python+virtualenv on Cygwin

I recently made Linux my platform for development, Firstly ue to the similarity with my production platform. Secondly because most open source programming tool performs optimally in Linux based system.

However, unless I replace my ageing system with a Mac, I will still need Windows OS for my small day to day works. So I have been doing most of my techical jobs on Ubuntu 12, installed ob Oracle VirtualBox.

However, I have been noticing some annoying delay, which prompted me to consider using Cygwin.

After pulling my hair a bit, I managed to figure out how to install python developement tools on Cygwin.

1. Install Python. 
2. Download and unzip pip. 
3. Install by going into the expanded directory and running python setup.py in a command prompt.
4. Set the %PYTHONHOME% system variable to the python base directory, (i.e. C:\Python27\) and adding the python base directory and script directory (i.e. C:\Python27\Scripts) to your %PATH% system variable.
5. Install Cygwin WITHOUT Python. The previous step tells Cygwin to use the Windows binary.
6. Install Cygwin-Virtualenvwrapper using pip install https://bitbucket.org/cliffxuan/virtualenvwrapper-for-cygwin-windows-python/get/tip.tar.gz
7. Install virtualenvwrapper-win using pip install virtualenvwrapper-win
8. Make a symlink between Cygwin's virtualenvhome directory and Windows's using ln -s /cygdrive/c/Users/<USER>/Envs/ ~/.virtualenvs
9. Add the following to Cygwin's .bashrc file: 

export VIRTUALENVWRAPPER_PYTHON="/cygdrive/c/Python27/python.exe"
export VIRTUALENVWRAPPER_VIRTUALENV="/cygdrive/c/Python27/Scripts/virtualenv.exe"
source virtualenvwrapper.sh

 
10. Go to C:\User\<username>\Env (or other %VIRTUALENV_HOME% location) and use virtualenv to start a new environment. Doing this allows virtualenvwrapper-win's workon command to work.

Clonezilla and ddrestore to the rescue

I was using my hard when i heard a little noise! I ignored because i was trying to meet some deadline, but the noise didnt disappear, so i place by ear at the left side of the laptop and certainly it sounds like a hard disk crash.
That far from how, and that that particular time, was really a pain in the rear.

I listed out what i need to resolve the issue.. New HDD, Screw driver, Windows 8 media. When i thought it through, i tried to squeeze a little more work from the failing system. I managed to get 2 days work, which worsened the situation and brought me very close to losing my data!

Windows 8

I ordered for a new laptop (Dell Inspiron 13z) from Amazon, delivered via circuitatlantic, (Amazon still doesn't deliver in Lagos.. yet)
My sister came around and took my 14 months old beloved Asus eeepc B1215. Declaring that at 12inch, its the right size for the laptop she wants to replace her faulty laptop. I gave up after constant badgering and 40,000 naira, promise
But that left me without any laptop for the first time in years. I went a laptop shopping at Computer Village, Otigba, seems like ultra-laptop is scarce or very priced. I turned my attention to Online stores, and making little head way, despite the sun flogging me like an errant child.
Jumia and Konga did not have ones of the right fit (size and price), so i went to stores broad. Amazon has the best fit and at  price less than $500, Walmart, not right-priced :)

I didn't really have a good look at the OS, until it arrived. Lo and behold, not the beloved Windows 7, but Windows 8 in her "tiles" of glory and no Start button. The reviews got me more scared.
Maybe that is why i took some time to read the Getting Started with Windows 8 by Dell, which i do not bother with normally!

But after using it, i can positively say that am not missing the Stat button that much, if at all. The keyboard start button is adequate and faster! You also launch the programs by taking your mouse to the lower left corner, (location for old start button).
So far, i have not gone to the Windows Store, and is actually replacing the app with my normal software. All Win7 programs have been working excellently.

Quick Shortcuts/Tricks below.

• ALT+F4 to close App or Hover the mouse at the upper right-hand corner.
• To get the Desktop, click the Desktop Tile, or press Win Key+D.
• To switch App/Programs ALT+WIN or ALT+TAB
• To get to All App/Program, right click anywhere in the Start Screen and Click the All apps, at the lower right corner.
• To open the Charms menu. hover the mouse at the topmost/or lower right corners. The Charms contain, Search, Share, Start Button (again!), Devices and settings.

In general I am finding Windows 8, to be a Windows 7 with mobile skin :)