Make The Lights Star Without Using A Star Filter

Add beautiful starbursts to your photos without using a filter.

Turning a point of light into a starburst can add a spectacular effect to an otherwise mundane photograph. Special filters make it easy, but they also tend to affect all points of light in a similar manner and lead to undesirable results. Creating photos with natural-looking starbursts does not require filters and is not as complicated as you might imagine.

Instructions

1. Choose the lens you want to use, taking into account how many diaphragm blades it has. The more blades a lens has, the higher the number of rays or streaks in each starburst. Lenses with an even number of blades produce starbursts with an even number of rays, but most lenses have an odd number of blades, resulting in starbursts that have twice as many streaks.

2. Clean the lens carefully to remove any smudges or specs of dust. Having a clean lens is critical to all forms of photography, but even more so when you are trying to achieve dramatic special effects involving light.

3. Close the lens aperture down as small as possible by using your camera's manual controls. With most lenses, you will achieve a starburst effect by stopping down to f/20 or f/22, and even smaller apertures will result in more defined streaks emanating from each point of light. In most digital cameras, an aperture of f/22 will result in a softening of the image, but good starbursts are still possible with an aperture of about f/16.

4. Compose the shot. When taking daytime photos, position yourself so that you are shooting through the leaves of a tree or other obstacle that partially blocks the sun to add a sense of drama to the shot. At night, frame the image so that you have light sources at various distances between you and the horizon. The lights that are the brightest and the closest to you will likely be the ones to appear as starbursts in the image, while the lights in the background will not.

Tags: even number, most lenses, number blades, number rays, point light

Clean Camcorder Battery Contacts

A camcorder is a portable electronic device capable of recording live-motion and audio for extended periods of time, normally around two to three hours. The information recorded on the camcorder can then be played later, or transferred to VHS, DVD or computer files. Camcorders are powered by rechargeable batteries. The battery and battery bay contain battery contacts. Over time, they gather dirt. They should be cleaned every six to 12 months, depending on usage, to ensure they can properly interact.

Instructions

1. Remove the battery.

2. Pour a small amount of rubbing alcohol into the bottle's cap. Dip a cotton swab into the rubbing alcohol until it's damp but not dripping wet.

3. Rub the swab both on the contacts of the battery and the battery bay.

4. Wipe down the battery and bay with an alcohol wipe or cloth dampened with a small amount of rubbing alcohol.

5. Allow all components to fully air dry. Once dry, align the battery contacts with the contacts on the battery bay and press the battery back into play.

Tags: rubbing alcohol, amount rubbing, amount rubbing alcohol, battery battery, battery contacts, contacts battery, small amount

Polaroid Tv Specs

Polaroid produces a line of LCD TVs which promise clear and life-like images.

Best known for cameras, Polaroid also produces its own line of flat-screen LCD televisions. As of 2010, Polaroid televisions are available in four sizes, including the 15.6 inch, 18.5 inch, 22 inch and 32 inch.

15.6 inch LCD TV

The Polaroid 15.6 inch model has an aspect ratio of 16:9 and a digital compatibility of 1080i/720p/480i/480p. Audio Features include Dolby Digital surround sound, SAP stereo sound, SRS WOW and enhanced built-in speakers. Video features for the 15.6 TV consist of a full function remote control, sleep timer, trilingual on-screen display, progressive scan, 3:2 and 2:2 pull-down with motion compensation, built-in hybrid digital and analog tuner, P3 Premium Pixel Panel and Energy Star 3.0 compliance. Rear and side connections include headphone jacks, two audio inputs, coaxial RF input, composite video input, S-video input, VGA audio input, VGA (D-sub) input, component input and HDMI input.

18.5 inch LCD TV

The 18.6 inch Polaroid TV has a built-in DVD player, AC/DC compatibility, 16:9 aspect ratio and digital compatibility of 1080i/720p/480i/480p. Audio features include enhanced built-in speakers, SRS WOW, SAP stereo sound and Dolby Digital simulated surround sound. Video features for the 18.5 inch TV consist of a full function remote control, closed captioning, sleep timer, trilingual on-screen display, JPEG compatibility, DVD-R/RW playability, progressive scan, 3:2 and 2:2 pull down with motion compensation, Energy Star 3.0 compliance, built-in hybrid digital and analog tuner, and P3 Premium Pixel Panel. Rear and side connections include headphone jacks, USB 2.0 input, DVD slot, audio output, VGA audio input, two audio inputs, coaxial RF input, composite video input, S-video input, VGA audio input, VGA (D-sub) input, component input and HDMI input.

22 inch LCD TV

The 22 inch Polaroid TV features a built-in DVD player, digital tuner and remote control. The video resolution is high definition 1366 x 768, with a screen brightness of 350cd/m2, a 800:1 contrast ratio, a 5.0 millisecond response time, a 60Hz refresh rate and a 170/160 viewing angle. Inputs and outputs for the 22 inch model include HDMI input, component video input, composite/S-video, VGA input, coaxial digital audio output and ATSC/NTSC antenna input. A 22 inch Polaroid TV weighs 16.1 lbs , measures 21.25 x 7.0 x 15.2 inches with stand and 21.25 x 3.07 x 13.2 without stand.

32 inch LCD TV

The 32 inch model is available in black or white, with features including built-in DVD player, digital tuner and remote control. Video specifications consist of a high definition 1366 x 768, 720p video resolution, 450cd/m2 screen brightness, 2500:1 contrast ratio, 6.5 ms response time, 60Hz refresh rate and a 178/178 viewing angle. Inputs and outputs on the 32 inch model include HDMI input, component video input, composite/S-video, VGA input, coaxial digital audio output and ATSC/NTSC antenna input. A 32 inch Polaroid television weighs 27.1 lbs, measures 31.42 x 9.56 x 23.05 inches with stand and 31.42 x 4.53 x 20.28 inches without stand.

Tags: inch inch, inch Polaroid, HDMI input, inch model, input component, input composite

The 10 Best Slr Cameras

The SLR camera has stood the test of time, moving now into digital media.

The "best" of anything, including cameras, is largely subjective. You might like a single-lens reflex camera that never was very popular just because it "feels" or looks good to you. So "best" in the case of SLR cameras, based on professional and advanced amateur popular use, may not be the best for you. These cameras, however, stood the test of time and use under a variety of circumstances.

Nikon F2

Nikon's successor to its original system camera, the F model, was the F2. It was popular with professional photographers long after it originally was introduced in 1971. Heavy by today's standards, the Nikon F2 featured many wide-angle and telephoto lenses in its system, as well as interchangeable focusing screens, film data backs and viewfinders. It had a top shutter speed of 1/2000th of a second and was an entirely mechanical camera.

Pentax LX

Pentax never really had a 35mm SLR system camera until it introduced the LX in 1980. Still sought after by collectors and professional photographers alike, the LX, like all system cameras, used very wide-angle lenses in a range through normal lenses up to super-telephotos. It also had changeable viewfinders and focusing screens.

Canon AE-1

Canon was around for a long time before it produced the AE-1 in 1976, but this particular camera was a major innovation for the company. It worked well under the hard-knock conditions of the pro as well as for the advanced amateur photographer shooting the Grand Canyon on vacation.

Leica R7

Leica became famous for its superb optics and craftsmanship on its rangefinder camera before entering the SLR market in 1964. The R7 35mm SLR was released in 1992 and was the pinnacle of the original "R" line before the camera was fully redesigned with the R8.

Hasselblad 500C

Hasselblad became the standard high-priced medium-format SLR camera with wedding and portrait photographers largely because of the 500 C camera body. This camera came on the market in 1957. Everything is interchangeable. You can use different film backs for 120 or 220 film. You can use some of the best Carl Zeiss lenses ever made. You can use the traditional waist-level viewfinder or a metered pentaprism. The camera itself is entirely mechanical, meaning it does not need batteries.

Pentax 645

The Pentax 645 SLR uses 120 or 220 film and made advances over the standard medium-format SLR. It has through-the-lens metering built in as well as a power grip for easier maneuvering. It does require batteries to function. It produces 15 or 30 6-by-4.5 centimeter images on 120 or 220 film, respectively.

Mamiya RZ67

Mamiya's RZ76 medium-format SLR featured the full component system of other similar cameras, but added a bellows to focus the lens. You can revolve the the film backs on the Mamiya medium-format cameras, making it easier to take horizontal images with the appropriate film back. It needs a battery to operate.

Bronica ETR-Si

Another medium-format SLR, the Bronica ETR-Si allowed the full use of many viewfinders, lenses and film backs. Like other medium-format SLRs, the Bronica has two shutters, one in the lens and one in the camera body. These function together. The ETR-Si was the last of the ETR line introduced in 1989.

Nikkormat FT

Nikon's first attempt at reaching the consumer SLR market, the Nikkormat FT, was released in 1965. Another all-mechanical camera --- except for the use of the meter --- the Nikkormat FT brought the solid reputation and quality of the Nikon to the consumer.

Pentax K1000

Perhaps the lowliest SLR on the list, the Pentax K1000 was the low-end of the Pentax line when it was introduced in 1976. It still had the bigger size of the previous generation of 35mm SLRs, but it also was rugged. It could use all of the manual focus lenses for the then-new line of Pentax SLRs, but it was cheaper than its siblings. Because you need a battery only for the meter, the camera could be put through a lot of misuse and still work well.

Tags: film backs, advanced amateur, Bronica ETR-Si, camera body, entirely mechanical

Take Portraits Indoors With A Nikon

Dueling Nikons.

It takes more than a good camera to shoot a great photo. For portrait photos, the subject should be crisp and clear, and the background should be soft. If you are using a Nikon to shoot indoor portraits, there are a few things you need to know before you will be able to shoot the beautiful portrait of your dreams.

Instructions

1. Set the Mode dial on your Nikon to the "A" setting. Then choose the lowest f-stop value that you have on your particular camera. This will help to sharpen the background of your portrait.

2. Zoom in close to your subject. If you cannot zoom as far as you would like, simply get closer to your subject. This reduces the depth of field and helps your subject image to appear sharper and more defined.

3. Turn the flash setting to the "Off" position. Use the light that you have available to shoot the portrait to avoid red eye.

4. Press and hold the shutter button halfway down. This will make sure that the metering and auto focus are used before the portrait is taken. You can also change your camera mode to "manual focus" if you would rather manually focus the camera.

5. Press the shutter button the rest of the way down to take the photograph. Don't release the button after the auto-focus takes place; simply press the button further. View the photo in the photo viewer window and decide if you need to make any changes before you take the next photo.

Tags: your subject, shutter button, that have, This will

Use The Pioneer Parametric Eq

Many Pioneer in-dash receivers are equipped with a built-in parametric equalizer. Parametric equalizers are different from regular graphic equalizers because they have the capability to adjust for the specific frequency that is being boosted or attenuated. This gives the user a greater degree of flexibility when using the equalizer to adjust the tone of your system's output.

Instructions

1. Press and hold the "audio" button on the face of the unit until the display shows the the frequency and Q factor settings on the display. An example would look like "F 80, Q 1W."

2. Press audio again to cycle through the equalizer bands -- low, mid and high. Stop on the band you want to adjust.

3. Press the buttons on the main control to change the specific frequency for the band you've selected. Each band has a choice of four specific frequencies. Use the controls "up" or "down" buttons to boost or attenuate the specific frequency ban you've selected.

4. Press the "audio" button again to cycle to the next frequency band or to select another.

Tags: specific frequency, again cycle, audio button, frequency band, Press audio

Assemble Rca Connectors

The RCA connector, or plug, is an ubiquitous feature of audio systems. The RCA plug was developed by the RCA company in the 1940s to connect turntables to RCA radio sets and has since become almost the default connector for audio gear. You'll find RCA connectors on cables used for connecting audio gear like CD players to receivers. By knowing assemble RCA connectors, you'll be able to make your own RCA cables, useful if you need to build a custom-length cable for your home audio applications.

Instructions

1. Separate the two leads of your wire, and then strip the insulation off of each lead so that you have 3/8 to 1/2 inch of bare wire exposed.

2. Undo the jacket, or shell, covering from your RCA connector. Slide the jacket over the wire so that it can be fastened onto the plug after you've connected it to the wire.

3. Hold the bare wire of the positive lead against the center tab of the RCA connector. Place the hot soldering iron against the two until they are hot, then apply solder. When the solder flows into the joint, remove the soldering iron and let the joint cool.

4. Hold the bare wire of the negative lead of your wire against the outer tab of the RCA plug. Apply the hot soldering iron to the junction of the two, and then apply solder until it flows into the joint. Remove the soldering iron and allow the joint to cool.

5. Slide the jacket over the joints, and screw it tightly onto the RCA plug. The jacket protects the junctions you've made from being broken in use.

Tags: soldering iron, bare wire, apply solder, audio gear, flows into, flows into joint

The Best Lenses For Medium Format Portrait Photography

Some lens have variable focal lengths. Those with a set length are prime lenses.

Camera lens define many qualities of the final photo. The quality of the glass in a lens always improves the quality of the final product. Different lens also have different apertures. A higher quality lens can be opened wider to let in more light and improve the quality of the image. However, whatever the quality of the lens, its focal length is often the most challenging aspect for a photographer to choose.

Medium-Long Lenses: 70-135 mm

This length of lens is the standard for most portraits. It helps to slightly flatten the face of the subject and tends to have a smaller depth of field especially if a prime lens is used. This allows the photographer to isolate the subject from the background. A long lens may also have more smoothness to the out of focus areas which is popular for medium format portrait photography because the photographer can be a smaller distance from the subject.

Normal Lenses: 35-75 mm

These focal lengths are the best representation of the way the human eye sees the world. 50 mm is considered the standard. The image is not flattened or widened very much by this focal length. It is a good choice for medium format photography because of its "what you see is what you get" appeal.

Wide Lenses: 22-35 mm

Wide lenses are uncommon for portraiture because they have a tendency to flatten the subject out and make them look heavier. However, some photographers like the distorted view that a wide angle lens provides. This view can be very good at conveying certain mental and emotional states, and is more likely to be used for artistic portraits. Some photographers veer into extremely wide angle lenses, those below 22 mm, for the fish-eye or panoramic-style portraits.

Extreme Telephoto: 135-300+ mm

These are by far the least popular for medium format portraits, however they do have their uses. At this length, the lens tends to be slower because of the distance light is traveling. It also tends to lose detail. The subject will be very flattened and it can be a challenge to separate the subject from the background. The photographer must also contend with being very far away from the subject due to the magnification of the lens. In general, telephoto lenses are used for photographing things at great distances.

Tags: also have, focal length, focal lengths, from background, from subject

Repair A Sony Tv

Repair a Sony TV

The Sony Corporation enjoys a reputation for producing easy to operate, quality televisions. A feature of Sony televisions relates to troubleshooting and repair of minor problems. Sony provides for easy diagnosis of minor problems and many are simple,straightforward fixes that do not require a trip to a television repair shop.

Instructions

Speaker Problems: No Sound/Low Sound

1. Turn up the speaker volume on the television and/or cable or satellite set-top box.

2. Check if the "mute' button in the front control panel is in the "on" position.

3. Make sure headphones are unplugged from the television.

4. Be sure the MTS audio protocol of the television is set to "Main" or "Stereo." To access the MTS settings, press "Display" on the remote to access the setup screen, and press the "forward" button until you reach MTS settings.

Picture Problems: Grainy Picture/No Signal Message/Blank Screen

5. Turn off any electrical or battery-operated appliances that may be disrupting your television signal. Microwaves, vacuum cleaners and fluorescent lights are major contributors to signal interference and can cause a static-ridden screen.

6. Turn on another TV in the house to see if the problem is with your cable service.

7. Check cable connections to auxiliary equipment such as a DVD player, digital video recorder, or cable/satellite box and make sure they are secure and tight. Be aware that the type of cable connectors you use can affect picture quality. Cables included as part of the original purchase are not always of the highest quality. Check your manual for cable recommendations based on your model and consider replacement.

8. If the television connects to a set-top cable or satellite box make sure the box is turned on and the television is set to channel 3 or 4. Failure to do this will result in a blank, blue screen.

9. Check the TV/Video button using your remote control and make sure the setting is correct. Forgetting to turn the television back to the TV mode after viewing a DVD will result in a "No Signal" message on your screen.

Miscellaneous Problems

10. If your television is a high-definition model, viewing a standard-definition video can result in vertical bars appearing on the left and right, top and bottom, or around all sides of the screen. Use your remote control to access the setup screen and set the television to "Zoom" or "Wide" mode.

11. If an undetermined problem occurs with your television, the standby light will come on and the television will not display a picture. Turn off and unplug the television, wait one minute, then plug it in and turn it on. If this does not solve the problem, do not attempt further repairs. Your TV will require professional servicing.

12. If the television will not turn on, first check the batteries in the remote control and replace if necessary. Unplug the television and plug it into a different outlet to determine if the outlet is faulty. Finally, unplug the television, wait 30 seconds, plug it in and turn it on. If the TV still will not power on, it will require a service call.

Tags: cable satellite, make sure, remote control, your television, access setup, access setup screen

Block A Phone Number

If you don't want people to know what phone number you're calling from, use the call=blocking service provided by your landline phone carrier. Punch in a numerical code and your number won't appear on the recipient's caller ID box or screen. You can block the display of your phone number or ask your phone company to do it.

Instructions

1. Consult your phone company's website or white page directory. Since rules vary from carrier to carrier, it's best to contact your provider for confirmation of block a phone number.

2. Use the universal call blocking code, "*67," before placing a call to prevent your phone number from appearing on a recipient's caller ID box. This temporary blocking method requires that you dial *67 before every call you want blocked.

3. Order per-line blocking from your provider if you want every call from a specific phone number blocked. The fee for this varies according to provider, and only certain states allow it. Check with your phone company for details. To unblock the line and allow the number to show on a receiver's caller Id, dial "*82" before calling.

4. Be aware that when you block your number from being displayed, your name and company (if applicable) also remain blank on the caller's display. Depending on the provider, the recipient's caller ID remains blank, shows dashes or displays "Caller Unknown" or another message.

5. Learn that you can't prevent the owner of a 1-800 or 1-866 number from seeing your phone number. These companies can determine your phone number through ANI (Automatic Number Identification), but they can't distribute that information to other parties.

Tags: phone number, your phone, your phone number, number from, phone company, recipient caller, your phone company

Pick A Camcorder Format

Camcorders used to come in VHS tape format only and you just had to choose the brand you wished to purchase. Now they come in a wide variety of formats as well as brands.

Instructions

1. Select an HDD digital camera if you don't want to mess with tapes or discs. This camera puts the video directly on an internal hard drive. You can take still pictures or shoot video and then download it to your computer to edit it. From there it's a simple matter to make a DVD of your video.

2. Consider a miniDV camcorder if you want a compact machine. A miniDV uses small tapes for recording. Each tape holds 30 or 60 minutes worth of footage that you can transfer to your computer for editing and copying to DVD.

3. Pick a MiniDVD camcorder if you don't want to do any editing. These camcorders record directly to mini DVDs. You can instantly find the scene you wish to view either on the camcorder, your computer or your DVD player. Be sure you find a MiniDVD camcorder that is compatible with video editing programs if you wish to make edits to your videos.

4. Look for a flash drive/memory card camcorder if you are looking for a small camcorder. Low-end camcorders may not have the best resolution so pick the best you can afford. The internal drive or a memory card holds the video until you insert it into your computer for editing.

5. Combine the best of miniDV camcorders and HDD camcorders with a multi-format or hybrid camcorder. These camcorders allow you to record to both an internal hard drive as well as a removable disk or card. For this convenience you give up the compact size of the miniDV and HDD camcorder.

6. Expect to pay more for a camcorder that records in high-definition. HD camcorders are also bigger and editing is more difficult.

Tags: your computer, camcorder that, camcorder want, computer editing, drive memory, drive memory card

Buy A Panasonic Digital Answering Machine

Panasonic answering machines are a choice for people who require answering machines that do more than just take messages. You can buy Panasonic answering machines that double as fax machines, feature talking caller ID, run conference calls and work with as many as 8 handsets. To choose your next model, follow these steps.

Instructions

1. Take inventory of all your home and office equipment that requires a telephone jack. This includes telephones, answering machines, fax machines and modems. Assess which products need to be replaced or upgraded in the near future.

2. Review the available Panasonic answering machine models, focusing on ones that can function as message recorders and as a fill-in for other telephone products. For example, the popular KX-FG6550 model is a two-line digital answering machine that also works as a plain paper fax.

3. Decide whether you need the special, high-tech features offered by some Panasonic models, such as the ability to work without interfering with a wireless router or to talk at unusually far ranges. Find models that offer these features. Go to Amazon.com for a list of current models and read the user reviews on Amazone, Eopinions.com or Cnet.com.

4. Set a budget. Even higher-tech, multiple feature Panasonic answering machines tend to be reasonably priced. However, if you're on a tight budget, you might not want much beyond the basic features, such as caller ID and digital technology. One way to get more for your money is to buy a refurbished or used model on a website like Ebay.com.

5. Check out a Panasonic answering machine in person before making a purchase. Make sure the handset is comfortable to hold for those long phone conversations--and that the numbers are easy to punch.

6. Shop for the best price once you've picked the model you want. Look at discount retailers like Target or search price-shopping websites, such as Froogle.com and Buy.com. Coupon codes can reduce your costs. Check for them at NaughtyCodes.com or CouponCabin.com.

Tags: answering machines, Panasonic answering, Panasonic answering machines, answering machine, answering machines that, machines that, Panasonic answering machine

Use The Iphone Speakerphone

One of the basic functions of the iPhone is an easy-to-use speakerphone. This tool allows you to simultaneously speak to a group gathered in a room. Once you learn to use the iPhone speakerphone, you can communicate more effectively from anywhere in the world.

Instructions

1. Press the green "Phone" key on the main screen of your iPhone. This key has a silhouette of a traditional hand receiver and is located on the bottom part of the screen.

2. Begin to use your speakerphone by making a call or accepting a call from other participants. You can make a call by going to your "Contacts" list or activating the keyboard and dialing a number. Incoming phone calls can be accepted by pressing the "Accept" key underneath the caller ID.

3. Activate the "Speaker" function on your iPhone when you are ready to use your speakerphone. This button is located above the caller's information and allows you to switch on and off with one tap of your finger.

4. Put participants on hold while you use your iPhone speakerphone. There is a "Hold" key at the bottom of the calling screen that lets you speak to people without bringing callers into the conversation.

5. Access your contact information over the Internet while you use your speakerphone. You can reach the main page of your iPhone by pressing the "Home" button if you are on hold. The iPhone does not allow you to play music or use other audio options while on hold because you are still on the phone.

6. Adjust the volume level before you begin a conference using your speakerphone. There are volume buttons on the side of the iPhone that provide detailed control over speaker sound levels.

7. Mute the speakerphone if you must leave your office or take a break from a conversation. The "Mute" key is available on the call screen and instantly cuts off your microphone and the speaker.

8. Add new contacts to your iPhone that you have called on your speakerphone. You can go back to your "Recent Calls" list or the keyboard to find numbers to add to your "Contacts" list.

Tags: your iPhone, your speakerphone, Contacts list, iPhone speakerphone, iPhone that, speakerphone There

Charge A Fujifilm Finepix Z5 Via A Computer

Using a USB cable and your computer is a great alternative for charging your camera.

The FinePix Z5 is a compact, lightweight, sleek digital camera manufactured by FujuFilm. The FinePix Z5 offers users a six megapixel shot with a 2-1/2-inch LCD for viewing and shooting. The FinePix Z5 is equipped with a rechargeable NP40 Lithium Ion battery and comes with a charger. If the charger is broken or lost, you can still charge your battery using the included USB cable that you'll connect to your computer.

Instructions

1. Turn the computer on and allow it to boot completely.

2. Connect the USB cable to the Fujifilm FinePix Z5. The USB port is located on the right side of the camera.

3. Plug the opposite end of the USB cable into the computer USB port. Depending on your computer model, the port will either be on the front of the console or on the back near the bottom.

4. Notice the charging light is red, indicating the battery is being charged. Once the red light turns off, charging is complete and the USB cable can be removed from the camera.

Tags: your computer

Troubleshoot A Nortel Network Phone

Troubleshooting your Nortel IP networking phone can correct many different issues.

Nortel provides networking phones and devices that make managing internal extensions and external lines simple and quick. Nortel IP Phones come in a large variety of selections to meet all of your networking needs. Unfortunately, there may be times that you are unable to make or receive calls or the device may freeze and run slower than normal. Troubleshooting the device can identify the problem and locate a solution for restoring service. The good news is these troubleshooting steps work for many different problems with the Nortel device and are easy to complete.

Instructions

1. Make sure all incoming and outgoing lines are correctly installed, including the wall jack. Check for a dial tone.

2. Place a test call to an internal extension and an external line. Verify active telephone service with your service provider. Ask your provider about any known outages or problems affecting local telephone service.

3. Reset the telephone's connection and network settings. Take the handset off of the networking console. Then, unplug the main telephone line from the console and leave undone for 30 seconds. Return the handset to the console and plug the line back in. Check for a dial tone. This is a type of "power shock" that resets the phone's connection and network settings on the provider's end.

4. Reset the Nortel IP device back to the original factory settings. Pick up the handset and dial " * * Renew". Immediately follow with the MAC address. The MAC address is a Media Access Control address provided along with your Nortel networking device. You should hear a dial tone signaling the reset was complete. Any personalized settings will need to be applied again.

5. Visit a Nortel servicing store. Bring your Nortel device and any attachments with you so an agent can troubleshoot internal problems.

Tags: dial tone, Nortel device, your Nortel, Check dial, Check dial tone, connection network

Clean Reeltoreel Tapes

While digital recording has replaced older reel-to-reel recording, there are some who still prefer the vintage, idiosyncratic sound from older recording methods. Additionally, you may have old reel recordings lying around, and you'll need to dust off that reel-to-reel machine if you want to use it for conversion purposes. The problem is that reel-to-reel tapes require regular maintenance, just like that of a CD-surface or digital hard drive. But reel-to-reel tapes are less durable and cannot simply be wiped clean with a regular washcloth. To clean reel-to-reel units, careful steps must be taken.

Instructions

1. Dust visible tape surfaces gently with a feather duster while the tape is still inserted in the machine.

2. Slowly rotate the reels in order, cleaning exposed tape by gently wiping the surface with a microfiber cloth. Be careful not to bend or crinkle the tape. Do not use alcohol or any other cleaning product on the tape itself; this can distort the tape.

3. Consult your owner's manual to properly remove tape from the machine. Every tape recorder loads and empties a little differently.

4. Locate the tape guides once you have removed the tape; the guides are essentially any metal components that the tape rubs against during recording or playback.

5. Swab the tape guides with 70 percent isopropyl alcohol and a Q-tip.

6. Return reels to tape machine after allowing alcohol to dry for one hour.

Tags: tape guides, reel-to-reel tapes, that reel-to-reel

Elinchrom El 500 Specifications

Elinchrom, a Switzerland-based lighting company, manufacturers photography equipment that includes light banks, spot lights and compact flash units, such as the EL 500. The EL 500 is a small, light weight and portable version of a studio flash bulb, which is used to illuminate the display in front of a camera as a photographer snaps photographs. The Elinchrom 500 may seem small when compared to a full-sized standing unit, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in power.

Flash

The bulb's flash duration is 1/2600 of a second. It has a plug-in flash tube that is inserted by sliding the bulb directly into the unit. No further assembly is required. The variable flash power is stepless, which means that the transition between the lowest and highest speed settings for the duration of flashes is seamless and fluid. When using a 230 volt battery, the minimum flash recycling time is 0.3 seconds and the maximum flash recycling time is 0.9 seconds. When using a 115 volt battery, the minimum flash recycling time is 0.4 seconds and the maximum flash recycling time is 1.6 seconds. Flash recycling time is the amount of time it takes for the battery or power source of the bulb to regenerate enough power to create another flash. The quicker the flash recycling time, the more frequently the bulb will flash.

Power

The modeling lamp contains a 100 watt bulb and exerts 500 joules during usage. Joules are units of energy. The trigger voltage (or strobe voltage), which is the amount of energy exerted firing the flash bulb, is 12 volts. This is fairly low power, as other Elinchrom equipment registers up to 30 volts.

Measurements

The body of the EL 500 is black in color. The bulb is clear and tubular in shape. It measures 28.5 cm in length and 13.5 cm in diameter. The total weight of the equipment, including the body and the bulb, is 2.25 kg.

Tags: recycling time, flash recycling, recycling time seconds, time seconds, flash recycling time

Replace An Iphone Battery & Apps

As with any phone, the battery does wear out, and iPhones are no different. Once the battery dies, the iPhone will not last more than a day. However, replacing the battery of an iPhone is more complicated than standard cell phones, as the iPhone is sealed tightly and the back does not easily slide off. You can replace the battery and any old apps without having to buy a new phone.

Instructions

Replace iPhone Battery

1. Remove the SIM tray at the top of the iPhone by hooking an unfolded paper clip through the loop and pulling out. If you still have the tools that came with the phone, then a SIM card removal tool is included, and you can use that tool instead of the paper clip.

2. Unscrew the two small screws on each side of the docking slot at the bottom of the phone by using a small Phillips-head screwdriver.

3. Insert the blade of a cutting knife in between the front glass panel and the chrome ring around the phone. Apply a little bit of pressure to separate the back panel from the display.

4. Lift up the front panel carefully. Look for two ribbons that connect the front and back panel near the SIM card end; you do not want to break these ribbons. Unplug the ribbons by lifting them carefully from the main board. Locate a third ribbon underneath one of the two visible ribbons, and unclip this third ribbon to remove the display front from the back panel.

5. Unscrew the seven small screws found along the long edges of the back of the iPhone. There are three visible screws on each side, and one more screw underneath the "Do not remove" sign. Use a small Phillips-head screwdriver to remove the screws.

6. Locate a fourth ribbon at the bottom of the back panel near where the docking port is located. With the fourth ribbon unattached, lift out the motherboard to expose the battery. Remove the old battery and replace it with a new battery.

7. Work backward from step six to step one to put the iPhone back together.

Replace iPhone Apps

8. Connect your iPhone to your computer and open iTunes. Right-click on your iPhone icon underneath the available devices found on the lefthand side of the iTunes toolbar. This will back up all of your apps, movies, music and other data found on your iPhone.

9. Connect your new iPhone to the computer and wait for the "Set Up Your iPhone" dialog box to open.

10. Select "Restore from the backup of:" in the dialog box and find your latest backup file. Click the continue button, and all of your old apps will be added to the iPhone.

Tags: back panel, your iPhone, back panel near, Connect your, Connect your iPhone, each side

Restore A Sansa Disk

Sansa music players use SanDisk microSD cards to store music, audio and video files. If the microSD card experiences problems, the disk structure might be corrupt. You can format the microSD card using a multicard reader and your computer to restore it to working order. Formatting will erase the information stored on the card, but after formatting you can reinstall your files on the card.

Instructions

1. Remove the microSD card from Sansa player. Insert the microSD card into a multicard reader and insert the multicard reader into your computer's SD card slot.

2. Turn on your computer. When the desktop screen has loaded, click on the "Start" logo. Click on "Control Panel," then on "System and Security," then on "Administrative Tools." Double-click "Computer Management."

3. Click on "Disk Management," which appears in the left pane of the menu. Choose the microSD card from the drive selection menu.

4. Right-click the microSD card and click "Format." In the next screen, click "Format" again to confirm.

5. Remove the multicard reader from the SD card slot, then remove the microSD card from the reader. Insert the microSD card back into your Sansa.

Tags: microSD card, multicard reader, card from, microSD card from, your computer, card slot, click Format

Send Text Messages To Europe From The Internet

You don't need mobile-phone service to send an online text.

Many US mobile-phone service providers charge high rates for sending text messages to international mobile phones. Just as mobile phones have changed the way we communicate, the Internet has changed the way we communicate with our mobile-phones. You can send an international text message to Europe for free.

Instructions

1. Find out the complete telephone number for the international mobile phone. Understand that telephone numbers outside of the US are not listed in the same format as U.S. numbers. You need to find the international country code, as well as the city and region code (similar to a U.S. area code). As an example, the country code for France is 33. See the resources for a complete list of country codes.

2. Choose a provider to send your online international text message. Several services on the web offer free international text messaging, including txt2day.com and onlinetextmessaging.com.

3. Follow the specific site directions, enter the recipient's complete international telephone number and compose your message. Many sites require you to enter your email address, so enter it if required. It will also be the only way for the recipient to identify you as the sender.

Tags: international text, changed communicate, country code, international mobile, international text message

Connect A Portable Dvd Player To An Ipod

Apple's iPod is capable of playing all kinds of music and movies. But if you want to see those videos on a slightly larger screen, you can connect your iPod to a portable DVD player. How you connect the two devices can vary. Some manufacturers make DVD players that can automatically accept iPods. If you don't have one of these, you need the right cable connection. This can be tricky because of how the iPod's audio/video setup works.

Instructions

1. Get a DVD player with a built-in iPod dock. Phillips and Daewoo are manufacturers that produce players with docks. Mount the iPod into the dock. If you have a DVD player without a dock, make sure it has input ports.

2. Check the available input ports on the DVD player. If it has RCA composite ports (yellow, white and red), you are ready to go. If it only has S-video (circular port with five pins) or digital coaxial (single orange RCA-style port), get an adapter that will connect to that port and to composite plugs. Connect this adapter to your player.

3. Connect the iPod to the DVD player's composite input with an iPod audio/video cable. This special cable connects to the iPod's exclusive connector port on the bottom. The RCA plugs are on the other end of the cable.

4. Connect the iPod's mini stereo output port to a mini to RCA composite cable if you don't have the iPod cable. This cable has a 1/8-inch thick coaxial plug (like the one used in most portable stereo connections) but with three black bands instead of two. The other end has the standard RCA composite video plugs.

5. Connect the RCA plugs to the input ports on the DVD player. If you're using regular composite cables, you need to plug it in differently because of Apple's configuration. The white plug goes still goes into the white port, but the red plug goes into the yellow port, and the yellow plug goes in the red port.

Tags: input ports, plug goes, audio video, cable This, Connect iPod, goes into, input ports player

Use A Jvc Camcorder

It's hard to imagine life in the 21st century without video cameras. Most of us use a camcorder to capture all of life's enjoyable events. With the right helpful hints, you can use a JVC camcorder with ease.

Instructions

1. Make sure your JVC camcorder is charged properly. Buy a second battery if you know you'll have long events to record.

2. Remove the cap first before using your JVC camcorder. You'd be surprised how many consumers forget this step.

3. Decide whether you want to use the eyepiece or the flat LCD screen to view and record. Most consumers prefer the LCD screen.

4. Choose either automatic or manual color recording. The manual color recording option will require you to preset the color preferences before recording. Most consumers use automatic color adjustment.

5. Push the red button to record.

6. Push the red button again in order to pause your recording.

7. Check the screen periodically to make sure you didn't accidentally hit pause while you thought you were recording. You'll see the word "pause" on the screen if you're not recording.

Tags: color recording, manual color, manual color recording, Most consumers, Push button, your camcorder

Use The Calendar On An Ipod

You can use the calendar on an iPod as a quick reminder for things that you have to do or to keep track of important dates and events when you do not have access to a pocket PC. You will need to sync with your desktop computer to add or alter events on the calendar, although you can choose to add calendar items manually to your iPod.

Instructions

1. Connect the iPod to the desktop computer using the USB sync cables. Open iTunes and start the synchronization process.

2. Sync your iPod up to your desktop computer. Depending on your operating system or individual settings, you may need to manually open up the programs that have calendars which you wish to sync up to the iPod.

3. Allow the syncing process to finish. Now, pull up the main menu on the iPod. You can do this by turning the iPod on or by clicking the center button twice. This will open the main menu, no matter where you were on the iPod.

4. Choose the "Extras" option from the menu. Now, select "Calendar" to view dates and calendars.

Tags: desktop computer, main menu, that have, your desktop, your desktop computer, your iPod

Set The Iphone Wallpaper

Wallpaper on a computer or cell phone adds a nice, decorative touch, just as it does in your home. Traditional computer wallpaper often portrays images of sandy beaches, falling autumn leaves or other scenes of nature. On the iPhone, you can set the background to similar pictures, or you can personalize your wallpaper by using photos downloaded from your computer.

Instructions

Download Your Own Photos to Set as iPhone Wallpaper

1. Plug the included USB cable into both your iPhone and your computer. The iTunes program will automatically open.

2. Check the box to sync photos between your iPhone and your computer. This information appears on your computer screen when iTunes opens.

3. Use the photo pane to sync the iPhone with pictures you may want to set as wallpaper. They can be in iPhoto, Adobe Photoshop or individual folders within your computer.

Take Pictures With Your iPhone to Use as Wallpaper

4. Point your iPhone at the item or person you want to photograph.

5. Tap the camera icon with your finger and hold the iPhone steady as the picture is taken.

6. Name the picture file so you can easily retrieve it to set it as wallpaper.

Set the iPhone Wallpaper

7. Click the "Photos" icon. Some icons may be hard to determine from the pictures on them, but are clearly marked underneath.

8. Select the picture you would like to set as your iPhone wallpaper.

9. Tap on the button that looks like an arrow inside a rectangle (a checkbox) and choose "Use as Wallpaper."

10. Size the wallpaper photo by manipulating it back and forth within the touch screen until you have your desired shape and size.

11. Touch "Set as Wallpaper" to create your wallpaper.

12. Choose wallpaper from a selection of pictures already installed in iPhone if you do not want to use your own. Go to "Settings" and pick "Wallpaper from Home Screen" to select an image.

Tags: your computer, iPhone Wallpaper, your iPhone, iPhone your, iPhone your computer, your iPhone your, your wallpaper

Use Tele Conversion Lens

Teleconversion lenses, also called teleconverters or extenders, can work in one of two ways. A lens can work alone on a camera to increase the distance that the camera can "see" or can be attached to the front of a standard camera lens to lengthen the reach of the lens through magnification. A 2X teleconversion lens, for instance, gives a lens with a 200 mm maximum distance a reach of 400 mm. If you would like to use a teleconversion lens on a camera, you must have the proper attachments.

Instructions

1. Attach any standard lens to the camera body if you want to use the teleconverter along with the standard camera lens. Though the method for attaching a lens varies by camera make and model, the general method is to line the dot on the camera lens up with the guide dot on the camera body, press the lens fully into the camera body and twist the lens clockwise to lock it into place. Most lenses also have a small switch on the side near the dot that, when moved, locks the lens to the camera body.

2. Add an adapter to the front of the lens or directly to the camera body. To add the adapter to the front of the lens, line it up with the front of the lens that is already attached to the camera and turn the adapter clockwise to screw it onto the front of the lens. To add the adapter directly to the body, line the dot on the adapter up with the dot on the camera body, as you would with any standard lens, and turn the adapter clockwise to secure it to the camera body.

3. Connect the teleconversion lens to the adapter. Hold the teleconversion lens against the front of the camera lens adapter and turn the lens clockwise to screw it to the front of the adapter. Turn until it is tight to make sure that the lens is secure.

4. Focus and shoot the camera as normal.The teleconversion lens only increases the reach of the lens through magnification. It does not change the operation of the camera.

Tags: camera body, teleconversion lens, camera lens, front lens, lens adapter

Use Telephony Software

If you have a computer with Internet access and would like to cut your phone expenses, telephony software may be the answer. Using an Internet connection to make and receive phone calls, Voice over IP Protocol (VoIP) is available through the use of computer telephony software. Many of these products are free and allow you to make local and long-distance phone calls with no charges. Start lowering your phone costs with VoIP phone software by following these steps.

Instructions

1. Research free computer telephony software products on the Internet such as Skype and iCall. Look for products that have options you are interested in such as voicemail and call-forwarding. Make sure your computer has the suggested system requirements for compatibility with the VoIP phone software.

2. Download and install the telephony software. Follow the setup instructions. Most programs walk you through the setup. You may have to register an account username and password.

3. Make sure your computer firewall allows the software to access the Internet for incoming and outgoing phone calls. Check the firewall software user's documentation for instructions.

4. Plug your headset or microphone into the computer. Make sure you can hear and be heard. Most VoIP phone software programs offer a sound test.

5. Dial a phone number with the software user interface. Most programs have an area to type in the phone number or an on-screen keypad with numbers to click. Use the computer telephony software to make phone calls domestically or internationally without blowing your budget.

Tags: phone calls, telephony software, computer telephony, computer telephony software, Make sure

Choose Microphones

Choosing the right microphones for recording or performance saves money, if you get it right the first time.

Whether you are just starting out in the field of home recording or need a way to amplify speakers or musicians for an event, selection of the appropriate microphones is essential. Before getting caught up in technical specifications and fancy features, you'll need to have an understanding of the basic types of microphones offered, and their purposes. By carefully considering this information before making a purchase, you can pick the microphones right for your needs the first time around, saving both time and money.

Instructions

Picking the Right Microphones Requires Research

1. Make a list of everything you will need a microphone for, be it to record vocals, to record drums or other live instruments, to rehearse with your band, to mic a speaker on-stage or to capture sounds with you wherever you go. You can even create two lists, one for the essential things you need right away, and a second for the audio tools you will need in the near future. It is better to stick with the first list and go for quality over quantity, but making these two lists will help you make a plan of attack before going out with that credit card.

2. Understand the difference between condenser and dynamic microphones. This is an important classification, and one you should read up on at length. To simplify things, a condenser microphone is one that needs a preamp to "boost" the signal before it can be clearly audible by either a recording or an amplification device. A dynamic microphone is one that generates a strong enough signal on its own that it can be run directly in to a P.A. or recording device, eliminating the need for a preamp.

3. Make choices as to whether you will need condenser or dynamic microphones for your application. Dynamic microphones are generally used live, while condenser microphones are used most often for recording, due to their ability to more accurately capture the nuances of voice or instrument notes coming in. That is not to say that dynamic microphones do a poor job for recording, indeed they can hold their own. Condenser microphones are also used for live performance, but this requires a more complicated (expensive) setup.

4. Decide whether you need unidirectional or omnidirectional microphones, or possibly both. Unidirectional microphones are best used to pick up the sound from someone speaking, or playing an instrument, clearly toward the microphone at closer ranges. They excel at picking up just that sound, while being able to ignore the surrounding noise. This makes them ideal for almost every type of recording, for use on a podium or for a singer or wind instrument performing live. Omnidirectional microphones pick up sound within their range in all directions. Think of them as a virtual human ear. They will more accurately reproduce the sound as you would hear it, but tend to pick up surrounding noise as well.

5. Make your purchase based on the fewest number or microphones you will need for your performance or recording setup. You can always add more later as your finances allow, but cheap microphones often produce hideous sound, especially for recording. Quality is much more important than quantity with microphones, so buy the best you can afford with your budget, rather than getting excited about picking a bunch of inferior gear to have all your bases covered. Read reviews on audio websites such as HarmonyCentral.com, or ask other musicians. Chosen for your needs, a good microphone becomes a valuable asset in any of your audio endeavors!

Tags: will need, condenser dynamic, condenser dynamic microphones, dynamic microphones, first time, microphone that, microphones best

Buy A Neo+G Karaoke Machine

Since its rise in popularity in the 1980s, karaoke has been a mainstay in American entertainment. Many parties come standard with a karaoke machine and willing participants to belt out the current hits of the day. The electronics industry is full of karaoke machines that have a variety of features. The Neo+G Karaoke machine is one that most fans will like. Here's the best approach when purchasing one.

Instructions

1. Make a list of all the features desired in a karaoke machine. The Neo+G allows the user to reserve up to 99 songs. It also comes with the ability to go directly to a specific song. Due to its many, many features, amateurs may want to start with a simpler machine. It's a matter of personal choice. Compare the list to Neo+G features and decide if there is a match.

2. Search Ebay.com. Buyers and sellers on Ebay are ready and willing to give advice on the best way to get the Neo+G. Many of them also know where you can find gently used machines for a reasonable price.

3. Go to Karaoke.com. This is one of the most comprehensive websites for everything karaoke. Any item related to karaoke may be found here. Users will find objective information about all the products listed on this site.

Tags: list features

Replace The Print Cartridge On An Hp Photosmart A610 Printer

Printing your own color photos at home is possible with the HP Photosmart A610 Printer. This convenient toaster-sized photo printer has the capability to print several sizes of photo in full color. After about 75 photos, however, the print cartridge will be running low. Follow these steps to replace a print cartridge for the HP Photosmart A610 Printer.

Instructions

1. Turn the printer on and open the output tray, located on the front of the printer.

2. Open the print cartridge door, located on the right side of the front panel.

3. Remove the old print cartridge by pressing down on it and pulling it out in one smooth motion. Set the old print cartridge aside.

4. Remove the bright pink tape from the new print cartridge.

5. Hold the new cartridge with the label facing up. Slide the print cartridge into the cradle at a slight upward angle. Make sure that the copper contact points are going in first.

6. Push gently on the new print cartridge until it snaps in place.

7. Close the print cartridge door and watch the printer screen.

8. Watch the printer screen for a message. The printer screen should let you know that it wants you to load paper so it can perform a cartridge alignment test.

9. Load paper into the tray and press "OK." Note the results of the test to ensure that the printer cartridge has been replaced correctly.

Tags: print cartridge, A610 Printer, Photosmart A610, Photosmart A610 Printer, printer screen, cartridge door, print cartridge door

Canon A1 Vs Canon F1 Cameras

In their heyday, Canon's A1 and F1 were considered top-of-the-line 35 mm single-lens reflex (SLR) cameras. And while both cameras have long since been replaced, today's digital SLR (D-SLR) cameras draw their roots from them.

Release

The F1 was released in 1971 and the A1 in 1978.

Size

The A1 and F1 are comparable in size to today's D-SLR cameras. The F1 is 5.78 inches high, 3.89 inches wide and 1.69 inches deep and weighs 28.92 oz. The A1 is 5.55 inches high, 3.62 inches wide and 1.88 inches deep and weighs 21.87 oz.

Viewfinder

The F1 has an interchangeable viewfinder that offers .77x magnification and 97 percent coverage. The A1 has a fixed viewfinder with .83x magnification, 93.4 percent vertical coverage and 95.3 percent horizontal coverage.

Power Supply

The F1 runs on one 1.3-volt HD mercury-cell battery. The A1 runs on either one 4G-13 6-volt mercury-oxide battery or four LR44 alkaline batteries.

Flash

Both the F1 and A1 have a hot-shoe port, which is still used on modern cameras. It is on the top of the camera, allowing you to connect an external flash.

Tags: deep weighs, D-SLR cameras, high inches, high inches wide, inches deep, inches deep weighs

Remove An Iphone Otterbox Cover

Remove an iPhone OtterBox Cover

OtterBox covers for the iPhone provide advanced protection against dust, dirt, sudden drops and water splashes. They feature a series of interlocking cases that allow you to take your iPhone practically anywhere without having to worry about damage. Each case comes with an easily installed screen cover that protects the display from scratches and scrapes. In order to remove the screen cover, you will have to disassemble the OtterBox case and carefully lift the screen protector from your iPhone's display.

Instructions

1. Remove the front case of the OtterBox by holding onto the back section and pulling the front part away from the screen. You may need to slide a fingernail between the halves to help provide leverage. Place the front case somewhere safe.

2. Remove the rear section of the case. Release the snaps holding the inner casing to your iPhone, and remove the inner case from your phone.

3. Carefully slide your fingernail underneath a corner of the screen cover. Pull up gently until the cover is completely removed from the phone.

Tags: screen cover, your iPhone, from your, front case

Use Sprint Mobile Locator

Sprint Mobile Locator provides businesses with the ability to monitor and track employees over a range of territory, as long as the employee has a Sprint Mobile Phone assigned to your account. When you first log in to the Sprint Mobile Locator, the locator is automatically populated with the phone numbers of handsets on your Sprint account. Finding your employees is a matter of clicking on the right options.

Instructions

1. Go to the Sprint Mobile Locator website and type in your user name and password. Click the "Sign In" button to access the locator.

2. Click on the "People" tab on the right-hand side of the screen.

3. Scroll down until you find the employee's mobile number. Click on the button labeled "Locate," found to the left of the employee's phone number.

4. Look at the map on the left-hand side of your screen, and the employee's location will pop up in the form of a box with a number in it.

5. Click on the box on the map to see details about the employee's location to include the accuracy of the data. If you look at the bottom right-hand corner of the page under "Activity," you will see the time and date of the last reading obtained from the employee's phone, by the locator system.

Tags: Sprint Mobile, Mobile Locator, Sprint Mobile Locator, employee location, employee phone, number Click

Digitize 8mm Film

Digitize 8mm Film

Making an 8mm movie has never been easier. There are many easily available digital editing programs and relatively low-cost ways to transfer 8mm film to video. This makes the editing process exponentially easier and more flexible than traditional 8mm film splicing. Digitizing film is done after shooting, processing and transferring it to video.

Instructions

Process and Transfer

1. Find a lab to transfer your film to video. There are many types of film-to-video transfers, ranging from inexpensive low-resolution ones to high-end transfers done with lasers. You will need to research the costs and types of services as they vary widely.

2. Take or mail your exposed film to the lab for processing and transfer to digital video. Most labs that develop 8mm film will also transfer it to video.

3. Make sure to transfer your film to a type of digital video compatible with your particular computer and editing system. The most common is miniDV. Other possibilities are Digital8 and HDV.

Digitizing

4. Patch your deck or camera to digitize from using Firewire or USB. Launch your editing software--common ones are Final Cut Pro, Adobe Premiere, Vegas, iMovie, and Windows MovieMaker. Firewire--or "ieee1394"--connections work much better than USB for digitizing. Turn on your camera or deck and connect it before launching the software, or your computer may not find the device.

5. Turn on the capture function in your software. Some programs call this the "log and capture" function; other programs may call it digitize, import or some other term. If you cannot find this command use the help function in your software.

6. Rewind the tape to the beginning. Some systems allow you to control your camera or deck via the computer; on others you may have to do this manually.

7. You should see your footage on screen. Before you digitize, set a scratch disk, save location, and file name so you can find your file later. If you can control the camera and deck from the computer, you can easily play the footage and stop to make notes on your shots. If you must manually control the deck, use the play and pause buttons on the camera.

8. Digitize your footage by hitting the digitize command in your software while the footage is playing. In Final Cut Pro, this is the "capture now" button in the log and capture window. Look for a similar "capture" or "digitize" function for other software.

You can digitize the entire tape as one file if you have enough hard drive space, or you can break up your footage into shorter shots and name each one separately.

Tags: camera deck, your footage, your software, capture function, digital video, Digitize Film, film video

Convert Vhs To Dvd Restored

Restoring video tapes can improve original source quality.

Transferring analog video tapes to digital disks and hard drives creates the opportunity to restore the original quality of the video tape and even improve the tape's original quality. Improving VHS tapes with editing software requires a few pieces of high-dollar equipment, however. According to the website Digital FAQ, the signal path from a source VHS tape to a computer hard drive should run through a professional quality Super-VHS (S-VHS) player with 19-micron tape heads, gold-insulated video cables and a high quality video capture card. Your desired results will determine the amount of money needed to restore the quality of VHS tapes when converting them to digital files and burning them onto a disk.

Instructions

Preparation

1. Turn off your computer, unplug all wires from the outlet and open your computer case to install an internal video capture card. Insert the card into an available PCI slot on the computer motherboard and close the case. Plug external capture cards into USB or firewire ports without turning off the computer.

2. Insert the capture card disk in the CD drive and double-click the drive in Windows Explorer to run the software. Follow the onscreen instructions for installing the software, and then run the software or restart your computer to initialize the software before running.

3. Connect the S-Video output of your VCR to the S-Video input of your capture card. Turn on the VCR, press "record" from your capturing application and press "play" on the VCR to start recording. Stop the VCR and capturing program when the video is over.

4. Install your video-editing software from the install disks. Read the software's owner's manual carefully to familiarize yourself with the program. Depending on your plans for editing video---for example, whether you plan to splice together clips or only restore the color---you may only need to read the sections pertaining to your project.

Restoration

5. Open your video-editing software and look for the files of your captured video in the "File" menu by clicking "Open." Depending on your editing software and the issues with the video you want to restore, apply filters such as "ghost reduction" and "de-interlacing" to your captured video.

6. Run the program setup of your MPEG-2-converting software to install the program. Your editing software may offer file conversion as well, so consult the owner's manual. Convert uncompressed video to MPEG-2 if you plan to watch the finished DVDs on a standard DVD player. Video file conversion may take several hours.

7. Open your DVD-authoring software and drag MPEG-2 files into the project window to add them to your project. Insert a blank DVD+R or -R in the burner and click "burn" or "write" in the program. Most home DVD players recognize DVD-R media.

Tags: capture card, editing software, your computer, captured video, Depending your, file conversion

Program Zenith Converter Box Remotes

Programing a Zenith converter box remote is an important task that takes a couple minutes to complete and enhances your TV viewing experience by allowing you to remain seated. The entire programing process is done from the remote itself, so there are no tools required and no need to open up your TV. The sooner you program your remote, the sooner you will reap the benefits of having a converter box remote control.

Instructions

1. Press the and hold the "PRG" or (program) button on your Zenith remote. Continue to hold the "PGR" button for 3 seconds, at which time the LED will light up.

2. Press the "Cable" button on the remote so that the remote can assign this button to the converter box. Use the Remote Central website to find the codes list for your converter box. Use the number pad on the remote to type in each digit of the first code, then press "Enter" on the remote.

3. Point the remote at the converter box and press the "Power" button to see if the code worked. The remote programmed successfully If the converter box comes on. If the converter box does not respond, the code did not work and you must repeat the process using another code until you find one that works.

Tags: converter remote

Operate A Panasonic Fax Machine

Panasonic produces a variety of telephones and fax machines that are well suited to the needs of individuals and small businesses. While there are many variations, the KX-P2505 is a representative version of the consumer line. Here's operate the fax functions.

Instructions

1. Move the document guides on the top so they match the width of the document. Then, insert your document. Be sure the text is face down on the machine. Your documents cannot be any larger than a standard 8.5 inch by 11 inch sheet of paper.

2. Change the resolution if necessary to ensure clear reception of your document. Follow the guidelines in your manual, but remember that "Finer" resolutions require more transmission time.

3. Lift the handset and dial the fax number. Wait until you hear a fax tone in the handset, then press the button that says "FAX START." When the other party answers your call, tell them to press the "start" button on their fax machine. You'll then hear the fax tone from their machine over the handset. Press "FAX START" again to start the machine and send the fax.

Tags: hear tone, their machine, your document

Use Slingbox Software

Slingbox allows you to watch local television channels on a laptop, smartphone or PDA using customized software. Installing and using the software is easy. Once you're finished, you can take your favorite shows wherever you travel.

Instructions

1. Choose a laptop that has an Internet connection. The connection can be either wired, Wi-Fi or a wireless broadband connection.

2. Insert the Slingplayer CD-ROM into the disk drive on your laptop. The installer program should start automatically and begin loading Slingplayer onto your laptop.

3. Double-click the Slingplayer software on your laptop to open the Slingplayer application once the software installation is complete.

4. Choose the Slingbox that you want to view from the list that appears from your Slingplayer software. This allows you to watch your home television channels.

5. Use the interface on your Slingplayer software the same way as you would use the controls on your television remote. You can change channels and even control your DVD player after you hook it up to your Slingbox.

Tags: Slingplayer software, your laptop, allows watch, television channels, your Slingplayer

Tutorials For Using Strobe Lights With A Canon Xsi

Using remote triggers is actually easier than using a cable but more expensive.

The Canon Rebel XSi is a mid-level DSLR camera. It offers the benefits of digital photography, such as instant photo review, without the high price tag of more advanced models. One of the funnest features of DSLR cameras is their ability to connect to photo studio flash units, or "strobe" lights. While normal cameras connect using an external flash cable, the XSi does not have this particular feature. However, it can still connect to strobe lights by utilizing the camera's hot shoe and wireless remote triggers.

Instructions

1. Turn off the camera and remote trigger. Loosen the tightening ring on the bottom of the trigger.

2. Slide the trigger into the hot shoe bracket in the correct orientation by aligning the steel contacts on the bottom of the trigger. Rotate the tightening ring to lock it into place.

3. Plug a second remote trigger into your strobe flash unit. Most strobes should work with the cables included with your trigger, but check your strobe's instruction manual for the proper cable.

4. Set both triggers to same the wireless channel using the switch on the front. Then set them to the "Both" transmitting/receiving mode using the switch on the front.

5. Turn on the remote triggers, then the strobe and camera. Set the levels on the strobe to the desired amount of light.

6. Test the connection of the triggers by pushing the "Test" button on the one attached to your camera.

7. Aim the camera at the subject, and press the shutter button fully to take a picture. As you do, the camera will activate the remote triggers and the flash will fire.

Tags: remote triggers, bottom trigger, remote trigger, switch front, tightening ring, trigger into

Interpret Text Messages

People use short forms to communicate quickly and efficiently when they are using cell phones and instant messaging. You need to learn these abbreviations if you want to understand the text messages. Use these tips to interpret text messages and understand what is being said.

Instructions

1. Treat text messaging like a new language you need to learn to communicate in modern time. The more you know about the language, the easier it will be to talk to others who speak the same language.

2. Make a list of common abbreviations and short forms and learn the definitions of important chatting terms. Group common terms together so that you will have an easier time remembering them.

3. Recognize the symbols that represent whole sentences, such as the question mark. You know someone is asking a question when you see "?" in a text message. The question mark means you said something unclear or you weren't understood.

4. Know the special meanings for individual numbers. "404" means "I don't know" and the number "121" means the sender wants to chat privately with you.

5. Learn common terms like "LOL" which means "laughing out loud." The sender thinks you said something funny. They are not laughing at you. Another common term is "L8R" which means "Later" or "CUL8R" which means "See you later."

6. Know the short form for important messages like "MNC" which means "mother nature calls" or "AFK" which means "away from keyboard." Learn these terms so you know when and why people have stopped texting you temporarily.

Tags: which means, common terms, like which, like which means, need learn

Create Panoramic Photos With Paint Net

Create Panoramic Photos With Paint.Net

Special cameras let you take photos that are extra wide and show a panoramic view of scenery. If your camera doesn't have that option, you can take several individual shots of adjacent sections of a landscape and combine them into one image using photo editing software such as Paint.NET.

Instructions

1. Open each photo in Paint.NET. Run Paint.NET and click on the File menu. Select "Open" and navigate to the folder where the photos are stored. Once they are open you will see thumbnails of each photo in the graphical image list at the top of the Paint.NET window. Select each photo in turn and take note of each photo's dimensions listed in the status bar at the bottom. Remember or write down the following: the height of the tallest image, and the sum of the widths of all of the photos.

2. Make a new image in Paint.NET that is large enough for the panorama. Click on the File menu at the top and select "New." You will see a dialog box where you specify information about the new image. Set the "Width" to the sum of the widths of the photos that you calculated in the step above, and set the "Height" equal to the height of the tallest photo. The resolution should be 300 dots per inch if you plan to print the photo and it can be 75 dots per inch if you only plan to display it on the Internet.

3. Copy the photos to the new image. Select the photos, one at a time, in the image list, and click on the Edit menu and select "Copy." Then select the new image, click on the Edit menu and select "Paste as new layer." Use the move tool to drag each photo to one side or another so that the photos are in the correct order in relation to each other.

4. Straighten any layers that need straightening. Each layer can be adjusted separately. If you weren't able to hold the camera perfectly level when taking each photo, you may discover that one or more of them slants. Select "Rotate/Zoom" from the Layers menu and input a number in the "Angle" field. A positive number will rotate the layer clockwise and a negative number will rotate it counter-clockwise. Find the horizon or some other level feature that appears in each photo and rotate each layer until each is correctly oriented with respect to the horizontal.

5. Adjust color and contrast of any layers, if necessary. Select the layer you want to adjust in the layer menu. Use one or more of the options in the "Adjustments" menu to make adjustments to the current layer. "Auto-level" automatically adjusts brightness and color. Or you can make more specific tweaks by using the "Brightness/Contrast" option or the "Hue/Saturation" option.

6. Erase parts of each layer to eliminate overlapping areas, if necessary. Select a layer in the layer palette and use the eraser tool to erase any unwanted part of each layer. Use the move tool to adjust any layer's position, if necessary.

7. Crop off the edges if the layer edges don't line up perfectly. Use the rectangle selection tool to drag a rectangle around the outer edge, making sure the rectangle is inside the top and bottom edges of each photo. Select "Crop to selection" from the "Image" menu. This will give you a seamless border. Save the file by selecting "Save" from the "File" menu.

Tags: each photo, File menu, menu select, adjust layer, click Edit, click Edit menu, Create Panoramic

What Is A Stalking Horse Agreement

A "stalking horse agreement" is an agreement between a bidder looking to make a bid on a bankrupt company's assets and the bankrupt company itself in which the bidder agrees to assume the role of the "stalking horse" and make an initial bid on the company's assets. These types of agreements are complex, and have pros and cons for both the bidder and the company, so they should not be taken lightly.

Origin

The term "stalking horse" is an old hunting term that refers to the hunting technique of hiding behind the silhouette of a horse in order to sneak up on the animal being hunted. In a stalking horse agreement, this term is used as a metaphor to describe the parties involved in a bankruptcy auction: the company stands in as the hunter, using the "stalking horse" bidder to raise the bidding price for the rest of the bidders.

Roles of the Parties Involved

A stalking horse agreement is, essentially, an agreement between a bankrupt company and a potential bidder. The bidder that agrees to be the stalking horse makes an initial bid on the company's assets with the hopes of winning the assets. The company's hopes, however, are that the initial bid will drive up the cost of the assets when they go to auction. In every bankruptcy auction, a stalking horse agreement must be in place before the auction can commence.

Pros of a Stalking Horse Agreement

A stalking horse agreement has a number of benefits for both parties involved. The stalking horse has the opportunity to make the first bid on the assets and is often compensated for his risk through the reimbursement of expenses, break-up fees and the ability to help set bidding procedures. The company has the benefit of setting a price for its assets with the hopes that it will fetch an even higher price at auction.

Cons of a Stalking Horse Agreement

A stalking horse agreement is not without risks, however. A definite possibility exists that the stalking horse bidder could spend his time and money upholding the agreement and making the first bid, only to be outbid and lose the assets. It may also be difficult for the stalking horse to lower the price offered if the assets prove to have a lesser value. If it accepts a stalking horse agreement, the company faces the risk of selling its assets at a price that is lower than it had hoped for, though few, if any, companies would enter into such an agreement.

Tags: stalking horse, bankrupt company, company assets, horse agreement, horse agreement, stalking horse

Specifications For Scion Xd Audio

The Scion xD comes standard with a Pioneer audio system that features eight dynamic speakers throughout the vehicle for better sound quality. You can upgrade the xD to include XM(2) satellite radio. The audio system offers 300 watts of maximum power. It comes with an AM/FM radio, a rear roof antenna and a CD player.

System

The system features an automatic sound levelizer, scion sound processing and sound retouch. The CD player can play CD, CD-R and CD-RW formats. The system also supports WMA, AAC and MP3 files in CD-ROM, CD-R and CD-RW formats. The xD features two USB ports for docking an iPod and an MP3 player; connector cables come with the vehicle. The iPod port allows the use of a standard iPod, as well as iPod Nano, Touch and Classic. The unit is also compatible with an iPhone.

Sound Quality

The Scion Sound Processing (SSP) system has a control button located on the console under the multi-selector. SSP allows the user to select from one of three custom sounds. "Neutral" provides a regular sound, "Hear" gives a louder sound and "Feel" recreates the sound from the musician's viewpoint. The audio sound levelizer adjusts the volume to offset ambient noises in the vehicle. It has three settings. The multi-selector allows the user to switch between normal and reverse subwoofer output and to control the balance, treble and bass of the tracks. Those with iPods can adjust audio book speed through the multi-selector with three settings: faster, slower and normal.

Controls

The audio system has built-in audio controls on the left side of the steering wheel. The main console features a display panel and a multi-selector dial that controls the CD player, iPod or MP3 player, AM/FM radio and satellite radio if installed.

Tags: audio system, allows user, CD-R CD-RW, CD-R CD-RW formats, CD-RW formats, iPod player