for travel benefits.