Recent Issues of The Tech Toolbox
TTT #43: Introducing GraphRAG - Transforming Data Analysis with LLMs
Stephen Collins
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May 11, 2024
Explore GraphRAG, a transformative technology developed by Microsoft Research to enhance LLM capabilities for sophisticated d...
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TTT #42: The Artistic Dimensions of Software Architecture
Stephen Collins
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May 4, 2024
In this issue, I explain why software architecture should be viewed as an art just as much as a science. Discover how blendin...
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TTT #41: Boosting Contextual Relevance in LLMs with LlamaIndex
Stephen Collins
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Apr 27, 2024
In this issue, I explore LlamaIndex, a framework that dramatically improves the integration of specific, private data into la...
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TTT #40: Unleashing the Potential of Hugging Face's AutoModel in AI Development
Stephen Collins
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Apr 20, 2024
In this issue, I discuss the convenient yet powerful capabilities of Hugging Face's AutoModel class, one of several "AutoClas...
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TTT #39: Milvus vs Pinecone: A Comparison of Vector Databases
Stephen Collins
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Apr 13, 2024
This issue explores the specialized world of vector databases, focusing on a comparative analysis between Pinecone and Milvus...
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TTT #38: Embracing the Role of AI Overseers in Modern Engineering
Stephen Collins
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Apr 12, 2024
This edition considers the emergent role of 'AI Overseers', pivotal in harnessing AI for superior engineering achievements. I...
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TTT #37: The Unyielding Developer - Persistence, Learning, and Communication
Stephen Collins
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Mar 30, 2024
In this issue, I explore the pivotal role of stubbornness, the insatiable appetite for learning, and the paramount importance...
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TTT #36: Managing the AI Hype Cycle
Stephen Collins
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Mar 23, 2024
Navigate the swirling hype surrounding artificial intelligence breakthroughs. This issue examines the financial incentives dr...
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TTT #35: Exploring Multi-Modal LLMs - Beyond Text
Stephen Collins
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Mar 14, 2024
Dive into the intricate workings of Multi-Modal Large Language Models, the advanced AI systems capable of understanding and g...
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TTT #34: Decoding LLMs - The Enterprise Need for Mechanistic Interpretability
Stephen Collins
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Mar 8, 2024
Explore the pivotal role of mechanistic interpretability in merging large language models with enterprise software, advancing...
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TTT #33: Improving Content Discovery - A Look at Semantify's Approach
Stephen Collins
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Mar 2, 2024
Dive into the transformative approach of using vector embeddings in recommender systems, spotlighting Semantify's innovative ...
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TTT #32: Exploring Evolutionary Architecture in Software Development
Stephen Collins
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Feb 24, 2024
In this issue, I discuss Evolutionary Architecture, a methodology to help with designing software applications. Explore how E...
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TTT #31: Mastering Software Testing in LLM Development with Promptfoo
Stephen Collins
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Feb 17, 2024
This issue introduces concepts in systematic software testing for LLM development with Promptfoo, a CLI tool designed for pre...
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TTT #30: Cursor - Revolutionizing Code Editing with AI
Stephen Collins
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Feb 10, 2024
This issue introduces Cursor, an innovative AI-powered code editor built on the foundation of Visual Studio Code. It enhances...
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TTT #29: Database Security Showdown - SQLite vs. PostgreSQL
Stephen Collins
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Feb 3, 2024
This issue covers security features of SQLite and PostgreSQL, providing a comparative analysis to help database administrator...
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TTT #28: AI's Political Play - Understanding and Countering Misinformation
Stephen Collins
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Jan 27, 2024
In this newsletter, I consider the intricate role of AI in political interference. I share my personal journey and insights i...
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TTT #27: Exploring the Basics of Multi-Agent LLM Frameworks
Stephen Collins
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Jan 20, 2024
In this issue, I explore the fascinating world of Multi-Agent Large Language Model (LLM) Frameworks, an advanced area in AI t...
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TTT #26: The Importance of a Financial Safety Net in Tech
Stephen Collins
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Jan 13, 2024
Amidst recent layoff news in the tech industry, this issue deviates slightly from AI topics to discuss the importance of buil...
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TTT #25: Vector Databases Showdown: Milvus vs Chroma
Stephen Collins
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Jan 6, 2024
This issue dives into the dynamic world of vector databases, presenting a detailed comparison between Milvus and Chroma, two ...
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TTT #24: Navigating the AI-Assisted Coding Landscape with GitHub Copilot
Stephen Collins
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Dec 30, 2023
Exploring the world of AI-assisted coding, this issue brings a firsthand review of GitHub Copilot, highlighting its strengths...
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TTT #23: Mixtral 8x7B vs. ChatGPT - A Detailed Comparison
Stephen Collins
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Dec 16, 2023
This issue explores an in-depth comparison between Mixtral 8x7B and ChatGPT, focusing on their operational costs, instruction...
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TTT #22: ChatGPT vs. Gemini in Front-End Development
Stephen Collins
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Dec 9, 2023
This issue covers a detailed comparison between ChatGPT and Gemini, focusing on their abilities in React-based front-end deve...
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TTT #21: Maximizing GPT-4's Potential: Innovative Prompting Techniques Unveiled
Stephen Collins
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Dec 2, 2023
This issue explores some advanced prompting techniques enhancing GPT-4's capabilities across various sectors....
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TTT #20: AI Limitations: Maneuvering the Boundaries of Language Models
Stephen Collins
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Nov 25, 2023
This issue explores the current limits of AI language models and their implications for technology users....
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TTT #19: The Secret to Getting Hired in Tech
Stephen Collins
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Nov 18, 2023
Unlock the nuanced art of becoming the candidate that tech recruiters are eager to hire....
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TTT #18: Non-Technical Keys to Unlocking Your Full Developer Potential
Stephen Collins
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Nov 11, 2023
Explore the essential non-technical strategies that can elevate a developer's career to new heights....
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TTT #17: Explaining GTE-base – The Versatile Maven of Text Embedding
Stephen Collins
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Nov 4, 2023
Dive into the world of NLP with GTE-base, the versatile open-source text embedding model breaking new ground in AI....
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TTT #16: ChatGPT - The Future Interpreter for Developers
Stephen Collins
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Oct 28, 2023
In this issue, I explain ChatGPT's potential as the 'new interpreter' for developers, exploring how English could be the next...
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TTT #15: Learning How to Learn as a Developer
Stephen Collins
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Oct 21, 2023
In this issue, I offer my take on the indispensable skill of 'Learning How to Learn' as a developer, offering insights and st...
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TTT #14: Securing LLMs through Diverse Approaches
Stephen Collins
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Oct 14, 2023
In this issue, I suggest strategies for enhancing the security of LLMs, recognizing the critical importance of safeguarding t...
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TTT #13: Exploring Types of Vector Embeddings
Stephen Collins
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Oct 7, 2023
Embark on a succinct exploration into the world of vector embeddings within Natural Language Processing (NLP), delving into v...
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TTT #12: Navigating Data Privacy: The Intersection of Vector Embeddings and AI Innovation
Stephen Collins
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Sep 30, 2023
Explore the intersection where data privacy converges with the advanced arena of vector embeddings in AI innovation. Discover...
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TTT #11: Meet Your New AI Companions: Claude, Cohere, GPT-4 & Llama 2
Stephen Collins
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Sep 23, 2023
In this enlightening edition, I introduce you to the charismatic world of AI companions like Claude, Cohere, GPT-4, and Llama...
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TTT #10: Understanding Vector Embeddings: The Secret Sauce behind Language Models
Stephen Collins
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Sep 16, 2023
In this edition, I unravel the concept of vector embeddings, the powerhouse behind modern language models like GPT-4. Join me...
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TTT #9: Your Comprehensive Guide to Exploring the AI Landscape
Stephen Collins
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Sep 9, 2023
In this issue, we delve into a variety of resources that make the journey into the world of AI accessible and enjoyable for e...
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TTT #8: The Rise and Opportunity of AI-Powered Chatbots
Stephen Collins
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Sep 2, 2023
This issue explores the evolution, applications, and future prospects of AI-powered chatbots in the digital landscape....
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TTT #7: Finetuning Transformer Models for Domain-Specific Code Search
Stephen Collins
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Aug 26, 2023
Discover the transformative potential of finetuning transformer models for domain-specific code search. This newsletter delve...
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TTT #6: Universal Sentence Encoder vs. Ada Model of GPT Embeddings: A Comparative Analysis
Stephen Collins
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Aug 19, 2023
Dive into a detailed comparison between the Universal Sentence Encoder and Ada model of GPT embeddings. This newsletter explo...
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TTT #5: Basics of Vector Search and Embeddings: A Practical Guide
Stephen Collins
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Aug 11, 2023
Explore the world of vector search and embeddings through a comprehensive guide. This newsletter unveils the underlying princ...
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TTT #4: Use Cases for Prompt Templates in Large Language Models
Stephen Collins
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Aug 5, 2023
Discussing the innovative ways prompt templates are being utilized to produce standardized outputs from large language models...
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TTT #3: Hidden Gems of the VSCode CLI Tool
Stephen Collins
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Jul 29, 2023
Discover the lesser-known capabilities of the `code` CLI tool that can supercharge your development experience in Visual Stud...
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TTT #2: Using ChatGPT Effectively
Stephen Collins
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Jul 21, 2023
In this newsletter issue, I'm sharing how you can use ChatGPT to improve your software development....
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TTT #1: Git Basics and Tricks
Stephen Collins
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Jul 11, 2023
Today, I'll share three essential Git commands that will elevate your version control skills...
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