Minimize The Effects Of Global Warming

Minimize the Effects of Global Warming

There are many things that each person can do to stop global warming. The collective impact of individuals working together can make a difference. Simple acts to conserve energy, minimize waste and consume smarter products can help us preserve the planet from further warming.

Instructions

1. Recycle everything that you can. There is so much post consumer waste ending up in landfills that can be reused. Most people are recycling plastic, paper, glass, aluminum and metal cans, but few know that they can recycle other products like their cast away electronics, carpeting and furniture. Check the Resources section for links at the bottom of the page for suggestions and contacts on recycling almost everything.

2. Use bags that you can buy for $1 or less that are reusable when you shop. Those plastic bags really add up over the course of a year. If you don't want to buy reusable bags, consider refusing the bag when you are just buying one or two items at a store. If you have your receipt, there won't be a problem if you go to other places for additional shopping. When your load gets too uncomfortable to carry, ask for a bag that you can put all your items in.

3. Buy Energy Star appliances. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has a program where it measures the energy demands that electronic appliances make and rewards those that are the most conservative users of electricity or gas with the Energy Star label. Buying these appliances will make a big difference in your carbon footprint. If you have to air condition your home in the summer, get high SEER air conditioners. If you have to heat your home in the winter, switch to an EPA certified wood stove to use either wood pellets or renewable firewood resources.

4. Turn off the stove and oven by using solar cookers and solar ovens. Nearly everyone can use a solar oven to cook their food, especially in the summer when the sun is shining high in the sky. Many solar cooks use their ovens during the winter months as well, although the food may take a little longer to cook. If you have a sunny patio at work, you can also heat your lunch using a solar oven or cooker. Once you buy or make a solar oven, there is virtually no more expenses related to using them. The food produced in a solar oven is surprisingly delicious. Check the Resources section for a link to Solar Cookers International to learn how you can reduce global warming yourself and how people in other countries are using solar cooking techniques to reduce deforestation and air pollution.

5. Become a locavore by eating foods grown within 100 miles of your homes. In some places it is a viable possibility, although it won't work everywhere year-round. By eating foods that are locally grown, you are helping the local economy as well as cutting way back on the fuel that is needed to bring food to your grocery store.

6. Eat less meat. Calorie for calorie, protein from meat sources is far more polluting than any other protein source on the planet.

7. Plant your own garden if you have a space to do it. Growing your own fruits and vegetables is one of the most cost-effective ways to eat, and nothing could be more local than your own backyard garden. You might have a bumper crop of fruits and vegetables to can or freeze to eat when the food is off season. Use natural or organic fertilizers, soil amendments and pesticides.

8. Use solar lighting outdoors. Buy solar operated motion detectors, walkway lights, or get LED lights that consume almost no electricity.

9. Drive less or carpool. Ask your boss if you can telecommute a few days a week. Your next car could be a gas sipper or a hybrid that uses far less fuel to operate.

Tags: solar oven, using solar, Check Resources, Check Resources section, eating foods

Make Your Own Dust Removal Home Cleaner

Commercial dust removal products often contain chemicals that can be hazardous to your health as well as the environment. You can effectively eliminate dust with a simple recipe made from common household items. Your home will be dust-free in no time.

Instructions

Homemade furniture polish

1. Combine 1/2 teaspoon of olive oil with 1/4 cup of white vinegar in a 1 quart container.

2. Fill the container the rest of the way with clean water.

3. Cover the container and shake the solution so the contents are mixed well.

Reusable dust remover cloth

4. Cut a clean piece of T-shirt fabric of a size for dusting. Place it in a glass jar.

5. Add 2 tablespoons of the homemade furniture polish to the jar and seal it. Leave it overnight so the cloth absorbs the liquid.

6. Remove the cloth and use it around the house to remove dust. It can be returned to the sealed jar and reused several times. If the cloth becomes dirty, launder it and reapply the oil as in Step 2.

7. Wipe the polished areas with a clean, dry cloth.

Tags: furniture polish, with clean

Troubleshoot The Paslode Finish Nailer

Paslode finishing nail gun is cordless and easy to use.

The Paslode finishing nailer is a cordless nail gun that is used for nailing trim and molding to walls. The gun features a quick clear for nail jams, no mar tip, depth of drive adjustment and two step follower for easy loading. You can troubleshoot problems with this nail gun relatively easily.

Instructions

1. Check that a nail has not become jammed. A jammed nail will create a poof-like sound. Remove the battery and fuel and clear out the jammed nail. Push the drive blade to the top of the tool. Replace the battery and fuel and test the gun. Another possible cause of the poof-like sound is using the wrong fasteners.

2. Check the fuel cell if the gun is no longer working. Find a work surface away from heating elements and open flames. Remove the fuel cell from the gun. Hold the cell upside down. The black valve will be positioned down, towards the floor. Push the white stem found on the black valve with a hard object. A small puff of fuel should come out when you press the white stem. If nothing emerges then the fuel cell is empty and needs to be replaced.

3. Flashing red and green lights on the battery charger is a sign of a bad battery. The battery will need to be replaced if they flash red and green for more than 20 minutes when charging the battery. After 20 minutes the lights should stay solid green. If the lights do not change then a replacement battery is needed, as the battery is not charging.

4. Check the fan wires or motor if the lights on the handle start flashing red and green. Remove the cap and grill to access the fan motor wires. These wires are black and red in color. Check that the wires are not broken or pinched. If they are damaged then replace with new wires. If they look fine, unplug the white wiring connector on the motor. Wait a few seconds and plug it back in. This can reset the electrical system and remove the error.

5. Check that the gun has not run out of fasteners. Without fasteners the gun will not shoot a nail and will blank fire. Dirt in the gun can also cause a blank fire. If you have used the gun for more than 10,000 nails the gun may need to be cleaned.

Tags: Check that, fuel cell, battery fuel, black valve, blank fire

Backyard Party Ideas For High School Graduation

High school graduation is a joyous time but also one for reflection on the future

High school graduation is a definite milepost in the travel through life. Most people are so eager to finish it up that they forget it harbors some of the best times of their life. Themes and activities at backyard graduation parties that are aimed at congratulating the graduate while reminding them of the better times they experienced are important. Asking for a glimpse of their plans for the next 5 years brings a reality to the whole experience.

Time Capsule Party

Have each guest bring a digital camera and have at least one or two on hand to supply those who do not have access to one. Set up a barbecue style cookout in the backyard with all of the food prepared ahead of time except for the burgers. In addition to the camera, ask each guest to bring a memento of high school that has meaning for them. Items such as a trophy, an article in the school paper, favorite clothing or anything else that symbolizes their high school experience will do fine. During the cookout, encourage everyone to take as many pictures as possible and to have others take pictures of them with close friends. Place the pictures on discs labeled with the name of the person who took them. Finally, have everyone write a message to themselves for five years into the future. Place the discs, mementos, messages and a graduation book in a time capsule. The time capsule can be any container that is air-tight, moisture-proof and difficult to break or damage. Bury the time capsule at least three feet into the backyard and have everyone sign a vow to return in five years for another cookout and the opening of the capsule.

Whew! That Parts Over

A high school graduation party is about the completion of young childhood and the beginning of adulthood. The theme of the party is "relax, we've finished the first step," the completion of high school. The party invitations ask each guest to bring pictures of them from kindergarten through the 9th grade. The invitation also asks each guest to bring a brief written statement about their plans for the year after their graduation. The dress is ultimate casual with big hats, sunglasses and sunscreen. A banquet of snack foods is prepared and sitting out on tables and plenty of lawn chairs are available. Provide a variety of music and a disc player. The pictures brought by each guest are placed on a wall with a sheet hanging down to shield the view from others. The written statements are dropped into a sealed box with a hole in the top. The guests arrange themselves around the wall with the pictures and as one person points out a picture a consensus, amid much laughter and discussion is reached as to who the person is. The statements are then removed from the box and read aloud and again the group guesses who wrote them.

Decorate the back yard with a large "Good Luck Graduates." The party conveys the message, congratulations on finishing high school, and the food and d cor reflect that. Muffins and cookies with that message, as well as lots of snack food and beverages are available. Guests receive invitations with tassels attached, and a special request to use the invitation to write out a moment in high school that has stayed with them. This moment could be about them or someone or something they have observed from others. They are also asked to briefly write out thoughts they have for the future. The invitation stresses that future thoughts do not have to be set in stone. Upon arrival by the guest, the host or hostess collects the invitations, and after everyone has eaten, reads them and lets the group decide who wrote it. The host guides and encourages the others to comment or talk about each answer.

Tags: each guest, high school, each guest bring, guest bring, five years, from others

Create A Free Cd Slide Show For A Tv & Dvd Player

You can easily share your pictures and images by creating slide shows digitally. Free software options can help you produce the slide shows quickly. First, select your images. If any of them are not in digital form, scan the images into your computer or pay a photo-finishing center to do the work for you. The center can scan images for a small fee and even do repair and reconstruction on old or damaged photos.

Instructions

Creating Your Slide Show

1. Gather all of your images into a single file and save it with a name you will remember. Set up a separate folder inside your pictures folder by selecting the "new folder" option. Copy and paste or drag and drop the images into the folder.

2. Open Windows Movie Maker. Go to "start," select "all programs" and find and open the Windows Movie Maker. Go to "file" and choose "import media items." Navigate to the pictures folder and find the images in your project folder. Select the images you want and double click on them. The images will open in the project media window in Movie Maker. Drag and drop your pictures onto the timeline at the bottom of the screen in the order you want them displayed.

3. Add transitions between your photos by right-clicking and choosing the "transitions" option. Either make your photos cross-fade into each other or choose from several other options. Select the "video effects" option to add effects such as zooming or panning to give motion to the still images.

4. Choose your favorite music to add to the timeline. Import music in the same manner as photos. Drag and drop the music onto the music portion of the timeline. You can use the software to trim the music to fit, adjust volume and fade in and out,

5. Add titles to your slides by right-clicking and choosing the "titles and credits" option. Choose the style and fonts that best match the images in your slide show. Once you are happy with the items in your timeline, go to "file" and choose "publish movie." You can save the slide sthe computer or burn it to a DVD or CD.

6. If using a disc, follow the onscreen directions to set it up. Insert the blank disc into your DVD or CD burner and select the "burn" option. Burning the disk will take several minutes to more than an hour.

Tags: images into, Movie Maker, your pictures, file choose, images your, into your, pictures folder

Set Up A Home Theater System

If you have patience, you can set up a home theater system. Adjusting the position of the screen and speakers to provide your guests and your family with an awesome at-home experience takes a bit of time and concentration because the elements have to be in just the right place. The only way to tell if you've set up the system properly is to use your ears and eyes. Follow these steps to find out how.

Instructions

1. Pick your space. Choose an area of your home that's suitable for a home theater. Make sure that there's enough room for several people to sit a comfortable distance from the screen.

2. Install the screen. Whether you're using a projection screen or a high definition flat panel television, placing the screen will determine how the other elements in your home theater system will go in your space.

3. Put in the components. Amplifiers, tuners, channel splitters and other equipment go in next. Connect everything except the speakers.

4. Arrange the front speakers. In a typical home theater system, there are 3 front speakers: left, right and center. There's also a sub-woofer. The left and right speakers should be placed so that they're an equal distance from the screen. The left and right speakers should form two points in an imaginary triangle, with the listener at the third point. The center speaker should be under the screen if possible. The sub-woofer is often placed by the seating area or up front with the center speaker.

5. Arrange the back speakers. There are 2 back speakers: "surround left" and "surround right." They should be placed behind the seating area, about the same distance apart as the front left and right speakers. If possible, they should be about the same distance behind the seating area as the front speakers are in front of the seating area.

6. Connect the speakers. Run the speaker cable to the speakers. Don't worry about neatening up the cables yet.

7. Test the system. Make sure all of the speakers work properly. Then, make minor adjustments to their position in order to tweak the sound the way you want it. Listen to the sound while in the seating area.

8. Tidy up. Secure the speaker cables and remove packaging materials.

Tags: seating area, home theater, left right, front speakers, home theater system, left right speakers, right speakers

Instruction Guide For A Panasonic Aghvx200a

DV cassettes let you record standard definition footage.

The Panasonic AG-HVX200A camcorder offers high-definition capabilities, solid-state media support, a wide-angle lens and more. However, the Panasonic AG-HVX200 camcorder line also comes with a steep learning curve, according to CNet. While the Panasonic AG-HVX200A can seem overwhelming, even a first-time user can master the basic functions. For advanced filming techniques, you'll need to spend more time with the camcorder's user manual, but basic videotaping is achievable in a matter of minutes.

Instructions

1. Fully charge the battery prior to use. To remove the battery, depress the release button and pull the battery upward. Slide the battery into the charger, and plug your charger into an electrical wall outlet. The LED light will turn green when the battery is charged.

2. Insert a P2 card or a DV cassette tape into the camcorder. The solid-state P2 card provides digital storage for high-definition filming. For standard filming, use the DV cassette tape. The card slides into a small slot on the front of the camcorder, and the tape is inserted into a compartment on the left-hand side of the camcorder. Only insert the P2 card if you plan on using this storage device. If both a P2 card and a DV cassette tape are inserted into the camcorder, the Panasonic AG-HVX200A will automatically record to the P2 card rather than the DV cassette tape.

3. Turn on your camcorder by rotating the power switch counterclockwise. The power switch is located near the back right-hand side of the video camera. The switch rotates around the bright red recording button. To move the rotating switch, you must press in on the switch and then slide it upwards.

4. Look through the viewfinder, or open the LCD display.

5. Point your Panasonic AG-HVX200A camcorder at your subject, and adjust the zoom using the switch on the very top of your camcorder, near the right-hand side. The switch is labeled with a "W" and a "T." Pressing and holding the switch toward the "W" position will zoom out. Pressing toward the "T" will zoom in. The video camera will auto-focus as you adjust the zoom.

6. Press the red recording button once you have centered the subject and adjusted the zoom. This will automatically start recording whatever is displayed on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder.

7. Press the red button again to stop recording. You have now successfully recorded your first piece of video. With this basic point-and-shoot filming, you should have a high-quality piece of video for use with editing software on a computer. Or you can play the footage directly on a TV by plugging RCA cables into your camcorder and television and pressing the "play" button located on the left-hand side of the camcorder.

Tags: cassette tape, Panasonic AG-HVX200A, your camcorder, adjust zoom, AG-HVX200A camcorder

Build An Artist Light Box Trace Box

Use a light box to trace work you want to use in your art.

Many artists and graphic designers use light boxes to trace items they wish to use in their work. Photographers use light boxes to view slides or negatives. You can purchase a light box at most craft or photography stores, or with a little bit of effort, you can easily build a light box at home, saving yourself money that can be used toward other art supplies.

Instructions

1. Choose a display or shadow box that is 6 to 8 inches deep. The box you choose should also be large enough to allow the work you are going to trace to lay flat on it.

2. Take the glass out of the shadow or display box and replace with the plastic or acrylic. The glass that comes in these boxes is too thin and may break when any weight or pressure is applied to it. You also want the light to distribute across the entire surface, and the translucent material will aid in that goal.

3. Install the light fixture inside the opening of the box, in the middle on the back wall. Drill a hole at the bottom of the box for the plug to go through using a drill and ¼-inch drill bit. Expand the hole if necessary by using a utility knife. Secure the light fixture with either contact cement, Velcro or small finishing screws.

4. Attach the acrylic front to the box, secure in place using small screws or Velcro. You want to be able to access the inside of the box should you need to change the light bulb, therefore gluing the acrylic is not recommended.

Tags: light boxes, light fixture

Do Silhouette Pictures For Quilts

Silhouettes convey mystery.

Silhouette quilts are an ideal way for needle craft enthusiasts to create special embroidery for quilts and other fabrics. Silhouette pictures emphasize shadow, creating mysterious imagery. The silhouettes you put on the quilt add a sense of drama, intrigue and spark the imagination. Creating a silhouette for a quilt has two major steps: capturing the silhouette photo and adding the image to fabric. To complete this project, it is important that you know a couple of basic features of your camera such as flash and exposure settings.

Instructions

1. Determine what subject you want to photo. The subject is any object you want to create a silhouette of. This can be any object you prefer.

2. Turn the flash off on your camera. Bouncing light from the flash ruins the silhouette by adding to much light.

3. Pick a time of day when the sun is lower in the sky, near the horizon if you are taking photos in the outdoors. Place the light source behind your subject if you are taking photos indoors. In order to capture a silhouette, there must be more light behind the subject than in front.

4. Pick a plain background to frame your subject within. Frame the subject so that it shows distinctly against the background and stands out. Allow each subject a space of it's own and don't allow multiple images to bunch up or appear to close because this causes the silhouettes to blend. For example, if you are capturing a silhouette of two children, don't allow one child to stand in front of another. Have them stand side by side.

5. Put the camera in manual mode so that you can control the shutter speed, or EV: exposure value. Turn the shutter speed up one or two values to let in less light. Take a few pictures to determine if this setting yields the type of results you want for your photo. If not, put the EV values lower and take a few photos and view the results. Take note of the setting you prefer so that you can use it whenever you need to capture silhouettes.

6. Trick your camera to get the right exposure if there is no manual mode by doing the following: Point the camera at the brightest part of your frame and then press the snapshot button halfway down. This activates the camera's automatic exposure settings so that it adjusts to capture the lighter image. Next, point your camera at the true subject of the photo and press the snapshot button fully.

7. Take as many photos as your digital camera can store. Play with different subjects and backgrounds as well as a combination of indoor and outdoor shots. The more photos you take overall, the more good ones you take as well.

8. Print the silhouettes you want to add to your quilt and then cut out the shape. Cut around the edges of your subject, effectively removing the subject from the background. This is the silhouette object you want to appear on your quilt.

9. Iron the heat bond to the underside of the black fabric, according to the manufacturers instructions. This is the side of the fabric that will not show.

10. Place your silhouette image on top of the black fabric and secure it with a pin. Next, carefully cut the silhouette shape in the black fabric.

11. Sew the black fabric to your fabric square. Your silhouette is now ready to add to a quilt.

Tags: black fabric, your camera, your subject, capturing silhouette, exposure settings

Compare Mobile Gps Systems

Advances in GPS technology and subsequent price reductions have resulted in mobile GPS systems becoming increasingly popular. Because of this increased popularity, a newly crowded market space makes shopping for a GPS unit a daunting task. Follow a few simple guidelines to make this process easier.

Price

Starting with a price bracket in mind helps to narrow your search immediately. Mobile GPS systems from Garmin, TomTom and Magellan start from around $100 (as of 2010). Buy a refurbished unit for even less. More expensive systems cost upward of $1,000. Decide how much you want to pay, and then compare the features of units in your price bracket.

Features

With mobile GPS systems, size and weight are key. Get to a store and hold the unit in your hand to get a feel for its weight. Also test the clarity and functionality of its screen. Does its menu system function in a user-friendly way? Once you've found one that feels right, compare its expected battery life, audible navigation system, text-to-speech functionality, number of points of interest (POIs) and warranty. If you're buying it for your car, ensure that it includes traffic routing.

Considerations

Pay attention to the manufacturer's map updates policy. Getting an up-to-date map for your GPS often costs more than some entry-level systems. Fortunately, most new units come with one free map update. If you're buying a refurbished unit, be sure that it comes with a free update as well, as some do not.

Tags: free update, mobile systems, price bracket, refurbished unit, with free, with free update

Repair A Large Format Shutter

Large-format camera shutters are mounted within the camera's lenses.

Most familiar now as an anachronistic style of camera, large-format cameras produce film negatives or positives that are at least four by five inches. Once the mainstay of the professional studio photographer, these cameras are now relegated to art photography when a very sharp, detailed film-based image is required. Due to the massive film size associated with these cameras, they do not employ the standard focal-plane shutter used in 35-mm film cameras. Instead, the shutter is part of the camera lens, meaning that each large-format camera lens contains its own shutter. Proper functioning and maintenance of these shutters is essential.

Instructions

1. Check the shutter's functioning. At the most basic level, this is done by looking through the lens and triggering it to make sure the shutter opens and closes. To determine if the shutter is operating at the listed speeds, you will need to make a series of test exposures and check for the appropriate density.

2. Clean the shutter leaves using a cotton swab and lighter fluid. These metal plates interface with one another to create the camera's shutter, and dirt or grime on one of the plates, called leaves, can disrupt the shutter's operation.

3. Replace any bent or overly worn shutter leaves by removing the problem component and installing a new part. Deconstructing the lens shutter is a complex job that is best attempted by a professional, so do not attempt this unless you have considerable camera repair experience.

4. Lubricate the shutter blades with camera shutter lubricant and a cotton swab.

5. Adjust the timing of the shutter, if necessary. This requires careful minute adjustments to the lens, so only attempt this if you have a repair manual for your lens and considerable camera repair experience.

Tags: attempt this, camera lens, camera repair, camera repair experience, camera shutter

Manage Hot Flashes

The exact cause of hot flashes is unknown.

A hot flash is an uncomfortable sensation of warmth that can last from just a few minutes to half an hour. According to the Mayo Clinic, three out of four women experience hot flashes during menopause. For some of these women, hot flashes are a nuisance but not a significant problem. For others, hot flashes are more intense and can interfere with work and sleep. There are many at-home remedies that can make it easier to manage hot flashes and live comfortably.

Instructions

1. Practice paced respiration. Anxiety and stress can worsen hot flashes. WebMD recommends using a rhythmic breathing style to help relax and center during menopause. Paced respiration might be familiar to those who practice yoga. Sitting comfortably on the floor, inhale and exhale slowly and deeply ifor 15 minutes. Push the stomach muscles out while inhaling, and pull them in while exhaling. Practice the breathing for twice a day or whenever you feel a hot flash coming on.

2. Create a comfortable environment. Wear clothing made from cotton, rayon or linen, with cotton the best, suggests Breastcancer.org. Sleep on cotton sheets and in a cotton nightgown. Dress in layers that allow you to remove and add clothing as your body temperature changes. At work or home, keep windows open or turn on the air conditioner. Use a portable fan when possible. Have cold drinks to sip on when a hot flash arrives.

3. Track your diet and take note of triggers. Certain foods, especially spicy ones, can lead to hot flashes. Alcohol, caffeine and foods high in sugar can also be catalysts. Keep a daily log of what you eat and drink. When a hot flash occurs, write it in the log. You might eventually notice a pattern that indicates which foods and beverages should be avoided.

WebMD suggests that if no pattern appears, women can better manage hot flashes by eating smaller meals at more frequent intervals. A high-fiber, low-fat diet can also be beneficial.

4. Try alternative remedies such as black cohosh or red clover. Black cohosh is a large plant whose roots have been shown to ease hot flashes and their symptoms. According to WebMD, studies supporting the use of black cohose for menopause recommend a dose of 20 to 40 milligrams twice a day.

Red clover grows in the wild and is manufactured into liquid, pill and powder form. Its chemicals have been shown to produce effects in the body similar to those of estrogen. Studies on both black cohosh and red clover have been mixed. Those interested in taking the medicines should first speak with their doctor.

5. Meet with a doctor to discuss medications if hot flashes are severe and cannot be managed with natural or home remedies. A doctor might prescribe low-dosage hormone therapy. This can consist of estrogen or a combination or estrogen and progesterone. The Mayo Clinic reports that estrogen is an option for women who have had a hysterectomy, but that for other women it can lead to endometrial cancer. Women who have had a blood clot or breast cancer also cannot take estrogen alone. A low dosage of an antidepressant might be a viable solution.

Tags: have been, been shown, black cohosh, black cohosh clover, cohosh clover, during menopause

Manage Cellular Service Providers

Managing cell phone providers is not difficult if you do your homework.

Cell phones are necessities nowadays. Many people have given up their landlines due to lack of use, and even kids in kindergarten sport cells so that working parents can get in touch with them. Some businesses even use cell phones as their main contact numbers. With so many different applications, managing providers is critical. You must make sure you have a mobile device that meets your needs and a plan that gives you the options you need at the lowest cost possible. Fortunately, learning manage cell phone providers is not difficult at all with a little research.

Instructions

Preparation

1. Determine which cell phone providers have good coverage in your area. Use the interactive map on the Cell Reception website to see the providers that are rated best by locality. Make a list of possible providers.

2. Decide whether a prepaid phone or a contract is better for you. People with poor credit or limited income may prefer prepaid phones because when you apply for a contract, the provider will run a credit check and may demand a large deposit. However, contracts are usually less expensive over the long run. They also provide benefits like free phones and exclusive availability of new smart phones.

Check the websites for your list of potential providers to see if they have the option you chose, or call their customer service numbers to ask. Most carriers now offer both options, but if they don't, cross them off your list.

3. Make a list of all the features you need in your plan. Consider whether you want unlimited texting, web surfing, family calling, free nights and weekends, etc. Create a spreadsheet that lists provider names on the left side and options on top. (If you already have a cell contract in place, include your current provider on this spreadsheet.) Put a check mark in the cell that corresponds to whether or not a provider offers that option so that you can choose easily with visuals. Leave a column at the end for cost.

Management

4. Refer to the websites of the providers on your list if you have decided upon a prepaid phone. Find out what the cost is, what features they offer, and where you can obtain a prepaid phone for each provider. Select a provider based on the criteria of cost, coverage in your area, and having the features you need. Purchase a prepaid phone at a convenience store, drugstore or supermarket if you need it immediately.

If you have chosen a prepaid phone, you can now skip to Section 3. Read Step 2 if you have chosen a contract.

5. Refer to the spreadsheet you created in Section 1, Step 4. Choose a provider based on which plan suits your needs best at lowest cost.

6. Make sure that the provider you chose supports your current phone if you have one. If it does not, decide whether to get a new phone or choose a second or third-place provider that does support your phone. Remember that some contracts provide new phones for free.

7. Sign up with your preferred provider if you do not already have a contract. If you do have a contract but have determined a different provider is preferable, check your contract to find out how much time is left on it and what the penalties are for ending it early. Decide whether it is better to ride it out or end the contract early based on the answers to these questions.

8. Revisit these instructions periodically. If you move or make a major life change such as getting married or getting divorced, a new plan may suit you better eventually.

Tags: prepaid phone, cell phone, cell phone providers, phone providers, your list, already have, contract have

Update Magellan 4210 Gps Maps

As time goes on, the maps on your Magellan 4210 GPS will gradually become outdated. When new roads are opened, or roads are closed, the changes do not show up on the original GPS software. Magellan sells updated map packages via their website that, once purchased, will update your Magellan to the latest maps. Once ordered, the new maps are shipped directly to your door via DVD.

Instructions

1. Navigate to the Magellan website in your web browser. Click "Products" at the top of the screen, then select "Maps & Software."

2. Click "Find Maps by Specific GPS Model," then select "Magellan Maestro 4210 North America" from the drop-down menu.

3. Click "Add to Cart" then click "Proceed to Checkout" and complete the purchase of the new maps. The maps will be shipped to your once the order is complete.

4. Insert the DVD into the DVD drive on your computer once it arrives.

5. Download the Magellan Content Manager software from the Magellan website. When the software is finished downloading, double-click the installation file and follow the on-screen prompts to complete the installation. Open the Magellan Content Manager software once the installation is complete.

6. Connect the Magellan GPS to the computer using the mini USB cable included with the device.

7. Follow the on-screen instructions displayed in the Magellan Content Manager software to complete the map update on the Magellan Maestro 4210 GPS.

Tags: Content Manager, Content Manager software, Magellan Content, Magellan Content Manager, Manager software, Maestro 4210, Magellan 4210

Motorola Radio Alignment Tools

Radio alignment involves obtaining the correct intermediate frequency (IF) and radio frequency (RF) signal for your radio. So, if you own one of Motorola's two-way radios, then you need to ensure that it is properly aligned, but you need the correct equipment to do this. Motorola sells both mobile and portable radios for the public safety field, including law enforcement and emergency responders.

PMR Test

The 3920 Radio Test Set by Aeroflex Test Solutions allows you to test both your digital and analog radios, and it supports the Motorola XTS-3000 and XTS-5000 Series alignment tests. To run these tests, you simply need to connect your phone to the machine, and hit the Test and Align button. It tests the following types of analog systems: AM, FM, AM LSB and AM USB. It also runs P25 trunking and conventional, Digital Mobile Radio (DMR), Digital Private Mobile Radio (dPMR) and High Performance Data (HPD) tests. This is a combination hardware and software program, and the hardware features a 40 gigabyte (GB) hard drive. Use this hard drive to store test data, user information and screenshots of live data. You can also transfer to your to a universal serial bus (USB) drive if you need to take it with you.

AutoTest

General Dynamics offers the AutoTest tool for Motorola digital radios, and this software program helps you align your radio in usually less than 10 minutes. This program runs on your Windows-based computer, and you just need to connect your radio to your computer using a USB or serial cable. The software automatically reads the parameters of your radio, and then it analyzes and configures your system. It then creates a comma separated variable (CSV) file of your data, allowing you to store this information for future tests.

Radio Service

The Motorola Radio Service Software program is included with your two-way radio, and it helps you align your phone when you first use it. Install this software on your computer and use it to obtain information and alignment procedures for your radio. It provides you with the codeplug data and the RF alignment for your phone. This information is contained within the software's Main menu. If you need to obtain the alignment procedures for your phone, go to the Service menu of your phone, but you must first connect your phone to your computer. The Service menu then programs your phone with the correct codeplug.

Tags: your phone, your radio, connect your, your computer, align your, alignment procedures

Fujifilm Disposable Camera Tips

Disposable cameras offer a convenient and inexpensive method to capture great photographic moments. Disposals can provide very good image quality when the photographer adheres to certain guidelines and tips. Not designed to replace a full size 35 mm camera, disposables act as a one-time-use camera at the fraction of the cost of a full size 35 mm. Disposable cameras come in various forms, 35 mm film, one-time use digital and even disposal cameras for underwater use.

Distance

Disposable or one-time-use cameras have a fixed focus lens. This means that everything from a certain distance (typically three to four feet) away from the camera to infinity has reasonably sharp focus. Since the lens does not focus, avoid getting too close to the subject or the resultant images end up blurry rather than sharp.

Pay close attention to the size of the image within the viewfinder. Keep ample distance around the subject and the viewfinder's edges, or parts of the image wind up cut off (tops of heads for example). Also, what you see does not correspond entirely with what you get in the final print. So while it's good to fill the frame with the subject and keep the appropriate distance from the subject, be aware that commercial printers crop a portion of the top and bottom of every image out of the final print.

The Flash

Most disposable cameras work best outdoors---even with a built-in flash. The camera's design does not allow a lot of light to enter and reach the film. When indoors, the closer you get to the image the better. The flash output reaches a maximum of ten feet, so try to get close while staying within the three to four foot guidelines. When indoors, always use the flash even under somewhat bright circumstances. When shooting at a sporting event or in other large open areas, flash becomes ineffective. Rely on the existing light conditions for image capture.

Processing

Fujifilm disposable cameras contain Fujicolor film. This film uses a process known as C-41 to develop the negatives. Most CVS, Walgreen and Wal-Mart stores offer this standard processing in their photo departments. The standard print size from this camera stands at 4 inches x 6 inches. Enlargements made from disposable cameras can reach 8 x 10 inches and still maintain relatively good quality. For best quality, develop and print the film at a lab that monitors its chemicals throughout the day.

Tags: final print, full size, three four, When indoors

What Is The Difference In Ef And Af Canon Rebel Lenses

The standard lens mount for Canon is the EF.

Canon offers more than 60 EF lenses, ranging from an ultra-wide fisheye to a 1200 mm super-telephoto. All EF lenses are autofocus, or AF, lenses. They are compatible with every Canon AF camera, including digital models.

Rebel

The Canon EOS Rebel is a digital single lens reflex autofocus camera that accepts Canon EF lenses. It is a light, plastic-bodied entry-level DSLR with mostly automatic controls.

EF

EF stands for "electro focus," meaning the focus is controlled by a small motor inside the lens controls focus. The camera's battery powers the motor via the electronic lens mount. Canon made its first EF lenses in conjunction with its EOS project, which sought to design super high-speed autofocus lenses with silent operation. The EF has been the standard lens mount for Canon since replacing the FD mount in 1987.

L-Series

The top-of-the-line Canon EF lenses are the L-series, or luxury lenses. Each lens contains at least one fluorite or ultra-low dispersion glass element for the highest quality image.

Tags: lens mount, lens mount Canon, mount Canon, autofocus lenses, Canon lenses

Make Your Own Portable Dvd Player Holder For Your Car

A portable DVD player lets a DVD be viewed wherever you might go, thanks to its built-in LCD screen and battery-powered operation. You can make a holder for a portable DVD player that will let the passengers in the back seat of your car be entertained while in transit or during a ride. A few supplies from a hardware store or hobby shop will be needed, but no tools that could cause damage to the car. The holder will keep the portable DVD player in position when it is used and will allow it to be removed when you exit the car so it can be placed in the trunk for safekeeping.

Instructions

1. Hold a bendable twist tie horizontally between both hands. Get into the back of the car and sit behind the front passenger seat. Wrap the twist tie around the headrest of the passenger seat. Push the end of the twist tie through the locking tab and pull it back in the other direction to secure it around the headrest.

2. Apply a line of bonding glue to the side of the twist tie that is facing you. Press a strip of Velcro pad against the line of glue. Press the strip against the glue and hold it there for a minute. Let the bonding glue set for an hour before proceeding.

3. Hold another bendable twist tie vertically between both hands. Wrap the twist-tie around the headrest on its left side. Push the end of the twist tie through the locking tab and pull it back in the other direction to secure it around the headrest. Repeat this procedure with another bendable twist tie on the right side of the headrest.

4. Grab hold of the end of the twist tie on the left side of the headrest that was pulled through the locking tab. Pull the end up at a 45 degree angle with your fingers. Repeat this procedure with the bendable twist tie that is on the right of the headrest.

5. Place a bath towel on a table. Place the portable DVD player face down on the table. Examine the back of the player to see if there are slots on each side, as is the case with those players that have a front-mounted LCD screen. If there are no slots, place two drops of bonding glue 1 inch in and halfway up the length of each side of the player. Place a Velcro hooking pad on each of the glued spots. Press down on the pads for a minute so that the bonding glue can take hold. Let the bonding glue set for an hour before proceeding.

6. Measure up the length of the player from the bottom left corner. Draw a horizontal line across the back of the player from the halfway mark with a grease pencil. Apply a line of bonding glue on the horizontal line. Place a strip of Velcro hooking material on the line and press down for a minute to engage the glue. Let the glue set for an hour before proceeding.

7. Hold the portable DVD player against the back of the passenger seat's headrest. Insert the angled ends of the left and right twist ties into the slots on the back of the player -- if there are no slots, place the angled ends beneath the left and right sides of the player. Press the back of the player against the horizontal twist tie on the headrest so that the Velcro hooking pad and the strip of Velcro pad can meet.

8. Turn on the portable DVD player, insert a DVD and watch it while in the car. Remove the angled ends of the twist ties from the player and pull it free of the strip of Velcro when it is time to exit the car.

Tags: bonding glue, portable player, around headrest, back player, bendable twist, strip Velcro, angled ends

Make Your Own Photo Booth Pictures

Photo booth strips make excellent momentos of a special occasion.

Photo booths were once commonly found in malls and arcades and could be rented for special occasions. Today, with the availability of digital cameras and photo editing programs, you can build a simple photo both for your own event. Consider setting up a photoboth as a fundraiser at a school event like a carnival, streetfair, or after-prom or as an activity for guests at your special occasions like a wedding, birthday party or holiday celebration.

Instructions

1. Create a photo booth for your event. Instructions are available online for building a phone booth like structure from plywood. For a less expensive photo booth, hang plain white sheets in the corner of a room using push pins, or a clothesline and clothespins.

2. Assign someone to take pictures at the photo booth, or set up a camera with a 30 second delay, to take a string of six to 10 photos.

3. Load the pictures onto a computer that has Internet access. Save the pictures to a folder where they will be easy to find for editing.

4. Load pictures that you wish to print in your photo booth strand into a photo program with a photo strip template like those available from Big Huge Labs or LunaPic online. Each online service has onscreen instructions which to follow.

5. Print the finished strip on a quality photo paper. Allow the ink to dry completely.

6. Carefully trim the strips from the larger sheet of paper.

Tags: photo booth, Load pictures, special occasions, your event

Magellan 4250 Specs

The Magellan Maestro 4250 is a GPS navigator manufactured and sold by Magellan Navigation, Inc., a California-based maker of consumer and professional grade GPS devices. The Magellan Maestro 4250 is designed to be used primarily for car navigation. The device comes with built-in maps of the U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico.

Dimensions and Weight

The Magellan Maestro 4250 is 4.9 inches wide, 0.7 inches deep and 3.3 inches high. The navigator weighs 6.9 oz.

Display

The device is equipped with a 4.5-inch WQVGA color touch screen. The touch screen shows current GPS position, route, ETA, or estimated time of arrival and Points of Interest on an interactive map.

Points of Interest

The Magellan Maestro 4250 map comes with 6 million pre-programmed Points of Interest that include gas stations, restaurants, cafes and ATMs. The navigator allows the user to search Points of Interest by category or name near her position or near any city. If she touches a Point of Interest icon, she will be able to see its name, address, phone number and get an instant route. It is also possible to create and store personal Points of Interest.

QuickSpell

QuickSpell is an exclusive Magellan-designed auto-complete feature that allows the user to enter a destination or make a search with just a few taps on the screen. QuickSpell also corrects spelling.

Battery

The device comes with a lithium-ion rechargeable battery. The battery of the Magellan Maestro 4250 can run about four hours when fully charged.

Tags: Maestro 4250, Magellan Maestro, Magellan Maestro 4250, Points Interest, comes with

Types Of Crossovers

Whether you are designing your own stereo system or purchasing components for a personal audio system, you should have a basic understanding of how an amplifier sorts the audio signal and delivers it to your speakers. Part of the sorting and filtering of a multi-component audio system includes crossovers, of which there are three basic types and further differentiation within those types.

Crossover Fundamentals

A loudspeaker may have both a mid-range and tweeter (high range) speaker within it. The amplifier that generates power to those speakers needs to be able to differentiate between what signals it should deliver to each speaker, including the subwoofer.

A crossover divides the audio frequencies, whether they are high, low, mid-range, or sub to ensure that each speaker is playing the exact frequency it is designed to play. You must also keep in mind that each crossover has a filtering slope. Crossovers do not perfectly filter frequencies, so the frequencies attenuate as the crossover filters out the desired frequency.

Three Types of Crossover Filtering

There are three different types of crossovers based on the type of audio frequency filter they use: high pass, low pass, and band pass. Understandably, high pass crossovers filter out everything but high frequencies; low pass crossovers filter out everything but low frequencies; and band pass crossovers filter out both low and high frequencies based on established crossover points. Band pass crossovers can be thought of as filtering everything but "mid-range" frequencies.

Active Crossovers

Also known as equalizers, active crossovers require external power to function. These crossovers use low signal voltage levels, and split the signals from the head unit (for instance a CD player) at low, mid, and high frequencies. It then sends the signal to the amplifier. The advantage of an active crossover is that it does not have much effect on the main signal because it uses a low signal voltage and external power. Also, you can adjust the levels without having to replace the crossovers.

Passive Crossovers

These crossovers are often internal and work "after" the amplification occurs. Passive crossovers receive high-level signals. They allow you to attach more speakers to a single amplifier channel. Passive crossovers are more flexible and can be purchased separately from your amplifier and they can be mixed and matched to produce the desired filtering of your system.

Inductors and Capacitors

Passive crossovers are further divided into inductors and capacitors. Inductors function as a low-pass filter and are simply a coil of wire wound around an iron core. Capacitors are used in high-pass filters and are made of special material like polypropylene or mylar. They are layered rather than coiled. Each inductor or capacitor has a "resistance value," which is the effect on amplification as it filters out high and low frequencies. You should keep this in mind as you purchase crossovers and attempt to power your speakers, because each speaker requires a minimum amount of amplified power.

Tags: high frequencies, pass crossovers, crossovers filter, each speaker, pass crossovers filter, audio system, band pass

Bluetooth Headphone Instructions

Bluetooth headphones can be a great way to listen to music on your phone or MP3 player without getting tangled up in wires. Bluetooth headphones are made by a variety of companies, but they all work fundamentally the same way. if you've recently purchased a pair of Bluetooth headphones, getting them set up to work with your phone or MP3 player should take only a few minutes.

Pairing

Pair your Bluetooth headphones with your cell phone or MP3 player in order to start using them together. You can pair your headphones by going into the Bluetooth menu in your phone or MP3 player and having it "Search for new devices." Once it locates your headphones, enter in the "pairing code" found on a sticker on the back of your headphones to join the two together. Your Bluetooth headphones will not work with your MP3 player or phone until they are paired together.

Stay Close

Bluetooth headphones typically have only a range of 5 to 10 feet. Try to keep your phone or MP3 player close by when you're using them to make sure you maintain a connection between the two devices.

Power On

Unlike traditional headphones, Bluetooth headphones require their own power to operate. Keep your headphones charged to make sure they are able to work when you need them to do so.

Tags: Bluetooth headphones, phone player, your headphones, your phone, your phone player, with your, make sure

Update The Map On A Garmin C340

Each Garmin StreetPilot c340 comes preloaded with a map. However, over time, the road and points of interest change and new maps are needed. Also, you may wish to travel abroad and download maps for your trip. Garmin offers updates on its website that come in a variety of forms.

Instructions

1. Go the Garmin website to see the options you have for updating your maps (see link in References).

2. Decide whether this will be a one-time upgrade or if it would be more economical to purchase a lifetime update package. If the update is for a trip to an area you will likely not be returning to or if you will be replacing your GPS device before you would need to purchase another map update, it is generally better to get the one-time upgrade. However, if you plan to keep your GPS for a long time and update it several times, it is better to get the lifetime package.

3. Install the Garmin Communicator Plugin so the Garmin website can detect and link to the Garmin StreetPilot c340. Connect the Garmin StreetPilot c340 to the computer via the USB connection cable and transfer the map onto the device.

Tags: Garmin StreetPilot, Garmin StreetPilot c340, StreetPilot c340, Garmin website, one-time upgrade

Attach A Digital Slr Microscope

Microscope

Digital microscope photography (also called "microphotography") allows the photographer to take pictures of objects that are typically far too small to capture with normal camera lenses. By using a mounting piece, photographers can attach their cameras to microscopes and create images that would otherwise only be visible when looking through the microscope's eyepiece. Attaching a digital SLR (single lens reflex) camera to a microscope is especially easy, as SLRs feature interchangeable lenses. You need only remove your current lens and attach the camera to the microscope with a compatible adapter to start exploring microphotography.

Instructions

1. Remove the current lens from your SLR by pressing the lens release button on the front of the camera and twisting the lens off. Angle your camera downward as you remove the lens to prevent dust from getting sucked into the body and adhering to the digital sensor.

2. Attach a T-mount adapter to your SLR camera body. Different SLRs have different-sized threads, so you must purchase a T-mount that matches the threading of your camera body. This threading will be referenced in your camera's manual and will be the same threads that are used to attach filters or other types of extension tubes. The number will probably be one of the following: 28mm, 37mm or 52mm.

3. Attach the T-mount and camera to the eyepiece of your microscope. The microscope will act like a normal lens attached to your camera.

4. Focus using the microscope's focus controls. Your SLR's autofocus will not work with the microscope as the T-adapter has no way to relay autofocus controls to the microscope.

Tags: your camera, Attach T-mount, camera body, camera microscope, current lens, your camera body

Xm Radio Instructions

XM radio is definitely a bit trickier to set up than AM or FM radio. However, it's certainly not as difficult as setting up satellite television and doesn't require professional installation. All the equipment you need should be right in the box of your plug-and-play receiver, so it takes a few simple steps to get your XM working.

Antenna

The XM antenna requires a clear view of the southern sky. On a vehicle, this generally means mounting the antenna on top of the roof or trunk. You want to try and get the antenna in the center of the mounting area as far from the windows and sunroof as possible. The antenna is usually magnetic so that it can be easily and securely mounted to the roof.

The most difficult part about mounting to a car roof is routing the wire. Remember to route the wire out of the way of the driver and passenger and in a place where it won't get pulled, bent or damaged. Routing it along the edge of the door frame is a good option.

At home, the antenna should be mounted in a south-facing window with an unobstructed view of the sky. You may also be able to get the signal through walls, and in cities XM uses ground repeaters to transmit the signal through dense infrastructure, so you can try to place the antenna in other parts of the home. Experiment with home antenna placement to find the strongest signal. Check the signal strength on the display and find the best location and angle.

Mounting

Use the provided car mounting hardware to set up the XM receiver in your vehicle. Find a spot that will give you quick, clear access to the receiver but won't provide a distraction or impediment, clean the area and then mount the receiver. With home kits, you'll likely have a small dock or stand to set the receiver on.

Connection

While each XM receiver comes with its own hardware, some simple ways to connect to a car stereo include connecting directly to an auxiliary input if you have one available and using a cassette adapter. FM modulation is another method in which you use a special kit to mount the XM antenna on the FM antenna and use an open FM frequency to play XM.

When connecting at home, you'll likely be using a simple Y RCA cable to connect from the audio output on your receiver to your stereo receiver's inputs. Plug the appropriate 12V or AC power adapter into your car or home power socket. Plug the antenna into the antenna input on the receiver.

Activation

Unlike other radios, XM requires you to activate your subscription before you get any music. Turn on your unit, find your identification number (should be on channel 0 or on back of the unit) and contact XM at (800) XM Radio with your ID and credit card. Follow its instructions and get your unit activated. Alternately, use the link below in Resources to sign up online. Also check out the third link in Resources for subscription options.

Listening

Once your receiver is active, familiarize yourself with all the controls. Check XM's website for an updated channel lineup, set your presets and enjoy listening to satellite radio.

Tags: home antenna, receiver your, signal through, your receiver, your unit

Troubleshooting A Toshiba Rear Projection Tv

No Picture or Sound

If the picture or sound doesn't appear on your Toshiba rear projection TV, check the cables connected to it. They must be firmly in place in order for the connection to be clean.

Bad Picture

If the image comes in but is fuzzy or filled with snow, it's likely a problem with your reception. Adjust the antenna to a different angle, then compare the image onscreen to see if it's getting better. If you have a cable or satellite system, there should be no problems with reception. Contact the company and let it know that there is an issue.

Unable to Get a Specific Channel

Toshiba rear projection TVs come equipped with channel locks, allowing you to shut out a channel you don't want or may contain objectionable material. Access the "Locks" menu onscreen using your remote, then select "Channel Lock." Check to see if the channel you want is listed. If it is, maneuver over to it with the arrow keys on your remote and press "Enter." That should clear it. Alternately, you may have inadvertently erased the channel from the TV entirely. Manually type in the channel number on the keypad to your remote, then press the "Menu" button. Use the left and right arrows to maneuver to the "Set Up" menu, then use the up and down arrows to highlight the "Add/Erase" setting. Click on "Add." The Toshiba should begin broadcasting the station as normal.

Black Box Onscreen

A Toshiba rear projection TV offers a closed-captioning service for hearing-impaired viewers. You have to turn it off to get rid of the box. Press the "Menu" button and use the left and right arrows to move to the "Custom" setting. Then use the up and down arrows to move to "CC." Finally, use the left and right arrows again to highlight the "Off" setting, and click on it.

Remote Control Problems

Remote controls need batteries to work. If yours isn't functioning as it should, swap the current batteries for new ones. In addition, the signal from the remote must travel in an uninterrupted line from your hand to the TV. If there's a piece of furniture or similar obstruction in the way, move around it, then try again.

Can't Access DVD Player, VCR or Cable Box

The Video Lock feature allows you to shut off access to auxiliary components such as DVD players and video game systems. Access the "Locks" menu on the remote, then use the right and left arrows to highlight the locked video input jacks you want to unlock. (You may need to check the back of your Toshiba to determine which input jacks are being used.) Highlight it and maneuver to the "Off" setting, then click it. You should now have access to the component in question.

Tags: left right, left right arrows, rear projection, remote then, right arrows

Restore Vhs Tapes

Picture problems with VHS tapes are often caused by worn parts in the housing.

Now that DVDs and Blu-ray Discs have made VHS tapes all but obsolete, you'd have as much luck finding a local service that deals with this archaic form of media as you would finding a Victrola repairman. Unfortunately, the plastic parts inside a VHS cassette become worn over time, preventing the tape from properly aligning with the playback head of a VCR. The result is a distorted or jumpy picture. When this happens, you have two options: throw it away or fix it yourself. The good news is the latter isn't all that difficult.

Instructions

1. The screws are located on the underside of a VHS tape.

Place the damaged VHS cassette face down on a flat surface.

2. Remove all the screws using a small Phillips screwdriver. Keeping the front and back of the housing together by gripping it with your hands, flip the VHS cassette over.

3. Remove the top half of the plastic housing and set it aside.

4. Repeat the process with the new VHS cassette. Since most of the tape guides aren't securely attached to the housing, be careful not to knock them loose when removing the top half of the cassette.

5. Draw a diagram reflecting how the tape is threaded through the guides in the new VHS cassette.

6. Remove the tape assembly from the housing by raising both spools simultaneously while being careful not to knock out any of the tape guides. Set the tape and spools aside.

7. Lift the tape assembly from the damaged VHS cassette and set it in the new housing. You may have to push the lock mechanism--the small, spring-loaded arm located between the two spools--aside to get the spools in place.

8. Thread the tape through the guides in accordance with your diagram. Generally, the tape threads between the plastic and metal guide on the left, and around the single guide (which can be plastic or metal) on the right.

9. Turn the left spool to take up any slack in the tape.

10. Replace the top half of the plastic housing and--making sure to hold both halves tightly together--turn the tape back over to reveal the screw holes. Check to make sure the tape is completely contained in the cassette.

11. A small Phillips screwdriver works best when disassembling and reassembling a VHS tape.

Replace the screws and tighten.

12. Insert the VHS cassette into a VCR. Fast-forward to the end of the tape, then rewind back to the beginning.

Tags: assembly from, careful knock, damaged cassette, half plastic, half plastic housing, Phillips screwdriver, plastic housing

Scan Photographs

Do you want to add photographs to your letters, calendars or Web site? Use the guidelines below for the best results in scanning your photographs.

Instructions

1. Select a good-quality photograph. A poor-quality photograph results in a poor scan.

2. Insert the photograph into your scanner (for sheet-fed scanners) or place it onto the scanning surface (for flat-bed scanners).

3. Run a preview scan of the photograph to determine the scanning area (don't waste disk space scanning an entire page for a 3 by 5-inch photograph).

4. Resize the scanning area to fit the size of the photograph.

5. Set the scanning mode to color (or comparable setting) to include all of the colors in your photograph.

6. Set the resolution to 200 dpi or better for good quality in your scanned photographs.

7. Use the scanner features to increase brightness for underexposed photographs, decrease for overexposed photographs, or adjust colors.

8. Insert or place the photograph in the same position that you used for the preview scan, then scan it.

9. Save the image in a format (TIFF, PSD) that is understood by your graphic editor or other software program that will use your image.

Tags: preview scan, scanning area

Turn Off The Flash On A Canon Rebel Xti

Cameras are able to be modified to meet almost any standard of quality.

The Canon Rebel XTi is a 10-megapixel digital SLR camera. This product has a 2.5-inch LCD screen for easy viewing, and a nine-point auto-focus system for point-and-shoot photography. Conveniently, it's fully compatible with the entire EOS line of custom lenses and filters. The camera has an integrated flash, and can accommodate an additional add-on flash if necessary. While the flash is useful in many circumstances there may be times or places where the flash is unwanted.

Instructions

1. Find the menu dial on the top of the camera. With the lens facing away from you, it is located on the top right side of the camera body. The dial lies directly to the left of the "On/Off" switch.

2. Turn the dial clockwise as far as it will go. The last dial mode is represented by a rectangle with a lightning bolt and a line through it. This is the "Flash Disable" mode.

3. Check the numeric display on the viewfinder. If the number is blinking, then there is very little light and the shutter will have to be left open for a long time to take a picture.

Tags: Canon Rebel

Make Speakers From Headphones

Building speakers can be a rewarding pastime for DIY enthusiasts. The measure of success for these hobbyists is when the speaker works, even if its audio quality and the appearance are not comparable to factory-produced speakers. With enough creativity and time, anyone can make speakers using a variety of items found in the home--even old headphones.

Instructions

Make Wireless Speakers

1. Cut two wires. Each of them should be at least 3 inches long. Solder the wires to the male end of your socket and plug connectors.

2. Open the wireless charging base and unscrew the circuit board. Locate the charging wires on the circuit board. Solder the other ends of the wires on your connectors to the points at which the charging wires connect to the circuit board.

3. Make allowance for the wires in the charging base. Make a notch in the shell of the charging base so that the wires can stick out when you close the base. Place the circuit board back into the base and replace the screws.

4. Take your headphones apart. Remove the screws so you can open the battery housing. Use the dremel to cut the shell around the batteries. Avoid cutting the wires.

5. Make a small box with the Plexiglas and hot glue. The box should be big enough to hold the battery housing from your headphones as well as the charging circuits. Make a hole in the box in the area where the batteries will be placed for easy access.

6. Replace the spring-based switch with a sliding on/off switch. Solder the ground and positive wires from the sliding switch in the place of the spring-based switch on the circuit board.

7. Cut a small hole on the side of the box to accommodate the new switch, and make it accessible. Place the switch against the hole, and glue it to the Plexiglas housing.

8. Cut a hole for the speaker. This is the ear piece from the headphones. The hole should be just large enough to fit the speaker housing. Place the housing through the hole. The edges of the speaker should rest on the Plexiglas. Glue the edges to the Plexiglas.

9. Solder the wire to the female end of the power connector. Solder the wires from your power cable to the charging tabs. Test your speakers.

10. Discover more techniques for building your own speakers with "Designing, Building, and Testing Your Own Speaker System with Projects" by David B. Weems (see Resources below).

Tags: circuit board, charging base, battery housing, charging wires, from your, sliding switch

List Of Camera Types

Different cameras offer different advantages.

The variety of choice can make choosing a camera a confusing process. Modern cameras can be digital or film-based, and offer varying levels of control over the image for the photographer. The different types of camera determine the way the image is created and the final photograph.

Point and Shoot

Point and shoot cameras can be either film-based or digital and are common for entry level and amateur photographers. The high level of automatic function and ease of control on this type of camera make it an excellent option for fast, candid photographs. Some models have a number of presets and semi-manual modes, which allow for more control over the resulting image. But they can limit the amount of input the photographer has over the process.

Single-Lens Reflex

Single-lens reflex cameras come in a variety of formats. They can be either digital or film-based. Film-based single-lens reflex cameras can be found to cover a variety of film sizes, though 35 millimeter and medium formats are popular. The single lens refers to the lens used in composing and creating the image. A mirror sits inside the camera, moving aside when the image is taken to allow the light to reach the image media. These cameras offer more control over the image process and have interchangeable lenses, allowing the photographer to change the focal length.

Twin-Lens Reflex

Twin-lens reflex cameras have--as its name implies--two lenses. One lens is used to compose the image, and one lens is used to take the picture. This arrangement allows light to move directly from the lens to the film without a mirror to move. These cameras are film-based and usually take medium format film.

Large Format Cameras

Large format cameras are used widely in landscape photography and in situations where the resulting photograph must be very large. These cameras use sheet film held in a rear standard, which is connected to a front standard by an expandable bellows. This allows the photographer to change the angle of the film in relation to the lens, resulting in different types of distortion in the final image.

Tags: control over, lens used, reflex cameras, These cameras, cameras offer

Use Gps With A Blackberry 7130e

A Blackberry device is a very handy tool that you can use for pleasure and business. Many Blackberry models offer many added features to make life easier and simpler for people. For example, some features may include BlueTooth and GPS (Global Positioning Service). The GPS can be very helpful when you are traveling and trying to find your way. Newer Blackberry models can get the navigation or GPS feature simply by a touch of a button, for the Blackberry 7130e, however, there are a few more steps involved prior to using the GPS

Instructions

1. Call your Blackberry service provider to activate the GPS. The GPS is not a default setting on Blackberry 7130e. You would need to get the plan for GPS to avail of that service. There are plans and roaming fees that you may have to pay use the service.

2. Connect a GPS dongle or receiver to your Blackberry 7130e. Since your Blackberry comes with a BlueTooth, it should be able to work with a GPS receiver. Please refer to the model GlobalSat BT-359C SiRF Star 111 BlueTooth.

3. Get a software patch for your Blackberry 7130e GPS. The patch code is KB110060, which is for the internal GPS or Blackberry 7130e. The service provider or carrier will provide you the patch and help you install it.

4. Download and install Nav4All. Navi4All is free until January 1, 2010. This allows for worldwide mobile navigating, tracking and tracing. This software is valid for use in North America, Brazil, Mexico, Europe, South Africa, Australia and Asia. Note that Nav4All only automatically selects real internal GPS receiver, which a Blackberry 7130e does not have. You can force Nav4All to use the network assisted GPS by changing the settings. Go to settings, setup and then go to LAPI advanced.

5. Use the Blackberry browser and go to any map provider to get to your destination. An example will be going to MapQuest or Google maps that also use satellites similar to other GPS devices. Using the browser is another way you can find locations using your Blackberry 7130e through third party applications available free of charge.

Tags: Blackberry 7130e, your Blackberry, your Blackberry 7130e, Blackberry models, service provider

The History Of Stereo Cassette Recorders

The beginning of the invention of the stereo cassette recorder dates back to 1877 when Thomas Edison invented the first sound reproducer and recorder. The stereo cassette recorder and the way we listen to music has changed dramatically since then.

Magnetic Recording

The way today's stereo cassette players work is by magnetic recording, which was first developed in the 1920s. By the 1930s and 40s the most prevalent form of recording was magnetic recording on tapes and wires.

Introduction

By the late 1950s a much lighter version, compared to what was being used in the 30s and 40s, was introduced. This form of cassette recorder was mainly developed for news and film crews that were on the road.

Cassettes and Cartridges

By the mid 1960s, various manufacturers developed different cassettes and cartridges to make operating the cassette recorder a simpler task. The first cassette to become widely used was known as the 8-track tape. In the late 60s, a compact cassette was introduced by Phillips.

Walkman

In the 1980s, Sony introduced the Walkman to the public. The Walkman was a handheld personal cassette recorder that was listened to with headphones.

Boom Box

Soon after Sony introduced the Walkman, the boom box was released to the public as well. The boom box was a portable cassette recorder and player that had large speakers for increased volume.

Tags: cassette recorder, introduced Walkman, magnetic recording, Sony introduced, Sony introduced Walkman, stereo cassette, stereo cassette recorder

Nikon D40 Vs Nikon D50

The Nikon D40 and D50 are both digital SLR cameras created by Nikon for entry-level photographers who are looking for a digital camera that gives them the flexibility to exchange lenses and manipulate manual controls. While the Nikon D40 and D50 are just one model number apart, they have several differences that make them stand out as their own unique camera model, in many cases putting the cheaper D40 above its more expensive counterpart.

Megapixel

Both the Nikon D40 and D50 take pictures at a 6.1-megapixel resolution. A 6-megapixel resolution photo can be printed up to 8 x 10 size while maintaining its resolution and quality.

ISO

The Nikon D40 has an ISO sensitivity of 200-1,600 with the ability to go up to 3,200 with a boosting option. The Nikon D50 on the other hand only has an ISO range of 200-1,600 with no option to go up to 3,200. The ISO setting in your camera determines how sensitive your camera's sensor is to light. The Nikon D40 is technically capable of handling lower-light situations slightly better than the D50 due to the option of going up to a 3,200 ISO setting.

LCD

The Nikon D40 has a 2.5-inch 230,000-pixel LCD, whereas the Nikon D50 has a slightly smaller 2-inch 130,000-pixel LCD.

Storage

The Nikon D40 is capable of saving pictures to both secure digital (SD) and high-capacity secure digital card (SDHC). The Nikon D50 is only capable of saving picture to traditional SD cards. What that means is that you can use larger-capacity cards that are capable of holding more picture in the D40, but not in the D50.

Price

As of 2009, the Nikon D40 starts at $599 for a kit with an included basic lens. The Nikon D50 starts at $899 for the kit with included lens.

Tags: 200-1 with, capable saving, lens Nikon, Nikon starts, Nikon starts with, secure digital, starts with

Make Pvc Tube Speaker Enclosures

PVC piping comes in a variety of sizes.

Making a PVC pipe speaker requires a great deal of gluing and some wiring, but in the end you can have a speaker enclosure that gives you the same sound as an expensive enclosure. The hardest part of the project may just be to find a speaker cone that fits your PVC pipe.

Instructions

1. Select a PVC size that can fit where you want to deploy the speaker. The smaller sizes are appropriate for a shelf system while the bigger diameters of PVC piping are good for floor speakers. Once you have selected a PVC pipe size, you can then select a speaker cone size. It is okay for the flange to be over the side of the PVC pipe lip but the cone itself must be able to fit inside.

2. Put on safety goggles. Strip half an inch from the end of the two wires coming from the rear of the speaker cone. Apply a light amount of epoxy on the flange around the speaker cone and then slide the cone into the PVC pipe. Hold the cone for five minutes against the pipe to ensure a good bond.

3. Strip half an inch from from the end of the audio wire with a prewired jack. Twist one wire each to a corresponding wire coming from the speaker cone. Wrap each twisted pairing with electrical tape. Wrap them separately, not together, as that would cause a short in the circuit.

4. Drill a 1/4-inch hole in the top of a PVC pipe cap and slide the audio cable through, jack first. Apply epoxy along the inside rim of the cap and slide it on to the open end of the PVC speaker pipe. Hold for five minutes to ensure a good bond. Once the epoxy sets you will have a PVC speaker.

Tags: speaker cone, coming from, ensure good, ensure good bond, five minutes, good bond, half inch

What Should I Do If I Have A Flashing Blue Power Light On My Directv Box

With the popularity of digital cable and digital video recorders (DVRs) on the rise, technical problems are bound to crop up. Most problems you encounter aren't anything new, and chances are your issue has happened to someone else before. That means the troubleshooting has already been done for you, so you should be able to check a few common answers for your particular malfunction and act accordingly. The good news is if your DIRECTV power light begins to flash, all is not lost. It is generally an indicator that something is wrong, but it doesn't have to mean replacing your whole DVR.

Instructions

1. Refer to DIRECTV's technical support forums (see Resources). There have been many cases of a blinking blue power light, and you should be able to pinpoint your exact problem.

2. Listen to your DVR box. Is it making a clicking sound accompanied by the blinking blue light? According to the DIRECTV tech on its forum, this can mean that the hard drive has died.

3. Reset your box. Unplug it from the wall and wait at least 30 minutes before plugging it back in and repowering. Some DVR models have a reset button inside the access card door. If so, simply press the reset button.

4. Check the power supply board if you are tech savvy and knowledgeable about working with electrical components. The blinking power light is often caused by broken caps. You will notice them bulging if they are bad. Replace the caps. Only do this if you own the DVR as it is a breach of lease if you are renting the box from DIRECTV.

5. Call DIRECTV's customer service or technical support line (800-531-5000). Assistance is available 24 hours a day, and seven days a week. Once you call, they can either help you troubleshoot over the phone, send a tech to your home to check the box, or even replace the box completely if they deem it necessary.

Tags: power light, blinking blue, reset button, should able, technical support

Akai Rear Projection Tv Problems

If you own an Akai rear projection TV, you may have started to notice a few problems with your set. Although these TVs provide decent picture quality and can offer enjoyment many years after being purchased, a few design flaws inherent to these televisions can lead to major problems. However, preventative measures can be taken and repair procedures completed to keep your TV running in perfect shape for years to come.

Overheating

Many Akai TV owners have noticed overheating, due to poor placement of the air vents on their rear projection TVs, which can be detected from a faint electrical burning smell or simply an overly warm unit. Overheating can be prevented by placing the television in the coolest room of your home. In addition, make sure that the TV is positioned directly against a wall, and make sure that there are no obstructions covering the rear air vents of the television.

Dead Pixels

Due to a variety of factors, it's possible to notice tiny spots on the screen that are black regardless of what's being displayed on the screen. These are known as dead pixels and could crop up shortly after purchasing the TV or many years later. This can be prevented by occasionally turning the television off for a few minutes every couple of hours, making sure the TV is turned off completely at night, and not leaving movies or video games paused for lengthy periods of time. If the TV is still within its warranty period, Akai will generally replace the screen so long as a significant number of pixels are damaged. Akai probably won't replace a screen with only one or two dead pixels.

Double Imaging

If the convergence chips inside of your television become damaged, typically through overheating or prolonged use, your TV may experience double imaging. Look online for detailed information on repairing this problem. Although the process can be done at home by the owner, a repair kit will be necessary. As with any repair requiring you to open your TV, be aware of the risks of electric shocks. Make sure the TV is unplugged, and wear rubber-soled shoes and gloves. An unplugged TV can still hold an electrical charge and deliver a nasty shock if you aren't careful. If you aren't comfortable doing this repair yourself, contact a certified television repair person.

Tags: dead pixels, make sure, make sure that, many years, rear projection, replace screen