Record To A Vcr With No External Tuner

An external tuner is never required to record to a VCR, but in some cases it can make the process easier. All but the very earliest models of VCR have an internal tuner and most later models are capable of receiving signal from cable channels. These VCR's have a coaxial cable antenna connection. You can also record to a VCR from another video playback device such as a DVD player or digital video camera. A monitor or TV is good to have so you can see what is being recorded, although it is not required.

Instructions

Recording Television Signal

1. Attach the antenna or cable TV coax cable to the "Antenna In" connector, which is usually located in the rear of the VCR. This will either be a "screw on" or a "push on" connector. The cable TV connection need not go through a cable tuning box unless your cable company scrambles its signal.

2. Turn on the VCR and use the VCR's channel selector to find the channel you wish to record.

3. Insert a blank VHS tape. You can use some smaller format tapes if you have the appropriate adapter.

4. Set the timer for your VCR if you are not recording immediately. The method for this varies widely for different models, so you will need to check your user's manual to find the appropriate method for your specific VCR.

5. Press the "Record" button or the "Play" and "Record" simultaneously to begin recording if you are not using the timer. Most VCRs use one of these two methods, but some models may require other actions to begin recording.

6. Press the "Stop" button when the recording is done. If you are using the timer, the VCR should stop recording as soon as the programmed time is finished.

Recording a Video Playback Device

7. Connect the Red/White/Yellow cable to the "Output" section of the video playback device. The connectors are color coded, so it is easy to match the cable pins with the appropriate receptacle. Sometimes the yellow video connection is slightly separated from the red and white audio connection.

8. Connect the other end of the Red/White/Yellow cable to the "Input" section of the VCR. This may be in the front, back or both of the VCR. If there are more than one possible connections, just choose one as they will all work the same.

9. Turn the power on for each device and select the appropriate mode. For the playback device, you may have to select something to indicate that the output is going to an external device. For the VCR, you may have to select something to indicate that it is recording from an external device. Some models of both devices will automatically detect the signal and require no action. The selection will vary depending on the type of device and the model, so check your user's guide if you are unsure.

10. Insert a blank VHS tape into the VCR and press "Record" or whatever buttons are required by your model to begin recording.

11. Press "Play," or whatever is necessary to start the playback on the video input device.

12. Press "Stop" on the playback device and then on the VCR to end recording.

Tags: begin recording, begin recording Press, blank tape, check your, check your user, device have, device have select

Record The Best Sound With A Camcorder

The best way to improve sound is to be familiar with your camcorder.

Good sound is just as important to quality video as keeping the picture in focus or the subject in frame. But while many camcorders have placed a special emphasis on picture quality, zooms and other such visual elements, often the built-in microphone and audio hardware aren't as fancy. When shooting outdoors or in a loud area (such as a concert or performance venue), the background noise can drown out the recording's sound, or the microphone may not be able to pick up the sound. In some cases, the best sound comes from using better equipment.

Instructions

1. Examine and familiarize yourself with the camcorder. Know where your camera's built-in microphone is located. Imagine how the sound travels to reach that position on the camera and move to allow an easier path for the sound to reach the microphone.

2. Position yourself in the right place. For outdoor recording, be aware of wind and other noises and adjust your position to block out noises. For indoor or loud areas, stand close enough to the source for the sound to reach the microphone, but not so close that it distorts. Moving a few steps can make the difference between clear audio and static or silence.

3. Use headphones or an external mic. If the camcorder has a headphone jack, plug in a set of headphones to hear exactly how the audio is coming through while recording. If the camcorder has an external microphone jack, consider adding one to feed directly into the camera. Equipment specifically made to improve audio performance vastly improves sound quality.

Tags: built-in microphone, reach microphone, sound reach, sound reach microphone

Recharge A Fuji Finepix Battery

When you use your digital camera on a regular basis, disposable batteries can be costly. The FujiFilm FinePix Z series digital cameras include a rechargeable battery and custom battery charger. Within about 2 hours, you can have a fully charged battery for your camera. Buy a spare battery to keep on hand as a backup when the other one is charging to avoid any down time.

Instructions

1. Turn off the camera. Lift the battery cover on the bottom of the camera body. Push down on the battery release tab.

2. Pull the battery out of the camera. Close the battery cover to avoid getting dust or dirt inside.

3. Slide the battery into the charger with the terminals facing the connectors inside the charger. Press the back of the battery down until it snaps into place.

4. Plug the power cable into the port on the charger then plug it into the wall outlet. Make sure that the red light illuminates. When the light goes out, the battery is fully charged.

Tags: battery cover, fully charged

Jensen Mvb85 Overhead Dvd Player Problems

The Jensen MVB85 overhead DVD player provides on-the-road viewing in an automobile. As convenient as the MVB85 can be, there are some problems that users experienced with several of the device's features, most of which can be fixed on your own. The MVB85 hit the market in 2006 and, at the time of publication, is no longer in production.

Laser

If you experience the player failing to read a DVD after inserting the disc into the device, take the DVD out and reinsert it to see if it will play. Sometimes, the disc may not be inserted fully and the machine then fails in its attempts to read the disc. If this doesn't work, there's a chance the MVB85's laser connection is not fully intact. If you're comfortable disassembling electronics devices, do so and look for the MVB85's laser connection. Once found, make sure the connection is securely in place.

Double Discs

The Jensen MVB85 DVD player supports only one DVD at a time; if someone stuffs two discs into the device, one disc may play properly but you may not be able to get either of the discs to eject. If you find yourself in this predicament, consult the owner's manual to locate the device's emergency eject hole, which will force the player's drive to eject its contents. Typically, devices of this kind contain a tiny hole through which a straightened paper clip will fit to activate the device's emergency eject feature.

Region Code

If you receive an "Incorrect Region Code" error message on the Jensen MVB85 DVD player when attempting to view a DVD, this problem involves the device's region code setting, which enables it to play DVDs intended for playback in certain parts of the world. In the United States, all DVD players must by law be set to read Region 1 discs. Access the MVB85's region code setting by making sure the player does not contain a DVD in its drive, then power the device on through its remote control. When the blue screen appears with the DVD logo, enter the number code "9653" into the remote control. This process reveals a hidden menu from which you can access the MVB85's region code setting menu. Setting this option to Region 1 should resolve this type of problem.

Radio Frequencies

The Jensen MVB85 DVD player contains an FM receiver that allows you to listen to a DVD's audio content through the car speakers on specific FM radio frequencies. If the player is not tuned to the proper station, you will not be able to hear the disc's audio content. Consult the device's owner manual to determine which radio frequencies are assigned to your device.

Tags: code setting, Jensen MVB85 player, MVB85 player, region code setting, audio content, device emergency, device emergency eject

Place Calls From A Tty Machine

A TTY Device, (otherwise known as a teletypewriter), allows hearing- and verbally-impaired people to use the telephone. With a little practice, you can learn use a TTY machine to place calls to other TTY users, or to anyone with a telephone.

Instructions

Call Another TTY User

1. Attach the phone handset to the modem. Turn the TTY device on and enter the access code if your machine requires one. Dial the TTY user's telephone number. Watch the indicator light for your party to answer the phone.

2. Wait for the answering message. The party will type in his or her identity and a short greeting, such as, "Hello, this is Jan. GA." GA stands for "Go Ahead," the indication that it's your turn to speak. If there is no answering message, a hearing person answered the phone. Signal a hearing person to turn on the TTY machine by pressing the space bar repeatedly for a second or two.

3. Type in your own greeting at the GA prompt. Identify yourself immediately so that you are not considered rude. Don't forget to add GA at the end, so the other person knows that it's his or her turn to speak.

4. Send your messages in turn, back and forth. You must wait for the GA signal before beginning your message; only one person can send a TTY message at a time. To save time, it's common to use abbreviations during the conversation. (See our Resources section.)

5. Continue typing until the conversation is finished. To end the call, type "GA to SK." SK stands for Stop Keying, and indicates you are through with the conversation. After the other person responds with a corresponding SK code, hang up the phone to end the call.

Call a Hearing Person Using TTY Relay

6. Follow Step 1 above, dialing your state relay access number. The operator will respond with his or her ID number and gender, then ask for the number you intend to call.

7. Speak or type the area code and number you are calling. Indicate the type of call you require to the operator. Type "GA" (Go Ahead) to commence a call where conversation both to and from you is in typed format. If you're hearing impaired and want to read what is being said to you, but prefer to speak your responses, simply ask your operator for a Voice Carry-Over call. "VCO please. Go ahead." If you are a voice-impaired user who wishes to listen to the other party but type responses, request a Hearing Carry-Over call by typing "HCO please, GA."

8. Converse directly with the other party in your chosen format. Don't acknowledge the operator, ("Tell him I said...") the operator is not part of the conversation. Alternate turns. Remember to indicate the other party's turn to speak by saying Go Ahead or typing GA.

9. Indicate the end of the conversation by saying Goodbye or typing "GA for SK." (Go Ahead/Stop Keying) Politely wait for the corresponding goodbye before hanging up the phone. You can thank the operator for his or her help at this time if you like. Hang up the phone, and turn off the TTY.

Tags: other party, turn speak, answering message, Carry-Over call, hearing person, other person

Recover Direct Tv Recordings

A DirecTV digital video recorder (DVR) can allow you to schedule when to watch your favorite shows or events on your time. After your event has been recorded, retrieving the event to watch can be done in a few simple steps. Most DVRs allow for many hours of recording time, allowing you to record many shows and events.

Instructions

1. Turn on the television and DirecTV box. Make sure the TV is turned to the proper input where your DirecTV box is plugged in. It doesn't matter what channel the DirecTV is turned to, because you are going to retrieve a recorded event.

2. Press the list button on the DirecTV remote. This button is located below the orange record button on the top half of the remote. This will take you to a list of your recorded events.

3. Scroll down to the event you want to watch by using the black arrows that are located in the center of the remote. These buttons form a circle around the yellow select button. The event that is selected will be highlighted yellow.

4. Press the yellow "select" button that is in the center of the black arrows you used to scroll down to your desired event. If you record a series of episodes, like a TV show, pressing select will take you to a sub-menu listing the different episodes.

5. Press the same yellow select button once you find the desired event. This will take you to another menu that will allow you to start the event.

6. Press the yellow button once again to play the episode. You can skip ahead of the event by using the arrows located at the top portion of the remote. These buttons have two small arrows and are located above the orange record button.

Tags: select button, will take, yellow select, yellow select button, arrows located, black arrows

Record A Greeting On A Ge Phone Answering Machine

When you are not at home or the office, an answering machine records messages from all of the callers you miss. GE manufactures several different models of answering machines. An important part of setting up your answering machine is to record your greeting. The greeting lets the caller know he dialed the right number, or you can use it to pass on information, such as when you will be available to call back. Though GE has many different answering machine models with different features, the process for recording the greeting is similar among all models.

Instructions

1. Write down the greeting you want to leave on the machine. If you don't want to write out the entire greeting, make a list of what you want included in the greeting. By planning out the greeting ahead of time, you will ensure you don't leave out any information.

2. Press and hold the "Greeting" button until you hear a beep. Do not release the button once you the beep sounds. The button must be held down throughout the recording process. Some GE models have an "Announce" button in place of a "Greeting" button.

3. Record the greeting. Speak slowly and clearly to ensure your callers will understand what you are saying when they call.

4. Release the "Greeting" button when you are finished recording your greeting.

Tags: Greeting button, answering machine, your greeting

Copy Music From Itunes To An Android Incredible Phone

With 40 GB hard drive, the HTC Android Incredible has plenty of storage for your iTunes music files. Since the Incredible isn't an Apple product it's not hardwired to sync with iTunes right out of the box. As a result, syncing the phone with iTunes requires a free third-party app designed for Android phones called iTunes Agent. With the help of iTunes agent, syncing your phone with your iTunes library is straightforward, taking only a few minutes to configure.

Instructions

1. Download iTunes Agent from Source Forge for free. Double click on "iTunesAgent.exe" once iTunes Agent is finished downloading to initiate installation. Follow the straightforward installation prompts to complete installation.

2. Connect the Android Incredible to your computer using its USB connection cord. Tap the USB icon that appears in the menu bar on the phone with your index finger or a stylus and drag it to the notification pane.

3. Tap the "USB Connected" button in the notification pane. Tap "Mount" to give the computer access to the phone's systems.

4. Right-click on a blank area on the desktop, click on "New" and click on "New Folder." Title the folder "Music" and drag it into the mounted Android Incredible folder icon on the desktop.

5. Right-click on the iTunes Agent icon in the system tray, found in the bottom right corner of the screen, and click on "Preferences." Type in "Droid Incredible" in the "Name" field. Click on the "Choose" button and choose the "Music" folder dropped into the phone folder.

6. Click the "Create" button and choose the same "Music" folder again. Click the "Save" button to commit the configuration and click "Close."

7. Open iTunes and click on the "My Devices" folder. Drag any songs or playlists you want to sync to your phone into the "Droid Incredible" playlist found in the "My Devices" folder.

8. Right-click on the iTunes Agent icon in the system tray and click on "Synchronize Devices" to add the selected music files to the phone.

Tags: Android Incredible, iTunes Agent, phone with, Agent icon, Agent icon system, button choose

How Do Motion Sensors Operate

What is a Motion Sensor?

Motion sensors are small components that can either come pre-installed on exterior light fixtures or as independent units that can be installed later.

As the sun sets, any movement that occurs within the range of the motion sensor will cause the light to turn on for a predetermined length of time.

How Motion Sensors Work

Most motion sensors use a passive system with a lens that has the ability to detect infrared energy. The motion sensor component sends out infrared light beams that are focused on a particular area. Specifically, the motion sensor is looking for any rapid changes in the infrared signal.

If a human being or animal walks in front of a motion sensor, it detects a change in the infrared energy within its range of coverage. The result is, the sensor turns on the light. If you stand still long enough, you will become part of the environment of infrared energy and the light will time itself off. Begin walking again and the motion sensor will once again detect the change in infrared energy and turn the light back on.

Motion Sensor Considerations

Motion sensors are ideal for adding another level of security to your home and as an extra added bonus, they can help you save on your electric bill because certain lights will not be illuminated all night.

To prevent your lights from constantly coming on, you may have to set the range of coverage on your motion sensor. If the motion sensor is aiming in the direction of the street, it may kick on every time a car drives past or a cat strolls down the sidewalk. It may take a few tries before you get the perfect combination of height and distance covered, but once you do, your motion sensor will help to keep all shady figures, skunks and deer out of your yard!

Tags: infrared energy, motion sensor, motion sensor, motion sensor will, sensor will, change infrared, change infrared energy

What To Look For When Buying A Dvd Player

So you want to know what to look for when buying a DVD player. With a wide variety of options out there; progressive scan and blu-ray, a novice might have some trouble choosing from all the options. This article will cover the five major options, including must-have items, and those items that don't really matter.

Instructions

1. Choose your format. The DVD category has expanded; now there's also Blu-Ray and HD-DVD. Last thing's first: Forget the HD-DVD. It's a dying format after most major movie studios and manufacturer's have discontinued the format. If you can afford it, choose a Blu-Ray model; these play the high-definition Blu-Ray discs as well as regular DVDs. Downside is Blu-Rays are about 50% more expensive than DVDs, and this price difference is greater for the players themselves.

2. Decide if you want to record. While recordable Blu-Ray players are not really an option given the price and lack of availability, having a recordable DVD player is a nice feature to have. You can record shows or movies from the television directly onto discs for your own collection. While these tend not to have the best picture or sound quality, they're still pretty good.

3. Remember brand power. While most people will tell you they can't tell the difference in picture and sound quality from one DVD player to the next, keep in mind that Sony created the technology that led to the invention of the DVD and Blu-Ray technologies. While it may be a bit more expensive, stick with the best.

4. Consider a progressive scan option. This is only for regular DVD players, but most models today come with progressive scan. What this means to you is a slightly better picture if you have a television that supports high-definition. Progressive scan looks a bit softer and clearer on your HD-TV.

5. Consider sound. If you plan to connect your DVD player to a surround sound system, you will want to ensure that your player allows you to run digital sound. Most high-end DVD players and most, if not all, Blu-Ray players come with the HDMI format already installed; this will allow you to connect your player to your receiver or television with one wire for all of your video and audio needs. If not, however, you will want to ensure the player comes with an Optical Digital Out; this will give you far superior audio quality compared to the coaxial digital out port.

Tags: progressive scan, your player, Blu-Ray players, come with, connect your

Recondition Cordless Drill Batteries

Give your cordless drill a boost by reconditioning the battery pack.

You can recondition cordless drill batteries that are nickel cadmium (NiCad) or nickel metal hydride (NiMH). These batteries wear down and eventually die out. You can correct this process and make your cordless drill batteries work like new again.

Instructions

Rechargeable NiCad or NiMH battery packs

1. Remove the dead battery pack from the cordless drill.

2. Using the volt meter, determine which leads on your battery case are positive and negative. Mark the positive lead, so that it is easier to reassemble your battery case after the reconditioning process.

3. Unscrew the cordless drill battery case to open and reveal the battery cells to recondition. Take note of the inside spring so you don't lose it. This piece tends to snap out or pop away when the case is opened. Carefully lift off the top of the battery case.

4. Place the small screws and the spring into a small container to make them easier to find during reassembly.

5. Pull out the cells from the bottom casing. They should come out as one piece that is banded or shrink-wrapped together.

6. Mark the top of the silver cardboard insulator at the point where the wires go from the terminal into the battery pack. Again, this will make it easier to reassemble.

7. Remove the terminal piece with needle nose pliers. Don't let the wires cross or touch during this removal. There is a risk of electrical shock or an explosion if you let the terminal wires cross. Set this piece aside with the screws and spring.

8. Insulate the exposed metal band with electrical tape. This metal piece will be hot during the reconditioning process. Wrapping it in tape will protect you from injury.

9. Lift off the silver cardboard insulation piece that covers the rechargeable battery cells. Place this piece aside.

10. Cut the shrink wrap from the top of the batteries, just enough to expose the top and bottom of the battery leads.

11. Set the volt meter to 2 volts and test each individual rechargeable battery cell. Mark all batteries with a volt meter reading of 0 or negative. This will denote which batteries within the pack need to be reconditioned.

12. Prepare your external 12-volt power source to zap the batteries you have marked to recondition. Put on gear to protect your hands, eyes and skin during this potentially hazardous process.

13. Locate the positive and negative ends of the first battery to be reconditioned.

14. Hold the black alligator clamp, powered from your 12-volt source, against the negative end of the battery and the red clamp against the positive end for a maximum of two seconds.

15. Remove the clamps and test the battery to see whether it took the charge. If it reads more than 1 volt on the volt meter, move on and recondition the next cell. If the cell does not read more than 1 volt, zap it again. The cell can be zapped up to 10 times.

16. Continue the process until all cells within the battery pack have been reconditioned.

17.Reassemble the battery pack.

18. Place the reassembled battery pack onto the drill battery charger overnight. The next day your drill should work like new.

Tags: battery pack, battery case, cordless drill, volt meter, battery cells, drill batteries

Get The Right Lighting With Mini Dv Camcorders

DV camcorders are a relatively new style of camcorder that uses a small DV tape to record on. The size of the tape allows for a smaller camcorder that is more compact and easy to use. Finding the right lighting when using a DV camcorder is important to great footage.

Instructions

1. Become familiar with your ND filter which has 3 settings to allow light in. You want to adjust it depending on the amount of light in the area you are taping. The first level is off, which does nothing to change the lighting in the area. The next level is closed to 1/8th, which allows a moderate amount of light in. This is best used if indoors or on a cloudy day. The last setting is closed to 1/64th, which allows the least amount of light in. It is best used for taping outdoors on a bright day.

2. Use the iris to adjust the lighting more subtly. This allows you to bring in more light or pull more light down into the lens to get the best lighting for the surroundings you are in. You can adjust this in auto or manual mode, which allows for the most customization.

3. Adjust the gain to allow more light in. This works the opposite of the ND filter by allowing more light in, instead of blocking light out. There are 3 levels -- L, M, and H. They start at L and allow more light progressively through the levels. Look through the viewfinder or use the LCD screen to watch the difference when you are changing the modes to find the one that works best.

4. Practice using these 3 different sources of light apertures to find what works best for you and your situation. Once you become familiar with each of them, you will be able to find the best lighting for your DV camcorder in every taping experience.

Tags: more light, amount light, which allows, allow more, allow more light

Get My Sony Receiver Out Of The Pcm 48 Mode

PCM (pulse-code modulation) is a type of digital audio signal common with high-definition television broadcasts and audio-encoded on multimedia discs such as Blu-Ray. Some Sony audio video receiver models are equipped with a PCM 48 setting to take advantage of the full sonic range that PCM can deliver on Blu-Ray discs or TV shows presented in high definition. However, the PCM setting can cause audio problems when listening to programs presented in standard definition. If the Sony receiver locks in PCM 48 mode, it may be due to a compatibility issue with different connecting cables.

Instructions

1. Turn off the Sony receiver and all components connected to it, then switch on the equipment.

2. Press the "PCM" button on the Sony remote control to switch out of PCM mode. This will display on the LCD screen on the front of the receiver.

3. Play an audio source through the Sony. If it switches back to PCM 48 mode, the likely reason is a cable compatibility issue.

4. Check the back of the receiver, the television and the source signal (such as a cable or satellite receiver box) to determine which types of cables are interconnecting with the components. On a high definition system, a six-sided HDMI (high definition media interface) cable will likely be used to connect the source signal to the TV or the receiver. An optical cable, which resembles a telephone line and plug, might be used as a separate connection from the TV to the Sony.

5. Disconnect the optical cable from the back of the Sony receiver by pulling the plug straight out. Connect a standard stereo cable from a free set of input jacks on the Sony to the component, such as a TV, which is hooked up to the other end of the optical cable. The white and red plugs on the stereo cable connect to the matching colors on the left and right audio jacks.

6. Press the "PCM" button on the remote once more to switch out of PCM mode, then retest the sound on the Sony receiver.

7. Switch out the stereo cable with an optical cable when listening to all-digital sources.

Tags: optical cable, Sony receiver, high definition, stereo cable, cable from

Big Screen Tv Types

Bring the cinema experience into your home with a large screen TV.

Invest in a big screen television and you can transform the living room of your house into your own mini cinema. Forget the movie crowds and prices and instead invite your friends over to enjoy your favorite film on a larger-than-life TV screen. However, size is not everything, and thanks to new technology there are several types of large screen TVs available, including those with 3D technologies and high definition capabilities.

3D TVs

Since 2009 and the popularity of cinema blockbusters such as Avatar and Alice in Wonderland in 3D, the possibility of bringing such visual technologies into your own home now exists. The TV itself works by tricking your brain into thinking that both eyes are seeing one complete picture at a time, when in reality the screen actually projects separate images between each eye to give the illusion of a completed 3D picture. To see the dimensions properly you also need a Blu-ray 3D DVD player and a pair of 3D glasses, which block each eye at a rapid rate and ensure that the left and right image sides are projected to the intended eye. Some of the more reputable and reliable 3D big screen TV models include the 63-inch Samsung PN63C8000 and the 65-inch Panasonic TC-P65VT25.

HDTVs

High definition televisions (known as HDTVs) are sets that produce a higher resolution picture than other standard TVs. The biggest difference between a conventional set and a high definition set is the pixel count. Pixels are the minuscule dots that make up a TV screen and produce the color and display of any program or film. A HDTV screen has up to double the amount of pixels, thus making the image resolution higher and the picture sharper and more defined. HDTV is best enjoyed on a large screen so as to get the most out of a pixel-perfect picture, and some of the more popular models include the 82-inch Mitsubishi WD-82737 and the 65-inch Panasonic Viera TC-P65S2.

LCD TVs

An LCD TV works by using a matrix of thin-filled transistors--known as TFTs--to charge a thin layer of liquid-crystal-filled cells wedged between two sheets of glass. When the electrical charge from the TFTs hits the cells, they become untwisted to an exact degree and filter a specific amount of white light through the screen. This process is known as subtraction and the crystal cells block out certain wavelengths of color until the desired shade or tone is projected through to make an image. Like an HDTV, you are only going to get the most immersive experience with a larger TV where the rich colors of the LCD screen will be much clearer and more obvious. Some large screen models to consider include the 55-inch Samsung LN55C650 and the 65-inch Phillips BDL655IV.

Tags: large screen, into your, 65-inch Panasonic, high definition, into your home

Develop Film From A Pinhole Camera

When you develop sheet film from a pinhole camera, whether it's made from a shoebox, paint can or oatmeal box, you need to master steps that roll film cameras don't require. Follow these steps for successful pinhole camera film development.

Instructions

Putting Film in the Light-tight Container

1. Open your pinhole camera and, in complete darkness, remove the film after the exposure. For complete darkness, use a room with no windows or windows covered with black opaque fabric.

2. Turn off any night lights and block stray light from the door frame to avoid fogging the film as any accidental exposure to light damages the picture.

3. Place the film in a light-tight container such as an empty sheet film box. Place the film in the first of the three box lids, cover with the second lid and cover again with the third box lid to avoid any stray light reaching the film.

Prepare for Sheet Film Developing

4. Turn the room lights on and prep for film developing. Start by mixing developing chemicals according to manufacturer's instructions.

5. Switch the lights off in the darkroom and place film in the developing tank.

6. Pour developer into the tank over film.

7. Follow manufacturer instructions regarding length of time for development and agitation based on film type.

8. Empty developer into opaque chemical container and pour stop bath into the developing tank for 30 seconds.

9. Drain stop bath from tank and refill with fixer following manufacturer's directions for time and length of agitation. Fill an empty opaque chemical container with the used fixer from the developing tank.

10. Remove the developing tank lid and rinse film with running tap water for 20 to 30 minutes before hanging negatives to dry with film clips in a dust safe area.

Tags: developing tank, pinhole camera, chemical container, complete darkness, developer into, film developing, manufacturer instructions

Reboot A Blackberry Without Removing The Battery

If you remove batteries and hardware while tinkering with electronic devices, you might run into trouble down the line. Blackberry devices must be rebooted time and again, but you can reboot your Blackberry without removing the battery.

Instructions

1. When you install a new program or have a system failure, you must reboot the Blackberry. This is the same concept used in larger desktop or laptop computers.

2. Hold off on using the new program by selecting "Later" instead of "Now" when you are prompted by the Blackberry. This will allow you to wait awhile to reboot your device, especially if you need to use it at the moment and can put off the new program installation.

3. Initiate what is known as a soft reboot by pressing and holding down the key combination of Alt+Cap+Backspace on the Blackberry keyboard. Using this method will also work when the device stalls and you see only the white arrow, but it refuses to move.

4. Note that certain Blackberry models are different and require you to press and hold the Alt+Cap+Delete key combination to reboot the Blackberry without removing the battery. Make sure your keypad is correct for using this method of soft reboot before attempting it. Blackberry makes several different models, and they all operate differently under soft-reboot conditions.

5. Reference your Blackberry manual. Make sure that the keypad soft reboot will work with the specific model you are using. Larger models are typically more prone to working with the aforementioned soft reboot. If this does not work, you will have to use a secondary method.

6. Check to see if you need to install an application for your phone that allows for a soft reboot. Many models, like the Pearl, allow you to download an application for soft reboot. These applications may prevent you from pulling the battery to reboot.

7. Try all the available methods, and if it still does not work, request assistance from your Blackberry dealer. She may know of an alternative or a firmware update for your device.

Tags: soft reboot, your Blackberry, Blackberry This, Blackberry without, does work, Make sure, reboot Blackberry

Select Camera Lenses

Selecting camera lenses

Factors to consider when choosing camera lenses include application, flexibility and quality. In addition, analyze your commitment to the hobby, whether you plan to mainly shoot family photos or whether photography is an all-consuming passion and possibly something you hope to pursue professionally? Finally, your budget will ultimately mandate your final lens selection.

Instructions

1. Decide how you want to use the lens.

Determine how you will use the lens. Wide-angle lenses are appropriate for landscape photography. You will want a telephoto lens with a long focal length for maximum magnification to shoot distant wildlife, or a shorter focal length for portrait photography. Close-up photography calls for a lens with macro capabilities.

2. Choose a prime or zoom lens.

Evaluate whether a zoom or prime lens best suit your needs. A prime lens may be a normal, wide-angle or telephoto lens, but has a single focal length (as in 50mm or 85mm). Because it has fewer glass elements, a prime lens may be sharper. A zoom lens, on the other hand, offers a variety of focal lengths (as in 12-24mm or 18-270mm); some zoom lenses can transition from a wide-angle to a telephoto focal length, thus making lens changes unnecessary.

3. A faster lens offers greater flexibility in low light.

Choose the lens speed you need. The largest f-stop or lens opening indicates the lens speed. The larger the f-stop, the faster the lens, meaning more light will reach the camera's sensor. A faster lens allows greater flexibility in low-light settings.

4. Image stabilization can help you combat motion blur.

Determine if you want a lens with image stabilization (IS). Some manufacturers build IS into their camera bodies, while others incorporate the feature into their lenses. It's harder to hold a camera still when shooting with a shutter speed of less than 1/60th of a second. IS, which increases the cost of a lens, offsets body motion and could be invaluable when shooting in low light.

5. Your budget will determine what lens you purchase.

Look at your budget to decide the exact amount you can spend on your purchase. The sharpest lens with extra options can be significantly more expensive.

6. Thorough research will help you select the best lens for your application.

Research the possible choices available before committing to any purchase. In addition to Internet sources, public libraries generally subscribe to databases that supply consumer reviews. Local camera stores will often allow you to test a lens. Take your camera to the store, shoot some photos on-site with the lenses you want to evaluate, and then review the results at home before making your purchase decision.

Tags: focal length, lens with, faster lens, prime lens, budget will, camera lenses

Use A Minolta Maxxium 7000

Scenes like this are attainable with automatic exposure.

In 1985, the Minolta Corporation introduced an innovative single lens reflex film camera that included autofocus and motorized film advance. The Maxxum 7000 brought a number of features previously restricted to the professional market to the amateurs, and it made use of a number of plastic parts that kept the weight of the camera down. The camera, though, did not have multiple exposure capability, and its flash synchronization speed was 1/100th of a second. The new camera also came with a new lens mount, the "A" mount. This meant that the camera was incompatible with the previous Minolta "C" and "D" mount lenses.

Instructions

Setting Up the Camera

1. Loosen the battery compartment, located at the right side of the camera when viewed from the back, with a coin, and insert four AAA batteries in the positions as indicated.

2. Press the button in the center of the back release, located on the left side of the camera when viewed from the back, and slide the release down to open the back.

3. Place the film cartridge in the chamber on the left and extend the leader past the red leader index.

Put the teeth of the film sprocket into the film sprocket holes, tighten the film so it lies flat and close the back securely. The film counter will show the number 1 when the film is correctly loaded.

4. Hold down the ISO key, located on the left side of the top deck when viewed from the back. Press the shutter speed keys, located on the right side of the top deck, to set the speed of the film you are using.

5. Hold down the "Mode" key and press a shutter speed key to set one of the four available exposure modes. The camera has a program mode for point and shoot simplicity, an aperture priority mode for controlling depth-of-field, a shutter priority mode for controlling motion and a manual metered mode.

6. Hold down the "Drive" key, and, using the shutter keys, set the drive mode to "S" for single shot or to "C" for continuous shooting. The camera can shoot up to two frames per second in continuous mode.

7. Move the "Focus" mode switch, found on the lower left front of the camera as viewed from the rear, to "AF" for automatic focusing or to "M" for manual focusing.

Taking the Photograph in Programmed Autofocus Mode

8. Hold down the "Mode" key and press a shutter key until "Program" shows in the display.

9. Slide the "Focus" switch to "AF" and frame the subject in the viewfinder.

10. Center the focus frame on the subject and press the shutter button halfway down.

The camera will focus and beep when accurate focus is achieved. Keep the shutter button halfway down and recompose the photo to your liking.

11. Press the shutter button all the way down to take the picture.

Taking the Photograph in Aperture Priority Manual Focus Mode

12. Hold down the "Mode" key and press a shutter key until "A" shows in the display.

13. Slide the "Focus" switch to "M"

14. Frame the subject in the viewfinder.

15. Turn the lens focusing ring until the subject appears sharpest on the acute matte focusing screen.

16. Press the shutter button all the way down to take the picture.

At the End of the Roll

17.Take photos until the end of the roll is reached and the camera locks up.

18. Slide the rewind switch to the left while pressing the rewind release, labeled "R" on the back of the camera to the right of the viewfinder. The camera will rewind the film automatically.

19. Open the back cover and remove the film when the counter reaches "0".

Tags: Hold down, shutter button, viewed from, down Mode, down Mode press, from back

Download Music Onto An Mp4 Player Without Getting Errors

Many people consider an MP4 player and iPod the same thing. However, there is a difference between the two devices. An iPod is a product specifically manufactured by Apple. An MP4 player may also be called a fauxpod, which resembles an iPod but doesn’t quite transfer songs in the same way. For an iPod, you can use iTunes to easily transfer music to the music player. An MP4 player, on the other hand, follows slightly different (and quicker) method of music transfer. Keep in mind that iTunes is incompatible with an ordinary MP4 player and you will get error messages if you try to download music using this method.

Instructions

1. Connect the MP4 player to your PC using the USB device that came along with the MP4 player.

2. Wait for your PC to read data on the new data drive.

3. Go to "Start > My Computer," and double-click the new portable data drive.

4. Go to the folder in which you want to transfer the music. You can also create a new folder.

5. Navigate to the music folder of your PC, and copy the songs you want to transfer by clicking "Ctrl + C."

6. Navigate to the music folder of the MP4 player and press "Ctrl + V" to transfer the songs to your MP4 player. Wait until all songs have been successfully transferred.

7. Disconnect the USB device after clicking the "Safely Remove Hardware" icon in the System Tray.

8. Verify that all songs have been successfully transferred by playing them on your MP4 player.

Tags: been successfully, been successfully transferred, data drive, have been, have been successfully, music folder, Navigate music

Fix Battery Problems With The My Life Digital Photo Keychain

You need a USB cable to charge the keychain's battery.

The My Life Digital Photo Keychain is a portable LCD display that allows you to view over 30 images on a device designed to hold your keys. When using the My Life Digital Photo Keychain you may find the battery performance less than desirable. Because of this you need to adjust how you use the keychain and when you charge the battery.

Instructions

1. Power down the My Life Digital Photo Keychain and leave it off when you aren't looking at images. The battery life is only two hours, so if you leave it on the battery might be fully discharged when you actually want to view the pictures.

2. Connect the My Life Digital Photo Keychain to your computer via the provided USB data cable whenever you can. This charges the battery, maximizing the amount of time you have to view the pictures.

3. Bring up the menu on the keychain and set it to "Single" image mode. This prevents the pictures from flipping through like a slideshow as this setting uses up more battery power.

Tags: Digital Photo, Digital Photo Keychain, Life Digital, Life Digital Photo, Photo Keychain, view pictures

Put Pictures On A Pandigital Ereader

The Pandigital Novel eReader can display photos in JPG, JPEG, BMP and PNG format. It also accepts non-animated GIF files. You can transfer the files from your computer into the Novel eReader using the USB cable that came with the device. Once the pictures are in the eReader, you can view a single photo, or a slideshow of all photos on the device.

Instructions

1. Plug the USB cable that came with the Pandigital Novel eReader into the charging port on the device. Plug the other end into an open USB port on your PC.

2. Click the "Start" button on the Windows task bar and click "Computer." The eReader will appear under Devices with Removable Storage as "PD_Novel."

3. Double-click the "PD_Novel" drive and open the "Photos" folder.

4. Open the folder where your photos are stored on the PC. By default, Windows stores pictures in the Start menu under "Pictures."

5. Highlight the files you want put on your Pandigital Novel by clicking them with your mouse. You can select multiple files by holding down the "Ctrl" key as you click.

6. Drag and drop the files into the "Photos" folder in the "PD_Novel" drive to move the pictures to the device. Make a copy by right-clicking on one of the selected files, then left-clicking "Copy." Right-click an empty area in the "Photos" folder and click "Paste."

Tags: Novel eReader, Pandigital Novel, Photos folder, cable that, cable that came

Troubleshoot A Kenwood Home Stereo

Kenwood is a reputable home audio company, and it offers a wide variety of home stereo systems. Home stereo systems are becoming more and more prevalent with the advent of HD video and audio. If you are experiencing problems with your Kenwood home stereo system, you can take a few troubleshooting steps to try to solve common issues.

Instructions

1. Reconnect the sound cables from the speakers to your Kenwood receiver. This will help if no sound or intermittent sound is coming from your speakers.

2. Turn off appliances that are located near your Kenwood receiver if you are receiving a noise interference from your stereo system. Oftentimes, conflicting appliances will cause such interference.

3. Select "Surround" mode on your Kenwood receiver if you are not receiving any sound from your secondary speakers. You most likely have your receiver set to "Stereo" mode, which will play sounds from your main channel speakers but not your surround sound speakers.

4. Make sure that a disk is in the player if the "Play" button does not work. Also, make sure that the disk is inserted correctly and right-side up.

5. Turn off the receiver, unplug the power source, wait 30 seconds to 1 minute and plug the power back in. This should reset your receiver and may solve any sound issues that have not already been addressed.

Tags: from your, your Kenwood, Kenwood receiver, your Kenwood receiver, home stereo

Polaroid Film Types

Polaroid Film Types

Polaroid is an instant camera and film manufacturer that has made instant photographs popular since the 1940s. The company was key in several developments in the photography industry, such as film products that could develop photos inside the camera. Polaroid produces different kinds of instant films for its cameras.

Roll Film

These are films packaged in a roll that can be negative or positive sheets and are developed in the camera. Films under this type include the 40-, 30- and 20-Series Land Picture Rolls, which can produce eight prints in sizes that range from 2.5 x 3.75 inches to 3.25 x 4.25 inches.

Pack Film

These were sold in packs that have both negative and positive sheets that are developed outside the camera. They are distributed as 100- and 80-series pack films. Cameras that use the pack film include the classic-style folding pack cameras, the new-style folding pack cameras, the non-folding pack plastic cameras, and the non-folding metal cameras.

Integral Film

Similar to the pack film, integral film was also sold in packs. Each film consisted of chemical layers that can develop the photo. They are distributed under the name 600-style Integral Print films, and are mass-marketed. Cameras that use this type of film include the Type 600 and Spectra.

Polavision

This is Polaroid's instant motion picture film, which is similar to the eight millimeter film. It wasn't as successful as their other films, so it was discontinued, but it gave birth to color slide film as well as the Polachrome instant transparency system.

Potential

Polaroid also manufactures accessories for its cameras, such as timers, flashguns, camera bags, photo albums and tripods, to name a few. In 2008, Polaroid discontinued its instant film production. Polaroid also produces digital cameras, so loyal customers can avail themselves of digital products from Polaroid.

Tags: cameras non-folding, Cameras that, film include, Film These, Film Types

Download Music To A Zune 120gb Mp3 Player

The Zune is a portable media player. It supports video playback, audio playback, photo viewing, and WiFi file transferring. The 120GB is ideal for those who want to store a lot of high quality audio. The Zune supports wma, mp3, aac, and m4a audio files. If you have audio files from other formats, activesync will automatically convert the files to playable format on the Zune. Music can be transferred to the device using the USB cable that is included with the device.

Instructions

1. Connect the Zune to your computer using the USB cable. It will automatically be detected by active sync.

2. Click "My Computer".

3. Select "Zune (F:)". This will bring you to the root directory of the Zune.

4. Click the "Music" folder.

5. Drag and drop the music you want placed on the Zune into the "Music" folder. If you are prompted to convert a file, click "Yes". The file will be converted to a format (MP3 by default) that the Zune can read and transferred automatically.

Tags: audio files, Music folder, using cable, will automatically

Features To Look For In A Digital Photo Frame

Digital photo frames are available with a variety of features.

Digital photo frames range from very inexpensive small screens to high cost ones featuring screens as large as some television sets. Before deciding on a digital photo frame, buyers should consider exactly how high-tech that they want the frame to be, since the most sophisticated of them have features that may require photo downloading techniques that are more complicated.

Screen Size

Look for a sufficiently large screen size. The smallest of the digital photo frames measure 5.6 inches, which does not provide easy viewing unless the photo frame is viewed from a few feet away. A screen size of at least 7 inches will allow for easy viewing from most points in an average room, so this is generally the minimum size to consider. If the digital photo frame will be displayed in a large room or will be hung on a wall, a larger screen size is preferable: an 11 or 12 inch screen works best in this case.

Resolution

Resolution refers to the number of pixels that are contained within each frame. The higher the pixel count, the better the quality of the picture will typically be. For a 7 inch digital picture frame, look for resolution of at least 720 pixels by 480 pixels. An 8 inch digital picture frame should have a minimum resolution of 800 pixels by 600 pixels. A digital picture frame 10 inches or larger needs to have a minimum resolution of 1,024 pixels by 768 pixels.

Aspect Ratio

It is important to be aware of the aspect ratio of the digital photo frame because digital cameras capture photos in a specific aspect ratio,. For ideal display of photos the aspect ratios should match. The majority of digital cameras capture photos in a 4:3 aspect ratio, and most digital photo frames display in 4:3 aspect ratio. Aspect ratios such as 16:9 (widescreen ratio) and 15:9 will stretch or otherwise distort photos to fit the screen, so in most cases the 4:3 aspect ratio is the best choice.

Memory

Sufficient space to hold photos is an important feature to look for in a digital photo frame. Frames will have a specific amount of built-in memory storage, some of the more expensive holding thousands of photos in the internal memory. A memory card slot is a good feature to look for, since it will allow the porting of photos directly from a digital camera's memory card. Check for memory card and digital photo frame compatibility prior to purchase.

Connectivity

A digital photo frame with more than one connectivity option is a good feature because it can make it simpler to download photos regularly. Most digital photo frames are equipped with a USB port that can be used to download photos using a USB cord. Additional download options to look for include Bluetooth and Wi-Fi capability. These options will allow for wireless syncing from laptop computers, camera phones, some photo sharing Internet sites and Wi-Fi capable cameras.

Tags: digital photo, digital photo frame, aspect ratio, photo frames, photo frame, digital picture, digital picture frame

Instructions For The Panasonic Bq390a Charger

Rechargeable batteries will work anywhere that disposable batteries work.

Although they seem cheap, the cost of disposable AA and AAA batteries adds up quickly when you consider all of the devices that they are used in and how quickly they are spent. Rechargeable batteries present a viable alternative. They can be reused hundreds of times and are easy to recharge. Panasonic's BQ390A charger recharges AA or AAA Nickel Metal Hydride or Nickel Cadmium batteries in about an hour per battery.

Instructions

1. Read the labels on your AA or AAA batteries. Verify that they say either Nickel Metal Hydride, Ni-MH or Ni-Cd. This charger is only designed to work with Nickel Metal Hydride or Nickel Cadmium batteries.

2. Load the batteries into the proper slots. The charger supports up to four AA batteries or two AAA batteries. Alternately, it can support two AA batteries and one AAA battery. Load up to four AA batteries into the largest slots. Load AAA batteries into the two smaller slots in between the first and second, and third and fourth slots. If you are using a AAA charging slot, do not load batteries into the AA slot on either side of the AAA slot. All of the batteries should be loaded with their positive terminals pointing toward the top of the charger.

3. Rotate the AC plug at the back of the unit out of its storage space. Plug the charger into a standard American wall socket with a 110 - 120 volt alternating current.

4. Look at the charging indicator light on the front of the unit. A blinking light indicates that the charger is working. If the light is not blinking, ensure that the batteries are properly contacting the metal connectors in the battery slot. If the light still does not come on, verify that your wall outlet is working.

5. Wait for the indicator light to turn into a steady green light. This indicates that the batteries are fully charged. Unplug the charger and remove the batteries. Charging will take approximately 135 minutes for one or two high-capacity AA batteries and approximately 115 minutes for one or two high-capacity AAA batteries.

Tags: batteries into, Metal Hydride, Nickel Metal, Nickel Metal Hydride, approximately minutes, approximately minutes high-capacity, Cadmium batteries

Make A Car Class D Amplifier More Powerful

Class-D amplifiers are designed for high-power applications in the car. They're especially well-suited to driving speakers that require a lot of power, such as subwoofers. As with any amplifier, the user should be concerned about achieving the best possible performance from the amplifier, ensuring that the amplifier is operating at the peak of efficiency and producing the most power that it can, within the parameters of its design.

Instructions

1. Use the largest possible power cable. The amplifier's power output is directly affected by supply of power it receives from the car's electrical system. A high powered amp needs a large, steady supply of voltage, and this is best supplied by a large gauge power cable. Check the amplifier's specs to see what gauge power wire is suggested, and what is the maximum size of cable the power terminals can accept. If your power cable is not up to these standards, replace it.

2. Add a capacitor to the power supply. Capacitors store energy for quick release. If your car's electrical system can't keep up with the power demands of your amplifier when it is playing loudly, a capacitor is in order. If your car's lights dim when bass passages are loud, this is a clear indication you need a capacitor.

3. Change to lower impedance speakers. Amplifier output is directly affected by the impedance of the speakers--the lower the impedance, the higher the power output. Check your amplifier's specifications for the minimum impedance the amplifier will handle, and change your speakers to models with a lower impedance if possible.

Tags: lower impedance, power cable, directly affected, electrical system, gauge power, output directly, output directly affected

History Of Kodak Digital Cameras

With manufacturing facilities in North and South America, Europe, and Asia, today's Kodak products are found nearly everywhere in the world. George Eastman, Kodak's founder, accomplished what he set out to do when quoted as saying: "The idea gradually dawned on me ...to make the camera as convenient as the pencil." From its origins of snap and click to the instant-view digital technology, the Kodak camera has and continues to evolve into an intricate part of our everyday lives.

History

Kodak, a name synonymous with cameras and photography, introduced the first "simple camera" to the world in 1888, and founder, George Eastman trademarked the Kodak name. The name was Eastman's idea, and he had no specific purpose or thing in mind when fashioning it, other than the letter K was his favorite, and he thought it to be a solid letter---he filled in the blanks between the two K's. From the home to outer space, Kodak continues to generate innovative processes and equipment related to imaging.

Time Frame

Kodak's history dates back to 1878 and the marketing of Kodak's digital technology began in 1990. The Kodak digital camera entered the market in 1995 with the Kodak DC40 point-and-shoot digital camera, along with the beginnings of its website. Leading the market in many industries, such as movies, health care, document management, printing and publishing and space technology, Kodak says it is "poised to create new ideas and applications---some of which we can't even imagine today."

Beginnings

Steve Sasson, inventor of the digital camera, pieced together his first "electronic still camera" in December 1975. This portable camera was a conglomeration of spare lens and other digital parts from old movie cameras and storerooms at Kodak labs. Its functionality was to take a still photograph by using a CCD imager and digitally recording the image without film, taking 23 seconds to capture the picture. The picture could be viewed with a device specifically designed to hold and playback the cassette that stored the digitized image.

Evolution

After pitching the idea to Kodak's "internal" people, Steve and the Kodak Apparatus Division Research Laboratory Group were successful in winning their favor on the idea of a digital camera---not expected to be ready for public sale for 15 to 20 years---and received a patent in 1978. This project, as Sasson recalls, did not stand out in the research group's mind as being the catalyst for the first digital camera, but in fact, was the prototype for its origin.

Interesting Facts

George Eastman dropped out of high school to help support his mother and sisters after his father died. Eastman was judged not very academically inclined, according to the standard of his day, and after building an empire that leads in digital technology today, he took his own life at the age of 77, because of a disability.

Tags: digital camera, digital technology, George Eastman, History Kodak, Kodak digital

What Is The Prime Lens Of A Camera

Prime lenses have a single focal length.

Almost every online photography forum contains a lengthy debate about prime lenses vs. zoom lenses. Which type you will use depends on the type of photography you do, so knowing the differences between them is essential to making the decision.

Focal Length

The focal length of a lens is a number expressed in millimeters (mm) that corresponds with the amount of magnification a lens provides. For example, a 100mm lens would make a subject appear two times closer than a 50mm lens. A prime lens has only a single focal length, such as 50mm, 100mm or 500mm. Prime lenses are often referred to as fixed focal length lenses. The alternative to a prime lens is a zoom lens. These lenses cover a range of focal lengths, such as 17 to 70mm, 50 to 200mm or 100 to 400mm. This allows the user to change the amount of magnification by "zooming" in or out.

Optical Quality

In general, prime lenses produce higher quality images than zoom lenses of equivalent construction, focal length and aperture. This is because prime lenses have fewer glass elements for light to pass through, which contributes to sharper, cleaner photos. However, there is great variability among lenses, so this difference in image quality may not be present in every single comparison. Furthermore, advancing technology in zoom lenses is shrinking the gap in quality between primes and zooms.

Size and Weight

Because zoom lenses require more glass elements and moving parts to cover a broad focal range, they are usually bigger and heavier than their prime counterparts. If you are frequently carrying your lenses around in the field, this may be an important factor to consider in your lens selection. It is important to remember, however, that it would take several prime lenses to cover the same range of focal lengths as one zoom lens. If your photography regularly requires multiple focal lengths, the weight savings of a prime lens may be offset by the need to carry more than one.

Lens Speed

The speed of a lens refers to its maximum aperture or f-stop. A wider aperture allows more light to enter a lens, which means the user can shoot at higher shutter speeds. A lens with a wide maximum aperture (for example f/1.4 or f/2.8) is thus considered a "fast" lens. The Digital Photography School website points out that although zoom lenses are gradually improving, prime lenses are still the faster choice. This ability to take in more light is especially advantageous for shooting in low-light situations or when you want to use high shutter speeds to capture fast motion.

Cost

The final difference between prime and zoom lenses is the cost. Because of their generally simpler construction, prime lenses are usually less expensive than zoom lenses of the same quality, aperture and focal length. However, like the differences in size and weight, the difference in cost may be offset by the need to carry multiple prime lenses to equal the focal range of one zoom lens. The type of photography you plan to do will help to determine the lens(es) that will best suit your needs and budget.

Tags: prime lenses, zoom lenses, focal length, focal lengths, prime lens, zoom lens, amount magnification

Archive 8mm Film

First introduced by the Eastman Kodak company in the 1930s, 8mm film offered a low-cost motion picture format suited for the home hobbyist. Most amateur movie makers used the format to preserve family memories. The format grew in popularity and was upgraded to a "Super 8" format that offered both color and sound at its peak in the mid 1970s. Aging 8mm movies now offer a rare glimpse into family history. Use this guide to archive 8mm films to the latest digital video formats for future generations.

Instructions

1. Clean and lubricate your library of 8mm films to be transferred. Apply methyl chloroform or perchlorethyline to a soft, lint-free cloth. The cloth should be damp, but not saturated, with the cleaning solution. Use an 8mm film editor to wind the film onto the take-up reel while gently pressing the film with the damp cloth as it passes through your fingers.

2. Mount your video camera on a tripod level with your telecine projector. Locate your telecine system so the condenser lens is perpendicular with your video camera location.

3. Thread the telecine projector with an 8mm film and place the projector in the "Forward -- Lamp" position to project the film image onto the condenser lens.

4. Focus the lens of your video camera onto the projected image that appears in the condenser lens of the telecine. Make sure the film image matches the viewable video image. If using a high-definition camera, you will have a margin on either side of your viewfinder, since 8mm film is not a wide-screen format. When focus and zoom adjustments are made on the video camera, lock down the tripod so the camera does not move during film projection.

5. Rewind the film threaded in the telecine projector and resume projection after you begin recording with your video camera.

6. When the film is finished, stop the recording on your video camera.

7. Log all information available about each film into a document for future reference. Unedited 8mm films were about three minutes in length. Your tape log will provide a guide to the multiple 8mm films archived onto your video recording media.

Tags: video camera, your video, your video camera, condenser lens, telecine projector, with your, film image

Carbon Microphone Work

Carbon Background

A carbon mic is a simple device to turn sound waves into an electronic signal. Carbon microphones were used in telephones, radio broadcast systems and many other devices through the 80s. Although they were eventually replaced by higher-fidelity, less noisy microphones, they are still used in military installations and other applications where their durability and ability to work on low power give them an advantage over more sophisticated mics.

Carbon Design

A carbon microphone is built inside a tube. It consists of two metal plates with a layer of small grains of carbon between. Each metal plate is attached to a wire which connects it to an audio receiver. The top of the microphone is usually covered with a metal or plastic sheet with holes in it, which lets sound in while preventing anything from damaging the mic element.

How It Works

Carbon is a resistor, meaning it conducts electricity, but not very well. A current runs from one plate through the carbon to the other plate. The carbon molecules normally resist it somewhat, lowering the power flow. When a sound wave pushes down on the top plate, however, it squeezes the carbon molecules more tightly between the two plates. This increases their conductivity, creating more electric current. As the plate moves up and down with the sound wave, the current increases and decreases, creating an electric wave in the shape of the sound wave.

Tags: sound wave, carbon molecules

Uses For Ultraviolet Torches

Scientists use ultraviolet (UV) light technology to explore hidden aspects of space and the natural world. UV torches, or flashlights, help extend the range of visible light human eyes can see. UV light has shorter wavelengths than light we detect, and torches allow us to find otherwise invisible elements. More commonly, UV torches are used daily to monitor pollutants and enforce security.

Home Inspection

UV torches may be used to inspect homes. Pointing UV light at material, such as glue or caulking, exposes whether or not any repairs were done or if different material was used. UV light also highlights grease and oil to help find any unclean areas or leaks, which is essential during home inspections. On fabric covering couches or chairs, for example, UV torches will expose stains invisible to the naked eye. Torches also illuminate traces of biological matter, such as blood. The advantage to using a UV torch, versus hiring an inspector or using complicated chemical tests, is that they are relatively inexpensive and easy to operate.

Control of Pests

UV torches expose urine from mice, rats, or any other number of pests infiltrating homes. The torch allows homeowners or landlords to examine basements, crawlspaces or attics for traces of unwanted visitors without having to find the creatures themselves. Following urine, with the help of the UV torches, gives homeowners a chance of finding where the pests are living. After pest removal, torches are a convenient way to make sure pests haven't managed to return. UV torches are also used to find scorpions. Because they are so small and low to the ground, scorpions are difficult to see with the unaided eye.

Inspecting Documents

UV torches are routinely used to verify identification and currency. Makers of currency or official identification use these hidden symbols to prevent counterfeiting and to enforce national security. UV torches pass over passports, driver's licenses, money and credit cards to look for invisible elements or marks. Hand stamps at amusement parks or night clubs are also illuminated by UV light. Furthermore, UV torches are employed to find art forgery as the UV light can pick up different kinds of paint on a supposed historical piece that may have been invented only recently.

Tags: invisible elements, torches used

Use Nikon Lenses On Pentax Bodies

Adapters allow you to mount a Nikon lens onto a Pentax camera.

Nikon and Pentax are two Japanese manufacturers that have been producing cameras and lenses for many years. And while each company produces proprietary lenses to go with their cameras, you can put Nikon lenses on Pentax camera bodies when you purchase a simple adapter.

Instructions

1. Purchase either online or at a local camera retailer a Nikon-to-Pentax adapter. This adapter looks like a metal ring that you will install on the camera.

2. Remove the lens from your Pentax single lens reflex digital or film camera by pressing the lens release button and carefully rotating the lens until it releases from the camera. Set the lens aside.

3. Connect the Nikon lens adapter to the Pentax camera body by lining up the guide dots on both the adapter and the camera. With the dots lined up, position the adapter on the Pentax mounting ring and rotate the adapter until it clicks into place. Once in place, the front of the adapter will look just like the mounting ring of a Nikon camera.

4. Line up the guide dots located on the mounting ring and on the barrel of the Nikon lens. Position the lens onto the adapter ring and rotate the lens until it clicks into place. If you are attaching a manual lens with manual aperture adjustments, make sure the lens is set at its largest aperture opening. Electronic lenses may not have this adjustment.

Tags: mounting ring, Nikon lens, Pentax camera, adapter Pentax, clicks into

Calculate Steadystate Voltage

Steady voltage is also referred as the settling voltage.

Voltage levels in time-varying circuits change over time. Time-varying means that the voltage ramps up exponentially until it reaches the steady-state voltage. For this reason, a circuit is said to be in a steady steady when the voltage ceases to change over time. In a simple resistor-capacitor (RC) circuit, consisting of a source voltage (Vs), a resistor (R) and a capacitor (C), the time it takes to reach a steady-state condition is determined by the value of R and C. Therefore, engineers can design circuits to reach steady state at a time of their choosing by adjusting the values of R and C.

Instructions

1. Determine the source voltage, or "Vs," as a power supply to your circuit. As an example, choose Vs to be 100 volts.

2. Pick the value of the resistor, R, and the capacitor, C, for your circuit. R is in units of ohms and C is in units of microfarads. As an example, assume R is 10 ohms and C is 6 microfarads.

3. Calculate the steady state voltage using the formula: V = Vs (1-e^-t/RC) where e^-t/RC is the exponent e to the negative power of t divided by RC. The variable t represents the elapsed time since Vs was turned on. For example:

at t = 0 seconds

RC = 10 x 0.000006 = 0.00006

t/RC = 0/ 0.00006 = 0

e^-t/RC = e^-0 = 1

V = 100 (1-1) = 100 (0) = 0 volts

at t = 5 microseconds

RC = 10 x 0.000006 = 0.00006

t/RC = 0.000005/ 0.00006 = 0.083

e^-t/RC = e^-0.083 = 0.92

V = 100 (1- 0.92) = 8 volts

at t = 1 second

RC = 10 x 0.000006 = 0.00006

t/RC = 1/ 0.00006 = 16666.7

e^-t/RC = e^-16666.7 = 0 (effectively)

V = 100 (1-0) = 100 volts (steady state)

In this example, the voltage increase from 0 at t = 0 to 100 volts at t = 1 second and it will remain at 100 as t increases. As a consequence, 100 volts is the steady-state voltage.

Tags: 000006 00006, steady state, 000006 00006 00006, 00006 00006, 00006 e^-t, 00006 e^-t e^-0, change over

Transfer Photos To A Computer From A Sandisk Memory Stick

Windows 7 makes transferring photos from your SanDisk Memory Stick easy. All you need is a card reader to access the stick. If your computer does not have an internal card reader, you can use an external USB card reader to access the memory stick.

Instructions

1. Insert your USB card reader into an available USB port on your computer. Windows 7 will automatically recognize the device.

2. Insert your SanDisk Memory Stick card into the card reader. Windows will recognize the insertion and will open an AutoPlay window.

3. Click "Import Pictures and Videos" in the AutoPlay window.

4. Add an optional, descriptive "Tag" in the "Import Pictures and Videos" window.

5. Click "Import Settings" if you wish to change the default settings. You can choose a new save location and folder name. You can also select to erase the memory card after copying, to rotate the pictures when importing, or to open Windows Explorer after importing is complete. Click "OK" when you are finished changing settings.

6. Click "Import" to automatically import your photos. By default, they go to your "Pictures" library.

Tags: card reader, Click Import, your SanDisk Memory, AutoPlay window, card reader access, Import Pictures, Import Pictures Videos

Compare Camera Phones

Everything begins with the wireless network. If you buy the most powerful phone available, you won't get as much out of it if it's running on a network with poor or inconsistent coverage. The following are some steps to help you compare camera phones.

Instructions

1. First check the network's service ratings with consumer organizations such as Consumer Reports and J. D. Power and Associates (see Resources below).

2. After you choose a wireless carrier, check to see which camera phones are available on its network. You can go to most national networks on the Internet to see the list of compatible phones they have.

3. Try out phones you are interested in. Feel the weight and pay attention to the keypad layout and other buttons. Some of the smaller phones have buttons that are so small it's hard to dial a number.

4. Is it easy to capture, save and e-mail pictures from the camera phone. It should take not more then two or three button-presses to e-mail a picture. The camera phone should let you save a voice or text message.

5. Make sure you know how much it costs to share your camera phone images. Wireless carriers usually charge a fee to send them to another phone as a Multimedia Service message, e-mail it to an Internet address or upload it to an online storage site.

6. If your camera phone can be connected to a computer via Universal Serial Bus, Bluetooth or infrared, you can avoid the fees by sharing your photos after uploading them to a computer.

Tags: camera phone, camera phone should, camera phones, network most, phone should, your camera

Sync Htc Touch To A Mac

The manufacturer of the Macintosh computer does not include or make available any software that can sync a HTC Touch cell phone with data on the hard drive. A unique third-party program called "The Missing Sync" is able to bridge this gap and can be used to synchronize data such as contact information, notes, music and videos between the Mac and the cell phone. The procedure is straightforward and does not require any other software or any hardware other than a USB cable. The Mac's operating system will not be harmed in any way by having installing "The Missing Sync" to the Mac's operating system.

Instructions

1. Go to the website featuring the "The Missing Sync" software that works with a HTC Touch cell phone. Follow the menu screens to purchase the program and download the "The Missing Sync for HTC Touch" software to the desktop of the Mac.

2. Double-click the file once fully downloaded to start the installation. Follow the menu commands to complete the installation into the Mac's operating system. Restart the Mac once the installation has been completed.

3. Plug one end of a USB cable into the HTC Touch's USB connection. Plug the other end of the USB cable into a USB port on the Mac. Wait for the icon of the HTC Touch to appear on the desktop.

4. Click the icon of the "The Missing Sync for HTC Touch" that is in the Dock to the left or to the right of the screen.

5. Click on the "Video" tab at the top of the program's screen. Click the "Browse" button beneath the "Video" tab to bring up a window. Drag a video file from the desktop into the window. Click the "Open" button at the bottom of the window to close the window.

6. Click on the "Photo" tab at the top of the program's screen. Click the "Browse" button beneath the "Photo" tab to bring up a window. Drag a photo file from the desktop into the window. Click the "Open" button at the bottom of the window to close the window.

7. Click on the "Music" tab at the top of the program's screen. Click the "Browse" button beneath the "Music" tab to bring up a window. Drag a music file from the desktop into the window. Click the "Open" button at the bottom of the window to close the window.

8. Click on the "Data" tab at the top of the program's screen. Check the "Contacts" checkbox beneath "Data." Check the "Calendar" checkbox beneath "Data."

9. Click the "Sync" button at the bottom of the program's screen. Wait as a progress bar at the bottom of the screen fills in from left to right. Quit the program once the confirmation window has appeared and the "OK" inside has been clicked on.

10. Drag the icon of the HTC Touch to the trash. Remove the USB cable from the HTC Touch and from the USB port of the Mac.

Tags: window Click, Missing Sync, program screen, button bottom, screen Click, bottom window

Pentax K10d Vs K200d Af Speed

The K200D camera, along with the K20D, was introduced in 2008 to replace the K10D and the K100D. On closeout, the one-time flagship K10D has been discounted to the same price as the current midrange K200D. They have similar capabilities but are different types of cameras.

The Similarities

Both cameras offer 10-megapixel resolution, a dust-removal system, weather sealing, 11-point auto focus, an optional battery grip and in-camera shake reduction.

Advantages of K10D

The K10D is a larger camera and provides the photographer more easy-to-access buttons. The K10D also has a slightly larger buffer for continuous shooting mode.

Advantages of K20D

The K200D's smaller form factor will be appreciated by tourists and backpackers who pack light. Also, the K200D accepts standard AA batteries. Considering the K10D's rechargeable battery gets lower-than-average battery life than batteries for other camera brands, this is a big advantage. The K200D also has a slightly larger LCD screen.

Advantages of Both

Pentax in general offers you great bang for the buck when it comes to lenses. Also, older Pentax lenses are compatible with these DSLRs and can be found inexpensively. Couple these high-quality lenses with in-camera shake reduction and you have a cheap means of experimenting with different focal lengths.

Disadvantages of Both

The auto focus on Pentax cameras has trouble in low light, but the AF assist in the flash usually solves the problem.

Conclusion

The K10D seems best for professional photographers who shoot sports and weddings, while the K200D offers many advantages to the casual photographer who travels a lot.

Tags: also slightly, also slightly larger, auto focus, in-camera shake, in-camera shake reduction