As technology has replaced those large satellite dishes with relatively smaller ones, the old satellite dishes have more or less lost their purpose. As a result, many people have old-fashioned satellite dishes lying around in their backyards. Instead of finding ways to get rid of them, you can put them to use in useful and fanciful ways.
Bird Feeder
You can turn the satellite dish into a large bowl for bird feed. Keep the dish at an appropriate level to make it parallel to the ground and fill it with bird feed..
Bird Bath or Fountain
You can create a bird bath by waterproofing the dish and filling it with water. If you install a water pump in the center of the dish it can serve as a fountain.
Roofing
Use the solid satellite dishes as cone roofs for garden gazebos, play houses, dog kennels or even saunas.
Garden Structures
Fill the dish with soil and plant flower plants in it. You can also create a trellis with a dish to support climbing plants. This may require welding.
Garden Art
A smaller-sized old satellite dish can be hand painted in colorful patterns to create a charming garden centerpiece. Or the entire dish can be painted a solid color. Multiple dishes can be used to create a whimsical sculpture installation (see Resources).
RFID can track the delivery of health care worldwide.
Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) is technology that allows users to collect data regarding a specific item based on a radio signal transmission.
The concept for RFID is not new. The technology was originally developed during World War II as a means of identifying friendly aircraft from enemy aircraft. In the 21st century, RFID is used by a wide variety of industries, including the medical community, to track and identify assets as well as to convey valuable information.
Types
Three basic types of RFID technologies are utilized by the medical community. Passive tags are not powered. These tags rely on the proximity of an RFID reader in order to relay their information. Active tags utilize a self-contained battery power supply to transmit information. Semi-passive tags utilize a battery power supply, but use the power for data collection rather than transmission. A reader is required to access the information stored on a semi-passive tag.
Size
RFID tags have benefited from the micronization of integrated circuitry. RFID tags come in a range of sizes based on the item being tagged. According to Technovelgy.com, Hitachi owns the record for the world's tiniest RFID tag at just 0.05 x 0.05 millimeters, which is thinner than a human hair.
Function
Medical RFID tags can provide a variety of functions. They may be used to track shipments of medical supplies and pharmaceuticals from the manufacturer to the end user. They may be used to help locate and identify expensive medical equipment within a medical facility. Some RFID tags may be embedded with a patient's medical history and implanted under the patient's skin, giving health care workers instant access to important medical information.
Benefits
The application of RFID technology holds numerous benefits to the medical community. Tagging controlled substances can help to reduce theft and also help ensure that end users receive genuine rather than counterfeit products. RFID tags can provide important security benefits for parents of newborns. Infants tagged with an RFID ankle bracelet cannot be removed from the hospital without permission. RFID technology can help health care providers work more efficiently, which helps to save time, money and lives.
Considerations
RFID technology requires a significant front end investment by the health care institution in both equipment and training. RFID systems are typically composed of RFID tags or chips, RFID readers, the middleware necessary to capture and process the RFID signals and the software required to run the applications that utilize the information received. Significant time resources are required to train the staff to use the system effectively.
Tags: RFID tags, RFID technology, health care, medical community, battery power, battery power supply, power supply
There are several types of rechargeable batteries, including, but not limited to, NiMH, NiCd (NiCad), Li-ion, and alkaline. Each of these has different components, and specific storage requirements may vary. You can find storage, care and maintenance in your owner's manual or the instructions printed on the back of the packaging. There are also many online resources that can explain the proper care for your specific battery type. Storing rechargeable batteries is crucial to proper functioning, just like charging. Storage in the wrong conditions could severely damage or destroy your batteries.
Instructions
1. Place the batteries into a plastic container, and put the lid on.
2. Store the container in a dry environment with a relatively steady temperature. Avoid extreme hot and cold environments. Stay between 4 and 85 degrees F. Avoid moisture exposure.
3. Do not store batteries where corrosive gases are present.
4. Charge at least once a year for optimum shelf life.
5. Revive stored batteries before use. Do not overcharge the batteries when they come out of storage.
6. Use the general rule of switching out stored batteries: "first in, first out," which means that the first battery you put into the container should be the first one you take out of the container.
It is important to consider your needs realistically when buying a plasma television. You will also have to analyze your handyman abilities realistically. There is electrical work that must be done correctly. It is no fun to have $1000 hanging on your wall and not be able to enjoy it because of glitches and bad wiring.
Instructions
1. Select a spot in your room where you want to mount your Panasonic plasma television.
2. Investigate where light comes into the room. You do not want to hang the television where light shines directly across the screen.
3. Take accurate measurements of the distance from where you will sit to watch television and the wall it is to be mounted on.
4. Pick the right screen size for the room you will watch television in-this phase is not about what you can afford-you want to be comfortable.
5. Determine the type of stand/mount you want to use for your plasma television. There are 3 kinds of stands-floor, wall and ceiling.
6. Hide all connection cables and power source wires completely for the best look possible. You can run your cables through the wall or use a camouflage tube to conceal them along the wall.
7. Install your mount selection with careful attention to any structural considerations that are warranted. It is important that your mount is secure before you attach the Panasonic plasma television.
The Astro 150 was first produced in the late 1970s by the Swan Company, and later by Cubic Company. It provided the HAM radio market of the day a versatile high-frequency amateur transceiver capable of handling single side band and continuous wave technology from a desktop rig. It is small compared to many transceivers of its time, but it was one of the first transceivers to offer an easy-scan function for relaxed channel surfing. Many of these are still in use today.
Range and Ease
Features of the Astro 150, small in size at (W/H/D) 9.75-by-3.75-by-11.875 inches and 13 pounds, include a 2.7 KHz wide SSB filter and a 300 Hz wide "narrow" CW filter. The center dial allows you to scan available frequencies slowly and easily narrow in when you hear something worth listening to.
Specifics
The Astro 150 is capable of fine-tuning at +/- 75 Hz, with a "CW offset" at 800 Hz, and you don't need a speaker, as the unit has one built in. Rear jacks are available to connect additional speakers, as well as other devices, such as relay control and a key.
Accessories
If you're in the market for a used Astro 150, look for antenna tuners (ST-3 and ST-3A) and power supplies (PSU-5 and PSU-5AorB) that are complementary.
Before the global positioning system (GPS) was introduced, many people spent hours lost on the road finding their destinations. There was even danger involved when the driver would resort to reading printed maps to find places. GPS has become a very useful tool for helping people find locations as well as find the nearest amenities, such as gas stations, restaurants and banks. There are many GPS brands and models available, so it is important to find the one that suits your needs and budget.
Instructions
1. Choose between a touch screen and button or knob controls. One of the advantages of choosing a touch screen over the button-controlled GPS is the ease of operation. With touch screen keys, a person can operate the GPS with less hassle because the screen is sensitive and can auto-spell, lessening the time of typing. It takes more time to type the address using buttons or knobs.
2. Check if the GPS model needs computer downloads of software or if it is a simple plug-in and play operation. If you choose a GPS that needs a software or computer download prior to installation, then you would not be able to use it right after purchasing it. You would need to connect to the Internet to download the software or connect the GPS to your computer via USB (Universal Serial Bus) port to install the latest software. With plug-in and play, it is quicker to get started and, should there be updates needed in the future, you can synchronize via satellite. This feature is worth paying extra for because you do not have to deal with updating the software.
3. Check if the touch screen allows for pressing icons displayed on the screen to find other points of interests while on the way to your destination. For example, some GPS allow you to press on icons showing on the map, for example street icons, restaurant icons, gasoline station icons or hospital icons. This feature is useful if you need to check more information about the locations or find amenities on the way. It makes it easier to search this way rather than canceling the current route to search for these. This feature is worth paying extra for so that you can save time and gas as you search.
4. Make sure voice options are audible. GPS models that read out street names and directions are very useful, especially when you drive alone. These prevent wrong or missed turns since you anticipate when and where to turn. This feature lessens the risk of accidents because you don't have to look at the screen, and is worth the extra cost.
5. Check models with additional perks, such as information on traffic conditions, MP3 capability, and weather and gas mileage. These extra features make a GPS a sort of all-in-one system; however, you will pay more for features that you may already have in your car or that you do not really need. For example, if you need to know the traffic or weather conditions, you do not need the GPS--for that, you can turn on your radio to get live information. You may also have your own MP3 built into your car's stereo system or you may have a portable MP3 player, and you can tell your gas mileage by looking at your gas gauge. Choosing these extra features can add to the total price of the package and may not be worth paying extra for.
6. Choose the right size screen. Some screens are as little as 2.5 inches and some as big as 6 inches. Choose the one with a clear and bright picture so you can easily see the colors, directions and characters. There are also bulky screens and some have flat or thin screens. In choosing the size, measure the area where you will install the GPS. For example, if you opt for a built-in mount, you need a system that fits into the stereo hub of your car. For mounting on the dashboard, make sure it is not too big that it will hamper your view. To save on space, choose the flat monitor instead of the bulky type.The ideal screen size for portable dashboard mount type is about 3.5 to 4 inches.
7. Decide on the mount type. Choose between a built-in GPS and a portable GPS that you can mount on your dashboard. The built-in GPS can be more expensive because you would have to pay for professional installation. The portable GPS is much cheaper than the built-in type. Another good thing about a portable GPS is that you can carry it with you or use it on any car you are driving. If you are renting a car, you can bring the GPS with you and use it while traveling. You can also carry the portable GPS while walking, mountain hiking or biking.
Tags: This feature, touch screen, paying extra, worth paying, worth paying extra, because have
Polaroid cameras and film give photographers access to instant gratification for their work, as the film in its iconic white casing spit out from the camera and developed. Open a Polaroid photo in Adobe Photoshop, where you'll be able to make edits and changes to the instamatic output. Transferring a Polaroid to Photoshop requires getting the tangible picture into a digital format.
Instructions
1. Open the flatbed scanner and place the Polaroid face-down on the bed. Close the scanner.
2. Complete the scanning process in your scanner's native software, then save the image file to your desktop.
3. Open Adobe Photoshop. Click the "File" menu. Click "Open."
4. Double-click the Polaroid file name, which opens the image on the Photoshop canvas.
5. Click the "Crop" tool, the fifth icon from the top on the "Tools" palette. The tool looks like two crossed dark right-angles. Draw an outline around just the part of the photograph, leaving out the white border of the Polaroid paper. When the white part goes dark, press the Enter key to crop out the white and leave only the picture.
The track feature on a GPS records a collection of points in sequence as you travel. This feature allows you to record your travels for later review and for sharing with others who may wish to walk, hike, ride or drive that same trip. The track feature also includes the trackback feature, allowing you to follow the same route back to your starting point. Both Garmin and Magellan GPS handhelds offer the track feature.
Instructions
Garmin GPS
1. Clear all previous track logs. Press "Menu" twice to open the Main Menu. Select the "Tracks" icon and press "Enter" to open the Tracks page. Select "Clear" and press "Enter." At the prompt to clear the track log, select "Yes" and press "Enter."
2. Start a new track log. Press "Menu" twice to open the Main Menu. Select the "Tracks" icon and press "Enter." Select "Setup" and press "Enter" to open the Track Log Setup Page.
3. Set waypoints (points of interest) when you start your trip and when you end your trip. Set as many additional waypoints as needed, particularly at turns and other areas that may be difficult to navigate. Set waypoints by pressing "Mark" and "Enter."
4. Navigate your track back to the start. Open the Saved Tracks Page. Highlight the "TracBack" button. Press "Enter" to open the TracBack Page showing your entire track. Use the "Rocker" to select the point where you want to return. Press "Enter." Select "Follow Track" to start navigating with TracBack. The Map Page displays directions to the first turn on the track. Follow the directions for each turn. To exit, press "Menu" and select "Stop Navigation."
5. View your track on the map. Press "Menu" twice to open the Main Menu. Select the "Tracks" icon and press "Enter." Highlight the Saved Track, select the "Map" button and press "Enter."
Magellan GPSTracks>Save Track." Enter a name for the track. Select the green checkmark to save the track.
8. Set waypoints when you start and end your trip. Set as many waypoints as needed, particularly where your route may be difficult to navigate. Select "Menu" in the Map screen. Select "Create Waypoint" and press "Enter."
9. Navigate your track back to the start. In the Map screen press "Enter." Select "Backtrack." Select "Yes." Acknowledge the Backtrack alert and follow the directions for each turn.
10. View your track on the map. Select "Menu" in the Map screen. Select "Go To--Trail" and highlight your trail. Select "Page/Go To--Show Trail."
Tags: press Enter, your track, Enter open, Enter Select, icon press, icon press Enter
Super-audio compact disc (SACD) hybrid discs are the most common examples of SACDs, as the discs provide two layers of content, one layer titled the "CD layer," which is compatible with legacy CD players, and a 4.7 GB layer for SACD players.
Function of SACDs
SACDs provide a a larger storage medium for audio discs, which allows for higher-quality playbackwhen compared to MP3 files or traditional CDs. Stereo recordings from SACDs stream at 5.4 mbps, while traditional CDs stream at 1.4 mbps. The increased bandwidth provides listeners with an arguably improved sound quality with greater clarity and warmth, closely resembling the studio master version.
Popularity
SACDs have found persistent popularity in niche listening markets that cater to audiophiles interested in the highest-quality sound. Although most popular releases today are being released through digital distribution sites such as iTunes, many classical and jazz musicians are represented by the medium because of the higher-quality playback.
History
SACDs were introduced by Sony and Philips Electronics in 1999 to provide consumers with a high-resolution and high-quality alternative to traditional CD players. Initially, prices for the technology were extremely high, with SACD players ranging from $5,000 to $10,000. Most DVD players manufactured today are capable of playing SACD files, but many proprietary SACD players can still cost several thousand dollars. Although the format promised to revolutionize the quality of music, at the time, many people were much more willing to pay (or not pay) for music through Internet downloads.
Competitors
In addition to SACDs, a number of other high-resolution audio formats have been released, including DVD audio (DVD-A) and Blu-ray Audio (BD-audio). DVD audio discs were released two years prior to SACDs but failed to secure any significant market impact. BD-audio has yet to receive any support from the music industry.
Criticisms of the Format
Although many consumers tout the format's superior audio quality when compared to traditional CDs and MP3 downloads, in a study performed by the Journal of the Audio Engineering Society (published September 2007), listeners were unable to find any discernible difference between normal CDs and SACDs when listening.
Ever since the release of their first commercially available 35mm film rangefinder camera, Leica has been highly regarded within the photographic community. Leica's Mini Zoom is a compact point-and-shoot style camera that uses a traditional 35mm film cartridge. While the majority of Leica's products are available at premium prices, the Leica Mini Zoom can be had, both in new and used condition, at a significantly lower cost.
Dimensions and Weight
As the camera's name implies, the Leica Mini Zoom is designed to be ultra-compact and thus pocketable. The overall length of the camera is measured at 118 mm, or 4.65 inches. Height of the camera is 65 mm, or 2.65 inches. The width of the camera is 38.5 mm, or 1.52 inches. Without batteries the camera's weight is 160 grams, or less than half a pound. An optional data back, which imprints the time and date onto the film, adds 15 grams to the camera's weight and 2.5 mm to its width.
Lens and Focusing
The Mini Zoom is the second automatic camera to sport a lens crafted from Leica glass (the first was the Leica Mini, which the Mini Zoom is modeled after). Its Vario Elmar lens has a focal range of 35 mm to 70 mm. Effective aperture (size of lens opening) ranges from f/4.0 to f/7.6, allowing for sharp, properly exposed results in well-lit conditions. The lens produces sharp focus from 65 cm, or roughly 2 feet, to infinity. Proper focus is achieved by depressing the shutter button halfway, pausing to compose the shot and then fully depressing the button.
Exposure Control
A small, center-weighted integral meter allows for accurate exposures. In this context, the term "center-weighted" refers to which parts of the frame (viewfinder) light is measured from. Based on the meter's reading, an appropriate shutter speed--between 1/5th of a second and 1/250th of a second--is automatically selected. If the meter detects that there is not sufficient light for proper exposure with the available shutter speeds, automatic flash activation occurs. This is useful in indoor or other low-light photography. For more control over the exposure, the user can select "B" for bulb mode. This allows the shutter to remain open for at least five full seconds. A 3-volt lithium battery (CR 123 A) is required for operation of the meter, shutter and flash.
Other Details
Film with an ISO rating of 50 to 1600 can be used. If the film is DX-coded, the camera automatically recognizes the film's speed and adjusts light metering and shutter function accordingly. A small self-timer button on the top of the camera's body allows for a 10-second countdown before shutter release. This option is useful for instances when the photographer wishes to include himself in a group shot. When the camera is turned to the "OFF" setting, lens automatically transports back into the body. If the camera is not used for more than five seconds, it powers off to conserve battery life.
Tags: Mini Zoom, Leica Mini, Leica Mini Zoom, 35mm film, camera inches
When you buy a used 35mm film camera you are not always sure what you are getting for your money. Film cameras are harder to come by, but still are available if you look in the right places. These tips will help you make a wise investment so you can take photos with your camera that you will enjoy for years to come.
Instructions
1. Decide on some brands you think you might like. You can make your decision based on your experience with past brands or experiences of others with the same type of camera. You can look at photos that were taken from those brands of cameras. Look at how easy the camera is to use as well as the design and portability.
2. Look on the Internet at the website within this article to obtain reviews of the 35mm camera you are most interested in.
3. Inquire at work or school to see if anyone is selling a 35mm film camera. If they are, ask to see and test out the camera to make sure it is operational and you like using it. If you do not know anyone, go on to the next step.
4. Visit local camera shops, as many of them are selling 35mm cameras on a consignment basis. Ask to try out the cameras and be sure to get at least some sort of guarantee. If they do not have a warranty or guarantee, go to another camera store. If you cannot find a suitable camera, go to the next step.
5. Visit local thrift shops, as you never know what will be for sale there. Check them out specifically for 35mm cameras. Try to use them in the store to see if the switches and controls work and inspect for any physical damage or scratches, especially on the lens. See what type of batteries it takes and if those batteries are still manufactured.
6. Go online to ebay or craigslist. Bid a minimal amount and be sure there is some sort of "no lemon" guarantee and insure it against loss or damage during shipping. If you are purchasing from craigslist, test the camera while you are with the seller. If you do not think it is worth what they are asking, try to bargain.
Tags: 35mm cameras, 35mm film, 35mm film camera, film camera, next step, next step Visit, selling 35mm
A USB (Universal Serial Bus) drive is a portable external storage device. It is often called a flash drive, pen drive or thumb drive. The storage space usually ranges between 32 MB to 2 GB. These drives come with different brands and sizes. Know your options before buying.
Instructions
1. Consider the storage space you want in your USB drive. You may buy a pen or flash drive for smaller storage space or an external hard disk for larger space. Note that flash drives are easier to carry as compared to the regular hard drives.
2. Check if the drive is designed for USB 2.0 interface and if it is backward compatible.
3. Learn the features of the USB drive before buying. It usually comes with a in-built fast Ethernet port. It has an easy Web-based user interface for quick configuration from the network. The USB drive sends alert signals when the storage capacity is almost full.
4. Visit online stores such as Yahoo! Shopping and eBay to learn more about brands that offer USB drives. Transcend, Memorex, Verbatim, LG, Sony, Lexar and Iomega are some of the reliable brands that offer a variety of USB drives.
5. Plan your budget for purchasing the USB drive.
6. Learn more about the features and prices of USB drives by referring to online buyers' guides. Browse through reviews and compare pricing. Some popular buyers' guides include NexTag, Windows Marketplace, MySimon, Bizrate and Epinions (See links below).
7. Browse blogs and tech discussion forums. These are good avenues for gathering more information on features, trends and other insights on USB drives.
8. Buy a USB drive after comparing prices. Search for online vendors using search engines like Yahoo! or Google. Browse through popular online stores such as CompUSA, Best Buy and Circuit City (See links below).
Tags: storage space, before buying, brands that, brands that offer, Browse through, buyers guides
Without your SIM card you cannot use your T-Mobile Samsung phone. The SIM card allows you to stay connected and run a variety of functions on your phone. However, you can also remove it if you intend to reinsert another one or you are no longer using your phone service. Removing the SIM card from your T-Mobile Samsung phone is a simple process you can complete in minutes.
Instructions
1. Turn off your T-Mobile Samsung phone and place it on a flat surface with the back cover (battery compartment) facing up.
2. Press down on the phone cover and slide it off toward you. You should see the battery in the battery compartment.
3. Lift the battery from the compartment and pull it out. You should now see the T-Mobile SIM card in the card slot.
4. Hold the SIM card and simply pull it out. Reinsert the battery by aligning its gold contacts to the gold contacts in the battery compartment.
5. Place the cover back on the phone and slide it till it snaps back into place.
Tags: your T-Mobile Samsung, battery compartment, T-Mobile Samsung, T-Mobile Samsung phone, your T-Mobile, gold contacts
Learning to pan is a great way to take your photography skills to the next level. Photographic pan is a technique that is used for objects that are traveling in a straight line. The camera moves from left to right or right to left as it follows the subject which is moving at the same speed. Panning produces a very interesting effect which causes the subject to stay in focus while the background is blurred. Here are a few tips to help you learn create great pan shots.
Instructions
1. Choose a subject. The object or subject of your photo must be in motion in order to create the pan effect. Subjects like moving cars, roller coasters and marathon runners make great pan shots.
2. Designate a focus point. Pick a focus point to determine when you will take the photo as you pan. It could be as the subject passes a certain object, like a tree or road sign for example.
3. Set the shutter speed. To focus on a moving object you must use a very slow shutter speed. For example, a good shutter speed for a marathon runner would be 1/30 of a second. Adjust the shutter speed as necessary for objects that are moving faster or slower.
4. Set up your tripod. Use a tripod to keep your camera level while panning. Simply rotate the camera left or right to pan with a tripod. If you don't use a tripod, and your hand is not steady, you will produce a vertical blur and ruin the shot.
5. Take your shot. When you see the subject coming, hold your shutter down half way and follow the movement of the subject. Lock your feet, swivel with your upper body, then hit the shutter when the subject reaches your focus point. Always follow through and keep your movements smooth to produce the best results.
Tags: shutter speed, focus point, great shots, keep your, left right
The best telescope is not the most expensive or the biggest - it's the one you'll use most.
Instructions
1. Read astronomy magazines such as "Sky and Telescope." This is one of the best places to get an expert opinion on the type of telescope you should buy.
2. Measure the area where you plan to place the telescope.
3. Purchase a telescope you can transport and assemble with minimum difficulty.
4. Determine a telescope mounting that meets your needs. The less money you spend on the mounting, the more money you can spend on optics.
5. Ask yourself if astronomy will be a lifelong pursuit or just a passing hobby. This is particularly important if you're buying a telescope for kids.
6. Determine what you want the telescope for. Ask yourself if you want to view the planets in this solar system or do deep sky viewing.
7. Research the size of the aperture you need, which will determine how much light the telescope can gather and the clarity of the image.
8. Find out whether the telescope dealership will collimate, or align, the telescope's internal optics. Chances are you'll still have to do some collimating once you have the telescope home and set up.
9. Determine how much money you want to spend, as this will have a large impact on the quality of the telescope you buy. Spend as much money as you can, or consider buying a used telescope.
10. Find out from the dealership whether your telescope is under warranty and for how long. You may want to purchase insurance if you intend to travel with your telescope.
If you are an amateur film director, you might need a shot while you are driving. If so, you will need a stand so that you won't be trying to drive the car and operate a camera at the same time. Although many camera stands for cars can be purchased online, it would be much cheaper to build one yourself, and it might be easier.
Where is the Camera Mounted?
One of the first things you will need to determine is where the camera needs to be mounted to get the shot you are looking for. There are several different places in the vehicle where you can mount the camera depending on what you need. Mounting a camera on a dashboard might be good if you need something akin to a police-chase video. However, if you want something from the driver's perspective, it might be beneficial to mount the camera from the driver's headrest. You could mount to the camera to the outside of the vehicle, but that might lead to damage.
Mount the Camera
How you mount the camera is just as important as where you place the stand. You will need to make sure that your camera is secured strongly to the stand. Not only will this keep your shot steady, it will minimize damage to the camera. For a good stand that will give you a shot which can be either in the direct center of the vehicle or directly behind the driver's head, get a 3/4-inch steel square tube about 2 feet long, two "U" bolts, four wing nuts, and one 3/4-inch screw about an inch long. You will be attaching the tube directly to the headrest, using the U-bolts. Measure out the width of the U-bolts and drill holes through the steel tube so you can place them through the holes and around the headrest supports. Make sure the tube is fastened securely to the headrest.
Then, on one end of the steel tube (preferably the end away from the U-bolt holes), drill a hole through the tube for the 3/4-inch mounting camera screw. The stand should be on the back of the headrest, as this will allow the driver (or passenger) to comfortably sit in the car. You can also use this stand to place the camera in other areas of the car. Just add a couple of extra steel pipes with swivel screws to make a rotating arm.
Tags: mount camera, will need, from driver, stand that, steel tube
It's easy to play Mini DV tapes even without a camera.
Mini DV tapes, those little cassettes you use in your video camera, are a way to record video. They are inexpensive, portable and, best of all, able to be viewed without using the camera. As video technology develops, the use of portable, rerecordable media such as tapes and disks is slowly disappearing. More and more, video is recorded to flash drives or memory cards. But while this technology is still around, users can take advantage of its portability and ease of use.
Instructions
1. Acquire a Mini DV deck to review your tapes. A deck is basically a VCR for Mini DV's that includes cable connections allowing you to view your tapes either on a computer or on a television or monitor. Decks are professional equipment and thus expensive to purchase. Try renting one instead. Seek out a professional camera house in your area. A popular model to ask about is the Sony HDV Video WALKMAN GV-HD700. A "clamshell" unit, it has its own small monitor with which to view your footage, as well as numerous video inputs.
2. Insert your tapes into the deck and link your deck to your review source. If your goal is to transfer your footage to your computer, connect your deck to the computer using a Firewire cable. A cable should come with your rented deck. If not, they are easy to find at a store such as Best Buy. If you simply want to view the footage on a television, connect the deck to your TV using the familiar red, yellow and white audio-visual cables that come with the deck. From here, the deck works much like a VCR. Once you insert your tape, a blue screen will appear. Press the "Play" button to start reviewing the footage. You can scroll through the footage using the "Rewind" and "Fast Forward" buttons.
3. Purchase a cheap replacement. If you are using the Mini DV Deck because your original DV camera was lost or broken, consider purchasing another camera. As decks are expensive to purchase and can be pricey to rent for longer periods, this may be the most economical option. As technology evolves, Mini DV cameras are becoming cheaper to buy new, either at retail stores or online. Used camcorders are readily available on sites such as eBay. A Mini DV camera's player component works much like a deck, so consider this idea when looking to view Mini DV tapes.
Tags: Mini tapes, your tapes, come with, deck your, expensive purchase
The Shure E2c sound-isolating earphones are an excellent upgrade for people looking for better sound out of their MP3 players or iPods. Borrowing technology from the in-ear monitors they designed for musicians, Shure made the E2c to deliver excellent bass response from their advanced drivers. The fit can be customized in different ways to ensure the best and most accurate sound.
Sleeves
The E2c come with three pairs of foam sleeves and three pairs of flex sleeves, in small, medium and large, that can be put on the outside of the earbuds to ensure a closed-seal fit to get the best sound. The triangle-flanged ones can be trimmed to get a better fit. It is best to experiment with the different sleeves to determine which fit is best in your ear and gives the best seal. A better fit can be achieved by running the cables up from behind your ears and then placing the buds inside them, so that pressure from the cables does not pull the buds out.
Custom molds
An audiologist can make a custom mold of your ear, which can be sent to make custom sleeves for your Shure earphones to get the best sound (see link in References). These molds also provide better sound isolation.
Cleaning
Wax can build up inside the earphones. The E2c come with a wax guard sleeve that should be installed before use. The earphone sleeves should be periodically cleaned with a mild soap. The nozzles of the earphones can also be susceptible to wax build up that will diminish sound quality; a wax removal loop that comes with the earphones can be used to remove wax from the nozzles.
Tags: best sound, better sound, come with, make custom, three pairs
There are many options when buying a professional camera
Buying a professional camera can be a scary experience. You will be faced with a number of difficult decisions, and there are many cameras and hundreds of lenses on the market. By taking a few important factors into consideration such as whether you want to buy new or used, finding the right camera at the right price can be easier than you might think.
Instructions
Buy a Professional Camera
1. Set a budget. Many professional cameras can be expensive. Before you start looking for your camera, it is a good idea for you to decide how much you are willing to spend the shop within your budget.
2. Identify a professional camera. Features that set a professional camera apart from the standard compact digital cameras include easy access to exposure mode, shutter speed, aperture, and white balance. Most professional cameras allow you to shoot in the RAW format, letting you capture much more detail in your images. The second aspect of a professional camera is the specifications. The flash sync speed should be between 1/250 to 1/500 with a megapixel sensor of around 10 megapixels. The camera should also be durable.
3. Buy a professional camera package. Many dealers offer a lens with the basic camera body. You will need a lens for your professional camera to work, so look for a package with one included to save some money. The average package will include your camera body and a simple 18 to 55mm lens which will allow you to take reasonable quality images.
4. Consider buying a less expensive camera body and spending the money you save on different lenses, as the lenses have the greatest impact on the outcome of your pictures. Many professional photographers buy a cheaper body like the Nikon D70, which is available body only for around $350, before investing in a lens such as a 50mm for around $125 which will provide a better quality image all for less than the price of an upmarket camera body.
5. Check price comparison sites. It is also worth browsing sites such as Amazon and price comparison sites like Kelkoo as you may be able to find a slightly better deal.
6. Consider buying a used camera. By searching auction sites such as Ebay, Ebid and American Auctions Live you may find a used camera at a fraction of the price of a new one. Don't limit yourself to the internet. The majority of photography magazines have a classified advertisements section where people often try to sell their used cameras. Browse a number of magazines before comparing them to online options.
7. Buy secondhand, but use caution. Buying a new professional camera is going to be more expensive than buying a secondhand one. As you will be spending a large amount of money you will want to make sure you are buying off a trusted site. Jessops camera shops sell most professional cameras that are available in-store and online and offer an online discount on select products.
Tags: professional camera, camera body, professional cameras, comparison sites, Consider buying, Many professional, price comparison
The contracts that come with most cell phones are unfair to users. You aren't able to change the plan even if you have a good reason. If you need a cell phone for your job but can't pass the credit check, you are out of luck. There is, however, a better option. Many of the latest prepaid cell phone plans allow you the same perks you would get with major companies requiring contracts but without all of the restrictions. Read on to learn buy a prepaid cell phone plan.
Instructions
Lean How the Plans Work
1. Compare various prepaid cell phone plans with the help of Internet sites designed to do just that. They show the cost of the phones and the shipping charges.
2. Realize that you almost always have to buy a phone to match the plan (even with contract plans). You may be able to buy the phones through eBay or some other retail site and save money.
3. Choose the account that is best for you. Pay for the airtime up front once you open your account. Use it as long as you want. When you do not want the plan any more, just let it lapse.
Compare the Top Plans
4. Investigate Virgin Wireless. Hailed as the best all around by many comparison sites, Virgin uses the Sprint Nextel network to send and receive calls. They offer good call quality with free night and weekend minutes with their top plan. You can roll over your unused minutes as well.
5. Examine AT&T's Go Phone. They use Motorola phones and their customers have been pleased with this arrangement. Get unlimited mobile to mobile minutes on their top plan. No deposit or credit check is required. You can recharge your account and add minutes to your plan online or by phone.
6. Pore over the facts on T-Mobile. This well-known service uses Nokia phones with no contract required. They currently offer a free phone and have several other phones for purchase. Use refillable cards to add to your plan by phone or online. As with every plan, the more minutes you buy, the cheaper they are. Add five numbers to which you can make unlimited calls.
Tags: cell phone, prepaid cell, cell phone plans, credit check, phone plans, plan even, plan more
Although satellite dishes may seem fantastically high tech, the principles behind them are actually rather straightforward. Instead of sending a signal over an electric wire like cable does, a satellite transmitter sends it through the air, bouncing it off of a satellite put into orbit for just that purpose. As long as nothing is blocking the satellite, a dish can receive the signal from anywhere in the world.
Significance
Satellite dishes are used for all sorts of communication. They have been used for satellite television since the 1990s, and more recently for Internet, radio and other uses. Satellite dishes can transfer any information that can be sent via cables, but they have some advantages over cables. With a dish, the signal is sent directly to the house with no need for miles of cables. As long as there is a communications satellite in the sky and a clear line of site, the antenna can send and receive signals.
Design
A satellite dish is a type of parabolic reflector. A parabolic reflector has a special shape designed to focus radio signals at its focal point. Conversely, signals broadcast from the reflector's focal point will bounce off the reflector and be directed straight ahead. At the focal point is a receiver called an LNB, or low-noise block converter. This receives microwave signals and converts them into electric signals which the television, computer or other device can use. In two-way satellite dishes such as those used for satellite Internet, the LNB also broadcasts a signal which is bounced off the parabolic reflector and sent in a straight line.
Function
A satellite transmitter first broadcasts an encrypted signal toward a geosynchronous satellite -- a satellite which is always at the same point in the sky. The transmitter itself is a large parabolic antenna, much like the satellite dish that eventually receives the signal. The signal contains programs from all the channels the satellite provider offers with a special digital passkey to stop people who haven't subscribed from watching them. The satellite rebroadcasts the signal, sending it out in all directions. The satellite dish is pointed toward the satellite, so it receives the signal. The signal is focused into the LNB, changed into an electronic signal, and then sent down a coaxial cable to the receiver in the house. The receiver decrypts, or unscrambles, the signal and lets you change channels and operate the satellite TV.
Benefits and Drawbacks
Satellite dishes have many benefits over cable. They allow people in rural areas without cable providers to receive television service, and often offer superior picture and sound quality. Satellite services offer hundreds of channels, whereas some local cable services do not. On the downside, satellite service can be expensive. Buying and installing a satellite dish is costly, and the service is typically more expensive than cable. Additionally, many people view satellite dishes as an eyesore. Finally, service can sometimes be disrupted by bad weather, and a good storm or freeze can damage a satellite dish.
Size
Originally, satellite dishes were big, bulky things. The older TVRO dishes are often called big ugly dishes, or BUDs, and for good reason. They could be as big as 12 feet in diameter. They were designed to pick up free stations with much weaker signals, and had to be large enough to compensate. Sometimes, these dishes led to neighborhood disputes and zoning ordinances, since they were considered eyesores. Modern dishes are much smaller -- usually anywhere from 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 feet.
Tags: satellite dish, focal point, parabolic reflector, receives signal, receives signal signal, satellite dishes
Photographers have used light boxes for years because they are an effective way to review slides, negatives or contact sheets. They are used primarily in the darkroom, but they can be used just about anywhere. Here are some tips on build your own light box.
Basics
You need a 1 1/2' x 1' piece of translucent or frosted glass or plastic. You can make the light box out of plastic or wood, with wood being the easier of the two. You will need one piece of wood, preferably plywood, that is the same dimensions as the frosted glass. You also will need two 6" x 12" boards for the sides and two 6" x 18" boards for the front and back. You also will need a light source. Usually, florescent lights work best because they don't get too hot and they produce even light. The light fixture to hold two or four bulbs must be no more than 15 inches to fit inside the box.
Construction
You can use nails or screws for the wood portions of your light box. You also will need to drill a hole in the back or on one of the sides for the power cord. It's best to use some sort of frame on hinges for the frosted glass top so you can open the lid to change the bulbs when they burn out. The hinges can be affixed to the rear board at the top and to the frame that holds the frosted plastic. The plastic piece can be glued into the frame or affixed with screws. Attach the light fixture to the bottom board and put the power cord out through the hole. You can make the light box work just by plugging it in and unplugging it, or you can use a toggle switch connected to the light fixture. You will need another hole in the side or front for this. You can mount it directly to the wood or via a plastic or metal plate.
Considerations
If you work with different sizes of film, or if you intend to view contact sheets with your light box, leave the entire surface of the frosted plastic clear. If, however, you always intend to view slides or strips of film, you can attach guide rails to the top. This will make it easier to view your negatives or slides because they will be held in place.
Don't leave the light box powered on for too long with film on the surface, or if you are using frosted plastic, because even florescent lights can build up heat. To get rid of some of the heat, you can put vents in either side of the box for ventilation or you can even install a small fan and wire it to the same switch as the light.
Tags: will need, also will, also will need, because they, frosted glass, frosted plastic
So you want to know connect your DVD player to a VCR, TV or receiver. This is a very simple process that only requires knowing which type of connections are available to you, and which are the best for what you are looking for. Here we will cover all four of the major connection types, HDMI, S-Video, Component and Composite video, and what to do when the answer is none of the above.
Instructions
1. Connect your DVD player using an HDMI cable. HDMI cable is by far the best option you can use to connect your DVD player to your TV or receiver. VCR users cannot use this connection (skip to Step 3). An HDMI cable is a long, virtually flat connector, almost always labeled "HDMI," and will be on virtually any new DVD player. Your HDMI cable not only carries a video signal, but will carry a full digital audio signal as well, all via one cord, so you avoid having multiple cables running every which way.
2. Connect your DVD player using a set of Component Video cables. This is next best option to HDMI, and will get you a very similar-looking picture. These cables can connect to a receiver or TV, but, like HDMI, not your VCR. You have capability for these cables if you have ports that are blue, green and red that are right next to each other labeled "video." These cords can also carry an HD picture, but you will need separate audio cables in this case. These audio cables will be red and white, and will hook into red and white jacks near your component video ports.
3. Connect your DVD player using an S-Video cable. This option has potential to work on a VCR, receiver and TV. You will know if you have S-Video capability by looking for a port that is round and black, with 4 pin-sized holes in it and one larger square hole. If you are using S-Video, you will also need to use separate audio cables. These audio cables will be red and white, and will hook into red and white jacks near you S-Video video port.
4. Connect your DVD player using a Composite Video cable. This option has potential to work on any of the three devices as well. Generally, your DVD player will come with a set of yellow, red and white cables; the yellow of these three cables is your composite video wire. You can also use the red and white cables that are attached to it for the audio; search for yellow, red and white ports on your devices and hook in using these wires.
5. Connect your DVD player using an RF-modulator. This is what you need to do if you are hooking a DVD player into an older-model TV or VCR that only has old-style round coaxial ports. These coaxial ports are round and silver, and have screw threads. An RF-modulator can be purchased at Radio Shack for around $30, and is roughly the size of a small paperback book. Using the method described in Step 4, hook your yellow/red/white cables into the RF modulator. Then take the coaxial wire that comes with the RF-modulator (a round metal end with a small pin sticking out of it), and connect your RF modulator to your TV or VCR. Generally, you will need to turn your TV or VCR to Channel 3 if you do this.
Tags: your player, Connect your, Connect your player, player using, your player using, audio cables, HDMI cable
The Cuddeback camera's primary purpose when designed was to capture the fine details of animals as fast as deer.
The Cuddeback camera was designed in 1984 to capture fine details of animals as fast as deer. The scouting camera has changed since then and is now digital, but there are some consistencies, such as a fast trigger speed and long battery life. The camera also provides center technology, which can catch an image near the center of an object quickly. As with all cameras, you may experience some issues that need to be troubleshooted, but you can run some tests to help solve these problems.
Instructions
Perform Power-On Test
1. Turn the rotary knob to "Off." Remove the SD card and batteries. Wait for about 15 seconds and reinsert the SD card along with new alkaline batteries.
2. Observe the LCD screen. Write down all the characters that appear on the screen. The camera should display four numbers. If the numbers do not appear, the camera requires service. This is fault code FC01. If the numbers appear, then after a few seconds the screen should show "--". While this is present on the screen, the camera is in the process of transferring photos from the camera's internal memory to the SD card. More numbers should appear afterward. If "--" lasts longer than five minutes, you could be experiencing another problem, and you should try again with new batteries. If the problem persists, you are experiencing fault code FC02.
3. Look at the LCD for a number. The number should be the number of days you have used the camera. If no numbers appear, you may need to upgrade your software, which can be done at Cuddeback website.
Perform User-Interface Test
4. Turn the rotary knob to "Time." Press "A" to set the hour and "B" to set the minutes. If the time cannot be set, the camera requires service. This is fault code FC03.
5. Turn the rotary knob to "Date." Press "A" to set the month and "B" to set the date. If the date cannot be set, the camera requires service. This is fault code FC03.
6. Turn the rotary knob to "Year." Press either "A" or "B" to set the year. If the year cannot be set, the camera requires service. This is fault code FC03.
Perform Camera Test
7. Press the shutter release on the camera to make sure it is working correctly. Make sure you have the SD card in place, and turn the rotary knob to "Test." Hold down the "A'' button until you see a zero appear on the screen.
8. Press the 'A' button two times until "Pic" appears on the screen. Next, press the "B" button to trigger the camera. The image should transfer to the SD card after about 15 seconds. Turn the rotary knob to "Off."
9. Place the SD card in a viewing device such as a viewer or PC. You may not see high quality images, but if you see an image, the camera is able to take photos. If no image can be seen, you may need to visit the Cuddeback website for advanced testing methods.
Perform Flash Test
10. Place a quarter over the camera lens. Make sure the SD card is in place.
11. Turn the rotary knob to "Test." Hold down the "A'' button until you see a zero appear on the screen. Press the "A" button two times until "Pic" appears on the screen.
12. Pay attention to see if the flash or IR LEDS work. Press the "B" button to trigger the camera. Turn the rotary knob to "Off."
13. If the flash or IR LEDs did not activate, make sure that the camera lens is covered, and repeat this test. If the flash or IR LEDs still do not work, the camera requires service. This is fault code FCO6.
Perform Motion\Sensor Test
14. Set the knob to "Test," and "----" should be shown. Make sure that the cover is closed completely and securely tighten it with a thumb screw.
15. Place the camera outdoors where you can move past it freely. When you mount the camera on a tripod, make sure it is level and at a height where you can be seen.
16. Walk back-and-forth starting at 10 feet from the camera, while looking at the camera's red LED. Make sure to walk past the camera completely and to wait 10 seconds between each walk. The red LED should flash when you walk past the camera. If the light does not flash, the camera requires service. This is fault code FC04. If the light will not stop flashing, even when you are not walking, the camera requires service. This is fault code FC05.
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Knowing the parts and functions of a digital camera can help to improve your images.
Most people take for granted how easy it is to snap pictures with a digital camera. To make this ease of use possible, the camera relies on certain essential parts. While features and options vary from one camera to the next, these parts are constant, allowing a digital camera to see, capture and record images for sharing, processing and displaying later. Learning how these parts work, separately and in tandem with each other, will allow you to take better pictures by increasing your understanding of basic photography principles.
Sensor and Megapixels
One of the most important parts of a digital camera is the image sensor. This component captures and processes the information received through the camera's lens in the form of light. Each sensor contains millions of "photosites," which collect the light passing through the lens. These photosites record the individual elements of the picture, called "pixels." One million pixels equals one megapixel, and the larger the physical sensor size, the more detailed and clear the resulting image. A 10-megapixel digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) camera offers a better image than the same number of megapixels in a compact camera, because the compact camera's sensor is smaller.
Lens
The eye of the camera, the lens, focuses the incoming light and directs it to the image sensor in the camera. The basic build of a lens involves one or more carefully shaped pieces of glass specifically designed and positioned to focus and gather available light, which allows the sensor to record the scene. Lenses come in a variety of types, including zoom and fixed focal length. Compact digital camera lenses are built in to the unit, while DSLR cameras allow for interchangeable lenses, giving a photographer the ability to choose the proper lens for shooting conditions.
Viewfinders and LCD Screens
A camera's viewfinder and LCD screen act as the window through the camera lens and give you the opportunity to see what the lens sees before you snap the shutter. Viewfinders are available in two varieties -- optical and electronic versions. Optical viewfinders generally offer a smaller view of the image area but operate more efficiently in both low and bright light. Electronic viewfinders are small LCD screens that show the entire image view and display camera settings for proper adjustments; however, these cameras consume more battery power. LCD screens also display the entire image view and provide access to the camera's menu system, allowing for proper framing and setting adjustments. Once a picture is taken, an LCD screen allows for immediate viewing of the image to check for clarity and correct settings.
Flash and Hot Shoe
Most digital cameras have a built-in flash that triggers when in auto-mode to provide additional light for low lighting conditions. The flash works well when used correctly, typically as fill light, but using it in place of proper lighting conditions often produces the "red-eye" effect and creates hard shadows behind subjects. A camera's hot shoe allows the attachment of a separate external flash, giving the photographer more flexibility and control over the amount and direction of light produced.
Shutter and Aperture
The camera's shutter and aperture both control the light the lens gathers but in different ways. The shutter opens when the shutter button is pressed, allowing light to reach the image sensor. Lighting conditions determine the proper settings of the camera's shutter speed -- the speed at which the shutter opens and closes, exposing the sensor to available light. The more light available, the shorter the shutter speed; the less light, the longer the shutter stays open. The lens controls the aperture, which determines the amount of light the sensor will receive. The aperture controls the light allowed into the camera through openings called f-stops, with the size of the opening decreasing as the f-number increases. An f-2.8 lens offers a large aperture opening and thus a lot of light, while an f-11 opening is very small, constricting the amount of light reaching the sensor.
Tags: digital camera, camera lens, image sensor, amount light, available light, camera shutter, compact camera
There are a number of professional photographic cameras. From small, portable 35 mm cameras to large format studio cameras, each camera serves a specialized purpose.
Small Format Film Cameras
Small format cameras range from sub-35 mm to 35 mm film cameras. They are designed to be portable and very easy to use. Common uses for small format cameras are journalism, or any other use where speed and ease of use is a consideration.
Medium Format Film Cameras
Medium format cameras provide a larger negative, and therefore take much higher quality images. Typical medium format film sizes are 645, 6 by 6 and 6 by 7. Medium format cameras are often used for fashion and wedding photography. Although they are larger than small format cameras, they are still relatively portable and easy to use.
Large Format Film Cameras
Large format cameras use film that ranges in size from 4 by 5 inches to 20 by 24 inches. Large format cameras are still the preferred camera for purposes that require very high quality and high resolution images, like for calendar photography. Large format cameras are large and sometimes unwieldy.
Small Format Digital Cameras
Small format digital single lens reflex (SLR) cameras have become the standard for professional photographic applications that used to use small and medium format film. The high quality and ease of production of digital photography has relegated film photography to a more specialized position.
Medium and Large Format Digital Cameras
Medium and large format digital cameras occupy the very top end of digital photography. Their price is prohibitively high for most photographers, but the image quality from these cameras comes close to the image quality from traditional film cameras.
Tags: format cameras, Format Film Cameras, Large format cameras, Cameras Medium, Cameras Small, Cameras Small format
The Motorola i580 phone is a rugged flip phone that includes Bluetooth, speakerphone and supports up to two phone lines. The Motorola i580 also has a camera, MicroSD slot to store data such as music, video and other files, and a 176-by-220 pixel display. The i580 also works as a long-range walkie-talkie and GPS, which is especially convenient for work sites and contractors.
Creating Shortcuts
The Motorola i580 allows you to create shortcuts for the functions you use most. The functions can be activated using the numeric keys on the keypad or by using voice commands. To create your own shortcuts, you will first need to navigate to the item you will be making a shortcut to. Once the item has been highlighted, hold down the "MENU" button until you get a confirmation screen. Press the "OK" button, then select "KEY" and press the number button you want to assign to the shortcut. If you want to create a voice shortcut, select "VOICE" and follow the on-screen prompts to say and repeat the word you wish to assign, then press "DONE." To use a shortcut button, press the "MENU" key followed by the shortcut number key. To use a voice shortcut, hold the "Walkie-Talkie On/Off" button on top of the phone and say the word into the microphone.
Profiles
If you frequently change a large number of settings on your phone depending on your environment, such as work or home, you can save groups of settings as profiles. In a profile, you can set the ring tones, wallpaper, auto answer, volume level and many other options. To create a profile, go to "PROFILES" from the main menu. Select "NEW PROFILE" and choose a name for the profile being created and press "OK." At this point, you can scroll through the options you wish to customize for the profile. To switch between profiles, select "PROFILESE2" from the main menu, scroll down the list of available profiles, and press "OK" once the desired profile has been selected.
Datebook
The Datebook feature on the Motorola i580 allows you to store up to 250 events, from birthdays to call reminders. You can store information about the event, including the time, date, location and phone number. To add an event to your Datebook, go to "DATEBOOK" from the main menu and press "OK." Next, select "NEW," and fill in the information you wish to store. You can also set a reminder prior to the event in the "REMINDER" section of the new Datebook entry, but keep in mind you must assign a start time for the event to utilize the reminder option.
Tags: from main, from main menu, main menu, i580 allows, i580 also, Motorola i580, Motorola i580
Some Nikon digital cameras feature removable media cards that can be taken out of the camera and plugged into an applicable port on your computer. These card readers, however are not bundled with your Nikon camera, and thus require an additional purchase. Your Nikon camera can be plugged directly into your computer with the supplied USB cord in order to download pictures from your camera to your hard drive. After the pictures have been downloaded, they can be deleted from your camera's memory card to make room for more pictures.
Instructions
1. Open the connector door on the side of your Nikon camera. This will typically be located on the left side of the camera. The door will be marked with the USB icon, which resembles a three-pointed arrow.
2. Insert the small end of the USB connector cable into the port on the camera. The cable will fit in only one orientation, so rotate the cable if it does not fit. Do not force the cable into the camera's port.
3. Plug the other end of the USB cable into your computer's USB port. Your computer will automatically recognize the camera and open a window asking what you would like to do with the media (photographs) on the camera.
4. Highlight the "Copy pictures to a folder on my computer" option. It should be the first one in the list. Click the "OK" button. Windows will prompt you for the location of your folder or allow you to create a new folder. After you have chosen the folder's name, click "OK."
On Max OS X, the camera will mount like an external drive. Access the camera in Finder, highlight the image files you want to copy and drag them to a location on your computer.
5. Click the "Safely Remove Hardware" icon in the system tray. Choose the "Safely remove USB Mass Storage Device" option from the menu.
On Mac OS X, click the "Eject" button in the Finder window next to the camera icon.
Tags: cable into, Nikon camera, your computer, your Nikon camera, camera plugged, Download Pictures
The top outdoor surveillance systems contain video displays and motion sensing.
The top wireless surveillance systems offer homeowners security and peace of mind with the added convenience of portability. The best systems are equipped with night-vision cameras, video displays and motion detection. Some contain features that enable you to view footage months later. Failure to invest in a surveillance system can not only enhance your anxiety but also put your home at risk.
Driveway Patrol Sensor and Receiver Kit
Telebran's Driveway Patrol Sensor and Receiver Kit consists of an outdoor sensor and an indoor signal receiver. The sensor is wireless and weather-resistant. It is activated by motion up to 400 feet away. The sensor alerts the receiver when animals, people or vehicles enter the vicinity. The sensor can be adhered to any surface with a screw, including the front or back door, windowsills or mailbox. The portable receiver can be taken anywhere and features three settings. This system operates on one 9-volt and three C-cell batteries.
Lorex LIVE SD9 Wireless Digital Security System
The Lorex Security System enables consumers to view live video from a nine-inch LCD display. The camera can be placed on a desk or mounted onto a wall. The video surveillance system is connected wirelessly to two weather-resistant cameras. The SD card recorder allows the homeowner to view and manage recorded fields directly on the system. There is an intercom for two-way communication on the monitor and receiver, which both feature a built-in microphone and speaker. This allows homeowners to speak to their guests without opening the door. The camera is equipped with night vision and motion detection up to 450 feet.
Logitech Alert 750e Outdoor Master Security System
The Logitech Alert Outdoor System is a complete digital-video security system with high-definition video, night vision, mobile alerts and a weatherproof camera. Consumers can add up to five additional indoor or outdoor cameras. The entire video system can be managed and viewed from a computer. The camera can zoom in or pan around as well. Motion-triggered alerts are sent to cellular phones and via email, so homeowners remain in control even when they are away from home.
Defender PHOENIX1 Wireless Video Security System
Defender's wireless security system is equipped with a portable LCD monitor and an indoor/outdoor night-vision surveillance camera. Its clear-signal technology helps eliminate interference and interception. The camera's infrared night-vision technology is hidden within an aluminum case. A built-in microphone allows consumers to hear everything that happens near the monitoring location. The camera connects to a television or computer monitor for DVR recording.
Purchasing a digital camera takes you one step away from amateur photography and one step closer to taking crisp, beautiful and professional-looking photographs. The techniques for operating a digital camera are essentially the same as a film camera. The real skill is in using a few essential photographic techniques in order to optimize the benefits of a digital camera. By using these easy techniques, you will be well on your way to taking professional, high-quality photographs.
Instructions
Take Professional Pictures with a Digital Camera
1. Carefully select the object, person or landscape you want to photograph. In order to get the best results from your digital camera, you need to first choose what you want to photograph. Simply putting your arm in the air and snapping the shutter won't produce a good photograph.
2. Compose your shot by looking into your viewfinder at your subject matter and using an old artist's rule, the "rule of two thirds." According to visual artist, designer and photography Samir Bharadwaj, "The idea is that if you draw lines over your image to divide it into three equal horizontal rows and three equal vertical columns, you are most likely to get an attractive result if you place your major points of interest at the intersection points of the lines or along the lines" (Reference 1). A way to understand this better is to imagine taking a picture of a person. You don't want their head to be at the very top of the frame, but rather two-thirds from the top.
3. Use the natural light more than your flash. The camera's flash should be used sparingly, as it tends to dilute natural light and the true colors of landscape and skin pigments. One of the benefits of having a digital camera is that you can set your camera to "automatic." What this means is that the camera will automatically adjust the camera to different light settings. Allowing the digital camera to record the natural light in a photograph will only enhance the look of the final shot.
4. Use the digital camera's zoom lens. The kind of zoom lens will be different for every camera. If you have a point-and-shoot digital camera, the zoom lens will likely be just below the shutter release (the button you push to take the picture). If you have a digital SLR camera, you will control the zoom of your lens by twisting the lens back and forth. The reason it benefits your pictures to use the zoom lens is because you can get close to your subject matter, and allow the high-pixil digital camera to record crisp, clear details of your subject matter.
5. Look at the photograph you took immediately after you take it. Perhaps the greatest benefit of the digital camera is that you can immediately see the photograph that you recorded. In most digital cameras you can see the last shot by pressing a "Play" button. This will show you, either in the viewfinder or a separate viewing screen, the picture you just recorded. Therefore, if you don't like the photograph or didn't position your subject just as you wanted to, all you have to do is take another photograph.
Tags: digital camera, digital camera, your subject, zoom lens, digital camera, natural light
The problem with your Nikon 5700 may be easily solved through troubleshooting.
Nikon released its Coolpix 5700 in 2002 as a premium point and shoot digital camera. At its time of release, the 5700 was at the top of the Coolpix line, boasting 5 megapixels, a maximum image resolution of 2560x1920 and shutter speeds of up to 1/4000 second. Though discontinued, the camera remains a popular find on the used digital market. If you have picked up a 5700 that has a few kinks in it, troubleshooting the camera may bring it back to fully functioning condition.
Instructions
1. Insert a fresh EN-EL1 type battery into your 5700. Close battery chamber door completely. Turn the camera's main power switch to the "On" position. The camera may not power on without these adjustments.
2. Remove lens cap, USB cable and audio/video cables that may be connected to the camera. The monitor display will not light when any of these are connected to the camera. Press the "Display" button on the back control panel of the camera.
3. Press the shutter release button on top of the camera. If it does not fire and result in a picture, check the available storage space on the memory card by switching to "Playback" mode. If it is full, delete unwanted pictures or purchase an additional memory card. Also, poor lighting may cause inability to focus and result in a shutter lock. Engage the flash by switching to "Auto" mode or move to an area with better lighting.
4. Evaluate the exposure of your resulting pictures. If they are underexposed, or too dark, switch to "S" (shutter-priority) mode and reduce shutter speed by turning the command dial. Alternatively, switch to "A" (aperture-priority) mode and reduce the f/-number. Both of these options allow more light into the camera. If your photos are overexposed, or too bright, increase your shutter speed or f/-number. Doing so will allow less light into the camera. You may also change your exposure compensation settings by pressing the small button labeled "+/-", located near the shutter button, and turning the command dial. This adds or subtracts up to two f-stops of exposure from your pictures.
5. Depress the shutter button half way before taking your photos. This engages the 5700's auto-focus option and is the best way to prevent blurry pictures. Also, increase shutter speed when shooting fast action to avoid blurring and streaking.
Tags: shutter speed, camera Press, command dial, connected camera, into camera, light into
Motorola cell phones come in a variety of shapes, colors and models, but they all have one thing in common: a battery that occasionally needs to be charged. Motorola supplies chargers with all new cell phones. Keep an eye on your battery life by looking on the home screen of your phone, where a battery bar will alert you when your battery life is low. Charging a Motorola cell phone is quick and easy, regardless of which model you own.
Instructions
1. Insert the small connector end of the charging cable into your Motorola phone's charging port. Do not apply too much force, as the connector should connect into the port with gentle guidance. If the connector refuses to go into the port, it may be upside down; flip it over and try again.
2. Connect the other end of the charger into an outlet in a wall or surge protector. Your phone's screen should light up and read "Charging."
3. Disconnect the charger when your phone's screen reads "Fully charged."
Tags: battery life, cell phones, into port, Motorola cell, phone screen, when your, your battery
Having a professional repair your projection TV can be a stressful and costly process. Many TV repair centers will charge you just for an estimate! If you're looking to save time and money, follow these steps to repair your projection TV.
Instructions
1. Consult your TV's troubleshooting guide. Follow its recommended steps. Most problems can be fixed by troubleshooting.
2. Diagnose what's wrong with your TV. There are many TV repair tip websites on the Internet you can consult, like the "Notes on the Troubleshooting and Repair of Television Sets" website (see Resources below). Or, try asking a TV repair question on an online message board like AllExperts.com (see Resources below). You can also find books on troubleshooting projection TV's. Check your local library or bookstore for a book like "Complete Projection TV Troubleshooting and Repair."
3. Get your TV's service manual to find a diagram of your TV's circuits. You can get a service manual through a retailer that sells your TV brand or through an online store like tvdiagrams.com (see Resources below).
4. Gather the necessary tools. For most projections TVs you'll need a Phillips head and a flathead screwdriver to remove the back shell. You may also need a digital multimeter to test the circuits.
5. Know the common problems and fixes for a projection TV. Below are a few common problems that people come across when a projection TV goes on the fritz.
• Blurred, snowy picture: Turn on your projection TV and wiggle the coax cable from your cable box or antenna where it connects to the TV. If the picture fluctuates, you know that you have a loose connection, or that the coax cable is bad.
• Blotches of color on the screen: Caused when your projection TV becomes magnetized. Use a strong magnetic coil and make circular motions around your projection TV screen starting on the upper left corner. Increase the size of the circles you're making until you've covered the entire screen. Slowly move away from the screen; continuing to make circular motions with the magnet. When the magnet loses contact, the color blotches should be gone.
• TV shuts off randomly: It's usually caused by overheating. Remove any heat-emitting objects or anything that may be insulating the TV and causing it to overheat.
• Speaker emits static: Follow the remaining steps to replace a speaker.
6. Unplug your TV's power cord from the electrical outlet and disconnect any peripheral devices like a DVD player or cable box. Place your television screen-down on a soft surface.
7. Remove the screws that connect the back shell to the rest of the TV. Then pull the shell up and off the TV carefully. Set it aside.
8. Consult your TV's service manual to find the part that you need to replace or repair.
9. Place the shell back on the TV once your repairs are finished. Replace each screw to secure the shell to the TV.
10. Plug your power cord back into the electrical outlet and test your TV. If your repairs weren't successful, it may be time to consult a professional.
Tags: your projection, Resources below, service manual, back shell, circular motions, coax cable
Disposable digital cameras can be used for one-time events such as graduations, weddings or vacations. Unlike regular digital cameras, disposable digital cameras do not require a memory card-to-computer hookup for downloading and printing photos. You get prints and a free photo CD when you return the camera for processing.
Instructions
1. Decide on a brand by evaluating the features. Most disposable digital cameras have high-resolution, 35-millimeter or 800-speed capabilities for taking colorful pictures. Consider whether you want a camera with a preview screen in case you need to delete and retake pictures. Other disposables do not have a preview screen, so you'll have to determine whether you'll be satisfied with the results of the prints and the CD.
2. Examine additional features that you may want with your disposable digital camera. Automatic flash, indoor/outdoor use, red eye removal and zoom and crop functions are some of the most popular features. Make sure the camera gives you up to 27 exposures.
3. Check and compare prices of some disposable digital cameras. Most brands range from $7 to $20. Disposable digital cameras come in different designs, colors and sizes that conveniently fit into your purse or travel bag.
4. Read the reviews if you're shopping for a camera online. Positive reviews can influence your decision to buy a disposable digital camera. Review the packaging if you're shopping in a drug or department store. Make sure the camera has all of the desired features before buying it.
Tags: digital cameras, digital camera, Disposable digital, disposable digital, disposable digital
An SD card's transfer speed is the rate at which the card is able to move data files from one place to another. This rate is typically measured in the number of megabytes that a card can transfer each second, often abbreviated as the unit "MB/s." The higher the transfer speed, the faster your camera will be able to write the photos onto your memory card when you take them, allowing you to take many high-resolution photos in quick succession without your camera's SD card getting clogged up.
Instructions
1. Pick up any SD or SDHC card. Look at the front of the card. The front is the side with the writing and/or graphics on it, while the back should be blank.
2. Look at the general center of the card, underneath and slightly to the right of the large "SD" letters on the front. If your card was manufactured since 2006 and is an SDHC, you should see a small symbol that looks like the letter "C" with a small number in the center. The number in the center of the "C" corresponds with the number of megabytes per second, or MB/s, at which your card can transfer files. For example, the letter "C" with a small "4" inside would indicate that your memory card has a transfer speed of 4 MB/s.
3. Search online for details on the SD card that you own if your SD card is an older make. If you still have the original package that your SD card came in, or the small user's manual paper that may have come with your card, you can look at that for the speed of your particular SD card. The letter "X" in the speed number stands for 150 kilobytes per second, or 150 KB/s. This is equivalent to 0.15 MB/s. The speed is defined as the number shown, multiplied by "X," or 0.15 MB/s. For example, the number "40x" on any SD card package would be equivalent to a transfer speed of 6.0 MB/s.
Tags: your card, card transfer, transfer speed, that your, card transfer speed, letter with, letter with small