A correctly used flash can make your subject "pop" from the background.
The Nikon SB-25 is an external flash that can be attached to your camera's hot shoe or can operate independently. A flash unit can add creative or dynamic lighting to a photo to add a professional look. Verify that your camera is compatible with the SB-25 before attaching it; incorrect voltages can damage a camera body.
Core Features
The SB-25 flash has 7 levels of output, each half the output of the level before it. It is powered by 4 AA-sized batteries. The minimum recycling time is 7 seconds, but can take up to 30 seconds, depending on the output. It has 270 degrees of horizontal rotation and 90 degrees of vertical movement, which can be locked in place.
Additional Features
The flash can adjust to seven zoom settings between 20mm and 85mm, and is capable of auto-zooming when used with compatible Nikon models. It has four flash modes (TTL, automatic, manual and repeating flash), an LCD display glow button, a test fire button and built-in diffuser card.
Pricing and Comparison
The SB-25 can be bought used for around $100 (as of September 2010). Because it was manufactured in the early 90s, it is only sold in photo specialty shops, mostly online, and warranty support may not be available. For its price range, it has all the standard features of an external flash.
The Mac Mini is a small desktop computer made by Apple. Although small, it contains many features. It has an Intel Core 2 Duo processor, a NVIDIA GeForce 9400M graphics processor and built-in wireless networking. The Mac Mini does not contain a built-in microphone, but it can support an external microphone. You cannot connect a line-in microphone directly to a Mac Mini, but there are other options.
Instructions
1. Choose your microphone. If you already own a line-in mic that you want to use, all you need is an adapter. If not, choose a USB mic, which allows clear sound input.
2. Purchase either your USB mic or adapter. The adapter to purchase for use with a line-in mic and Mac Mini is the Griffin iMic.
3. Locate the USB port you want to use on the back of the Mac. The Mac Mini has five USB ports. Consider the length of the cord when choosing your port. If the cord is quite short, choose the USB port closest to where you sit.
4. If you purchased a USB mic, plug it directly into the USB port. If you have a line-in mic and purchased the Griffin iMic, plug the iMic USB audio interface directly into the USB port on the Mac and plug your line-in mic into the iMic's line-in port.
5. You are now ready to use a mic with the Mac Mini. Some programs that come on the Mac Mini can be used with the mic. Record yourself singing using Garage Band or chat using iChat, which also comes on the Mac Mini. Skype, a free application that allows users to make voice calls over the Internet, can be downloaded online and used with a mic.
Tags: directly into, directly into port, Griffin iMic, into port, used with
For most home owners, home security and surveillance is a concern. Whether it is being able to watch the house during a long vacation or surreptitiously check up on the kids during an evening out, turning a Web camera into a surveillance camera is an easy and affordable way to help ease a troubled mind. The quality of the video will be directly affected by the speed of the Internet connection and the quality of the camera used. One problem that crops up is the fact that the computer running the camera will need to be on constantly, but proper electronics safety precautions can help minimize any danger.
Instructions
1. Place the Webcams in all of the areas that need to be watched. Position them so that they have an unobstructed view. If they are outside, make sure that they are protected from the elements. Mount them to walls, ceilings or wherever they are needed with the mounting hardware provided in the package.
2. Provide power to the webcams. Some wireless webcams are battery powered while others need to be plugged in. If the camera is battery powered, make sure that fresh batteries are added on a regular basis. For cameras that are plugged in, keep the wires clear of obstructions so that they can't accidentally be unplugged.
3. Install the software that came with the webcams and plug the USB video receiver into a USB port. Open the software and check to see that the webcams are transmitting video to the computer. Look at the range of vision and adjust any webcams that need it.
4. Sign up with an Internet video website that allows uninterrupted broadcasts. There are a number of websites that allow 24-hour monitoring and the feed can be viewed from a computer or mobile device.
5. Download the software that the website requires and install it on the computer. Make sure the computer fulfills all of the operating requirements, usually Windows XP or better and at least 512 MB of RAM. Carefully go through all of the options and set the software up completely. The software will be different depending on the service chosen, but it will come with clear instructions on set it up.
6. Log on to the chosen website and check to make sure all of the webcams are working properly.
Tags: make sure, that they, battery powered, make sure that, software that, sure that, that need
CRT (cathode-ray tube) TVs have been the most common televisions for many years. While other types of projection like rear and front projection and flat screens are becoming increasingly available, traditional CRT TVs are still at the top of the barrel (and tend to be better priced). These steps will help you get started on buying a CRT TV.
Instructions
1. Measure the space where you intend to put the TV. CRT TVs come in a wide variety of sizes, from small 13 inch screens to approximately 38 inches. Know the maximum amount of space and screen size (measured diagonally) you want.
2. Determine what kind of picture quality you'd like. While technology advances have created different types of projection, CRT remains the best in black level, contrast, shadow detail and color performance. CRT TVs come in regular analog and digital (HDTV is the purest image you can get to date).
3. Set a budget for your new TV. CRT remains the most affordable in current TV technology. A fairly large CRT HDTV will cost you less than the same size TV with other technologies (plasma, LCD, rear projection).
4. Search the Internet for TVs that match the qualities you want. Web sites such as Consumer Reports can help you determine the best buy for your money. Chain store Web sites for stores such as Best Buy, Circuit City, Target and Wal-Mart can get you started finding what is available and comparing prices before shopping in a store.
5. Hit the stores and check out the TVs. Talk to store personnel. Ask questions about TV performance, ease of use, and of course, bang for your buck. You may also want to find out what their bestseller is what warranty it carries. Check not only the electronic qualities of the TV, but its aesthetic qualities also.
Power cords are useful tools, carrying electricity from receptacles to appliances in the safest way. Not all cords are ideal. They may be too short, too long, or insufficiently for the location where they are used. Producing a do-it-yourself cord can rectify many of the problems associated with manufactured cords by tailoring the cord to the exact needs of the situation. Creating a cord requires the ability to work methodically and access to basic electrical tools.
Instructions
Design The Cord
1. Choose the type of cord to use based on the predicted use of the finished product. Determine whether the cord is for indoor use, outdoor use, or both. Outdoor cords are exposed to water, extreme temperatures and abrasion so the components used outside must be more resilient than those used to make an indoor cord.
2. Calculate the maximum wattage the cord will handle. The units of electrical power are watts or amps, and nearly every appliance has a plaque or sticker stating its wattage or current needs. If the cord will power more than one appliance, combine the wattages of the appliances to find the total wattage.
3. Establish the voltage of the power. North American homes have two possible power supplies rated at 110 and 220 volts. A 220-volt cord is safe with either voltage, but a 110-volt cord is not safe to use with a 220-volt supply. Find the safe current capacity for the cord by dividing the wattage by the voltage.
4. Determine the length of the cord. Cords that are too short place the wires under strain; cords that are too long are unnecessarily expensive to buy and may present a trip hazard. Length also increases voltage drop, so cords over 100 feet long must have additional current capacity to prevent a significant drop in the voltage. Purchase the right length of the appropriate cord based on your choices in previous steps.
5. Select plugs for both ends of the cord. The plugs must match the type of cord, they must fit the receptacle into which the cord will be plugged, and be suitable for the appliances the cord will power. U.S. Fire Administration advice is for all power cords to be polarized and for plugs to have a minimum of three prongs so the cord can include a grounding wire.
6. Disassemble both plugs. Feed sufficient cord through the cord holes so you can work on the cord without the plug getting in the way. Keep an insulated part of the cord level with the cord grip. Use wire strippers to remove sufficient outer insulation for the internal wires to reach the terminals. Strip the final 1/4 inch of insulation from each wire.
7. Connect the wires to the plug terminals. Use an electrician's screwdriver to loosen the terminals, then connect the wires and re-tighten them. The white wire attaches to the silver "neutral" terminal, the black wire to the brass "hot" terminal and the green or bare copper wire to the "grounding" terminal. This may be marked as "GND."
8. Check the wiring is correctly connected and the terminals are firmly secured. Refit the top on each plug. Take care not to stretch or trap the wires as you do so.
Tags: cord will, cord based, cord safe, cord safe with, cord will power, current capacity
Apple introduced the original iPhone in January 2007; the device operated exclusively the GSM network and it was initially available in 4GB, 8GB and 16GB versions. In July 2009, the company refined its mobile technology with the release of the iPhone 3G. Apart from only being marketed in 8GB and 16GB versions, the iPhone 3G deviated from its predecessor in its compatibility with the emerging 3G network. While storage capacity is the major difference between the 8GB and 16GB iPhone 3G models, the two can also be distinguished from each other in terms of bandwidth, availability and cost.
Similarities
Despite their different storage size, there are many consistencies between the 8GB and 16GB versions of the iPhone 3G. Both models are compatible with 3G and GSM mobile technology. Moreover, they are both Bluetooth enabled and support Wi-Fi connections. The two models also share features like an integrated GPS, a 2-megapixel camera and built-in support for the iTunes AppStore. In terms of display, both devices have a 3.5-inch touchscreen with a resolution of 480x320.
Storage
Storage capacity is the defining difference between the 8GB and 16GB versions of the iPhone 3G. Generally speaking, the 16GB model can hold more songs, apps and images than the 8GB. But just because it has double the amount of storage space, it does not necessarily support double the amount of media. In terms of music files, the iPhone 3G's actual song capacity depends on each audio track's encoding method and bit rate. As a result, it is theoretically possible for an 8GB iPhone 3G to hold more songs if the files are highly compressed.
Battery Life
Both the 8GB and 16GB models are outfitted with a standard lithium-ion battery. Their battery life is also comparable; both models are estimated to deliver up to 300 hours of standby time, 10 hours of talk time and 24 hours of music playing. But given that it can typically store more media, a 16GB model may need to be re-charged more due to increased file playback and app usage.
Appearance
While the 8GB and 16GB models are equivalent in size and weight, Apple does not offer the same color options for each device. Consumers can purchase a 16GB iPhone 3G in either black or white; the 8GB version is only manufactured in black.
Pricing
When the iPhone 3G was first released, the 8GB model retailed for $199 while the 16GB model retailed for $299. In June 2009, Apple permanently dropped the price of the 8GB model to $99 and discontinued production of the 16GB models. Apple sold any remaining 16GB models for $149. Although the iPhone 3G is no longer available in a 16GB version, its removal from the market made way for the iPhone 3GS in 16GB and 32GB versions. While Apple still distributes the iPhone 3G device, the iPhone 3GS was enhanced for faster performance on the 3G network. It is also equipped with a 3-megapixel camera and video recording capability.
Integrated amplifiers combine the source switching and volume control functions of a control amp/preamp and the output of a power amplifier in one chassis. Integrated amps can be designed to very exacting specs, and offer a way to get excellent sound without breaking the bank by having to buy two separate components. Hooking up an integrated amplifier is relatively easy to do.
Instructions
1. Examine the back of your source components, such as CD/DVD player, tape deck, and phono preamp or turntable, and the back of your integrated amp to determine what type of connections to use. XLR balanced cables are considered better by experts, and are used in most professional audio equipment, but are not as common in home audio.
2. Connect the left/right cables from the DVD or CD player to the input on the back of the amp labeled CD or DVD. If you are connecting both a DVD and a CD, run the CD to the CD input and the DVD to either the DVD input, if it has one, or an input labeled "Aux 1."
3. Connect a tape deck, if you have one, with the left/right cables from the tape deck to the input labeled "Tape" or "Aux 2."
4. Connect the phono preamp outputs to the input labeled "Phono" on your integrated amp.
5. Connect the red and and black speaker wires from the left speaker to the left speaker terminals and from the right speaker to the right speaker terminals.
6. Plug in the power cord.
Tags: input labeled, tape deck, back your, cables from, left right, left right cables
A film gauge refers to the width of the film stock. These measurements are what differentiates one type of film from another; 16mm and 8mm are among the common measurements of film gauges. While they both serve the same purpose, there are several distinct differences between them.
Frame Number
As their names state, 16mm film is double the width of 8mm film. As 8mm is smaller, it is able to have 80 frames per foot of film -- twice the 40 frames per foot of 16mm film. Despite this difference, both types of film have sprocket holes that are located in between each frame.
Detail
As 16mm film has a larger frame size, it allows more detail than 8mm film. It is also easier for 16mm film to achieve a shallow depth of field, which means that while a subject is sharp, the background remains soft, allowing the viewer to focus on the subject more easily.
Cost
Using 8mm film is more cost-effective as it is cheaper and able to capture more frames per foot than 16mm film. It is also cheaper to process than 16mm film.
Uses
Although 16mm film was originally for home use, after 8mm came onto the market, 16mm went on to be used for entertainment purposes, such as movies and travelogues. It was replaced by 8mm film for home use.
Tags: 16mm film, frames foot, 16mm film, film also, than 16mm
Camera lenses can offer a photographer or filmmaker various options when shooting under certain conditions. Each lens can have a different focal length, aperture and other characteristics.
Significance
Understanding the difference between camera lenses can help a photographer or filmmaker achieve a desired result. Different types of light and environments can affect a photograph, therefore making a certain type of lens ideal for capturing the right kind of image.
Function
Camera lenses affect how the light reaches the film of a camera, and manipulating how much light enters the camera can change the look of the captured image. The focal length affects how light is focused and diffused; the shorter the focal length, the greater the depth of field. The aperture is the hole through which the light enters the lens; the smaller the hole, the more light is needed and the shallower the depth of field will be.
Types
There are three basic types of lenses: normal, telephoto, and wide angle. Normal lenses usually have a 35mm to 70mm focal length, telephoto lenses have a 70mm or higher focal length, and wide angle lenses have 35mm or lower focal length. There are also zoom lenses and prime lenses. Zoom lenses allow the lens the change focal lengths and prime lenses are set at a particular length.
Effects
Each lens affects the image differently. A telephoto lens creates a shallower depth of field, which makes subjects in the foreground and background seem closer, as well as blurring out the background more. Wide angle lens can make a space seem larger and objects farther apart, and a lot more tends to be in focus.
Considerations
Which lens is best depends on several variables, including how much light is available and what is being photographed. For spaces with less light or large subjects, a shorter focal length and larger aperture are ideal. For subjects that are small or at a distance, a greater focal length is best.
Tags: focal length, depth field, Camera lenses, Each lens, have 35mm, lenses have, light enters
Outdoor surveillance camera system on a construction site
Outdoor surveillance systems work in much the same ways as indoor systems; the main difference is the cameras. Outdoor cameras are designed to be weatherproof but outdoor cameras can also be used indoors. Typical surveillance systems have three major subsystems: the cameras (indoor and/or outdoor); a way to record the camera images, usually a security DVR; and a way to get the signal from the camera to the security DVR. Many systems can also be connected to the Internet for remote viewing and/or recording.
Cameras
Indoor camera in an outdoor housing
Outdoor cameras work just like indoor cameras except they are built to withstand the elements. These cameras can either be indoor cameras placed in water-tight housings or cameras that are completely enclosed and sealed from the manufacturer. Many cameras are designed to be used outdoors without a housing; these are often more economical and easier to install. Also, they are less obtrusive and typically less expensive; the consumer models can be purchased for less than $100 each. These cameras are usually called bullet cameras and the smaller varieties are called lipstick cameras (because they are the size of a tube of lipstick).
At Night
Because many outdoor surveillance systems are used at night, these systems have features to enhance nighttime surveillance. The most popular feature is called IR (infrared). IR cameras use small infrared LEDs (light emitting diodes) to illuminate the area in front of the camera with light which is invisible to the human eye. However, IR cameras do have some limitations.
IR Limitations
For many cameras, the actual field of illumination is often less than what is advertised. And although the IR light is invisible to our eyes, bugs can see the light and are attracted to it. Bugs attract spiders that build webs over the lens, causing glare and completely obscuring the night vision capability.
Low-Light Cameras
Cameras are rated in "lux," which is an illumination rating. The lower the lux rating of a camera, the better it can see in the dark. A camera rated at 3 lux is not usable in twilight and must be have additional lighting. And according to FootPrintSecurity.au.com, black-and-white cameras will function better in low light conditions because color cameras will produce a grainy image and become unusable. Professional-level outdoor security cameras can operate at lux levels below the human eye. A camera rated at .0003 lux can produce a usable image with just a partial moon and these cameras can be purchased for less than $150.
Camera Signal
The camera generates a signal which is transferred to a security DVR either wirelessly or through a cable. Coaxial cable-based systems are the most common and are called CCTV (closed circuit television) systems. Once the signal is transferred to the security DVR, it is recorded for future playback. Security DVRs are different than regular DVRs because they can record many cameras simultaneously and are enhanced with other features needed in surveillance situations.
Tags: less than, surveillance systems, because they, camera rated, cameras designed, cameras will
Many automotive GPS devices offer the ability to store and play audio-book and music files. If your GPS includes an FM transmitter or modulator, you can create a wireless connection between the GPS and your auto stereo. If your GPS does not include an FM transmitter or modulator, you can create a wired connection between the two devices with a standard audio cable.
Instructions
FM Transmitter (Garmin GPS)
1. Select "Volume," "Audio Output," then "FM Transmitter" to display the "Frequency Adjust" screen.
2. Select an unused (no broadcast) FM station on your car radio.
3. Press the "+" or "-" buttons on your GPS to select the same station.
can cause seizures in some people so use with caution.
Strobe lights are flashing lights. They are often used in nightclubs, at concerts and at parties. The strobe light can flash quickly or slowly, depending on the desired effect. Multiple strobe lights can create a disorienting feeling for the audience and make it look like there are gaps in time. Strobe lights come in a variety of colors, but are predominately white. Constructing a strobe light at home should cost less than $50.
Instructions
1. Purchase or make a 1-foot square wooden box. Leave one side of the box open.
2. Insert a light fixture for a 100 watt bulb into the box. Attach the fixture to the center of the inside bottom of the box with screws.
3. Drill a hole in the floor of the box and run the power cord from the fixture out through the hole.
4. Twist a 100 watt bulb into the fixture.
5. Drill four holes through the plexiglass carefully and screw the plexiglass to the open side of the box. Unscrew the plexiglass when the bulb burns out to replace the bulb.
6. Plug the light's power cord into a strobe light control switch. The control switch can be purchased from an event lighting supply store. The control switch will regulate what type of strobe the light flashes.
7. Mount the control switch on top of the box. Screw or glue the switch onto the box.
8. Plug the control switch into the outlet. Turn on the control switch and configure the strobe following the instructions that came with the control switch.
Tags: control switch, strobe light, bulb into, power cord, Strobe lights, watt bulb
Upload Pictures From a Motorola I580 Cell Phone Camera
The Motorola i580 cell phone has a built-in digital camera that lets you take pictures and video. You save the pictures to a memory card inserted in your camera. If you want to back up your pictures or share them with others, you can upload the pictures you take with the camera to a computer. Uploading the pictures also frees up space on your memory card, allowing you to take more pictures and videos.
Instructions
1. Connect the Motorola i580 to your computer by plugging the USB cable into the data port on your phone and inserting the other end into a USB jack on your computer. Your computer will recognize the phone as a removable storage device after several seconds.
2. Open "My Computer" and double-click "Removable Disk" under "Devices with Removable Storage." The files and folders on your memory card will appear in the window that pops up on the computer monitor.
3. Locate the pictures you want to upload in the "Images" folder. Pictures you take with your camera are automatically stored to the "Images" folder.
4. Click and drag the pictures from the "Images" folder into a different location on your computer. A status bar will appear on the monitor screen indicating the amount of time remaining in the transfer. Do not disconnect the phone from the computer during the transfer.
5. Disconnect the Motorola i580 from the computer when the transfer is complete.
Tags: Images folder, memory card, Cell Phone Camera, from computer, From Motorola
Because they are used on a daily basis, most headsets take a lot of abuse. Since they are relatively fragile pieces of equipment, they can break easily if you don't take care of them. Whether you use a corded headset at a computer or a wireless headset when using your cell phone, there are some things you can do to prevent excessive wear and damage.
Instructions
Prevent Damage to Your Headset
1. Don't leave headsets in your car in extreme temperatures. Direct sunlight and temperatures exceeding 110 degrees F can change the shape of the plastic parts of your headset, and extremely cold temperatures below 14 degrees F can diminish the battery life. Both extremes can negatively affect the operation of the headset.
2. Keep your headset away from moisture. Wearing a headset in the rain or exposing it to excessive sweating can short out some of the electrical components of the headset. Wireless headsets are particularly susceptible to this problem.
3. Avoid wrapping cords around the headset unit when storing. Over time this will weaken the cord and can cause the plastic covering around the wires to deteriorate. This is a common problem with corded headsets.
4. Try not to twist or twirl the cord on the headset while using. This is often done unconsciously and habitually, but it can damage the wire and shorten the life of the headset.
5. Take care not to drop a wireless headset or throw it down on a table or desk. Many headsets have small interior components that can break loose, damaging the entire unit.
6. Clean makeup, sweat, dirt, and hair products off your headset periodically, as headsets can get very dirty. If that dirt penetrates the outer casing of the unit, it can interfere with the operation of the headset. Use a damp cloth or alcohol-free wipes to gently clean it.
7. Never pull on the cord of a corded headset to remove it from the device. Only remove the device directly at the adapter, or the cord might break off. Even a small amount of force repeated over time can cause the cord to gradually pull from the adapter and the interior wires to fray.
Tags: corded headset, operation headset, wireless headset, your headset
It used to be when you captured a video with your camcorder, if you wanted to keep the footage, you had to keep the tapes. There was also no easy way to edit the footage, so whatever you captured would be exactly how your video stayed. Today, there are plenty of consumer-friendly video editing programs on the market that allow amateurs to capture video footage on their PCs and edit their home movies to perfection. In order to capture and edit, you must first hook up your camcorder to your PC.
Instructions
1. Connect the camcorder via Firewire or i.Link. With your camcorder off, plug the Firewire into the camcorder. The port will be somewhere on the side or back of the camcorder, and will be the only port on the camera that the plug fits into.
2. Plug the Firewire or i.Link cord into your computer. Some computers put the port on the front behind a flip-down panel. With others, you will have to locate the port on the back of the computer.
3. Turn on the camcorder. If the cords are connected correctly, the computer should automatically recognize the camera, and a pop-up menu will come up with different actions you can take with your camcorder, such as capturing the footage.
4. Connect analog camcorders through a digital video converter. If you do not have a digital video camera, it will not have a Firewire. Analog footage cannot be directly captured onto a PC. You will have to convert the footage to digital by running it through a digital video converter. The camcorder will be connected to the digital converter with basic audio-video cords. The video converter is connected to the PC with either a Firewire or an S-video cord.
5. Use the USB port if you are just grabbing photos. Some popular brands of camcorders are now being made with a USB port. USB does not have the bandwidth needed to transfer digital video, but if you want to import frames from your video footage as picture files, USB does have that capability. Hook one end of a USB cord to the camcorder and one to a USB port on your PC.
Tags: digital video, your camcorder, video converter, will have, camcorder port, camcorder will, digital video converter
Connecting a Pioneer DEH-P5800MP radio to your car speakers takes some time.
Pioneer Electronics' DEH-P5800MP car stereo/CD player delivers striking visual display effects and 50 watts of audio power to your ears -- as long as your speakers are adequate and properly installed. It also comes with a "two-way crossover adjustment" to fine-tune your speaker and subwoofer sound, as well as a "high-pass filter" to protect your speakers from unnecessary bass. Just make sure you're connecting your speaker wires correctly during installation, and you shouldn't have a problem getting started on the fun part: listening.
Instructions
1. Disconnect your car battery's negative power lead with a wrench.
2. Prepare your dash for your DEH-P5800MP stereo, removing the old radio by unscrewing any mounting screws. Look on the back of the old radio to see if your antenna, power and speaker wiring is connected to a wiring harness or via individual wires. If the old radio's wires are fitted into a wiring harness, you're almost done; merely unplug the harness and replug it and your other cabling into your DEH-P5800MP, then push the radio into its hole and screw it into place with the bottom mounting screws. This should suffice to connect to your car's speaker system.
If you have separate wires leading to your old radio, proceed to Step 3.
3. Connect each speaker wire, with about 1/2-inch stripped from the metal at the tip, to the leads on the back of your Pioneer DEH-P5800MP radio -- first positive, then negative. Continue this for all speakers visible in your vehicle.
Wrap the stripped end of your DEH-P5800MP's black ground wire to a nearby screw inside the dash panel.
4. Place the car's 12 power wires into the corresponding holes in your car's wiring harness, then plug the wiring harness into your radio, or place the 12 wires into the appropriately colored leads on the harness on the back of your DEH-P5800MP. Plug in your antenna wire from the old radio into the new radio.
Wrap all power, speaker and antenna wires separately with electrical tape.
5. Carefully push the mounting sleeve that came with your Pioneer radio into the slot in your dash, then push in detents on both sides of the bracket to brace it to the dash. Slide the radio into the sleeve. Reconnect your battery's negative lead and test out the radio and speakers. If it's working, slide it into the dash and screw the radio into place with the screws on the bottom of the unit. If it's not working, disconnect your negative battery lead again, and test your cable connections.
Tags: radio into, wiring harness, your DEH-P5800MP, your speaker, your speakers, back your, battery negative
You can time the perfect shot with a Sanyo camera.
Sanyo began operations in 1950 producing radio components, later expanding divisions to include televisions, stereos, video recorders, speakers and cameras. In 2008, Sanyo became a subsidiary of Panasonic, but still offers a wide array of digital cameras and camcorders for the consumer today. One handy feature on digital cameras is the ability to set a timer for taking pictures or video clips, which allows you to be both the photographer and the subject. You can set the timer on your Sanyo ID Shot camera for close to 10 hours before your desired shooting time.
Instructions
1. Put a Sanyo ID photo disk into the camera and depress the power button.
2. Locate the "Camera/Play" switch on the backside of the camera. Switch the camera to the "Camera" setting, if positioned on "Play".
3. Find the mode selection dial on the top right side of the camera. Move the dial on the mode selector to the type of shot you need: the black screen icon (still image), the icon that resembles a stack of papers (sequential shot), or the icon that resembles a railroad (video clip).
4. Depress the "Mode" button on your Sanyo camera; this brings you to the selection screen menu on the display.
5. Push the up or down arrow to select the self-timer menu. The icon resembles a small clock. The timer in the "Off" position shows two lines coming out from either side of the clock icon in a diagonal pattern.
6. Push the right arrow button to move to the self-timer clock icon that does not have the two lines displayed. This is the timer set button.
7. Press the "Set" button on the Sanyo camera to automatically set the timer to a 10-second delay. You can see the time selected to the right of the clock icon. Once the camera is turned off or you change your mode selection on the camera, the timer will automatically reset to the "Off" position.
8. Increase or decrease the timer setting by pressing on the right arrow to highlight the time displayed on the screen. In current mode, this displays digitally as 0:00:10 for ten seconds. One move will bring you into the hour section, the second move takes you into minutes and the last, seconds. Move the arrow to the correct position to make the timer change you desire.
9. Adjust the timer by using the up arrow to increase the number of hours, minutes or seconds and the down arrow to decrease them. Ensure you are in the correct position before using the up or down arrows. The orange highlight on the display indicates your position.
10. Press the "Mode" button to exit the timer setting screen once the correct changes have been made.
11. Push on the shutter release button as if taking a picture; this will start the timer. Avoid pressing the "Eject" button to remove the cartridge during the timer operation--this will automatically turn off the monitor and timer. If this occurs, simply press on the power button to restart the timer.
Tags: clock icon, icon that, correct position, digital cameras, down arrow, icon that resembles, Mode button
The FX-115ES completes basic equation calculations.
Solve mathematical or scientific problems at home or in the classroom using Casio's (model FX-155ES) calculator. Its features include a solar cell battery (located on the face of the camera above the display), which recharges when exposed to light, 40 metric conversions, fraction functions, and a battery life of approximately three years (assuming it is used one hour each day). The calculator weighs 3.7 ounces, measures 0.5-by-3.15-by-6.28 inches, and comes with a hard case.
Instructions
1. Open the calculator by grasping the cover in your hands and sliding it off of the calculator. Flip the calculator around so that the keypad is facing you, and slide the cover onto the back of the calculator.
2. Turn the power on by pressing the "On" button. Turn the calculator off by pushing "Shift," then "AC."
3. Adjust the display contrast by first pushing "Shift" then "Mode". Push the down arrow to select "Contrast," then push the "6" button to activate the slide-bar controls. Push the left or right arrow to make the display contrast lighter or darker. Replace the battery if contrast adjustment doesn't alter the lightness or darkness of the display.
4. Use symbols and actions printed above the keys (not directly on top of them) by pushing the "Shift" key and then the key allotted to the function you wish to utilize. Once a key is pressed, the "Shift" function will no longer be in affect, so "Shift" must be pushed each time you wish to utilize an alternate key function.
5. Press the "Alpha" key to input the letter values located above certain keys (the letters are in pink: "X," "Y," "M," etc.)
6. Choose a calculation mode to set up certain types of problems by pushing the "Mode" button. Push the key that corresponds with the mode you wish to select. "Comp" mode is used for general calculations. "Cmplx" mode is short for "Complex Number Calculations." Use "Stat" mode for regression and statistical problems. "Base-N" mode is used for problems involving binary, octal, decimal, and hexadecimal number systems. "EQN" mode is used for simple equations. "Matrix" mode is allotted to matrix calculations. Choose "Table" mode for number table production based on problem outcomes. "Vector" mode is used for vector calculations.
7. Input simple problems into the calculator by typing numbers and symbols using the regular keys. The calculator knows which function takes priority in a complex problem (regarding addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division). After you've entered in your problem, push the "Equals" button to receive your answer.
For film-makers, a superior camera can be a vital instrument in the creative process. Phantom cameras offer customers exceptional quality that adds vitality and control to the film-maker's or lay-person's artistic endeavor.
Identification
Phantom cameras are products of the company Vision Research. They supply a broad range of different models suited for many different applications. The camera's architecture, functions and features reflect this diversity, so no two cameras may operate the same way.
Types
Phantom makes several cameras targeted for film-making. They are capable of mounting recorders called CineMags which can, once full, then relay their content to a personal computer for viewing and editing. The user is able to manipulate the frame speed up to 1,000 frames per second on the HD Gold Model. This allows the camera operator, in Phantom's words, to "control the duration, speed and time of a story element."
Exposure
The Phantom 65 in particular is designed for enhanced control over the exposure of the film. The designers outfitted the product with a digital format. As a result, the company claims that their customers can achieve an optimal command over that exposure time -- down to a microsecond. This is what provides for an unlimited set of textural appearances that can be given to the image.
Fit your Micro SD cards into a standard SD card slot with the help of an adapter.
Micro SD cards are smaller versions of the popular SD card. These cards are typically used in smaller digital cameras and come wireless phones. However, computers and card readers usually only read the standard SD card size. Because of this, you must use a Micro SD card adapter. This adapter, when inserted around the Micro SD card, allows you to insert the smaller card into the larger connection port.
Instructions
1. Look at the top of both the Micro SD card and the Micro SD card adapter. The bottom of the two devices has small metal connectors.
2. Slide the Micro SD card into the open slot along the side of the Micro SD card adapter.
3. Insert the Micro SD card adapter into the SD card slot on either your computer or the card reader.
4. Click "Start," (My) "Computer" and double-click the removable device icon to access the content saved on the Micro SD.
Traveling to high altitude destinations carries a number of safety risks. Lowered air pressure and humidity, combined with enhanced ultraviolet radiation and cold, can trigger altitude sickness in those unaccustomed to altitudes of 8,000 feet or above. Three forms of altitude sickness exist: acute mountain sickness, altitude cerebral edema and high altitude pulmonary edema. High altitude sickness can turn a mountain adventure into a trip to the emergency room unless proper precautions are taken.
Recognize the Symptoms
It is important to recognize the symptoms of high altitude sickness so that you can seek medical care in a timely manner. Acute mountain sickness is the most common form of altitude sickness, with symptoms including headache, tiredness, loss of appetite, insomnia, nausea and vomiting. High altitude cerebral edema is a more severe form of acute mountain sickness, with additional symptoms including confusion, extreme tiredness and ataxia, which might cause slurred speech and loss of balance. This form of altitude sickness can prove fatal if sufferers do not descend to lower altitudes. High altitude pulmonary edema causes difficulty breathing, coughing and weakness, and can also be fatal. If you notice any of these symptoms, move to lower altitude and seek medical attention immediately. Do not ignore the symptoms. Children may not recognize symptoms of high altitude sickness, so monitor children carefully to ensure that they are handling the changes in altitude.
Increase Altitude Gradually
Increasing altitude gradually will help your body grow accustomed to higher altitudes, and may reduce or even eliminate the symptoms of acute mountain sickness, which usually occur at altitudes of 8,000 feet or above. Once you have reached 8,000 feet, try increasing altitude by 1,000 feet per day, as suggested by familydoctor.org.
Sleep at Lower Altitudes
Sleeping at a lower altitude can help control the effects of high altitude sickness, according to familydoctor.org. You can return to higher elevations during the day, but try to keep your sleeping quarters in the lower elevations.
Medical Conditions
Individuals with certain medical conditions should not attempt traveling to higher altitudes. Those suffering from heart failure, angina and sickle cell disease should avoid high altitudes. Similarly, individuals with lung conditions should consult their doctor before visiting high elevations. Check with your doctor before traveling to high elevations if you are pregnant.
Alcohol and Exercise
Even if you do not experience symptoms of high altitude illness, it is best to refrain from drinking alcohol or engaging in strenuous exercise for the first two days at a higher altitude.
Medications
Certain medications are available that will ease the symptoms of high altitude sickness. Headaches can be treated with over the counter pain medications. Acetazolamide will help to prevent acute mountain sickness when taken before moving to high altitude, and can relieve symptoms when taken after altitude sickness has taken effect. Dexamethasone and nifedipine may also relieve symptoms. Ask your doctor if these medications might be right for you.
Tags: altitude sickness, high altitude, mountain sickness, acute mountain, symptoms high
Although there are no geeks that are the exact same, there are certain things that tech geeks have in common. You do not have to spend a ton of money on a gift for the geek in your life. These people are usually easily amused and like things that are out of the ordinary. Geeks thrive on using the powers of the mind, and often gravitate towards things that fascinate them the most like science, puzzles, and mysterious beings with super-powers. Indulge your geek with a gift that stimulates the mind and you cannot go wrong.
The Collector's Edition
Find out if your geek collects. Many geeks pride themselves on creating an optimum work environment. Things can get very tedious when you are programming and tinkering all day, so geeks may surround themselves with "fun" in their home office or work space. Carefully observe their work space and see if you can find action figures, superheroes or movie characters displayed. Make a mental note of some characters that may be missing. You can easily find an action figure at a local comic book shop or toy store. Grab a few comic books, to sweeten the deal. This way your geek can take a mini-break, and escape into another world if he gets stuck on something at work.
Watch This
Choose a watch with multiple functions. Many tech geeks may already have a watch, but geeks love new gadgets, and one you can wear is even better. The more functions of the watch the more "cool-points" you will rack up with your geek. Many tech geeks want to "one up" their tech-geek friends with the newest and coolest gadgets. You can give your geek a cool edge over his friends, and he will love you for it.
Gamer Geeks
Find out how your geek likes to blow off steam. Many geeks indulge in the art of "gaming." Whether it is console or computer games, you can not go wrong getting your geek an accessory to go along with their gaming system. Opt for a wireless controller for console games. Many geeks like to play games together so having an extra controller will be greatly appreciated. Geeks need fuel, so rechargeable battery packs, docking stations, or gift cards that will allow your geek to "level up" on a computer game are all perfect gifts for tech geeks.
Geek Chic
Find a quirky cool T-shirt that has an iconic video game, movie, quirky writing or original graphic on a black background. Opt for vintage clothes and you are sure to impress your geek. Do not go into a department store in the mall to shop for your geek; this simply will not do. Go online or to a tiny little specialty or novelty shop to find a T-shirt no other geek has. Be sure it has a black background, because it will not get as dirty while they work and play.
Tags: your geek, tech geeks, Find your, Find your geek, Many geeks, things that, black background
Microscopes are imaging aids that allow us to see detailed pictures of objects too small to be seen with the naked eye. These scientific instruments come in different power magnifications. Without these instruments, it is unlikely we would be as advanced as we are in fields such as microbiology, physics and medicine.
Compound microscope
History of the Microscope
Microscopes go back some 400 years, to the the late 16th or early 17th century. There is still debate on who actually invented the instrument. According to New World Encyclopedia, credit has been given to three different eyeglass makers from the Netherlands: Hans Lippershey, Hans Janssen and Zacharias Janssen. Galileo Galilei, in the 1600s, also invented a compound microscope contributing to the field of microscopy. His device used lenses that were concave and convex in shape.
Types of Microscopes
Microscopes fall into basically three categories: compound, electron and confocal. Four of the several types within these categories of microscopes are the compound, digital, electron and stereo microscopes.
Compound microscopes are the most common and the kind you are most likely to see in a science classroom.
A digital microscope has a camera device attached to it called a CCD that is connected to a computer. These microscopes do not have eyepiece viewing ports.
An electron microscope has the highest image magnification.
A stereo microscope uses two eyepieces that are set at slightly different angles, giving the viewer a 3D picture of the object being looked at.
Different Uses of Microscopes
Microscopes can be found in laboratories all over the world. What is being studied and how much resolution is needed to define the object of concern dictates which type of microscope is used.
If you just wanted to look at a leaf under lower magnification, a compound microscope would be appropriate. They magnify images up to 1,500 times. However, looking at atoms and cell parts requires a much more powerful electron microscope able to magnify the image up to two million times its original size.
Smallest Object Ever Seen with a Microscope
Electron microscope
The smallest object ever seen was a radium atom using an electron microscope, but the picture was fuzzy looking.
The microscope has "extended our vision into the realm of sub-cellular organelles, viruses, proteins, DNA, molecules and even atoms," says Interactive Nano-Visualization in Science and Engineering Education's Size and Scale website.
As these tools of science advance, our ability to see smaller and smaller objects may bring us closer to discovering the essence of life.
Other Types of Microscopes
Microscopic view of cells
Some of the new microscope designs, including more advanced electron, scanning probe, field ion and acoustic microscopes, use various imaging methods to illuminate the details of the objects being studied.
Tags: Types Microscopes, being studied, compound microscope, electron microscope, Microscopes Microscopes
Before all-in-one printers, people used individual machines, including a printer connected with a parallel port, a fax machine connected to a telephone line, scanner linked to the computer, and a separate copy machine. Not only was this inconvenient, it was expensive. You can get everything you need by paying between $100 to $300 for an HP all-in-one machine.
Instructions
1. Select the features. Some HP all-in-ones only have two or three out of the possible four features (print, scan, copy, and fax). Determine which features are most important to you and figure out how much each additional feature is worth when comparing prices.
2. Examine the printer features. Is it a color or black and white printer? What is the maximum resolution for printed pages? Anything around 4800 x 1200 dpi is considered good. Is it a Laser or InkJet printer? Figure out which operating systems the printer is compatible such as Windows, Mac OS, or Linux. Does the printer connect with a high speed USB connection, or with a parallel port? Can it be matched with a router for use as a wireless printer? Determine how many pages the printer can churn out in a minute (PPMs). Finally, look at the type of paper that the printer can handle, such as photo stock, cardstock, or light linen resume paper.
3. Determine the optical resolution of the scanner. The resolution determines how clear and precise the scan will appear. The higher the resolution the better. Does the scanner come with OCR (Optical Character Recognition) software so that you can edit scanned-in text?
4. Compare the copy features across each HP All-in-One machine. How many pages can you copy per minute? Can make a color copy or only black and white, and determine the copy resolution? Figure out how many sheets of paper the printer can hold when doing a large copy job.
5. Look at the faxing capabilities. How much memory does the fax machine have? This will tell you how many pages can it store in memory. Can you send and receive your faxes in both color and black and white? You also want to look at the transmission speed, which is measured in seconds, so that you'll know how long you will have to wait to receive or transmit a fax. Fax machines also have the ability to block out unwanted junk faxes.
Tags: black white, many pages, color black, color black white, parallel port, with parallel, with parallel port
The Tracfone Motorola W175 is a simple phone with limited features and functions. Its default ringtone alerts are few, but it gives you the option to add additional tones from the Internet. An easy solution is to make them yourself on a website like Ventones, Phonezoo or Myxer. These sites let you make tones from any song for free. To do this, you will need to save the song on your computer.
Instructions
1. Go to a website that lets you make free ringtones. Some of these sites include Ventones, Myxer and Phonezoo (see Resources).
2. Click the "Sign Up" button when you go to the website you've chosen to make ringtones with.
3. Enter your registration information required for signing up. Once you've made your free account, go to the website's "Make Your Own Ringtones" or "Create Your Own" page.
4. Click the "Choose File" button. From the "Open File" window, select the song with which you want to make your Tracfone ringtone.
5. Wait for the website to load the song you've chosen. Once it loads, you will see an editing interface with options like "Crop," "Play," "Stop" and "Pause."
6. Click the "Play" button and listen carefully. Select the "Crop" tool, and move the sliders on the timeline to crop the fragment you want to use as a ringtone.
7. Confirm that you want to crop the song. Then click the "Play" button, and listen to the cropped version. If all sounds good, click "Send to Phone."
8. Enter your cell phone in the respective field, and click the "Send" button. You will then receive an SMS on your phone from the website you've made the ringtone on. When you open the SMS, press the "Save" button to save the ringtone in the "Ringtones" folder of your phone.
Tags: button listen, click Send, Enter your, Make Your, Motorola W175
The furnace thermocouple is a key element to keeping your heater running. This tiny piece heats up from the flame of your pilot light, supplying an electrical signal to the gas valve, keeping it open. This safety feature ensures that the pilot is lit before allowing the gas to flow. Dirty thermocouples may not read the heat of your pilot efficiently, causing the gas supply to be cut off.
Turn Off the Power and Gas
Turn your thermostat to the "Off" position. Unplug power to the heater or throw the breaker that connects it. You should see it labeled in your breaker box. If not, turn the heater fan on and flip breakers until it goes off.
Locate the heater's pilot light assembly. It is typically on the front of the furnace and should be easy to access. It looks like a gray/silver metal block with several pipes and hoses connecting to it.
Open the metal cover on the heater above the pilot assembly to expose the pilot light. It looks like a bent tube with the side of the end cut out. The cylindrical rod in the flame or, if the flame is out, directly in front of the open end of the cut out tube, is the thermocouple. Locate and turn the knob on the top of the pilot assembly to the "Off" position. Wait for the pilot to go out if it is burning. It should go out almost immediately.
Trace the gasoline back from the pilot assembly to find the stopcock that cuts off the gas supply. It is typically a red knob or lever-type handle. When the lever or knob is in line with the pipe, it is open. Move it so that it is perpendicular to the pipe; it should turn clockwise. Continue turning until it stops.
Clean and Reset
Allow five minutes for any gas to clear before using your pliers to twist the nut at the back of the thermocouple to remove it. Pull it free from its bracket and examine it in good light. If it has a sooty surface, cleaning may do some good.
Use an ultra-fine steel wool or 250-grit sandpaper to clean the outside surface of the thermocouple. This can be done while the copper coil, that leads from its back, is still attached. Do not use any type of cleaning solution, chemicals or solvents. Many are flammable.
Replace the thermocouple, making sure to line it up in the same position it was in originally. Tighten the nut. Turn the stopcock until it lines up with the pipe and restore electricity to the heater. Turn the pilot light assembly knob to the "Light" position. With a lit long fireplace match or long butane match lighter positioned in front of the pilot light tube, depress the pilot light knob to release the gas. If it lights, turn the knob to the "On" position and replace the metal access plate. If it stays lit, set your thermostat to "Heat" and set the correct temperature.
If these steps do not work or you are unsure of what to do, call for professional help. Gas can be flammable and explosive.
Tags: pilot light, pilot assembly, Clean Furnace, Clean Furnace Thermocouple, light assembly, looks like
Your laptop's webcam can help your family stay in touch.
Modern laptops often come with built-in cameras for online video calls and other video recordings. The exact method of enabling and operating the camera varies by computer and camera manufacturer, but you can start by finding the appropriate camera software through the search function on your Windows-based computer.
Instructions
Accessing the Camera
1. Click "Start" to open the Start menu and click inside the search box near the bottom of the menu.
2. Type "webcam" but do not hit "Enter." Look at the suggested matches that appear above the search box. If nothing like "Webcam application" appears, replace "webcam" with "web camera" or "camera."
3. Select the camera application that appears in the search results. This will launch the camera software, and may automatically turn on the camera.
4. Adjust your laptop until the camera picks up the image you want to capture, such as your face or a specific area of the room. You will see the image on a preview screen on your laptop, much as you would on a digital camera. Most laptop cameras automatically attempt to focus on faces within the camera frame. If this feature is not enabled on your camera, it may focus on the object closest to the center of its range, or it may focus on an area of bright light or color.
5. Adjust the camera's settings until the image on your screen appears the way you want. The settings button may be labeled "Settings," have a wrench icon or an icon that looks like a series of sliding switches. Setting may include the focus, as well as color contrast, brightness and sharpness. Adjust these by sliding the markers on your screen to the right or left to increase or decrease each setting. Follow the on-screen directions to save your settings.
Recording Video
6. Choose a brightly lit area for your video recording. If you are recording a close-up of your face, such as a video blog, shine light onto your face from behind the laptop, so it angles down toward you to highlight your features. For larger room video capture, such as recording a home skit or capturing your kids at play, try to get diffused general lighting without having any light fixture inside the video area, as this will cause focus problems.
7. Set the laptop on a stable desk or platform and adjust it until you see the area where you want to capture video in the preview screen. If possible, watch the preview screen as you run through the motions you want to record. This lets you see if the image you will capture is what you had intended. If not, adjust the laptop position or the lighting and try again.
8. Record video by clicking the record button, either a red dot or a movie camera icon on most software. Stop the recording by clicking the button again. This video will save to a file on your computer, usually in the default "Videos" folder. If it does not save there, check the "Pictures" and "Documents" folders, or any folder labeled with the same name as your camera application.
9. Launch any movie editing software installed on your computer, such as Windows Live Movie Maker. Choose the option to import or open an existing video from the menu at the top of your screen, and then browse to the file you recorded in the "Videos" or other folder.
10. Add the file to your movie editing software's current project following the on-screen instructions or information in the program's "Help" file, and then edit your movie as desired.
Video Chat
11. Close any applications using the camera and connect your computer to a high-speed Internet connection, such as DSL, cable or Wi-Fi.
12. Launch any Windows-compatible video chat software, such as Skype, Windows Live Messenger or AIM video messenger chats. The software will turn your camera on and allow you to video chat with contacts who use the same or compatible video chat software. You will see a preview screen similar to your camera application's screen, so you can adjust your settings and the image area you capture the same way you did in your initial setup.
13. Follow the software's on-screen instructions to add contacts and make video calls. Click the "Help" button if the method for doing this is not obvious. The "Help" button is often a small question mark inside a blue circle. If you do not have video chat software installed, you can download and install compatible software quickly and easily over a high-speed Internet connection.
Tags: preview screen, your camera, camera application, chat software, video chat, video chat software
The Magellan eXplorist 100 is a hand-held GPS system designed to assist you in all of your outdoor explorations. The eXplorist 100 calculates your position using GPS satellites orbiting the Earth. For the best results, give your GPS unit a good view of the sky. Keep the antenna clear and unobstructed. The easiest method of getting directions to a single point is to create a "GOTO" route by pressing the "GOTO" button and selecting your destination from a points-of-interest database. The route is the straightest line from your current position to your destination, so your GPS is constantly updating the route as you travel to account for deviations in the path.
Instructions
Saving Your Position to the Database
1. Press "Mark."
2. Type in a name for your current location to easily find it in the points-of-interest database. For example, if you're camping and have set up your tent, you can name that location "Tent."
3. Tap on the "GOTO" button when you're ready to return to the location you set. Select its name from the "My Points of Interest" list.
Resetting the Trip Odometer
4. Tap "Menu" while on the Position screen.
5. Highlight "Reset Trip" by using the arrow joystick to scroll through the options. Tap on "Enter."
6. Highlight "Yes" when asked "Reset Trip to 0000." Tap on "Enter." The odometer is now reset.
Searching for a Point of Interest
7. Tap on "Menu."
8. Highlight "My Points of Interest" using the arrow joystick, then press "Enter." Select either "Nearest" or "Alphabetical." Tap "Enter."
9. Scroll through the options and highlight the point of interest you select.
Creating A Backtrack Route
10. Tap on "Menu." Highlight "Track log" by using the arrow joystick. Press "Enter."
11. Highlight "Active Track," and then tap on "Menu."
12. Highlight "Backtrack," and then tap "Enter." Press "Enter" once more to confirm. The eXplorist will create a route back to your starting point.
Tags: arrow joystick, Menu Highlight, using arrow, using arrow joystick, Enter Highlight, GOTO button, Points Interest
The HTC Touch is a smart phone manufactured by HTC Corporation. Unlike many other HTC smart phones that are shipped with Android software, the HTC Touch is shipped with Windows Mobile 6 Professional as its operating software. Even though the HTC Touch was originally manufactured with voice-call recording, in certain countries it was shipped with modified software that was disabled for voice-call recording. Despite the elimination of this feature due to security reasons, there are some genuine advantages of voice-call recording in areas such as interviewing and podcasting. The voice-call recording feature records phone calls in low quality; therefore, you're encouraged to use a quiet room while a phone conversation is in progress so that the surrounding background noise doesn't disrupt the quality of the recording.
Instructions
1. Place a call to one of your contacts. Once the call has been initiated, active the "Speakerphone" mode of your smart phone and place the phone on a flat surface. Flat surfaces improve voice recording quality and also provide you with the ease and convenience of navigating through smart-phone software without any hindrance.
2. Open the "In-Call" menu, and navigate to create a new note. As soon as the "Notes" application has been launched, select "Menu," then select the "Recording Toolbar" option. Press the red circular button to start recording. Windows Mobile 6 automatically starts recording the conversation through the speakerphone or the internal circuit present in your particular smart phone.
3. Navigate to the "Notes" application after the phone call has ended. The voice-recording file of the phone conversation is located in the "Notes" folder. To play the conversation, select a specified note.
4. Transfer the conversations to your personal computer through a USB cable or Bluetooth. These recordings are in AMR format and can be played through various audio software such as iTunes or the VLC media player.
Tags: voice-call recording, shipped with, smart phone, Notes application, phone conversation, Windows Mobile
To watch programming on your television, you need a broadcast antenna and sometimes a digital TV box. You do not need a special "digital" antenna to receive digital broadcast signals.
Antenna Basics
Broadcast television in the United States is sent in a digital format. If your antenna can receive both VHF (Very High Frequency) and UHF (Ultra High Frequency) signals, then you have access to the full range of broadcast programming.
Digital TV Boxes
A "digital TV box" may be a "converter box." This attaches to an antenna and connects to an analog TV. The box converts the signal from digital to analog.
Other Uses
A "digital TV box" can also refer to a device provided by a cable or satellite company to send its digital signals to your TV. This device also converts digital to analog, if necessary.
Comparisons
Satellite digital box reception quality is not affected much by bad weather, but the satellite signal can suffer if your dish is obstructed by trees or if it is not properly oriented to the satellite.
Digital Broadcast Reception
A converter box changes a digital signal to an analog signal, which can then be shown on an analog TV. In this instance, the antenna connected to the TV is receiving a signal from a local broadcast tower. This signal can be affected by an electrical storm because the transmission tower, unlike a satellite, is located near the storm.
Tags: antenna receive, digital analog, High Frequency, signal from
You can create your own digital flash cards with any computer available.
One of the benefits of using digital flash cards to study is that instead of hauling around a stack of index cards, you can instead use your laptop or iPhone to study anywhere, anytime. Another advantage is that instead of creating all of the flash cards yourself, websites exist that allow users to upload their own flash cards for other users. Still, if you can't find the right type of flash card, sometimes it's better to create your own.
Instructions
1. Head to Study Stack, in the resource section. Study Stack is a website that allows you to create and upload your own flash cards for free, as well as allowing you to download other user create flash cards. You'll need to sign up for an account, but as of August 2010 use of the website is free.
2. Use PowerPoint to create a slidesact as flash card. On every-odd numbered slide, write a question. On the even-numbered slide right after it, type the answer. When you play the slideshow you will get the full flash card experience.
3. Download Open Office if you don't have PowerPoint or are using a Mac computer. Open Office has presentation software available for free that can be used in the same way as PowerPoint to create digital flash cards.
4. Use the trial version of Cram, located in the resource section. Cram is a program that guides you through the steps of creating your own flash cards and will even track your test results to let you know where you need improvement. As of August 2010, Cram is unavailable for Windows or Linux-based computers.
Tags: flash cards, digital flash, digital flash cards, flash card, August 2010
Using a camera flash may come in handy when taking pictures indoors, at night or during a cloudy day. When your camera has reached maximum aperture or you are without faster film, using the flash may be your best option. What follows are some basic tips on using the flash to enhance your photos.
Instructions
1. Know the advantages of using a flash: versatility (quality of light may be adjusted various ways), portability (most flashguns can fit inside your pocket) and adjustability (brightness may be changed according to the distance from subject and lens aperture required).
2. Learn the disadvantages of using a flash: limited range and coverage (most flashes have a range of only a few meters), short duration (this limits the range of shutter speeds and prevents you from spotting problems before they occur) and heavy battery consumption.
3. Choose a flashgun. The main types of flashguns include Hot Shoe Mounted (fits into a slot in your camera), Bounce flash (provides flexibility with adjustable head that allows bouncing light off any surrounding surface), Hammerhead flash (more powerful gun used by professionals), Ringflash (highly specialized gun designed for macro photography) and Slave flash (secondary flashguns used for fill-in lighting).
4. Watch your shutter speed. Your flash will only work adequately at certain shutter speeds. For example, if the shutter speed is set faster than your flash sync speed, you risk having only part of the picture frame exposed.
5. Adjust the aperture. The aperture controls all of the light entering the lens and is dependant on the power of your flashgun. Exposures can be controlled by either keeping the flash output constant and varying the f-stop or by choosing an aperture and adjusting the flash power to suit it.
6. Use the manual mode for multiple pictures at a fixed distance. Manual flash emits a fixed (or constant) output regardless of changes in light levels or subject distances. Therefore, using this mode will offer consistent exposures.
7. Try using the flash on sunny days. A controlled burst of flash may eliminate unwanted shadows on your subject's face. In addition, daytime flash may be used for fill-in light, leading to more natural (and detailed) pictures. Experiment with your camera to see which flash setting works best.
Tags: using flash, your camera, shutter speed, shutter speeds, used fill-in
It's not hard to create your own home security system.
A wireless security camera is a good way to keep watch over your house or business when you are away for a day or for a few weeks. If you connect your wireless security camera to the Internet you'll be able to keep an eye on things from anywhere in the world, whether you're down the street or across the ocean.
Instructions
1. Purchase a web cam. If you don't already have one, there are several that are especially good for home security. These include the D-Link DCS-5220 Wireless Pan/Tilt Network Camera, the Panasonic BL-C131A Wireless Network Camera and Meccano's Spykee the Wi-Fi Spy Robot. These are more expensive then your run-of-the-mill web cam, but they have functions, such as the ability to pan and tilt, that set them apart. In addition, they will work without being connected to a computer. As of 2010, these cameras cost $200 to $300.
2. Set up your camera by positioning it in the area that you wish to monitor. If you have a regular web cam, you will be limited by the length of the USB cable connecting your web cam to your computer.
3. Download a software program that will allow you to set up your web cam as a motion detector. There are a few programs that will allow you to stream the video feed from your camera through the Internet and email you or send you a text message anytime there is motion detected. These include HomeCamera, YawCam and Yoics (see Resources). All of these programs are free.
4. Log on to the site and check your video feed. You can check your feed from any PDA, cell phone or computer that has an Internet connection. You can also set up any of these programs to email or text message you whenever they detect motion.
Tags: check your, feed from, home security, Network Camera, text message
The RCA wireless phone jack is a phone jack extender released in 1994. It allows you to add another phone jack in your home or office without the need of extending the wiring through the walls. Installing the wireless system only takes a few minutes, after which you can begin using the second phone.
Connection Problems
Most connection problems with the RCA wireless phone jack occur when the system is not properly installed. Common connection problems include no dial tone, the inability to dial out and the phone not ringing. To fix the connection problem, start by checking the setup. The wireless jack base should be connected to a working phone jack and plugged into a power outlet. Connect the wireless base to your phone and check for a dial tone. Next, plug the wireless receiver unit into a power outlet where you would like a second phone. Plug the wireless receiver to the second phone. Pick up the phone and listen for a dial tone.
If you still have no dial tone, check that both power outlets are working by plugging a different electrical device into them. You may need to check for a blown fuse or tripped circuit breaker if the second device does not work in the outlet.
Finally, move the base unit and the receiver closer to each other. The unit has a limited range and is subject to interference from other wireless and electrical devices. The closer distance should cut out most of the interference.
No Dial Tone With Rapid Beeping
The RCA wireless phone jack may pick up interference from another nearby unit, such as at a neighbor's house. When this occurs, you will hear rapid beeping instead of a dial tone when you pick up the phone. RCA included a security code feature that locks other signals out of the unit. To set the security code, unplug the base and receiver from the power outlet and remove all of the telephone cords. Using the tip of a paper clip, press the recessed button in the small hole under the green light on the side of the base and hold it for at least five seconds. Press the same button on the side of the receiver and hold it for five seconds. Once the buttons have been pressed on both parts of the unit, reconnect the base and then the receiver.
Static
Several types of electronic devices may cause interference with the wireless unit, especially if the devices are close to the unit. If you hear a lot of static in the phone, move any electrical devices away from the wireless units or move the wireless units to a different location. You may have more success if you move the receiver closer to the base unit.
Tags: dial tone, phone jack, power outlet, second phone, wireless phone jack, base unit
Invented in the 1960s and peaking in sales in the late 1980s, the compact cassette is a format that's been pushed out of fashion by new audio technologies.
Audio cassettes, also called cassette tapes, are a format for recording and playing audio. They consist of a small plastic device containing a reel-to-reel tape of magnetic information.
History
In 1958 the RCA Victor company developed the first audio cassette tape measuring 5 inches by 7 inches. In 1962 Phillips released the compact cassette, a smaller format than the RCA Victor version, which rose to popularity in the 1970s and 80s.
High Fidelity
In 1971 the Advent Corp. developed a tape deck with noise reduction technology combined with cassettes made with chromium dioxide tape. This drastically improved sound quality and made the cassette tape a more serious choice for music listening not just dictation.
Write Protection
All audio cassette players have tiny tabs on the top corners called write protectors, which can be broken off to prevent re-recording of the tape's data.
Features
Audio cassettes utilized reel-to-reel technology to be smaller and more portable than vinyl, or traditional adjacent reel tape players. This led to the development of portable music players and recorders, such as the Walkman.
Decline
After reaching a peak of sales in the late 1980s, audio cassettes became a less and less popular format for both music distribution and dictation. This was mostly because of the increasing popularity of compact discs.
Tags: Audio cassettes, cassette tape, compact cassette, late 1980s, sales late, sales late 1980s
Mobile SDHC cards are the standard flash memory cards for most smartphones.
A Mobile Ultra microSDHC card is a high-capacity, ultra-small flash memory card that fits into the memory card slot of cell phones and similar devices. Its high speed makes transfer of images or information to the card and recall from the card nearly instant. Adapters and devices for these cards are available so that the information can be accessed from, and copied to, a personal computer. Different manufacturers offer computer memory card slot adapters and USB port adapters for their Mobile Ultra microSDHC cards.
Instructions
1. Open your cell phone to expose the memory card slot; usually you need to open the battery compartment to access it.
2. Insert a Mobile Ultra microSDHC card into the appropriate slot.
3. Take photos or videos, or transfer information from your phone memory onto the card using your phone's menu controls. Consult your phone owner's manual to find out use your phone with flash memory.
4. Remove the card from your phone and place it into an adapter. Do not use USB adapters from one manufacturer with cards from another firm.
5. Turn your computer on and start your operating system. Insert the adapter into its proper slot or port on your computer; a USB adapter fits in your USB port and a memory card slot adapter fits into your card reader.
6. Locate your card with your computer's explorer program if you do not see a prompt for it on your screen.
7. Open or transfer any files you wish using your computer's file manager program or any software that may be installed on your card.
8. Remove the adapter from its slot or port. Remove the card from the adapter. Open your phone and place your card into its card holder slot once again.
Tags: your phone, memory card, card slot, memory card slot, your card, your computer
Most of us, at some point, have felt that sinking feeling as you settle in behind the wheel, click your seatbelt into place, turn the key in the ignition and nothing happens. Often, a dead car battery is to blame. Many things can kill your battery. Understanding the reason behind your dead battery will help you avoid a repeat scenario.
Low Charge
When a car sits without being driven for a long time, the charge in the battery can slowly drain. It's the use-it-or-lose-it effect. This is the same reason why, when you start a dead battery using jumper cables, you need to immediately run the car. Shutting it off will result in a newly drained battery. If the reason behind your dead battery is simply a low charge, getting it started using jumper cables and giving it a good, hard drive may be all that's needed to resolve the problem.
Acid Stratification
Acid stratification occurs when the electrolytes on a stratified battery sink down to the bottom. As a result, the upper half of the battery cell is low on acid. Batteries can become stratified if they are kept at a charge below 80 percent, according to Battery University in a 2004 article by Isidor Buchman, founder and CEO of Cadex Electronics. Driving for short distances, while running other devices that suck up battery power, such as the windshield wipers or the heater, can contribute to stratification, which in turn promotes corrosion and reduces conductivity. This can be fixed by allowing the battery to rest for a few days, or shaking or tipping it.
Old Age
Like all batteries, car batteries too have a limited lifespan. A dead battery may simply have reached the end of its life. Usually, this happens between three and five years. Many factors, such as leaving the headlights on for a long time after the car has been shut off, can reduce a battery's lifespan. A battery that has died, as a result of old age, must be replaced. While it may be possible to recharge the battery using jumper cables, it will likely die again soon.
Poor Maintenance
Older batteries require that owners maintain proper water levels. Water in such batteries can evaporate, reducing conductivity. Another common maintenance issue is the break down of the diode bridge or voltage regulator in the alternator, according to the Car Buying Tips website. Making sure that there is no rust on or around the battery, and that all cables are in good shape and free of rot can ensure that your battery starts up every time.
Tags: dead battery, jumper cables, using jumper, using jumper cables, battery simply, battery that