Vhs To Dvd Capture Methods

Instead of letting VHS tapes go to the garbage pile, collect dust, and slowly wither away, give the footage new life and save space in your home with a DVD conversion. People do not have to be technically savvy in order to transfer VHS tapes to DVD, and many products help eliminate the work all together. Transfer your video collection to DVD and join the digital age.

DVD Recorder

Loop a VHS tape player into a DVD recorder in order to transfer the video. The set-up is simple and requires three RCA cables. Connect the three RCA cables into the VHS Audio/Video output. Older VCRs feature the outputs in the back, while newer models may have them in the front. Connect the other ends of the cables to the Input of the DVD recorder. Remember to match the colored cables to the proper slots. For example, yellow connectors attach to the video cable, while red and white cables attach to the audio connectors. Set the DVD to record on the "Input" channel and play the tape.

DVD Camcorder

Use an advanced DVD Camcorder with an "Input" port and a remote control. Use an RCA to mini-plug cable in order to connect it to the video camera. The mini-plug attaches to the "Input" of the camcorder, while the RCA cables attach to the "Output" of the video camera. When in the camera's VCR mode, wait for the Input connection to fully appear on the screen. Hold "Play" then "Record" on the remote in order to start the capture, and then press "Play" on the VCR.

Dazzle DVC

Use your computer in order to store the video and burn the DVD using a DVD-RW drive. A capturing product like the Dazzle DVC will allow you to connect your VCR easily using RCA cables. The Dazzle connects through a USB cable and feeds video to a computer using its own software. Limit clips to 10 minutes in order to avoid an audio delay on the final product. Edit together the final video through Dazzle's software and burn the final project using a burning program like Nero Burning Rom.

DV/SVHS Deck

Purchase a Mini DV/SVHS dual deck used by professional editors and schools. These specialized VCRs are equipped for computer connections and provide the best playback of tapes. Precision control can also be made to start at the exact location. Simply plug a DV cable in from the VCR deck to the computer's DV input and use a compatible capturing program like Windows Movie Maker in order to capture footage. Once all the footage is captured, burn a DVD.

Professional Service

If none of the electronics or methods are available in your home, a professional can complete the job using specific software. Wal-Mart, Ritz Camera, Walgreens, and several other retailers offer VHS to DVD conversion services for as low as $20 in many cases. They can only convert home footage though, so old VHS movies or television shows will have to be converted at home. The DVDs provide custom menus, covers and even music videos.

Tags: cables attach, order transfer, program like, three cables, video camera

Wire Two Receptacles

If you've got a lot of electronic gear, you may want to consider adding more power outlets to your home. Here's a step-by-step primer on wire two power receptacles.

Instructions

1. Determine where your receptacles will be, then determine the closest spot from where you can tap into the existing power supply of your house. This may be another outlet, or a new breaker in your circuit-breaker box. Be sure you're not going to overload the existing wiring when you add the receptacles. Measure the distance from the power source and the distance between the locations you've chosen for the two receptacles. This will let you know how much wire you will need.

2. Cut openings in the wall for receptacles. The openings should be big enough to accept the gang boxes that will hold the receptacles, but no bigger. Once the openings have been cut, fish the wire from the location of the first receptacle back to the power source, but do not yet connect it. If it is necessary to go through studs in the wall, you may have make several openings so you can drill holes through the studs for wiring. Sometimes, however, you can work the wiring up or down the wall and run it across the top of the existing framing. This takes more wiring, but may be easier to do.

3. Fish the end of the wire through the opening in the gang box and mount the box into the wall. Now, run wiring from the first receptacle's location to the second receptacle's position, following the principles in Step 2. Once the wiring has been run to location number two, pull it through the gang box and secure the gang box into the wall location.

4. Wire the receptacles to the wiring in the gang boxes, following the instructions that came with the new receptacles. Mount the receptacles into the gang boxes. Now, shut down the power to your power source and connect the wiring to the power source. Turn the power back on and test your receptacles.

Tags: power source, gang boxes, first receptacle, into wall, power source connect

The Disadvantages Of Thermal Imaging Cameras

Thermal images are pictures of heat energy.

Thermal imaging is a technology which allows people to take pictures of heat energy. This is a noninvasive and convenient way to inspect certain areas of a home. For example, thermal imaging cameras can detect the heat signatures of pests or help map piping without tearing apart a wall.

Identification

Thermal imaging cameras are not actually cameras, but heat sensors. They do not detect visible light.

Thermal Imaging vs. Night Vision

Night vision and thermal imaging are not the same. Night vision sight devices take small amounts of light and magnify it, while thermal imaging only detects heat energy.

Home Inspections

Thermal imaging technology can reveal things that the eyes cannot see, and as a result these devices are often used during home inspections. Unfortunately, however, you cannot detect moisture or some types of property damage with a thermal imaging camera.

Surface Imaging

Only surface thermal fluctuations will be detected by thermal imaging. This is different from X-ray devices, which can "see" through walls.

Tags: heat energy, imaging cameras, imaging technology, Night vision, pictures heat

Remove A Video From A Dvr

A DVR is a wonderful invention that allows you to pause, fast forward and rewind recorded television. You can even pause and rewind live television. With a DVR, you can record your favorite television programs (sometimes more than one at a time) and watch them at your leisure. A DVR is easier to program than a traditional VCR as you no longer have to search for individual programs to record. Removing videos from your DVR is also a simple process.

Instructions

1. Access your recorded videos using your DVR remote. The button should be labeled, but the verbiage will vary by brand. Common buttons are labeled as "DVR," "My Recording" and the "Tivo" icon.

2. Scroll through your recorded videos. Find which one you would like to delete.

3. Press the "Select" or "OK" button on your remote. Once again, the button name will vary by brand.

4. Confirm that you want to delete the video by pressing the "Select" or "OK" button a second time when prompted. After this is completed, you will not be able to retrieve the deleted program.

Tags: recorded videos, Select button, vary brand, will vary, will vary brand, your recorded, your recorded videos

Connect A Palm Treo To A Laptop For Internet Access

Your Palm Treo can function as a modem for your laptop if connected via Bluetooth technology. With a few settings from your wireless provider and a Bluetooth connection between your Treo and your laptop, you can surf the Internet from anywhere with no cables or wires to stumble over. Your Palm Treo service must include a data plan for this service. After the initial configuration, connecting to the Internet can be done in just a few steps.

Instructions

Preparing Bluetooth on the Palm Treo

1. Navigate to the Applications screen on your Palm Treo and click the "Bluetooth" option. Verify that your Bluetooth service is on, or turn it on if it is not. Click "Setup Devices."

2. Click the "Trusted Devices" button in the Setup Devices screen. Click "Add Device" and select your computer from the list. Click the "Done" button once you have highlighted your computer in the window.

3. Create and enter a security code in the passkey field. Your passkey should be all numeric, and any combination you choose. Note the passkey to enter it on your computer when prompted to do so. Click "Done" twice to return to your Bluetooth Management panel.

Preparing Bluetooth on Your Computer

4. Click "Start" on your computer's desktop. Select "Control Panel" from the Start Menu. Click "Phone and Modem Options." If this icon does not appear, you may need to switch your Control Panel to Classic View. Enter the area code for your Palm Treo phone number if prompted to provide a location.

5. Select the "Modems" tab and click the "Bluetooth Modem" to highlight it. Click the "Properties" button and select the "Advanced" tab. Enter AT+CGDCONT=1, "ip", "XXX" in the field labeled "Extra initialization commands. Replace "XXX" with the APN data from your wireless service provider. Contact your provider for this information as it varies with every wireless service.

6. Click "OK" each time it appears until you have completely exited the "Phone and Modem Options" menu. Close your Control Panel.

Activating the Dial Up Connection

7. Navigate to the Applications screen on your Palm Treo. Click "Bluetooth" and then highlight the Dial Up Networking list and turn it on. Click "OK" if a warning screen appears telling you to disable your Dial Up Networking when you are finished.

8. Launch the Bluetooth panel on your computer. The location of this will vary based on your operating system. Access the "Paired Devices" option in your Bluetooth window. Double-click your Palm Trio in the device list.

9. Double-click the icon for your Dial Up Networking services. Enter the user name and password provided by your wireless service carrier to access their data network. When prompted for dialing text, enter *99***1#. Select the option to save the dialing text to prevent entry errors at a later date. Click "Dial" and wait for your computer to connect to the internet.

Tags: Palm Treo, your computer, Control Panel, Dial Networking, wireless service

Differences Between Macro & Telephoto Lenses

Telephoto lenses are used to photograph wildlife and sports.

Photographers often have telephoto and macro lenses in their camera bag. Macro lenses have extra-close focusing capability, while telephoto lenses photograph items from a distance. Macro lenses are often used in product and flower photography, while telephoto lenses are typically used in wildlife and sports photography.

Function

Macro lenses allow close-up photographs of small objects such as flowers and insects. Telephoto lenses allow a photographer to get details in distant objects.

Features

Macro lenses provide life-size magnification, meaning a bug will look the same size in the photograph as it does in real life. Telephoto lenses compress the distance between objects, making it appear closer to the photographer than it is.

Identification

Macro lenses will have "macro" in the lens name. Nikon calls macro lenses "micro." Telephoto lenses have focal lengths of greater than 50mm.

Considerations

Telephoto lenses are good to use when you cannot get as close as you would wish to the object, such as a baseball pitcher or a grizzly bear. Macro lenses usually have smaller f-stops than standard lenses.

Benefits

Macro lenses are designed for flat-field reproduction, making them ideal for document copy work, according to John Shaw's, "Closeups in Nature." Telephoto lenses can help isolate your subject from the background of the photograph.

Tags: Macro lenses, Telephoto lenses, lenses allow, lenses have, Macro lenses, macro lenses

Polyurethane Foam Uses

Fridge doors contain polyurethane foams.

Polyurethanes are polymers or compounds made of large molecules, including urethane. Polyurethanes are often used in the form of flexible or rigid foams. According to the Center for the Polyurethanes Industry, flexible foam is used in upholstered furniture and cars, while rigid foam is employed as insulation in freezers, fridges and in the building industry.

Transportation Industry

Polyurethane foams are used throughout cars, including arm rests, head rests, cushioned instrument panels and other parts such as bumpers and steering wheels. These foams offer a sustainable option for the industry, as they can be recycled to make carpeting for houses and cars. The use of polyurethane foams in the transportation industry has increased nine percent since 1998, according to the Center for the Polyurethanes Industry.

Insulation

Rigid polyurethane foam is used to reduce the energy required to keep refrigerators and freezers cold. According to the European Diisocyanate and Polyol Producers Association, polyurethane rigid foams have a long service life, allowing a household electricity reduction of up to 30 percent. These foams can also be used in building insulation, including cavity walls, roofs, floors and around pipes and boilers.

Upholstered Furniture

Flexible polyurethane foams are used as a filling material for cushions, mattresses and upholstered furniture, and can be produced in different densities. Memory foam is a form of polyurethane, which adapts to the shape of a person's body. It is used in hospitals because it prevents pressure sores in people who spend long periods in bed, reports the European Diisocyanate and Polyol Producers Association.

Tags: Center Polyurethanes, Center Polyurethanes Industry, Diisocyanate Polyol, Diisocyanate Polyol Producers, European Diisocyanate, European Diisocyanate Polyol, foam used

Make A Wav File From A Cd

You have your favorite CD and want to rip the files into the WAV format. However, most CD ripping software doesn’t support ripping into the WAV format. With some free software, you can convert your CD files to the WAV format; here's how.

Instructions

1. Download and install a free MP3 WMA Converter (see Resources below).

2. Insert a CD into your CD drive.

3. Open your favorite CD ripping software. If you don’t have any software, the free MP3 WMA Converter comes with CD ripping software. Rip your CD tracks to a chosen folder.

4. Open the MP3 WMA Converter and browse to your files. The "Browse" button is the folder with a green arrow in the upper right corner of the screen.

5. Select the files you wish to convert and click "Open."

6. Choose "WAV" from the "Output Format" drop down box. If you leave the "Save in File's Directory" box checked, the converted files will be saved in the same folder as the original file.

7. Click "Convert" and wait for your files to be converted.

Tags: ripping software, your files, free Converter, into format, your favorite

Optimize A Clearwire Connection

It is probably possible to make your Clearwire connection faster.

Clearwire Internet is available in most markets, though it is easier to obtain in large cities. If your Clearwire connection is not as fast as you would like, there are some ways that you can troubleshoot the issues. Faster Clearwire Internet is better for you because you can surf the Web, download pictures, view email and view web pages at a faster rate.

Instructions

1. Contact Clearwire Internet at 1-888-253-2794 and give them your account number. Ask about your service, and if you are receiving the fastest service. The easiest way to optimize service is to pay for an upgrade. If you don't feel that you wish to pay, ask them if there is anything they can do to speed up your connection. Sometimes, they can change equipment on their end, which can make your Internet speed faster.

2. Contact the company that made your router and your modem. Find their phone numbers in the instruction manuals that came with the products. Read them the serial numbers on the bottom of the devices and ask if there are newer models. If there are, an upgrade could make your connection faster.

3. Ask about a new antenna for your modem. A new antenna or an upgraded antenna could make your Internet faster.

4. Move your Clearwire Internet modem to a location where all of the devices that access the Internet have equal access.

5. Turn off computers or handheld devices when you aren't using them. Even when you aren't using a computer, it is still eating up bandwidth if it is connected to the Internet.

Tags: Clearwire Internet, make your, your Clearwire, aren using, Clearwire connection

What Are Some Types Of Surveillance & Monitoring Equipment

There are many kinds of surveillance equipment for monitoring visual, auditory and communications data. Some are widely available; others are legally or financially out of reach of anyone except government agencies. Technology is not limited simply to tools for gathering information, but extends to systems for interpreting data and evaluating patterns. Each kind has particular uses and limitations. Purposes of surveillance include detection of wrongdoing, crime prevention, safety, scientific research, personal security and public safety.

Cameras

Digital cameras continue to offer ever-increasing capability in smaller packages for lower cost. Coupled with the greater ease with which digital imagery may be analyzed and manipulated, this has led to the steady decline of analog cameras for most purposes. Microelectronics allows these devices to built very small for easy concealment. There is an inverse relationship between small size and resolution, but this kind of surveillance equipment usually offers adequate capability when used close to the target(s). Software can be used to collate and evaluate footage, but has only a limited ability to identify specific individuals or objects. Cameras which provide imagery outside the visible light spectrum are also available, but are more expensive. Infra-red imaging is the most common, but models which provide imaging using other kinds of electromagnetic emissions (for example, x-rays or gamma rays) can also be had.

Audio Surveillance Equipment

Most frequently, small and easily concealed microphones are used for intercepting conversations. Parabolic microphones are designed to receive sound from only one direction, and are valuable in crowds with a lot of background noise. Laser microphones bounce a laser off a hard surface; vibrations in the surface caused by sound waves change the way the laser light is reflected back to the transmitter, allowing sound recording. The mouthpiece within phones can also be remotely activated and used to record noise even when the phone is "off."

Signals Tracking

Tiny radio frequency ID tags, costing a few cents each, can be placed on objects or individuals and read from several meters away. Each tag can transmit a unique identifying signal, allowing scanners to identify the tagged subject. Larger transmitters, like GPS units, use satellite networks to achieve much greater range and are often employed for discreetly tracking vehicles. Scientists may also use GPS tagging to track wildlife migrations.

Signal Interception

Signal surveillance equipment can also be used to intercept electronic/radio communications. Electronic bugs can be physically attached to telephone lines and switchboxes, allowing calls to be rerouted or monitored as desired. Radio equipment can also be used to listen to conversations transmitted over the airwaves. However, this approach can have variable results depending on atmospheric conditions, whether the transmission is unidirectional or dispersed, and whether the conversation is conducted in code.

Computer Surveillance

Software embedded on a computer's hard drive (frequently as a virus) can record that system's activities including internet traffic and data storage. Specialized equipment can also detect electromagnetic emissions from a computer's monitor and keyboard, making inferences about what is being displayed on screen or being typed.

Tags: equipment also, surveillance equipment, also used, electromagnetic emissions, equipment also used, which provide

Download Pictures To My Digital Keychain

How Do I Download Pictures to My Digital Keychain?

Digital photo keychains have become a fun and easy way for individuals to show off their family and friends without needing to lug around large photo albums. Most models of digital photo keychains have enough memory to hold dozens of pictures--which are easily downloaded and automatically resized to suit the small keychain screen. The My Life Digital Photo Keychain by Brookstone, for example, holds up to 100 photographs.

Instructions

1. Insert one end of the USB cable into the keychain and the other end into your computer to charge the battery for two to three hours, or until the battery is fully charged. Once charged, the digital photo keychain will operate for approximately two hours prior to needing a recharge. An on-screen battery indicator will notify you when the battery power is getting low.

2. Utilize the up and down arrows on the keychain to navigate the main menu and select "USB Connect" to create a connection between the digital keychain and the computer. On the initial connection, the PhotoViewer software will be automatically downloaded to your computer's hard drive so that you can download pictures to your digital keychain. You'll also have the ability to use the software to view and edit pictures.

3. Use the PhotoViewer software to browse your computer's photo library and add pictures to your digital keychain. Prior to adding each picture, you'll have the option to magnify or decrease the sizes of the photos, crop or rotate photos. Once your satisfied, the photos can be saved by clicking on the arrow button.

4. Synchronize your digital keychain by clicking on the synchronize button in the PhotoViewer control panel. This will download all of your pictures to your digital keychain.

Tags: your digital, your digital keychain, digital keychain, pictures your, pictures your digital, your computer, digital keychain

Transfer Sony Memory Card Pictures To A Computer

Sony in 1998 revealed their memory card variant, the Memory Stick (MS). Since then, the company has come out with a number of variations that run off this basic technology and provide users with the data transfer options they need, all in a small, external card. Transferring the contents of these cards to a computer is not a difficult task, although there are a few steps to keep in mind as there are a couple of different routes to take.

Instructions

1. Examine your computer and its different ports. This will be necessary to determine Sony Memory Stick compatibility. Some computers, as well as other electronic devices, come equipped with card readers automatically. However, the kind of Memory Stick you have (such as a Memory Stick Pro Duo, for example) may not be directly compatible with your computer. It is best to have this knowledge in hand one way or another from the beginning.

2. Eject the Sony Memory Stick from your device. If your computer has a compatible card reader, simply insert the stick carefully into the reader.

3. Navigate around your desktop. Under the "My Computer" option on your PC, you will find the option to click on the Memory Stick device and access the photo contents. You may download them to your computer for storage and later perusal. Do not sever the connection/remove the Sony Memory Stick until all contents are downloaded. If you wish to stop downloading at any time, do not jerk out the stick-instead, be sure to cancel the transfer via the onscreen instructions first.

4. Consider purchasing an external memory card reader for your computer if your device does not have a built in, internal card reader option that supports the Sony Memory Stick, and the above steps are not possible. A number of external card readers can be bought for your Mac or PC that allow reading of Sony cards in a quick and simple process via the USB 2.0 standard (see Resources below).

5. Install the new memory card reader to your computer. To use the memory card reader, make sure to install any discs/drivers that come with the hardware, following the Auto Install Wizard that should pop up when your computer recognizes the new device and loads the disc via your drive.

6. Restart your computer, and then plug the USB wire leading from the external reader into one of your computer's USB ports. Then, Sony Memory Stick transfers will be possible via this device simply by extracting it from your camera or cell phone unit and placing it inside the external reader until it clicks snugly into place.

Tags: Memory Stick, your computer, Sony Memory, card reader, Sony Memory Stick, memory card

Sell Your Photo Equipment

Get the best price for your photo equipment.

You want to get the most you can when you sell your photography equipment. Photo equipment is not cheap, and buying those items represented a major investment in time spent choosing the right equipment and in the money to buy it. Getting the best price on the equipment you have to sell requires some creativity and hard work, but the extra money is well worth the energy expended.

Instructions

1. Seek out magazines and periodicals devoted to photography. Check each publication to see whether it accepts classified ads. If it does, check the rates for those ads to determine whether the publication is a good venue for selling your photography equipment.

2. Contact your local community colleges, high schools, community centers and other institutions that offer photography classes. Tell photography instructors about the equipment you have to sell. The instructors might be able to help you sell that equipment to interested students.

3. Compare the prices of similar pieces of photography equipment at online auction sites like eBay. If you have an eBay account, check the completed auctions to get an idea of what your own equipment might fetch.

4. List your equipment in an online auction if you want to sell it that way. You can set a reserve for the auction if bids don't reach what you feel it is worth.

5. Post ads for your photo equipment at local photo shops and framing stores. Be sure to get permission of the business owner or store management before posting any ads.

Tags: photography equipment, your photography equipment, best price, equipment have, equipment have sell, equipment online

Make A Transmitter & Receiver For A Camcorder

Most camcorders have a video out port.

Making a wireless transmitter and receiver for a camcorder is very easy to do using basic video cables and a wireless A/V transmitter. This can be useful in film production where the camera is in a location that is unable to be accessed by the director and where cables might interfere with the production. The director can sit and watch the action on a monitor and see how the shot looks.

Instructions

1. Locate the "Video Out" on the camcorder. Depending on the model camcorder, the port may differ. Some have RCA (round yellow, red and white ports,), others have a USB port and still others may have an HDMI port. This should be fairly straightforward to find, but if in doubt consult the owner's manual.

2. Plug the appropriate A/V cable into the camcorder.

3. Plug the other end of the cable into an A/V transmitter. An A/V transmitter is a relatively inexpensive device that sends the A/V signal from one point to another. There are two type of transmitters: wired and wireless. Wireless transmitters run on batteries, while wired transmitters do not. Transmitters vary in quality and price, with low-end functional consumer models costing less than $100 and high-end long-range digital transmitters for professional production ranging in the thousands.

4. Install the A/V receiver. The transmitter will have a corresponding receiver. The receiver is plugged into the viewing station, TV or recorder. Plug another A/V cable into the receiver unit and plug the other end of that cable into the device that will receive the signal.

5. Turn on and test all the units. Test to see the range of the units. For film production, test the units during blocking to make sure the devices have a strong signal. This will avoid losing priceless footage.

Tags: cable into, device that, film production, others have, test units

Stereoscope History

Stereographs were invented not long after photography itself came into being in the 1840s. The idea was to present the viewer of the stereographs with three-dimensional views of the world. In a time when photographs were just becoming common, stereoscopes added a dimension---well, two dimensions---to the experience. The stereoscope died off when motion pictures gave an even more realistic view of the world, but without the 3-D effect.

Basics

The stereoscope, essentially, is a hand-held device for viewing stereo or 3-D photos. It consisted of a usually wooden apparatus with two lenses, a handle, a stereograph holder and a piece of curved material, usually metal or leather, that contoured to the forehead to keep it in the correct position for viewing. You placed the three-dimensional image in the holder, then using the handle, held the device up to your face to look through the lenses. The effect is that you see the image in a apparent three-dimensional aspect with depth.

3-D Cameras

Stereoscopic cameras were needed to create the stereographs. These cameras, first created in the 1840s, have two lenses about as far apart as the human eyes. When you trip the shutter, both lenses expose images onto the film from slightly different angles. You place both of these images on a card next to each other. The human brain then merges the two images into one, creating the 3-D effect.

Popularity

By 1851, the Great Exhibition was under way in London. It was designed to highlight the Industrial Revolution innovations made by Great Britain and other countries. The stereoscope and stereographs played a part in capturing images of the exhibit, and allowed the rest of the world---those people who could not attend---to get a glimpse of it. The stereoscope was popularized because of this event.

Fascination

Oliver Wendell Holmes took up the idea of the stereoscope in the United States and helped to popularize it. He promoted the idea of creating libraries of images that could tell an entire 3-D story. In the 1850s, the stereoscope went from just being a hand-held device, to being an early multi-media center appliance in the home that provided a changing display of images like an early 3-D slide projector.

Enter the View-Master

Between the end of the 19th century and the early 20th century, stereographs were used in homes, but also in schools and other institutions for educational purposes. The 3-D effect was particularly good for teaching geography, for example. While the stereoscope by that name died off by the 1930s, the View-Master became a popular replacement by the 1950s. The View-Master was an update of the stereoscope. The images were place on a card in the shape of a wheel. The wheel was placed inside the View-Master and turned by means of a lever. The color 3-D images were used to show everything from Yosemite National Park to stories such as those about Lassie and Disney characters. These 3-D images were transparencies, and the reels were sold in collections, usually three-packs.

Tags: images were, hand-held device, were used

Make A Speaker Box For A Truck

Pickup s and other trucks are useful and utilitarian vehicles. However, many models, particularly older models, are lacking in the quality of their sound systems. One solution is to build a speaker box or boxes for your truck. This allows you to enjoy the sound quality of improved speakers without having to potentially modify existing door panels, or add speakers where none were before, like behind your truck's seat. With some basic materials and a little carpentry, you can have a solid set of speaker boxes built in a few hours.

Instructions

1. Sketch out a design for your box. Your design needs to take into account the size of the speaker you're putting into it as well as where you'll be putting the box.

2. Cut out the side and top and bottom panels of the box, based on your design. Use a circular or table saw if possible, so you get clean, straight cuts. Assemble these pieces together, using wood glue and wood screws.

3. Cut out the front and rear panels of the box. These should be large enough to cover the existing panels you've put together. Cut an opening for the speaker in the front panel and an opening for the terminal cup in the rear panel using your drill and jig saw.

4. Mount the rear panel onto the box, then place the terminal cup into the opening and secure it with wood screws. Seal the joints of the box from the inside with silicone caulk. Connect a piece of speaker wire to the inside tabs of the terminal cup.

5. Place the front panel onto the box, using wood screws and wood glue. Connect the speaker wire to the terminals of your speaker, and mount the speaker into the opening using wood screws. If your speaker came with a grille, place that over the speaker to protect it from accidental damage.

Tags: wood screws, using wood, front panel, into opening, panel onto

Use A Digital Camera To Capture Video In Windows Movie Maker

You should be able to connect any digital video camera to your computer.

Windows Movie Maker is a Microsoft movie editing application that is available for free download, making it Microsoft's equivalent to Apple's iMovie. One of Movie Maker's features is its ability to capture video and audio in real time from external sources, provided you can connect those sources to the computer. A digital video camera is one of the easiest devices to connect and use to capture video in Movie Maker.

Instructions

1. Connect the digital video camera to the computer. This can be done with a FireWire cable if the computer has an IEEE 1394 card, or with RCA composite cables if the computer has a video capture card.

2. Open the Windows Movie Maker program application on the computer. If the "Record" dialog box doesn't immediately open once you open the program, click on the Record icon in the program's toolbar.

3. Set the program's recording function through the "Record" drop-down box in the top left corner; this can be set to record video and audio, video only or audio only. Make sure the video and audio devices listed below the box are set to "DV Device," and use the "Change Device" button if needed.

4. Adjust the other controls in the dialog box as you see fit. The left side controls allow you to set and adjust a time limit for recording the video and create clips. The "Setting" drop-down box lets you select the picture quality of the recording.

5. Play the video image from the camera. Even if the camera has its own controls, Movie Maker's "Record" dialog box has a set of controls for the camera at the bottom of the box. Look for the video to appear on the screen in the top right corner.

6. Click on the "Record" button below the video screen to begin recording the camera's image into the Windows Movie Maker application. Click on the same button to stop the recording.

Tags: Movie Maker, Windows Movie, Windows Movie Maker, digital video, digital video camera

Connect A Wireless Mic To A Camcorder

Going wireless for camcorder microphones makes sense to many videographers. Wireless mics eliminate cable clutter and are relatively straightforward to connect and operate. Wireless mic systems are composed of three parts: microphone, transmitter and receiver. Note that only camcorders that accept external microphones can be used with these units, and the mic system you choose must have the proper jack to suit your camcorder, commonly 3.5 mm (1/8 inch) plug or professional 3-pin XLR. A check of your camcorder external mic jack will yield the proper type required; XLR jacks are circular and about one inch in diameter with three female pin-holes arranged in a triangle, while 3.5 mm jacks are approximately 1/8 inch around with a single hole for insertion of the jack.

Instructions

1. Insert batteries into the transmitter, receiver and microphone (if required) according to the instructions in the owner's manual. Ensure that the power on all three mic components and the camcorder is off before connection..

2. Locate the external microphone jack on the camcorder and plug the transmitter into the jack using the cable provided with your wireless microphone system.

3. Connect the microphone to the transmitter using the cable provided. With some wireless systems, the microphone is integrated with the transmitter and requires no separate connection.

4. Turn the camcorder power on and scroll through the audio menu to enable use of an external microphone if necessary. On some camcorders, external mics are automatically enabled upon insertion of the jack.

5. Plug headphones into the camcorder and turn the mic, transmitter and receiver on. If connected and adjusted correctly, you will hear the audio signal from the microphone through the headphones.

Tags: transmitter receiver, cable provided, external microphone, insertion jack, microphone transmitter

Configure A Handheld Gps

Even though handheld GPS devices are sophisticated pieces of machinery that use satellite signals to triangulate your position anywhere on Earth, they are not very hard to configure. These devices are generally designed to be user friendly. While there are many different brands and models of handheld GPS units available, you can configure most of them using the same basic principles.

Instructions

1. Follow the directions that came with your unit to initialize and set up your device for the first time. When you first use your handheld GPS device, be sure to be outside under clear skies so that your unit can easily connect with satellites.

2. Set up your handheld device to track your path passively. Most handheld GPS devices have a feature that allows you to create waypoints automatically that are separated by a specified distance or time. Tracking your path in this way allows you to leave virtual breadcrumbs in your wake so that you can easily navigate back the way you came.

3. Configure your handheld GPS to notify you when you get within a certain distance from a waypoint using the proximity indicator. Simply select a waypoint and indicate the distance at which you would like to be notified to create a circular zone around that waypoint. When you enter that zone, you will be alerted with an alarm from the device.

4. Create a route to follow and configure your handheld unit to display that route. You can use your handheld to create a route by adding waypoints to a map, or you can use the mapping software that comes with your unit to create a route. Routes created on mapping software must then be uploaded to the device.

5. Configure your personal preferences in your handheld device. Most of the better handheld GPS units allow you to customize the display of additional features like altimeters, electronic compasses and others. This allows you to have the features you use easily accessible.

Tags: your handheld, handheld device, your handheld device, your unit, create route, handheld devices, handheld units

What Chemicals Are Used To Develop Film

While photography is a mainstay of modern life, and most people are at least somewhat aware of the fact that film can be developed in a darkroom, the process of film development itself is less widely understood. While there are many different methods of developing film, they all rely on a number of chemicals.

Black and white processing

The process for developing black and white film is almost the same as developing color film, and is made up of the same basic steps. It is, however, somewhat simpler than color film development; with black and white film, every part of the image is developed in the same color. Developing all film requires three chemicals: the developer, the stop bath, and the fixer.

The developer

The developer does just that: develops the film. While the image has been captured on the film, it is not visible until the developer brings out the silver halides in the film. On the negative, brighter parts of the picture will remain dark, while the darker parts of the picture will be lighter. Common chemicals used as developing agents are hydroquinone, phenidone, and dimezone. The developing mix must have high acidity, so chemicals such as sodium carbonate or sodium hydroxide are often added to the mix.

Stop bath

While the developer will bring out the image captured on the film, it will continue to develop the picture until it is stopped. This will ruin the film, and is what is referred to as overexposure. So, once the film has been developed to an appropriate degree, the developer is replaced with a stop bath. The stop bath neutralizes the developer and stops the film from becoming overexposed. A common chemical used in stop baths is acetic acid. While the developer could also be washed off with water, using acetic acid is both quicker and more thorough.

Fixer

The photographic fixer is the final process in developing the film. The fixer "fixes" the image in place by removing the unexposed silver halides in the film. This process stops the film from further reacting to light, and thus stops the sensitive chemicals in the film from being altered. Common fixing chemicals are ammonium thiosulfate and sodium thiosulfate.

Color processing

The chemical process involved in developing color film is similar to the black and white process. The difference is in the developing stage. A chemical consisting of paraphenylene diamine is used to develop the film. When the film is added to this color developing bath, the paraphenylene diamine exposes not only the fiilm's silver halides, but also what are called "dye couplers," which are chemicals in the film itself that are made of different colors.

Tags: black white, color film, film from, silver halides, acetic acid, black white film, captured film

Mount A Flat Panel Tv To A Bed

Many people like to watch TV in bed. They can even set the sleep timer and fall asleep while watching. The only problem is that a TV can take up a lot of space in your room and it throws off the balance. However, you can mount a flat panel TV to a bed and save space.

Instructions

1. Raise your bed off the floor. You need at least 8 inches of clearance minimum to mount the flat panel TV to the bed. You can adjust your bed frame or use raisers.

2. Buy the underbed lift that is used to mount the flat panel TV to the bed. You can purchase this at mk1studio.com. They are available for Plasma or LCD TVs.

3. Purchase the upgraded underbed lift if you don't want to wire the TV. It comes pre-wired for the audio, video, high voltage and automation. It costs extra but will save you a couple hours of installation time.

4. Mount the underbed lift. It is highly recommended to have someone help you mount it as it weighs 600 pounds. Your bed should be temporarily relocated while you install the mount.

5. Install the flat panel TV to the underbed lift. Connect the wires if you didn't buy the pre-wired lift. Replace the bed.

Tags: underbed lift, flat panel, mount flat panel, mount flat

Buy A Verizon Prepaid Cell Phone

Though Verizon was a relative latecomer on the prepaid cell phone scene, they've made up for lost time and offer a variety of affordable plans. A Verizon prepaid cell phone plan makes an excellent alternative for customers who want the freedom offered by a wireless communications provider without the commitment of long-term contracts.

Instructions

1. Shop for a Verizon prepaid plan by visiting a large electronics retailer, a Verizon store or online. To get started, you'll have to purchase both a phone and a calling plan. In some cases, you may be offered the phone at a discount when you subscribe to a certain plan, which may save you money in the long term.

2. Choose the plan options that make the most sense to you. Verizon has two major prepaid calling plans: the InPulse plan and the EasyPay plan. The InPulse plan charges a low per-minute rate with a daily access fee, and the EasyPay plan gives you a set number of minutes at a fixed monthly rate.

3. Activate your phone using the simple instructions included with your prepaid cell phone kit or with the help of a customer service representative in the store where you bought your plan. After Verizon has your payment on file, your phone will be ready to use and you will be assigned your new telephone number.

4. Expect to pay extra fees when using 411 for directory assistance, calling internationally and sending text or picture messages. Before you use any of these features, check the rates so there are no surprises when your minutes run out faster than usual.

5. Assess the value you got out of your plan when your minutes run out, and consider whether you'd be better off with an InPulse or EasyPay plan for your next month's minutes. Renew your plan by buying more minutes directly from Verizon, or visiting the vendor where you originally purchased your phone.

Tags: EasyPay plan, prepaid cell phone, your phone, your plan, cell phone, InPulse plan, prepaid cell

Correct Film Spool Tension Problems In A Holga 120 Camera

Holgas are great cameras, but they tend to suffer from loose film spools. This can be very disruptive to your photo process. Follow the suggestions below to fix problems with film spool tension in Holga 120 cameras.

Instructions

1. Remove the back of the camera to begin. Slide the back piece down and loosen from the metal clamps. Looking into the back of the camera, there will be a film spool on the left and on the right.

2. Use a small piece of cardboard, about 1 inch by 3/8 inch. Fold it and insert into the small area between the spool and the bottom of the camera. This is the quickest, cheapest and most temporary way to fix the problem.

3. Cut a small piece of adhesive foam into the right shape and size. Making sure the foam is the correct thickness, insert into the area between the spool and the bottom of the camera.

4. Bend a small piece of metal in half lengthways using vice grips. Glue the piece using weld glue into the space between the spool and the camera. This is the most time consuming, but most effective way to fix tension problems.

5. Replace the the back of the camera. Make sure the clips slide back into place. Using tape to secure the back is not a bad idea.

Tags: back camera, between spool, small piece, area between, area between spool

Reuse A Disposable Camera

New film can easily be inserted into used, disposable cameras.

Disposable cameras are great for using in places or situations where you might not want to take a more expensive digital camera. If it becomes damaged, it doesn't matter because of its low cost, plus you were going to hand it back for developing anyway. Rather than buying a new disposable camera every time you don't use your digital camera, you can easily reuse an old one and bring just the film in to be developed. This way, you will always have a care-free camera handy.

Instructions

1. Remove all the stickers from the camera. This allows you to locate any potential release clips and exposes the seal connecting the back-plate to the camera body.

2. Pull the release clip (if there is one) to pop off the back-plate. If there is no clip, take a flat-headed screwdriver and pry the plate off by inserting it into the seal and twisting. You may need to apply this technique to multiple sides of the camera before it pops open.

3. Remove the developed film by pushing it up from the base. It will slide up slightly before you are able to pull it out.

4. Insert your undeveloped film by inserting the top end into the slot first and then pushing the base down into the camera. Make sure the start of the film reel is poking out toward the opposite end of the camera.

5. Pull the film toward the empty chamber (containing a cylinder with small slits--this is the spool) on the other side of the camera to where the film is now inserted.

6. Pull out the winding mechanism found on the outside of the camera (below the empty chamber). This will allow the spool to turn freely.

7. Insert the narrow part of the film into one of the spool's slits. Push the film in as far as it will go. It should now become hooked on the spool. If it doesn't, you can use a small amount of tape to attach it.

8. Re-attach the back-plate to the camera. Once snapped shut, turn the winding mechanism (you pulled it out in Step 6) clockwise until it will turn no further. This loads the film, ready to be exposed.

9. Push the winding mechanism back into the camera. The camera is now ready to use, again.

Tags: winding mechanism, back-plate camera, digital camera, empty chamber, inserting into

Pick A Blackberry

The BlackBerry is a personal digital assistant that synchronizes with your desktop email, calendar and task list. It operates as a cell phone as well. There are many different BlackBerry models. Choose the right BlackBerry based on how you plan to use it.

Instructions

1. Figure out if the cell phone is more important than the email and calendar, and how you feel holding a rectangular BlackBerry up to your ear.

2. Decide on the kind of keyboard you want. BlackBerry has models with SureType keyboards, which are similar to texting on a cell phone where several letters share a key, as well as models with the traditional QWERTY keyboard where each letter gets its own key.

3. Look at all the models your service provider carries. Unless you plan on switching providers there is no sense in examining them all. Not all providers offer everything BlackBerry sells.

4. Compare models. The features are often presented in a checklist.

5. Check out the BlackBerry Pearl for a cell phone style. Check the 7000 through 8000 series for the email-addict styles. The Pearl, remember, is a SureType model.

6. Borrow several models from friends or colleagues, and play around. The keyboard feel on each model is different, and some only support certain screen features. Ask the owner for an instant review.

Tags: cell phone, BlackBerry models, email calendar, models with

Types Of Ear Phones

There are many different kinds of earphones available on the market today. Aside from the choices of brands, earphones can also function in different ways because of how they sit on the ear. In general, the quality and durability depends on the type of earphone chosen. When choosing an earphone, it's best to set a budget and examine product reviews as a purchasing guide.

Basics

Earphones are loudspeakers that are small enough to be used close to the ears. They are connected to a source of audio signals, such as a radio or music player. In the field of telecommunications, the earphone is often combined with a microphone to allow for two-way communication. An example of this kind of device is the telephone. One of the dangers of using earphones is the risk of deafness caused by straining the ear drums when listening to music at a high volume.

Circumaural

Circumaural earphones are usually used by professional musicians and sound engineers because they improve the quality of the sound. These earphones have ear pads that are designed to encircle the ears in order to contain the sounds within the space found between the ear and the ear pad. As a result, Circumaural earphones keep out ambient sound. The materials found in this particular variety of earphones range from molded plastic or rubber to metal.

Supra-Aural

Supra-aural earphones are designed to perch on the ears rather than surround them. The design typically involves an adjustable band that can be worn over the head to secure the device into place. As for the pad that cushions the speaker, it is made out of a foam material. The supra-aural earphones reached their peak of popularity during the 1980s, though they still maintain some of their popularity today.

Ear Buds

Ear buds are a popular type of earphone because they are easy to use and relatively inexpensive. In this particular kind of design, the ear buds are positioned directly outside the ear canal, and because they do not encircle the ear the way other designs do, the sound may not be as crisp. However, ear buds perform well enough to increase the volume of the sound through their proximity to the ear. The disadvantage is that they fall off easily when they are tugged or pulled.

Canal Phones

Canal phones are similar to ear buds, but they are placed directly into the ear canal to improve the volume and quality of sound. They are usually made out of silicone rubber or an elastomer material. Not only do these materials block out ambient noise, but they keep the earphone in the ear comfortably. The tips of the canal phones can also be replaced to fit more snugly in the ear.

Tags: because they, Circumaural earphones, quality sound, this particular, type earphone

Make A Professional Lighting Kit

Halogen work lights are inexpensive and can provide bright, continuous lighting.

Professional photography lighting kits can be very expensive. You should upgrade as your budget allows you to make a wider variety of photographs and videos. If you are just starting out and don't have the budget to buy the parts of a lighting kit, you can make the pieces yourself using common materials found at your local hardware store. Creating your own lighting kit allows you to customize your kit according to your needs without requiring you to buy lights you won't use.

Instructions

Accessories

1. Purchase an external hot shoe mount flash unit if you are creating a photography lighting kit. This unit must be compatible with your camera's metering, so it cannot be made easily or cheaply. It is also small, portable and indispensable to professional photographers.

2. Purchase accessories for your kit like an umbrella, photography lighting kits, stands and clamps, gels and extension cords. Also purchase lights you can afford and don't want to make yourself, such as a soft box, soft panel and LED lights.

3. Purchase a reflector made explicitly for photography and video. Or buy a metallic windshield sunshade at your local hardware store, a sheet of foam core at your local art supply store or a survival blanket at your local camping store. Each of these options can be used effectively to reflect light to illuminate shadows and dark spots.

Make a Soft Box

4. Cut the flaps from the top of a medium-sized cardboard box.

5. Glue aluminum foil to the inside surfaces of the box. This will create a highly reflective interior that produces even light.

6. Cut a hole in the back of the box, the side that is opposite of the opening of the box. The hole should be the same size as the light you are using for your soft box; the light can be a remote external flash unit -- recommended for photography -- or a halogen work light for continuous lighting -- recommended for video.

7. Glue a transparent or white tablecloth to the open side of the box, or glue silk or sketch paper to the open side of the box. This will provide diffuse, even light from your light source.

Tags: your local, photography lighting, continuous lighting, even light, flash unit, hardware store

Make A Steadicam

Steadicams are frequently used for tracking shots.

The steadicam is a device that stabilizes a film camera during motion. It was invented in 1976 and came to have a great impact on the way films are made. The first notable use of the steadicam was in the film "Rocky". Since then it has been used in countless films. Using a system of counterweights, it separates the operator's movements from the camera which keeps the footage smooth. When the steadicam operator walks or runs the camera seems to float as opposed to the jerky footage that results from hand-held camera operation. Professional steadicams remain very expensive, but with some basic tools and a few items from the hardware store, you can make your own steadicam.

Instructions

The Camera Mount

1. Secure one of the end caps in a vice and using an electric drill, drill a 1/4-inch hole through the center of the top of the cap.

2. Insert the machine bolt through the opening of the end cap and through the hole you just drilled. Put the lock washer on the bolt and then the machine nut. Use a wrench to tighten the nut, to hold the bolt in place. The mount will now resemble a small bell.

3. Cut a one-by-one-inch square of foam rubber with the utility knife. Drill a 1/4-inch hole through the center of the square. Push the end of the bolt, that is sticking out of the end cap through the hole in the foam so that the foam square is sitting on top of the end cap, impaled and held in place by the bolt. The bottom of the camera will rest on the foam when screwed on.

The Frame

4. Screw the end cap on one end of one of the 1/2-inch pipes and the T-Joint on the other. The T-Joint has three openings. The opening that forms the bottom of the "T" is the one that you will screw the pipe into.

5. Attach the camera mount onto one of the pipes. Screw the end cap with the bolt and foam on it onto one of the remaining two pipes. Screw the other end into the T-Joint.

6. Take the remaining pipe and screw it into the last opening of the T-Joint. This will form the bottom of the steadicam.

The Counter Weight

7. Construct the counterweight. Loosen the screw on the pipe clamp and slip the clamp onto the pipe you just screwed in.

8. Attach the weight. Take the barbell weight and put the bottom of the pipe through the hole in the weight's center. Attach the remaining end cap to the end of the pipe. This will keep the weight from coming off.

9. Secure the weight. With the weight resting on the ridge of the end cap, pull the clamp down tight against the top of the weight, to sandwich it in and hold it in place. Tighten the screw on the clamp.

Tags: through hole, 4-inch hole, 4-inch hole through, hole through, hole through center, pipes Screw

Convert Your Digital Camera To Infared

Convert Your Digital Camera to Infared

All digital cameras, no matter how expensive or sophisticated, shoot pictures using the same visible wavelengths of light that people see. A special filter inside the camera blocks out the infrared (IR) light that is invisible to the human eye. Removing this filter and adding a special IR filter enables the digital camera to take picture using IR light, creating entirely different pictures than would be taken otherwise. Opening the digital camera and removing the lens assembly is not complicated, although the exact procedure varies slightly depending upon the digital camera's construction.

Instructions

1. Place the soft cloth on a table and put the digital camera down on the soft cloth with the lens facing up.

2. Remove all of the screws from the front, back, sides and bottom of the digital camera using the Phillips jeweler's screwdriver.

3. Use the needle-nose pliers to unscrew the lens from the front of the digital camera. Hold the lens up and shake it to dislodge any filter that might be inside. Retain any filter that shakes out if you want to restore the camera back to normal at a later time. Put the lens down on the soft cloth.

4. Insert the flat-edged jeweler's screwdriver into the seam on one side between the front and the back of the digital camera. Wiggle the screwdriver to separate the front from the back. Repeat this process on the other side and on the top and bottom of the camera.

5. Hold the back of the camera with one hand while pulling the front off with the other. Put the camera front aside.

6. Locate the lens assembly in the digital camera's back. Remove the screws from around the lens assembly with the Phillips jeweler's screwdriver.

7. Lift up on the lens assembly and release the small cable attached from it to the circuit board using the tweezers. Put the lens assembly down on the soft cloth.

8. Remove the screws holding the metal bracket over the IR filter. Remove the bracket. Remove the IR filter and put it aside in case you want to restore the digital camera to normal at a later time.

9. Use the utility knife to cut two pieces out of the Congo Blue IR filter sheet that are each the same size as the IR filter that you removed. Using two pieces of the blue IR filter ensures that the visible light does not pass through to the lens.

10. Blow out the lens assembly with the compressed air. Place both pieces of the Congo Blue IR filter in the position where the IR filter was on the lens assembly. Secure the metal bracket over the blue gel filters using the Phillips jeweler's screwdriver.

11. Reattach the cable and reassemble the lens assembly to the circuit board. Reassembly the front and back of the digital camera together. Blow out the lens with the compressed air. Screw the lens back onto the front of the digital camera.

Tags: lens assembly, digital camera, jeweler screwdriver, soft cloth, digital camera

Make A Phone Call If You'Re Hearing Impaired

Those who are deaf or hearing impaired can make free calls using a service where you view word-for-word captions of your telephone conversations over the Internet. If you or someone you know has difficulty hearing phone conversations, the Sprint CapTel service is invaluable. With this free service, you can easily make or receive a phone call and view captions of your conversation on your computer screen.

Instructions

1. Navigate to the Sprint CapTel website (sprintcaptel.com/index.asp). Click the "Register Now!" button to register.

2. Click on the "Place Call" button on the Web page. Enter the number that you're calling from and then enter the number of the person you want to reach. Next, click the "Place Call" button. The CapTel service will dial your number first; answer the phone when it rings. It then dials the number of the person you want to reach.

3. The caller must first dial 800-933-7219 for the hearing-impaired recipient to receive calls. For the caller's convenience, navigate to the website and click on the "Click Here" button to download a "PDF Call Me" business card template.

This card has the 800 number imprinted on it. Write your name and your contact telephone number on the designated lines of the card. Hand these out to family, friends and business acquaintances for easy reference.

4. To receive a call, the hearing-impaired person must be logged onto the website. On the "Place Call" page, click on the "Incoming Calls" button.

Type in the telephone number of the phone you'll receive your calls on. Your caller must dial the 800 number, then enter your 10-digit phone number followed by the "#" sign.

5. Answer the phone when it rings. View the captions on your computer screen and continue the conversation.

Tags: captions your, Place Call, Call button, caller must, CapTel service

Make A Personalized Polaroid Picture Guestbook For Your Wedding/Event

Make a Personalized Polaroid Picture Guestbook for Your Wedding/Event

Make your guestbook your favorite keepsake from your wedding/event! Make it personalized, fun and filled with pictures and anecdotes from the people you love. This is a unique way to turn a sometimes stale wedding tradition into a vivid conversational piece and collective piece of art to remember your event by.

Instructions

1. CHOOSE A THEME FOR YOUR SCRAPBOOK PAPER - I chose an Old World Theme which had deep vibrant colors, I picked it up at Michaels. It had nothing to do with my wedding colors, but every time I open it the colors excite me.

2. PASTE YOUR 12x12 PAPER ONTO YOUR SCRAPBOOK PAGES- I used glue sticks, it worked fine for me, but I am sure there are other ways. I recommend making a page for each couple invited.

3. CREATE FUN & CREATIVE THEMED QUESTIONS TO PRINT OUT AND INCLUDE ON EACH PAGE: Our questions were as follows: Your Predictions (Date of First Child, # of Children, Sex of Children), Your Favorite Bride or Groom Memory and Special Wishes. Make sure to leave a space for the guest to write answers to these questions.

4. CREATE AND PRINT A SPACE TO WRITE NAME AND TO PASTE POLAROID PICTURE ON EACH PAGE

5. ORGANIZE TO HAVE A GUEST BOOK ATTENDANT TAKE A PHOTOGRAPH OF EACH COUPLE AS THEY COME INTO THE CEREMONY SITE: we had a groomsmen responsible of clicking a picture as the guests walked in. For those who came late or were part of the bridal party, we left the polaroid camera out so that they could take a picture during the cocktail hour or reception.

6. DISPLAY PICTURES AT A SPECIFIC GUESTBOOK TABLE AT THE COCKTAIL HOUR/RECEPTION WITH MARKERS, TAPE, AND THE GUESTBOOK PAGES FOR GUESTS TO FILL OUT. Make sure there is a designated area where completed guestbook pages should be put. Also, make sure the DJ contiues to announce that the guests should head over to the guestbook table if they haven't yet completed their page.

7. AFTER THE WEDDING PUT ALL YOUR GUESTBOOK PAGES INTO THE SCRAPBOOK YOU BOUGHT AND ENJOY IT FOR YEARS AND YEARS TO COME!

Tags: EACH PAGE, GUESTBOOK PAGES, Guestbook Your, Guestbook Your Wedding, Make Personalized

Design A Robot

Robots have long captured our imagination. They have taken on many forms over the years. However, working robots are normally designed not as a multitasking device that resembles a human being, but a device that is created to perform one or two specific tasks with a high degree of efficiency. If you are handy with electronics and want to try your hand at designing your own robot to handle some simple task, here are some ideas on do just that.

Instructions

1. Define the function or functions that the robot will perform. Knowing what the device is to accomplish is the first step in determining what elements must go into the design. For example, a robot that is expected to pick up objects will need to be designed with an arm mechanism. A robot that is expected to sweep or vacuum will require some type of wheels or locomotion mechanism to move across the floor.

2. Create a rough sketch of the robot’s exterior. The design does not have to be perfect at this point. A rough sketch will serve as the basis for the general look of the device that you can refine as you move deeper into the project.

3. Determine the internal components that will necessary to make the robot operational. This may include circuit boards, wiring, and various other components. Compile a list on a notepad of the necessary components and how they would relate to one another. Knowing what you need for the internal workings will make it easier to determine how big the body of the robot will have to be in order to include all necessary elements.

4. Address the layout of the interior components for the robot. The placement of components may be influenced by some of the exterior features. If the robot is equipped with red flashing eyes, then the circuitry and sockets for the small bulbs will need to be placed in line with the location of the eyes on the exterior of the device. Determining the placement of interior components can usually be done by creating cross section drawings of the components within an exposed area of the outer shell of the shell.

5. Enhance the exterior of the robot. Once the interior components are placed, you can begin to determine the color scheme and any esthetic elements that will work along with the functionality of the final design.

6. Develop the working blueprint for the robot. Using the sketches and the list of components, begin to create the blueprints for the creation of the shell, all exterior features such as arms or sensor lights, and also the exact layout and connectivity between the internal components. The blueprints will provide the basis for the purchase of necessary materials to build the robot based on your design.

Tags: device that, interior components, exterior features, internal components, Knowing what, robot that

Make A New Playlist On A Zune

The software for the Zune portable media player makes it easy to create a collection of songs, or playlist, on your Zune, whether you have copied songs from CDs or acquired them from the Zune Marketplace. You can create a new playlist from either the "Quickplay" menu screen or the "Collection" screen. You also have the option of creating an "Autoplaylist."

Instructions

"Quickplay" Playlist

1. Start your Zune software by double-clicking on the Zune icon on your computer desktop. The "Quickplay" menu screen will appear.

2. To create a new playlist, hover your cursor over the "Playlist" icon on the bottom left of your screen. It is likely the third icon from the left and looks like a bulleted list. The first item on your list of choice will be "New playlist." Click on it.

3. Give the playlist a name when the window appears in the middle of your screen prompting you to name the playlist. Type in a title, such as "Dave's workout," and click "OK."

4. Select the option to create a "New autoplaylist" if you want to select songs from your collection based on criteria such as "date added" or "artist." The window will prompt you to give the autoplaylist a name. You can also select the number of songs to appear in the playlist. Autoplaylists are updated dynamically, meaning that if you want a "Green Day" autoplaylist, you will select "Artist=Green Day," and your playlist will automatically update with new songs every time you add Green Day music.

5. Add songs to your playlist from either music CDs or the Zune Marketplace by dragging them onto the title of the playlist.

6. Sync your Zune player with the Zune software.

"Collection" Playlist

7. Start Zune by double-clicking on the Zune icon on your computer desktop. The "Quickplay" menu screen will appear.

8. Click on "Collection," to the right of "Quickplay." Click on the "New Playlist" button at the bottom left of your screen.

9. Give the playlist a name when prompted and click "OK."

10. To create a "New autoplaylist," choose that option and give the playlist a name when prompted.

11. Add songs to your playlist from either music CDs or the Zune Marketplace. Sync your Zune player with the Zune software.

Tags: your Zune, from either, menu screen, name when, playlist from

Transfer Photos From My Micro Sd Memory Card To My Computer

This is a regular-sized SD card; microSD cards are about half the size of a regular sized card.

MicroSD cards are very popular storage devices. They are, as their name implies, micro versions of the actual SD cards. MicroSD cards are used in electronics where space is at a premium; they are roughly as wide as your thumbnail and as thick as a plastic credit card. They use flash memory, which is also known as solid state memory, to store data.

Instructions

1. Insert the microSD memory card into the microSD port in the card reader on your computer. If you do not have a card reader, insert the card into the port of the device that uses microSD cards. Next, connect the device to the computer with a USB cable. Make sure your computer is turned on for this step.

2. Go to the Start menu and click on the "My Computer" menu option. The microSD card should appear in the window at this point. Double-click the micro-SD card to access all of the files stored on it.

3. Click the "View" button in the window, which is an icon that looks like a miniature window with pictures on it. Click on the link in the resources for a picture. Select the "Details" option in the "View" window. Then, in the microSD card, click on the tab called "Type" to sort all of the file types so they are grouped together.

4. Hold the "Ctrl" key on your keyboard and click on all of the image files, one by one. You can also highlight them by clicking once on the screen and holding the mouse button as you move your mouse over the image files. Once you highlight all of the image files, right-click them and select "Copy." If you want to move them to the computer without leaving them in the microSD card, select "Cut" instead of copy.

5. Go to "My Pictures," which is a folder located in "My Documents," and press "Ctrl + V" to copy all of the images from the card to the folder. The image transfer should not take very long because microSD cards usually don't hold a very large amount of data.

Tags: image files, microSD card, card into, card reader, your computer

Change The Focal Length Of A Lens

Adjusting the focal length on a camera is simple.

In photography, one factor that is arguably among the most important in terms of how your image will turn out is the focal length of your lens. This is the extent to which it magnifies the object on which you are focusing. If you have a long focal length, for example, your object will appear larger. A short focal length will cause it to seem smaller. Modern digital technology makes adjusting your camera's focal length a simple process.

Instructions

1. Power your camera on and access the main shooting screen. If you see images you have previously taken on the screen, press the "Playback" button, a circle with a rightward-pointing triangle inside of it, to exit from the playback menu and get to the shooting screen.

2. Check your camera's f-stop number and take a test shot. Your camera's f-stop number, denoted by the letter "f" followed by a slash and then a number (for example f/5.6), is inversely related to its focal length. In other words, as it increases, the focal length decreases. Take a test shot of an object at your initial focal length.

3. Turn your camera's "Function" dial, which is located near the shutter button, to adjust this number. Depending on the model of your camera, you may also need to press another button at the same time.

4. Take a second test shot at your new focal length and compare the two. In addition to differences in which objects (or, if your shot is at close range, which parts of the object) are in focus, you will notice differences in the amount of light present. This is because light has to travel a shorter distance to penetrate shots with low focal lengths---or, high f-stop numbers---than for high focal length. Without any other adjustments, the former type of shot will usually be brighter than the latter.

Tags: focal length, test shot, your camera, camera f-stop, camera f-stop number

Microwave Heat Food

What Is a Microwave?

Microwaves are a form of radiation that run along the electromagnetic spectrum. This spectrum is made up of different energies including radio and light waves. It even has gamma radiation, which is deadly to people in large doses. Each of these energies has its own identifying characteristics. These characteristics are often measured in terms of frequency. Frequency is essentially determined by how often a wave might repeat itself. Much like a ripple in the water, microwaves have to start from a source and empty outward. Each wave will have a top and bottom, or low and high point. These are often referred to as crests and troughs. The pairs of crests and troughs vary according to the type of wave, too.

Microwave Oven

A microwave can heat food by exciting the molecules inside the food particles. When the particles get excited, they vibrate back and forth. This causes a tremendous amount of friction and, subsequently, heat. Anyone who has ever rubbed her hands together knows that the surface of the palms get hot after a few seconds. This is because the surface of the skin has particles and rubbing them together causes friction and heat. Microwaves do the same thing, but only internally.

Cooking Food or Water

After a few minutes in the microwave oven, a piece of meat will get cooked. It will also appear dramatically different. This is because when food particles are excited for too long, the molecules inside will generate so much heat they will literally burn the water molecules away. One has only to look at an overcooked hamburger to see evidence of this. An interesting element when cooking with microwave ovens is that you can only use certain materials to cook items with. Plastic is usually used. Certain molecules react differently when exposed to microwaves. Just as that hamburger might get all the water essentially burned out of it, the container it is cooked in might react, as well. When using a microwave oven, it is not a good idea to use a metal container. When metal is exposed to microwaves, it acts as a conductor. Plastic generally soaks up the waves, while metal will reflect them outward. Molecules in certain types of ceramic containers will simply get too excited. This often results in hot containers and cold food.

Tags: crests troughs, exposed microwaves, food particles, molecules inside, particles excited

What Is The Best Type Of Photo Paper

Many printers are designed to accept an array of photo papers.

Printing photos from home is a great advantage to many photographers, as it allows them to see their proofs immediately rather than sending them out to a lab and awaiting the final product to return. Printing from home does require two main things to achieve professional-quality photos: a good printer and even better photo paper.

Fade Resistant

Fading is a commonly overlooked problem that many printers and photographers ignore. Fading occurs when your photograph is exposed to light as well as air for extended periods. These elements wear away the color and radiance of an image. Photo paper that is fade resistant is a crucial aspect when choosing the best photo paper. Most professional-grade photo papers are fade resistant, but it is always good practice to check and make sure.

Instant Drying

Many photo papers are marketed as instant drying; these type of papers are great if you want to touch the image immediately and not worry about smearing. However, this paper is also very porous, comprised of particulates that are loosely glued together, creating holes. When printing on this type of photo paper, the ink seeps into these holes and quickly evaporates leaving the dye behind. Since this type of paper is porous, it tends to be effected by fading even faster than paper that is not instantly dry. Unless you only need a quick print, this type of photo paper should be avoided.

Swellable

Unlike other photo papers, swellable (non-porous) paper does not contain tiny holes. Swellable paper absorbs the ink that is printed on it, swelling to two or three times the size of the original paper. As the paper drys, it maintains a firm hold on the ink, not allowing it to escape nor allowing air to enter. This type of paper is very resistant to fading caused by particles in the air, maintaining its colors far longer than most papers.

Considerations

The needs and budget of the consumer aside, as a general rule, photo paper from the manufacturer of the printer that is both swellable and fade resistant is the best option. This is because the manufacturers design their printers and papers to work together. If you want the absolute best photo paper available, you will need a printer that not only allows it but complements it.

Tags: photo papers, photo paper, best photo, best photo paper, fade resistant

Connect The Xpress Xm Radio To An Auxiliary

Xpress XM Radios offer a great alternative to standard AM or FM stations on your radio dial. They provide clear stations for a variety of music, religious programming, talk radio and sporting events. The Xpress XM Radio receiver that you purchase will come with a car kit that includes a cassette tape adapter that you can use in your car. However, most newer cars and after-market head units that you may purchase will not have a cassette player. To use your Xpress XM Radio receiver, you can purchase stereo audio cable and connect the receiver directly into your automobile head unit's auxiliary input jack.

Instructions

1. Purchase standard-size stereo audio cable. This cable must be male to male and can usually be purchased in a 3-foot length at an electronics supply store.

2. Connect the Xpress XM Radio receiver to the docking station provided with the XM Radio car kit. When you purchase an Xpress XM Radio unit, it comes with a car kit containing accessories, which includes the docking station, the XM Satellite Radio Antenna and the power adapter. Seat the Xpress XM Radio in the docking station and plug the XM Satellite Radio Antenna into the "Antenna In" jack of the docking station. Plug the power adapter into the cradle in the "DC In" jack.

3. Connect the audio cable to the "Audio Out" jack of the docking station. Insert one of the male ends of the audio cable into the "Audio Out" jack located next to the "Antenna In" jack.

4. Locate the "Auxiliary In" jack on your car stereo head unit. It may be on the front of the head unit or on the back of the unit.

5. Plug the audio cable into the "Auxiliary In" jack of your head unit. If the "Auxiliary In" jack is located on the front of your head unit, plug the remaining male end of the audio cable in it directly, and arrange the exposed cable as you see fit. If it is located on the back of the unit, you may have to remove the head unit from the dashboard, run the cable behind the dashboard, and reinstall your head unit in the dashboard.

Tags: head unit, audio cable, Xpress Radio, docking station, Auxiliary jack

Use A Minolta Instant Pro Camera

The Minolta Pro produces instant images as you shoot.

The Minolta Instant Pro camera is a traditional Polaroid camera. It offers the benefits of Polaroid cameras, such as instant photo production, while avoiding the difficult development process of traditional film cameras. The Minolta Pro camera is extremely similar to another camera, the Spectra Pro, since Polaroid produced both cameras. The Minolta Pro even uses the same film as the Spectra Pro. Due to their similarities, the manuals for the cameras are interchangeable, which can be convenient for the somewhat-unsupported Minolta branded camera.

Instructions

1. Place both hands underneath the camera and pull the release latch, which is located on the side of the body, to open up the camera.

2. Set the camera to fully automatic mode by pushing all of the setting switches upward, except for the exposure switch, which should be set in the middle.

3. Load Polaroid Spectra System color film into the camera by pushing the film door release down. Hold the film pack by its edges and slide it into the camera. As you close the door, the battery in the pack will power the camera.

4. Aim the camera at your subject and press the shutter button halfway.

5. Press the shutter button fully once the green indicator light appears in the viewfinder.

6. Grab the photo as it is ejected from the camera. Handle it gently within the first 60 seconds while it develops.

Tags: camera camera, cameras Minolta, into camera, Minolta Instant, shutter button