VIK LONG
Associate Technical Editor - Just Do It

Proclaiming to be the official "propeller head" at Computer Life, Vik Long brings a love of tinkering to personal computing, the results of which contribute to the Just Do It section.

Vik guides readers through projects -- ranging from the practical to the totally cool -- that pump up their hardware.  "My goal is to take readers on a visual journey inside their computers," he explains,  "where they will learn to perform everything from a simple 5-minute upgrade, such as installing an enhanced parallel port, to more challenging projects like putting together a complete virtual reality system." Vik's enthusiasm is apparent to his readers, and his co-workers get a good dose too, as he works through each project with background music courtesy of either Tchaikovsky (cranked loud) or Motley Crue (cranked even louder).

Vik's previous encounters with stuffy bankers and lawyers was enough to inspire him to toss his suits and explore his options in freelance consulting and writing.  Ultimately he joined the editorial staff at Computer Life, claiming it to be the "perfect place for a gadget freak like me to prosper."

"I'm also an avid computer gamer," Vik admits, "and I absolutely refuse to kick the habit.  I'm especially keen on sharing the joy with others; there's nothing quite like the experience of playing against opponents spanning the globe via the Internet."  On a more local level, when the other editors are feeling grumpy, Vik takes it upon himself to boost spirits with a friendly session of network Doom.  When he's able to tear himself away from computing, Vik enjoys shredding the trails on his bike, carving twisties on his Honda Enduro, or pursuing his interest in "super motard" motorcycles (something he picked up while spending summers in Europe).

Getting in touch...
Vik will gladly tinker with almost anything you throw his way.  Get your product directly to him and he'll stop everything he's doing to check it out.  Otherwise, contact him at (415) 357-5407 or via e-mail (vlong@zd.com).