Even though the sensors on the newer Nikon DSLRs have a built-in "sensor shake" cleaning method available through the menu system of the camera, dust can still build up on the sensor over time and will need to be cleaned. Most stores charge $60 to do a sensor cleaning, but if you have the tools, it is pretty easy to do at home.
Instructions
Activate the Camera Sensor Clean First
1. Use the camera's built in "sensor shake" to remove big particles, before doing a wet cleaning of the sensor. Go to Menu, then Setup, then Clean Image Sensor and press Enter.
2. Go to the Setup Menu and press Lockup Mirror for Cleaning. This needs to be done with a fully charged battery. Power down the camera.
3. Remove the body cap from the D3 and use the blower bulb to blow any loose dust off. Use three squirts with the blower.
4. Use two drops of Eclipse E2 fluid on a full-frame swab. Make one pass across the sensor from left to right, then a second pass from right to left.
5. Place the scope over the opening in the camera and check to see if there is any dust left on the sensor. If there is, repeat step 4.
6. Use the blower one more time on the camera. Then go to the setup menu and unlock the mirror.
In-wall speakers and in-ceiling speakers used to be a much-maligned facet of the audiophile world. However, in recent years they've become more efficient and capable of higher quality output. They have the added bonus of maintaining your shelf and floor space while blending seamlessly into the walls. If you'd have your speakers in the ceiling, here's convert in-wall speakers to in-ceiling speakers to optimize your home theater system.
Instructions
1. Remove your in-wall speakers. Don't throw them out, though, unless you plan on purchasing new speakers. You can use the same speakers in your ceiling that you used in your walls.
2. Continue your wire runs from the speaker holes in the wall to the area of the ceiling where you are going to mount your ceiling speakers. You will probably need to purchase more in-wall wire for the extra length. Visit Radio Shack or go online to Cables to Go (see Resources below) to find in-wall speaker wire.
3. Cut out the mounting areas for your ceiling speakers. Measure the space you need for your ceiling-mounted speakers and use a hole saw to make the cut. Ensure that the holes are just large enough for the speakers or you will have some ceiling repairs to make.
4. Buy new speakers for your ceiling mounts. If you're choosing to buy new speakers, consider their frequency (measured in hertz) and sensitivity (measured in decibels).
5. Mount your speakers into the ceiling holes. Connect the speakers to the existing wiring before sealing them in the ceiling. Use connectors as opposed to bare wire to ensure a proper connection that will prevent having to remove the speakers again.
6. Paint your in-ceiling speakers to make them blend seamlessly into your home decor. If you don't want your speakers visible, you can purchase or make covers to go over them. Use paint or ceiling tile to cover the speakers so they match the rest of your ceiling.
Tags: your ceiling, in-ceiling speakers, your speakers, ceiling speakers, in-wall speakers, seamlessly into
Television sets function using a device called the cathode ray tube (CRT). CRTs are instruments that actually display the images that appear on television screens. The cathode is a filament inside a glass tube. When it is heated, it attracts electrons from the ray within a vacuum created inside the tube. Other aspects of the television set that help it function include steering coils, phosphors and transmitted TV signals that actually dictate how beams are fired at the TV screen. Each of these factors work in concert to transmit images.
How the CRT Works
The cathode in a television set is an anode, which means that it is a positive energy source. Since electrons are negative, they are naturally attracted to the anode, which bounces the electrons off the cathode. This creates a process in which the electrons are tightened into an accelerated beam by the anode. The acceleration allows the electrons to shoot through the vacuum in the tube and hit the flat screen of the television set, located at the opposite end of the tube. Wrapped around the cathode ray tube are copper wires that generate magnetic fields within the tube. Once the beam of electrons pass through this field, it becomes highly concentrated, allowing the beam to move in a number of different directions (without the magnetic field, then the beam will only be concentrated in the center of the screen). This is done through different set of coils that move the beam vertically and horizontally.
How TV Phosphors Work
Phosphors are materials that emit light once they are struck by radiation. Ultraviolet light and electron beams are both radiated materials. The inside of all television sets are coated with phosphors. Phosphors come in three types of light: red, green, and blue. These lights are arranged in stripes or dots. The colors create the multitude of shades (there are thousands of combinations created in a phosphor that are determined by the color and how long the emission lasts after it has been discharged) seen on a color television set (black-and-white television sets only have one phosphor). When the electron beams strike the back of the television set, the phosphor emits lights that are converted into the colors being struck. The differences in hues and shades are caused by the primary colors located in the phosphors. Shadow masking is a technique in which tiny holes in a thin metal screen, which is located close to the phosphor coating, are lined up with the colored dots or stripes in the phosphors. Depending on signals the electron beam receives, certain beams will light certain dots (for instance, a blue beam strikes a blue dot) in the phosphor. To create a variation of colors, the red, green, and blue beams are fired in different combinations or fired or not fired at the same time to create white and black colors respectively.
How TV Signals Work
The electron beam is controlled by signals transmitted from TV stations or VCRs. This signal contains three important sources of information: intensity, horizontal-retrace signals and vertical-retrace signals. Each of these signals informs the TV set on when and move the electron beam across the face of the screen. Each signal is defined by the number of pulses it discharges to the beam of electrons. For instance, horizontal-retrace signals have 5-microsecond pulses at zero volts, with a variance at 0.5 (black) and 2.0 volts (white). The signal controls the intensity and, in a color TV set, has a 3.0 MHz bandwidth limitation. The vertical-retrace pulse, on the other hand, discharges 400 to 500 microsecond pulses. The pulse, which is serrated, is in sync with the beam as it crosses horizontally across the screen.
Franciscan earthenware, manufactured by Gladding, McBean between 1934 and about 1980, is one of the most popular collectible dinnerware brands in the United States and Great Britain. Its appealing colorful patterns and casual shapes suit a modern home as well as they did in 1940. Some of the most popular patterns are decorated with bright hand-painted fruit or flowers, a cheerful addition to any table.
Instructions
1. Visit an antique dealer to become familiar with Franciscan earthenware. Don't buy on a first visit but focus on and perhaps photograph as many Franciscan patterns as possible and make notes on conditions and prices. If the dealers have only a few pieces or no pieces, ask them to direct you to another dealer.
2. Check for logos on the backs of pieces called Franciscan earthenware but do not depend on the logo to authenticate the piece. Real Franciscan earthenware may or may not have the Franciscan logo, but most patterns and shapes will have a "Made in USA" stamp and some will say "Made in California." Beware of Franciscan earthenware copies made in the last 10 years. Most have no identification and all will appear to be in new condition.
3. Buy a book on Franciscan earthenware from an antique dealer's website or a bookstore. Check for books on china and tableware in a library. Because there are nearly 150 Franciscan earthenware patterns, a book may be the best way to authenticate a piece or set.
4. Consult dealers' websites, which will frequently have photos of one or two patterns as well as information on prices. One promising website is gmcb.com, a library of Franciscan patterns. The patterns are listed but few photos are available. It does provide the titles of several books on Franciscan dinnerware.
5. Search for a pattern on replacements.com, which has the most thorough catalog of Franciscan earthenware with photographs, but the site is somewhat difficult because the earthenware patterns are mixed with china patterns. The only way to tell the difference is to click on the pattern title and read the content. This website provides pieces or whole sets, so prices are printed alongside the photos and are kept up to date.
Pictures cannot be saved on a write protected xD card.
Older models of cameras manufactured by Olympus do not use SD cards to save images, but instead the less well-known format, the xD card. xD cards, like SD cards, are flash memory cards, available in a variety of memory sizes. Like other storage devices, xD cards can be write protected, which means that they can be prevented from being erased or having any new information written on them. This is useful for preventing the accidental erasure of important information, but removing the write protect can be problematic.
Instructions
1. Remove the xD card from the camera and look at the side of it. Most xD cards have a tiny write protect switch, usually on the left hand side. Slide the switch into position and try the card in the camera again.
2. Check that the card is formatted. Do this by inserting it into the camera, accessing your playback menu and using it to format the card. Bear in mind that formatting the card may erase any pictures saved on it.
3. Reformat the card with your computer if you cannot reformat it using your camera. Using a USB card reader, plug the card into your PC and on the "Start" menu, click on "My Computer." The card will be listed as a removable drive. Right-click on it and select "Format."
4. Format the card on another camera if you have a friend or colleague who also possesses an xD-compatible camera.
5. Return the card to the shop where you bought it if none of these methods work, as it may be defective.
An SD card viewer is essentially a digital picture display. Because most SD cards are used to store digital images within cameras, the SD card reader takes the data from the card and displays the information on the built-in LCD screen. This is helpful if you want to show friends and family your images without using the small screen on your digital camera.
Instructions
1. Insert the SD card into the SD card viewer. The location of the SD card slot is going to vary depending on the make and model of viewer you are using.
2. Power on the SD card viewer.It will detect the inserted SD card and load the first image onto the screen.
3. Push the "Next" button to advance to the second image saved on the SD card. Push "Previous" to return to the picture you just viewed.
4. Eject the SD card by pushing the card deeper into the viewer. This releases the lock on the card and it automatically ejects from the system.
The Canon QL 17 is a manual SLR camera used to take photos.
Canon came out with several cameras in the Canonet series during the 1960s and the 1970s that were all 35 mm rangefinder cameras. The QL 17 camera originally came out in 1965, and then a newer model came out again in 1969. This is a manual SLR camera, meaning that the shutter is not automatic. You must focus the lens by hand and use 35 mm film. Just like with other cameras, you need batteries to be able to take pictures.
Instructions
1. Open the back of the camera and insert the batteries. Pay attention to the guide to make sure the batteries go in the right way. The old types of 625 batteries were mercury based and found to be toxic. Therefore, you can take your Canon QL 17 to a professional and have it modified to take regular alkaline batteries, or find a retail store that sells the alkaline version of the old 625 batteries.
2. Place the film cartridge into place in the back of the open camera. Pull out a small strip of film and feed it into the camera. Close the back and turn the film winder until the window on the top of the back of the camera indicates the film is in proper place. The small window will begin red and switch to green or black when the film is ready to be exposed, if the camera has not been modified. Sometimes owners have modified older cameras to use different lenses, flashes, batteries and color signals.
3. Look through the lens at the subject of your photograph. Use your left hand to adjust the lens until the view is clear. Your right hand should be holding the camera with your pointer finger resting lightly on the shutter.
4. Click the shutter when your photograph is focused and you have your subject in frame. Wind the film winder until the next piece of film is ready to be exposed.
Tags: back camera, film ready, film ready exposed, film winder, film winder until, have modified
Installing a Crown amplifier for a Behringer equalizer can be done in a matter of minutes, as both devices connect using RCA cables. Connecting the devices follows an almost identical process, regardless of what model is being used. An amplifier is used to power speakers, while an equalizer is used to tweak the sound. For example, adjusting bass, mids and treble would be done by the EQ.
Instructions
1. Plug in the source device to the equalizer. Connect an RCA cable the source device's (DVD player, computer) "Audio Out" port. Connect the other end of the cable to the equalizer's "Source In" or "Audio In" port.
2. Connect the equalizer to the amplifier. Plug a RCA cable into the equalizer's "Audio Out" port. Plug the other end of the cable into the amplifier's "EQ In," "Source In," or "Audio In" port.
3. Turn on the source device, equalizer and amplifier. Play some music and adjust the EQ settings.
Seagull makes low-priced film cameras in imitation of high-end cameras.
Seagull has a long reputation as a copier of famous cameras. The company, based in Shanghai, has made its own versions of cameras such as the rangefinders made famous by Leica, the medium-format single-lens reflex models pioneered by Hasselblad and the twin-lens reflex camera (TLR) produced by Yashica and Rollei. The most commonly available Seagull camera is the TLR model that uses medium format 120 film to produce a 2.25-by-2.25 inch negative like the Seagull 4 or the far more recent WWSC. It is a basic TLR camera and can provide solid medium format photography. A twin-lens reflex camera employs two sane focal length objective lenses. One actually is the image "taking lens." The other is used as the "viewing lens," or viewfinder.
Instructions
1. Clean the entire camera if you have not used it lately, or if you bought it used. Use the compressed air to blow out any dust or debris in all the crevices on the outside and inside of the camera body. Use the lens cleaning tissue to clean the top or viewing lens gently as well as the lower or "taking" lens. You also need to clean the ground glass of the viewfinder. At the back of the camera near the top, push the top portion of the viewfinder cover upward. It will come up at a right angle and a magnifier will pop up. Push the magnifier down and clean the ground glass. Then clean the magnifier.
2. Load the 120 film in the camera. On the bottom of the Seagull TLR, push what the company calls the safety lever attached to the round locking disk. Then turn the disk to open. This releases the entire back cover. Raise the back cover on its hinge up and out of the way. If your Seagull TLR has an empty 120 reel in the bottom chamber, move it to the top chamber. You can release it by pulling out on the knob on the side of the camera. If there is no empty spool, you will need one. Place the film spool into the bottom chamber. Then pull the paper backing up pass the picture-taking area in the center. Thread it onto the empty spool. Then use the film winding knob or level on the right side of the camera to wind the film. Stop when the arrows on the paper film backing align with the red mark on the inside of the camera. Shut and lock the camera back, and wind the film to frame one.
3. Adjust the shutter speed and aperture settings according to your hand-held light meter readings taking into account the speed of your film. On older meters, the film speed will be in ASA or DIN, while on newer versions it will be ISO. ISO equals ASA, so if your film speed is 400 ISO, set the meter to 400 ASA. The light meter will give you options for shutter speeds and aperture settings. The shutter speeds on a Seagull TLR camera typically range from 1 second to 1/250th of a second, but this may vary according to the model. The standard 75 mm lens has apertures between f/3.5 and f/22. The bigger the number, the smaller the opening and the less light reaches the film. If, for example, you are shooting 400 ISO film in moderate sunlight, you would set the shutter speed to 1/250th of a second and the aperture to f/22. It is better to use the meter reading than to guess. In some older models, you need to cock the shutter with a small lever at the right of the taking lens. In newer versions, the shutter cocks automatically as you advance the film.
4. Hold the Seagull TLR at your waist level and look down into the viewfinder. The image appears reversed - right to left. Use the focusing knob on the left side of the camera body to sharpen the image. Alternatively, you can use the pop-up magnifier to focus more precisely. If you do this, hold the camera up to your eye. When the image is in focus, depress the shutter button at the lower right front to take the photo. Then wind the film advance knob.
5. Wind the film entirely onto the take-up spool after exposing the last frame on the roll. Open the camera back, remove the film and have it developed.
Tags: side camera, taking lens, wind film, 250th second, aperture settings, back cover
The Kodak Easyshare line of digital cameras is designed for consumers of a beginner-to-intermediate level of skill. While using your Easyshare camera, you may encounter problems involving the camera's battery, picture quality, connectivity and memory storage. You may be able to solve or minimize the impact of these problems with a few simple steps.
Battery Life
Some problems commonly experienced with the Kodak Easyshare result from the use of a dead, malfunctioning or incompatible battery module. If the lens refuses to retract or the camera's controls cease to operate, remove the module and clean the metal contacts. Dirt and debris can interfere with the battery's ability to function); reinsert the battery, taking care to confirm that it is properly seated.
You can often extend the lifespan of your battery by limiting your use of the camera's flash, reducing the brightness of the LCD display and disabling any additional features, such as Wi-Fi capability.
Picture Quality
If you are dissatisfied with your pictures, first confirm that your camera is set to the proper mode for the type of picture you are trying to take. Easyshare cameras come with a variety of preset modes designed for use with certain subject types, compositions and lightings. Using the wrong mode may result in a dull, washed out or blurry image. You can access the scene settings by using the mode dial (or button, depending on the type of Easyshare camera) to select the "Scene" menu; use the arrow buttons to select the appropriate mode.
When using the camera's flash, be sure to allow some distance (at least two feet) between yourself and your subject; otherwise, your image may appear excessively light.
Connection Problems
If you have difficulty transferring pictures from the camera to your computer, first check the USB cable to confirm that both plugs are fully seated. If this fails to resolve the problem, disconnect the camera and exit any currently active applications before reconnecting, as these may cause conflicts with the Easyshare software.
As a last resort, remove the Easyshare software and perform a clean installation; you may wish to download an installer directly from the Kodak website (see Resources below), as these may be more up-to-date than the version that came on the installation CD.
Low Memory
Depending on the size of the installed memory card, you may find yourself running out of storage space more quickly than desired. One way to address this problem is to adjust the settings for default picture size. If you are planning to print your images out at a high-resolution, you may need to keep these settings at the highest level; however, if you only intend to share your pictures via email or webpage, using a lower resolution will usually produce an acceptable result.
To lower the picture size setting, press the "Menu" button and use the arrow buttons to access the appropriate entry.
The emulsion of a film negative is sensitive and easily scratched by a fingernail or any other sharp object that comes into contact with it. The result is a line on the print that is made from the negative. There are a number of procedures that can be used to remove the scratch from the negative so that the final print will be free of any blemishes. Household supplies will be needed, as will computer devices and software programs that can be downloaded from online retailers.
Instructions "All Applications" menu. Scan the negative and save a digital file of it to the desktop. Load a graphics program, for example, Photoshop. Load the digital scan of the negative into the graphics program. Outline the scratch, using the "box" tool. Apply the "Retouching wand" (or equivalent) to the scratch to remove it. Save a a digital scan of the scratch-free negative.
3. Blow the dust off both sides of the negative with compressed air. Place the negative into the film holder, emulsion side facing in, and the holder into the film scanner that is connected to the computer. Run the scanner's software by selecting it from the "Start" > "All Applications" menu. Check the "Dust and scratch" removal checkbox. Click the "Scan" button. Save the resulting digital file that is created to the desktop. Quit the program and remove the negative from the film holder and place it away for safekeeping.
Tags: Applications menu, digital file, digital scan, film holder, from negative, graphics program, into film
Costa Rica is popular with U.S. travelers and is also an increasingly sought-after retirement destination. Calling Costa Rica from a U.S. cell phone is easy, but will require some initial set-up.
Most U.S. cell phones do not have international calling automatically activated, so you will most likely need to call your service provider to have international calling feature activated. If you plan to make frequent calls to Costa Rica, your service provider may have special deals for calls to this specific country. In most cases, you'll need to subscribe to this service and pay a small monthly fee.
Instructions
1. Turn on your cell phone.
2. Dial the international exit code: 011 and the country code: 506 on the cell phone number pad.
3. Enter the eight-digit Costa Rican number.
4. Press "send" once the correct number has been entered and allow time for the call to connect. Your dialed number will look like this: 011-506-XXXX-XXXX.
5. Listen for the ring tone as the call goes through. The ring tone is similar to that on U.S. phones.
Tags: Costa Rica, cell phone, your service provider, Calling Costa, Calling Costa Rica, have international, have international calling
Removing pictures from a digital camera can be fairly easy with just a few steps and having the right accessories. By following these easy steps, you are sure to have all of those pictures from your favorite occasion so that you can keep all of your favorite memories forever.
Instructions
Removing your cards with a memory card reader.
1. Remove your memory card from your digital camera.
2. Place your memory card inside of your memory card reader. Be careful not to push it to hard in. It should slide in easily.
3. Connect the USB connector from the memory card into the USB port on your computer.
4. Choose the drive that your memory card reader is on. It may say the name of your camera such as KODAK for example. Click on that drive.
5. Select all of the pictures on your card by pushing the "cntrl" and "a" button your computer. Right click, and then choose "cut."
6. Place your pictures in the corresponding folder that you would like them in or upload them to your favorite photo developing center. You can also copy them onto a CD-R or CD-RW so that you can take them to a photo printing shop as well.
Removing your pictures with usb or parallel cables
7. Connect your USB or parallel cord from your camera to your computer.
8. Wait a few seconds for your computer to notice your camera hardware. Once it has detected it, then choose the drive that your camera is located on. It should have the name of your camera next to the drive that it is on.
9. Select all of the pictures or the pictures that you would like from the drive. Copy and paste them into the corresponding folder that you would like them to be in.
10. Upload your photos to your favorite photo publishing website or save them onto a cd to take to a print shop.
Tags: memory card, your camera, your computer, your favorite, your memory, your memory card
If you have Dish Network and want to subscribe to DirecTV, you will have to change a few things before the switch. You will need an account with DirecTV and their equipment minus a few things. Since you already had a satellite network, you can use some of the same supplies and equipment. Read more to see what you need to do to install DirecTV to replace Dish Network so that you can start receiving a signal today.
Instructions
1. Remove the Dish Network satellite dish from the mounting bracket. If you have the same size dish, you may be able to use the same brackets. If not, you will need to remove the brackets and install the new hardware for the DirecTV dish.
2. Use the same coaxial cable that you already have installed in your home. There will be no difference as long as you are not going to have an Internet connection. Attach the same coaxial to the DirecTV dish. If you are installing Internet connections, you must follow the directions supplied by DirecTV to install an additional coaxial cable.
3. Move inside the house and replace the Dish receiver with the DirecTV receiver. Turn on the TV and receiver box. Make sure that you have a strong signal for the new dish by pressing "Action" on the remote and "Guide." Use the arrow key to select "Set Up" on the screen. Select "Installation" to see your signal strength and adjust the dish if the signal is weak.
4. Hook up the phone line to the receiver and contact the DirecTV Company to register and activate your receiver card. The number to call will be located on your card.
5. Select different channels on your remote to make sure that you are getting all of the channels you subscribe to and that the signal is strong on all channels
Canon manufactures a wide variety of well-known printer products. The BJC series is a popular line for consumers to use in small offices or at home. There are several quick fixes that can save you the time, money and prevent a trip to the repair shop.
Instructions
1. Uninstall and reinstall printer drivers if they are not operating correctly. If the printer driver download was interrupted during installation, the driver information did not completely load. To uninstall the printer drivers, return to the desktop in Windows. Select Programs > BJC printer > Uninstall. Follow the onscreen prompts to complete the printer driver removal. To reinstall the print drivers, insert the installation CD-ROM and follow the onscreen prompts. If this does not resolve the print driver problems, shut down all other programs.
2. Shut down all running programs to make sure they are not interfering with the installation of your print drivers. If the computer is not accessing the Canon BJC printer installation CD-ROM, access the start-up through Windows. On the Windows desktop, click Start > My Computer. Within the My Computer window, double click the "My Computer" icon. Select "Getting Started." Follow the on-screen installation instructions. If the CD-ROM is still not allowing you to download the print drivers, it may be defective. Contact a Canon service department to receive another CD or other download options.
3. Fix the "Ink Tank Full" message that is displayed as a repeating cycle of six flashing orange lights and one flashing green light. This message is designed to make sure that waste ink is not leaking from the printer. It also indicates that the print head needs to be replaced. Purchase a BC-33e print head online through Canon or from your local Canon supplier. The print head should easily pop off; the new head will slide in. Reset the "Waste Error" message by turning off your Canon BJC 3000 printer. Press and hold the "Resume" button while pressing and holding the "Power" button. The printer should beep once. Continue holding down the "Power" button and release the "Resume" button. While still holding the "Power" button, press the "Resume" button twice. Release both the "Power" and "Reset" buttons. The printer should stop blinking. When the light is displaying steady, press and release the "Reset" button three times. The display indicator should change to orange. Press the "Power" button once to reset data.
4. Release paper jams by pulling the paper gently back toward the paper feeder. If this does not work, carefully pull the paper toward the paper tray. If the paper becomes torn in your printer, turn off the printer's power and remove pieces of paper. If you are unable to retrieve all the paper fragments, push the "Power" button two times and the printer will eject any remaining paper.
5. Resolve paper feed errors by checking to see if the paper is too thick. Determine if the paper is set properly in the paper feed tray.
6. Repair power errors that are displayed as "Error LPT1" or "USBPRN." Determine if the printer is turned on. When the printer is functioning, a solid green light is displayed. Check to see if the printer is securely plugged into the wall and if all the appropriate cables are in place. Shut down the printer. Wait a few seconds and then turn it on. A green light will flash and hold steady when the printer is ready. If you are still receiving this error, see if your printer cable is defective by switching to a new cable.
7. Return to your desktop screen on your computer. If the LPT1 or USBPRN errors continue to be displayed it may be a print spool issue. On the Start menu, click Printer Properties > Print Spool. Go to Details > Print Directly to Printer.
8. Determine the cause of an application error or a general default error. Make sure you are running the Canon BJC 3000 printer from a Windows 98 platform. Shut down any other active programs to see if they are interfering with your printer. If this does not work, you may need to add more memory to your system. Check the memory requirements of the printer versus the memory available on your computer. There also may simply not be enough space on your hard drive to run the application. Try deleting unnecessary files.
9. Count the number of flashes on your printer if it stops functioning. Errors with two flashes indicate a paper problem. Fix a paper jam or reload the paper. Errors with three flashes show that there definitely is a paper jam. Remove the jammed paper and continue printing. Four flashes means that your printer needs are not using the correct type of ink cartridge or the cartridge is not seated appropriately in the printer. Pull out the existing cartridge and replace it with an appropriate cartridge. Six flashes means you forgot to put the ink cartridge back in the printer. Seven flashes means the ink cartridge may be defective. Remove the cartridge, replace with a new cartridge and return the defective product to the store. Finally, eight flashes indicate the waste ink tank needs to be serviced. Follow the suggestions in Step 3 or contact a Canon service representative.
Tags: Power button, your printer, Canon 3000, flashes means, green light, print drivers
Many people want to make audio CDs with MP3 files they download. Converting an MP3 into a WAV file is the first step to using an MP3 formatted song on an audio CD. The WAV file format requires more memory than an MP3 file so storage space can become an issue if many MP3 files are being converted into the WAV format.
Instructions
1. Download an MP3 file to your computer from your favorite music sharing site.
2. Put all MP3 files to be converted into a common folder. This makes it easier to do a batch conversion.
3. Open your file conversion program. Many free programs are available for download as shareware and freeware (see Resources). These are more than adequate to convert any MP3 files into the WAV format.
4. Highlight the files to be converted by the conversion program. Use the mouse to select a single file or use the mouse plus the Shift or Ctrl key to select multiple files.
5. Locate the target file directory for the converted files. This will be the location from which you copy the WAV files to an audio CD or for other purposes.
6. Convert the files. This may take several minutes depending upon the speed of your processor and the number and size of the audio files.
Tags: conversion program, converted into, files converted, files This, into format
High key lighting is used in both still photography and cinematography. It is a technique in which the overall lighting in the scene is fairly bright. There are no deep shadows and even the mid-tones of the scene are kept fairly light. The emotional effect of the high-key image on the viewer is to convey positive emotions, such as happiness.
High Key Lighting Definition
In a properly exposed continuous-tone photograph, the range of tones will run from bright highlights to middle tones to dark shadows. The highlights should not be so bright that they lose detail, and the shadows should not be so dark that they plug up and lose detail, either. A high key image is one in which the photographer exposes the image so that what would normally be a middle tone is now much brighter than normal. Any white or light spots in the photograph become almost all white. A high key image does not have dark tones; the entire image is either in the high- or mid-range tones.
Studio Lighting Set Up
Setting up studio lighting to produce a high key image involves using more than one light source to illuminate the subject. Usually there are two or three lights aimed at the subject and at least two lights to illuminate the background.
The key light is the photographer's main lighting source and is used to light the subject or model. A fill light is also used, placed on the opposite side of the subject from the key light. Its purpose is to remove shadows from the subject or the model's face. A third light may be used on the model and is called a hair light. Its purpose is to produce highlights on the hair in a portrait shot.
The key light and fill light are set up so that they are in front of the model and placed far enough away so that they do not produce hot spots. Often, a diffuser is used to reduce the intensity of the light and soften it. The lights are set out to the side of the model so that they are aimed at roughly a 45-degree angle to the subject. For portraits, this produces soft illumination to all parts of a model's face.
Two or more lights are used to illuminate the background so that it will be brighter than the subject. In a high key image, the background will be brighter than the subject and will turn white. It is also possible to take high-contrast photographs with only one light source by using mirrors or reflectors to make the single light source do double duty.
Background Choices
Often, white sheets of background paper are used to produce a totally white background in the finished photograph. Vinyl backgrounds are also available for photographers, and although they are more expensive than paper, they are washable and won't tear. Another choice for backgrounds is a light-colored canvas, which can provide some texture to the background. The trick for texture is to light the background enough so that it is brighter (and less visible) than the subject, but not so much that it becomes totally washed out. Placing the background lights off to the side of the studio and aiming them at an angle will help bring out subtle textures in the canvas.
Tags: that they, high image, brighter than, light source, than subject, brighter than subject
Smudges and dust on your Nikon camera lens will ruin an otherwise faultless photograph. But cleaning the glass the wrong way can ruin the entire lens. Adhere to some guidelines and you'll achieve a spotless Nikon camera lens without doing the expensive piece of equipment any damage.
Purchase a Lens Cleaning Kit
Priced between $5 and $15, a lens cleaning kit is a smart purchase. They are available online and in camera shops and electronics stores. Most kits contain a rocket air blower, a fine brush, a microfiber cleaning cloth and alcohol-based cleaning solution. While you can get away with cleaning your camera lens with rubbing alcohol and other household items, kits are portable and convenient.
Clean Lens in a Clean Environment
Whenever possible, clean your camera lens in a clean, indoor area. Your best bet is to lay out a sheet or towel on the table and set down your equipment and cleaning supplies on top of it.
Blow off Dirt
Before you clean a camera lens with cleaning solution it is imperative to make sure there are no hard, abrasive particles on the surface of the lens. If you take a rag or tissue to a lens with particles stuck to it, you could scratch the glass. Use the rocket air blower in the cleaning kit to blow off dirt and debris. A hairdryer set on low heat will also work.
Dust off Dirt
Use the fine brush in a lens cleaning kit to gently dust off any particles remaining on the lens. Make sure the dust and dirt is swept off the lens entirely, and not just pushed to the edges. A clean makeup brush or fine paintbrush can replace the brush in the lens cleaning kit.
Use Cleaning Solution
Pour a drop or two of the cleaning solution onto the center of the camera lens. Use a soft cloth to spread the liquid around, and gently rub off any smudges and finger prints. Use a circular motion. Most cloths that come with camera cleaning kits are made from microfiber.
Clean When Needed and Protect
Don't clean your lens unless it is dirty. Every time you run a piece of cloth across the lens, you increase the chances of damaging it. To protect your Nikon lens, purchase a clear UV filter that screws on to the front of your camera lens. If something bumps or scratches camera, the filter will be damaged rather than the expensive lens. You can find a quality UV filter that fits your specific lens for less than $20 at a camera or electronics store, making it a great investment.
Tags: camera lens, lens cleaning, lens with, your camera, your camera lens, brush lens, brush lens cleaning
Connect your Slingbox to your Dish Network using composite cables.
Slingbox allows you to broadcast a single signal of your cable over the Internet. You can then watch your home cable on the Internet anywhere in the world. This is very useful if you're on the go a lot as it allows you to keep in touch with your local programming, such as the news. It also allows you to save money on cable bills by sharing a cable connection with someone else over the Internet. You do need a broadband connection to view and send the cable connection or else the video is very slow.
Instructions
1. Connect the composite cables in the back of your television from your Dish Network box into your Slingbox. Plug them into the Video-In connection on the Slingbox. Match the color of the prong with the color of the jack.
2. Plug a second set of composite cables into your Slingbox in the Video-Out connection.
3. Plug the opposite end of the composite cables from your Slingbox into your television where you unplugged the cables in Step 1.
4. Plug an Ethernet cable that is connected to your network into your Slingbox.
Tags: your Slingbox, composite cables, into your, Dish Network, into your Slingbox
The Nikon Speedlight is a fast hot shoe mounted flash gun. Each Speedlight is designed to work using through the lens flash metering, which allows the combined camera data and flash settings to compute the correct flash head settings and flash burst duration needed for a proper exposure without the need for complex calculations by the photographer. Using a Nikon Speedlight is designed to be both simple and fast, allowing the photographer to continue on with shooting.
Instructions
1. Prepare your Speedlight. Open the battery compartment located on the side of the flash head. For the SB-400, SB-600, SB-800 and SB-900 models, this compartment is located on the right-hand side of the flash head. Each of these flashes takes standard AA batteries. Insert the batteries as directed into the flash head and close the battery compartment door.
2. Test your Speedlight. Press the "Power" button located on the back of the flash unit on the SB-600 and SB-800. On the SB-900, set the power switch to "On." Point the flash head away from the eyes and press the "Flash" button located near the power button or switch. This will cause the unit to fire a test flash. Fire a test, then turn off the unit. SB-400 units do not have a flash test button.
3. Attach the flash to the hot shoe mount on the camera (with the camera power off). The SB-600, SB-800 and SB-900 may be triggered wirelessly as "slave" flashes. Set any slave flashes located in the shoot area. Make sure that it is in a position to be able to read the pre-flashes or infrared trigger from the master flash unit.
4. Power on the camera, then turn on the flashes. Set any slave flashes to slave mode through the menu commands by holding "ZOOM" and "-" to enter the CSM menu. On the SB-900, simply set the power dial to "Remote."
5. Select your flash head settings. Through The Lens (TTL) metering comes in several varieties, and these will vary in availability depending upon the camera body being used. The two basic varieties are TTL and manual modes. They can be accessed on each unit by pressing the "MODE" button. Metering with a TTL mode will ignore ambient light and calculate flash burst duration, sync speed and flash head distance based on camera data; manual modes require the photographer to set the flash head distance, sync speed and flash burst duration.
6. Fire a test using the "flash" button, if necessary. The master flash should fire, along with any slave strobes being used.
Memory Stick is a type of removable flash memory card developed by Sony for their devices. Memory sticks are longer and more rectangular than other forms of storage media such as SD and Compact Flash. There are many types of Memory Sticks, classified by formats and sizes, but only a few digital camera brands are compatible with Memory Sticks.
Manufacturers
Even if Memory Sticks are compatible with very few digital camera brands, several companies manufacture Memory Sticks. Sony, SanDisk, Lexar and Delkin are some companies that make Memory Sticks for digital cameras. Memory Stick Prices range from $5 to 180, depending on the manufacturer. Sony Memory Sticks are usually more expensive than memory sticks made by other manufacturers.
Samsung
Samsung Digimax Cameras work with the Memory Stick storage media. Digimax Cameras are compact cameras that feature high performance and a stylish design. Digimax 430, U-CA 3 and V50 are some of the models that are compatible with Memory Stick storage. Only a few Samsung cameras use Memory Stick as their storage media. Other Samsung cameras use other types of memory cards such as SD and Compact Flash.
Sony
Sony users may find it convenient to own memory sticks because these media are compatible with their Sony devices. Memory sticks are compatible with a variety of Sony consumer digital cameras including the CyberShot Series F-H, Series L-P, Series R-W and Mavica cameras. Memory Sticks are also compatible with digital single lens reflex cameras including the Alpha and Mark series.
Size
The first Memory Stick had a capacity of 4 MB to 12 MB, which is now discontinued. The Memory Stick Select has two 128 MB partitions. The Memory Stick Pro features a bigger storage size, from 64 MB to 32 GB. The Memory Stick Duo Pro has a capacity of 512 MB to 2 GB. In 2008, Sony launched a Memory Stick with a capacity of 16 GB, and the company plans to release a 32 GB version in 2009.
Adaptors
After you've stored pictures on your Memory Stick, you need to transfer them to your computer. To transfer pictures, you need a card reader. You can buy a Memory Stick reader. To be compatible with computers and card readers that only support other types of storage media, Memory Sticks can be used with adaptors.
An SDHC memory card is a Secury Digital High Capacity memory card and has the ability to hold more data than standard SD flash memory cards. These cards are used in digital cameras, portable media players, smart phones and other portable devices. An SDHC card reader is an adapter for your computer that allows you to transfer data between the card and your desktop. Using the reader is fairly simple.
Instructions
1. Connect the SDHC Card Reader to your computer via USB cable.
2. Insert an SDHC memory card into the reader.
3. Double-click "Computer" on the desktop (or select it in the Start menu). The SDHC memory card will be listed within "Removable Storage." Double-click the SDHC memory card to open.
4. Drag the files from the SDHC card to your desktop to transfer files from the card to your computer. Drag the files from your computer into the SDHC folder to transfer files from your computer to the memory card. Allow the files to copy. Once copied, you can remove the SDHC memory card from the reader.
Tags: memory card, SDHC memory, SDHC memory card, your computer, files from
Many electronic devices use SDHC cards (flash memory cards) to store files and information. Digital cameras and cell phones are two of the most popular devices. Some instruments also read SDHC cards. Computers can also read SDHC cards. Since the cards are small, it's easy to transport data between devices and computers. Reading an SDHC card is easy if you have a device that supports it. All computers can support reading an SDHC card, but not all digital devices can.
Instructions
1. Install a media card reader. Any brand will work as long as it supports SDHC cards. Install the software that comes with the card reader. If your computer has an internal media card reader, you don't need to install an external one.
2. Insert the SDHC card into the correct slot. Slots are labeled. There is only one slot in which the SDHC card will fit correctly.
3. Wait for the auto play to bring up an option menu. Click "Open to View Files." If this doesn't happen, go to "My Computer" and choose your SDHC card.
4. Browse files and folders as you would on your hard drive.
5. For other electronic devices, insert the card into the device and it will read automatically.
Tags: SDHC card, SDHC cards, card reader, also read, also read SDHC, card into, electronic devices
Dozens of digital video cameras are available on the market, each offering something slightly different from other models. Before purchasing a digital video camcorder it is important to compare models to make sure you are purchasing the one that best fits all of your video needs. More than likely you can find one in your price range.
Instructions
1. Decide on a price range. Digital video cameras can range from less than $100 to well over $5,000.
2. Compare the size. Some digital video cameras can fit into your pocket while others are shoulder mounted. Think about how you are going to use the camera. If you want to take it on vacation you should opt for a smaller one. Larger cameras have larger lenses and more glass, making the zoom more powerful. Smaller lenses and smaller cameras have less of an ability to zoom.
3. Find out if the video is HD. If the camera is HD, see if the camera films in compressed HD or uncompressed. Many hand-held cameras say they film in HD but the video is compressed to fit on a memory stick. The image, while technically HD, is not as high a quality as many other models.
4. Ask how many CCDs (charge-coupled devices) the camera contains. A camera is going to have one or three CCDs. Cameras with three CCDs have better color.
5. Look at how the camera records. Some record onto a hard drive, while others use tapes or even mini-DVDs. Although a hard drive is nice because you don't need to remove or change equipment, if you film a lot you might run out of room. This is where tapes and mini-DVDs come in handy.
6. Check how the camera connects to a computer. FireWire is the most desirable because it provides a faster and cleaner data download rate than USB.
Tags: video cameras, cameras have, digital video, digital video cameras, hard drive, other models
If you are getting a new cell phone, make sure to take some time to delete the data on your old cell phone before discarding it, selling it or donating it to a charitable organization. You don't want to get rid of your old phone when it is still filled with personal information and data. Your goal is to not only protect yourself from unwanted invasions of privacy, but to protect others who might be peeved if your contact information about them were to get into the wrong hands.
Instructions
Remove the SIM card first
1. If your phone is equipped with one, remove the subscriber identity module, which is known commonly as the SIM card. The SIM card stores data on your phone.
2. Delete all phone numbers, contacts, memos, outgoing and incoming text messages, pictures and videos. A number of phones have options named "Security" or "Master Reset." Click on these for the proper steps to take.
3. Double-check to see whether any remaining personal information is available on your phone by navigating to the "Settings" menu. Review data in categories such as "Images," "Sounds" and "Ring Tones" to make sure they have been deleted.
4. Refer to your cell phone manual for additional steps such as "Delete Data" or "Reformat Device." These features will allow you to take an added security step to ensure your phone has been wiped of sensitive information. If you no longer have the manual, check the website of the phone manufacturer for this information.
5. For additional information about deleting personal records from your phone, you can contact your cellular carrier or check their website to make sure you haven't missed a step.
Tags: your phone, make sure, cell phone, data your, Delete Information, Delete Information From, From Cell
Knowing handle your cell phone and its parts is very important. Misuse of parts can cause problems to your devices, causing them to stop working properly. Always check how your battery, SIM cards or memory cards fit into your device to prevent damage.
Instructions
1. Turn your Eternity phone over. Carefully apply pressure to the corner portion of the battery cover located by the camera eye. Slide it down and lift up on the edge that separates from the silver part of the phone.
2. Lift the battery up with your finger by applying pressure to one of the corners. The rounded corners of the battery are more prominent; lifting it there will give you a better grip.
3. Slide the battery away from the prongs to remove it from your Eternity phone completely.
4. To replace the battery, install the battery by placing it face down and near where the copper connectors will meet. Slide it back into position. Make sure the connectors align properly, otherwise, your phone may not turn on.
5. Replace the battery cover by aligning the cover to fit the very small grooves. Applying gentle pressure, slide the top part of the cover back to the camera eye until you hear a light snap.
Tags: battery cover, Eternity phone, your Eternity, your Eternity phone
Replace the batteries if the Small Wonder won't turn on.
The RCA Small Wonder EZ207, a digital camcorder with a flip-out display, can record 8 hours of video on an optional microSD (Micro Secure Digital) memory card. The camcorder includes an expansion slot for adding memory, and it has built-in quality settings options. Problems with the EZ207 can include power issues, recording problems or playback trouble. Problems like these can be rectified by following some troubleshooting steps.
Instructions
1. Replace the batteries if the Small Wonder won’t turn on. Push and hold the front cover lock -- it moves to the right. Slide the cover down and then lift it to open it. Remove and discard the existing batteries. Insert the two new batteries and replace the cover.
2. Insert the microSD card properly if the card can’t be detected. Take it out of the slot and push it back in again. Be sure to do this when the camcorder is off. The card slot is in the battery compartment. Align the card with the symbol on the camcorder. Cards aren’t supplied with the camera. If the Small Wonder can’t record, make sure that the card isn’t full.
3. Select a video-recording quality that’s suitable for the size of card you’re using. The higher the quality of the movie, the more card space will be used, and the card will fill up sooner. Use the selector on the side of the Small Wonder to change the setting. Four hours of recording in HQ (High Quality) will use 8GB. Eight hours in webQ (Web Quality) will use the same amount of space.
4. Adjust the RCA Small Wonder EZ207’s Volume Up button if you can’t hear anything when playing back video.
5. Keep the Small Wonder steady as you shoot images if movies are of poor quality. Move the camera in slow, even movements. As you pan around, remember that the subject can become washed-out as you point the camcorder at light sources. A 360-degree pan will likely cause problems.
6. Manage the videos on your computer if you find the screen fiddly to work with. Connect the camera to a USB jack on the computer and the memory manager software should launch. If the software doesn't launch, open My Computer and double click the Small Wonder icon. Then double click rcasw_setup to start the installation. Follow the prompts to continue the installation.
Tags: Small Wonder, batteries Small, batteries Small Wonder, double click, Quality will, Replace batteries
A variety of problems could arise involving the screen of your portable DVD player. Trying to fix these on your own is usually your best choice. Below are some steps to help you troubleshoot and fix problems with the screen on a portable DVD player.
Instructions
1. Try inserting a different DVD. The problem could be your DVD and not your portable DVD player at all.
2. Check for sound. If you can hear the movie but do not see the picture, the problem could be the connection from the base to the screen. If you can see the wire on the back of your unit, try removing it and replacing it to make sure that it is completely connected. The wire should have a lock/unlock feature like a phone cable.
3. If the screen is still completely black, try using RC cables to connect your portable DVD player to a standard TV. If a picture appears on the TV, then you know that the problem is with your DVD player's screen.
4. If your screen flickers and seems to turn off and on, the problem could be the battery. Try plugging your portable DVD player into the wall socket. If the DVD player works while plugged in, try replacing the battery. If plugging it into the wall does not seem to help, than the problem might be a faulty screen. If this is the case, than your best option would be to purchase a new screen or a new DVD player.
5. If you have any permanently black spots on your screen, these could be dead pixels, which cannot be fixed. Your options are to live with them, purchase a new screen or purchase a completely new portable DVD player. White flickering spots or colored spots could be "stuck" pixels, which can sometimes be fixed. To try to fix a stuck pixel, power off the player, gently press a damp soft cloth to the area with the stuck pixel, then turn the player back on and release the pressure. Repeat if needed.
6. Look at the Web site for your DVD player's manufacturer, and see if there's a troubleshooting section that gives you any additional ideas.
7. Try contacting the store where you purchased your portable DVD player. The store may have some more troubleshooting ideas for you, or could possibly give your some estimates on getting your portable DVD player fixed.
Tags: portable player, your portable, your portable player, problem could, battery plugging
Taking pictures of lightning during a storm is a game of luck and patience that is usually left to the more advanced photographers. It requires a few extra pieces of equipment, a keen eye, and like i said before: patience. Use these steps to insure better chances of catching one of these split second events.
Instructions
1. First, the storm should only be a thunderstorm, not a complete downpour of rain. Taking your camera out into extremely wet conditions is not advised.
2. Next, locate an elevated area with a clear view of the area of sky the storm is located in.
3. Attach your camera to the tripod, and point it toward the area of the sky where you have witnessed the most recent lightning activity.
4. Next, attach the shutter release cable to your camera.
5. Now set your camera's focus to infinity so that distant objects are in-focus. This is when the lens is retracted all the way toward the base.
6. Then set your shutter speed to B. In this setting the shutter stays open as long as you hold the shutter button down.
7. Then set your aperture to f/8.
8. Now press the shutter release button on the cable and hold it down until lightning strikes.
9. If lightning does not strike within one minute release the shutter button and advance the film, the frame has been over-exposed.
10. If lightning strikes during this one minute time frame simply release the shutter button on your cable and advance to the next frame for hopes of another successful shot.
SIM recovery sticks were once, only used by law enforcement to retrieve information in regards to crimes, but now you can purchase these recovery programs online for personal use. SIM recovery programs are used to recovery information that has been accidentally deleted from the SIM card.
What is a SIM Card?
A Subscriber Identity Module card (SIM card) is a small white data chip used to activate Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) phones. These phones are used by millions of subscribers worldwide, for both prepaid and monthly service. SIM cards can be purchased (prepaid) from grocery, electronic or phone stores, whether online or in person, but contract SIM cards, must be given by the wireless provider upon credit approval.
Why Do People Recover Information From a SIM?
SIM cards hold valuable information about your phone and your service, but they also backup files from your phone, such as contacts or text messages. If for any reason you need to switch your handsets and your contacts or text messages are saved to your phone only, you will not be able to see them on the new handset. For this reason, you would have to save the information to your SIM card manually. You can do this by selecting the contact or text message and clicking "Options" then clicking "Send to SIM."
SIM Recovery Programs
SIM recovery programs are used to recover files that may have been deleted by accident or by corruption within the SIM card. SIM card recovery programs are embedded within a SIM card reader. This reader is plugged into your PC with the SIM card inside. The program displays all deleted or corrupted files for restoration.
File Recovery Types
The only files that can be recovered are files that you can save to your SIM. Currently, the only files that can be recovered on a SIM card recovery stick are contacts and text messages. Even if you cannot pull these files up on the handset, you will be able to view them on your PC.
Use a Recovery Program?
Remove the SIM card from the back of the phone. Insert the SIM card into the SIM card recovery stick. Insert the SIM recovery stick into the USB port on the PC. Go to the "Start" menu and click "My Computer"." Open the SIM recovery stick from the drives list. The recovery program should open automatically. Follow the onscreen prompts to recover the files.
Tags: card recovery, files that, recovery stick, contacts text, contacts text messages, text messages, your phone
As with any electronic devices, TV sets that use cathode ray picture tubes can have their share of problems. Many of the problems often relate to the picture quality, color and clarity. Many times, the cost of repairing such problems can exceed the cost of replacing it with another CRT or even LCD TV set.
Size
Size and weight of CRTs can become a problem when compared to their LCD counterparts. A CRT set is much wider than an LCD set and will weigh two to three times as much.
Color
The blue and red outputs of the TV wear out over time, causing the screen to take on a green hue in the dark areas of the picture.
Focus
Increasing the contrast on a CRT TV can cause noticeable problems with the focus and the screen purity. This is especially true on large screen sets.
Magnetization
Magnets placed near a CRT can damage the set's "shadow mask," which can cause the wrong colors to appear in that area. High-power magnets can actually bend the mask, which is usually irreparable.
Warning
A damaged glass screen on a CRT set can be very dangerous, as it can cause an implosion within the vacuum tube that can cause glass shards to bounce back outwards.
Misconceptions
Despite concerns from the very earliest sets, there is little to no danger of health hazards from CTR TVs regarding radiation or electromagnetic flux.
Cable connectors are audio and visual connectors used to carry audio and/or video signals. These signals are either digital or analog. Cables and connectors are necessary to unite outputs and inputs, and the quality of the signal varies with each connector. Asia and Europe utilize different electronic standards, so here are common audio and visual cable connectors prevalent to North America.
RCA
RCA connectors are generally used for audio, composite and component cables. They allow analog video and stereo audio signals to be transmitted. They are also color-coded: red and white for the audio cables, yellow for a composite video cable, and red, green, and blue for component video cables.
Mini-DIN
Mini-DIN connectors are cylindrical in shape and feature between three and nine pins, each compatible with various audio and/or visual devices. Four-pin mini-DIN connectors are used to carry a separate video (commonly called S-video) signal. While still an analog signal, it is of a higher quality than video signals carried by composite cables.
VGA
Also called DE-15 and HD15 connectors, VGA connectors feature three rows of five pins each, with two screws on each end to hold the connector into the unit. They are commonly used with computer monitors and high-definition televisions and carry analog RGBHV (red, green, blue, horizontal sync, vertical sync) video signals. Smaller mini-VGA connectors can be used for laptop computers.
HDMI
HDMI connectors are used for cables combining an uncompressed digital video signal with an uncompressed digital audio signal. Smaller than most other high-definition connectors, HDMI is used for optimal audio and visual quality with high-definition televisions, computers, Blue-ray players and high-end gaming consoles.
F-Connector
The F-connector is a type of radio frequency connector commonly used for cable television, antenna and satellite connections. It was created in the 1950s as cable television was being developed. Featuring a single peg, the male connector generally screws onto the corresponding input connector on the receiving device.
Computers
Other audio/visual connectors are used solely for computers, although computers are now becoming increasingly more compatible with other home entertainment devices such as high-definition televisions, Blue-ray players and receivers. Common computer connectors include USB, DVI and IEEE 1394 (also called FireWire) connectors.
Tags: audio visual, connectors used, high-definition televisions, video signals, audio visual connectors, Blue-ray players, cable television
Household batteries are regularly recycled in Massachusetts.
Massachusetts provides its residents with various opportunities to recycle batteries. It is important to recycle household batteries as many kinds are toxic and therefore dangerous to throw into landfills. Chemicals from batteries may leak into water supplies and enter the food chain. Automotive batteries are banned from Massachusetts landfills and combustion sites by law and therefore must be recycled at appropriate locations.
Instructions
1. Locate the batteries at your home in need of recycling. Automotive batteries are different than household batteries and should be stored upright in a leak-proof container. Return the used auto battery to a Massachusetts automotive shop that sells batteries or to a Batteries Plus store. Almost any shop or mechanic that sells automotive batteries will accept them for recycling.
2. Sort household batteries by separating single use batteries from those that are rechargeable. Rechargeable batteries should be stored in a non-metal container that receives ventilation. Rechargeable batteries should also be placed in plastic bags, to prevent leaking and mixing with other batteries.
3. Store button batteries out of reach of children and pets as these are very small and easily swallowed. Place used button batteries and lithium batteries in plastic baggies to await recycling. Alkaline batteries, such as typical AA or AAA batteries can be disposed of in the regular trash as they no longer contain mercury. However, some recycling centers may accept alkaline batteries, therefore you may wish to set these aside for recycling as well.
4. Locate the most convenient Massachusetts household battery recycling center. Earth 911, has an easy search engine available for free online, or call 1-800-8-Battery for a list of the 400 recycling sites in Massachusetts. Best Buy, Staples and Radio Shack stores usually accept all kinds of household batteries, such as rechargeable or button batteries, and may take old cell phones as well.
5. Bring your household batteries to the appropriate recycling center or store. Make sure they are securely stored in plastic zipper bags, to avoid any leaks or possible contamination. Don't bang or shake the bag, to ensure the batteries arrive at their destination safely.
Starting a business of any kind requires skill, patience, research ability, money and business acumen. Photography businesses are notoriously harder to begin and succeed in than other types of businesses, because they are based on a non-essential service. This is particularly true of aerial photography. However, following certain guidelines and demonstrating true vision and talent for photography can help assure that your aerial photography business is a successful venture.
Instructions
Aerial Photographers Are a Niche in the Overall Profession
1. Do market research to ensure there is a need for aerial photography services in your region. Areas that are large or have a great deal of natural resources are usually best for aerial photographers, because there are plenty of businesses and government entities that will contract out for this type of work. While it happens on occasion, private individuals rarely contract with a photographer strictly for aerial photographs. Contracts come from press agencies in need of environmental or regional shots from the air, law enforcement, and businesses that must know everything about the geography of a given area for professional purposes. Do some research to determine the need for aerial photographers in your region.
2. Draft a business plan. Any sound business starts with a business plan, and photography business is no different. Consider everything from financing and expenses, to how you will get customers, to what your goals are as a viable business and as a photographer one, five and 10 years into the business.
Write down everything you know about operating a photography business, and research those elements with which you are less familiar.
Talk to a professional business consultant, as well as any professional photographers who might be willing to serve as mentors.
3. Decide whether your aerial photography business will be housed in a brick-and-mortar structure or online only. Many photography businesses are online-only ventures; however, it is becoming a trend to have a storefront in which to showcase your services and existing portfolio. Remember, with a brick-and-mortar structure, you will likely have increased visibility as well as additional expenses. If your client base consists of customers outside your locale, you might consider remaining online only. If you have many local clients, a brick-and-mortar structure might be best. If yours is an online-only venture, invest in a great website as a portfolio--the calling card for any photographer, but particularly for an aerial photographer, because of the specific nature and skill required.
4. Figure out how you will get financing for your photography business. As with any business, you will have expenses. From camera gear to film (if required) to computer equipment, photography businesses require a great deal of equipment to do the job right.
With this in mind, figure out financing in the beginning stages of your business. You will need a sound business plan if you are trying to obtain bank financing. Many photographers, particularly in a less-reliable segment such as aerial photography, simply rely on savings and investments, or gifts from family and friends.
5. Market your aerial photography business, and determine where and how you will get clients. Once you've established the particulars of your photography business, it is up to you to figure out where you will get clients. Let people know who you are and what you do. An online portfolio, a flip book and print advertisements are the best places to start. Getting clients in need of aerial photography depends solely on your ability to capture the best photo possible from 5, 10, 15 and sometimes 20,000 feet above an area.
Market and promote yourself whenever possible--you never know when a business might need an aerial photographer. Pass out business cards and postcards with one or two of your best aerial photos whenever possible. Make sure people will remember you.
Tags: aerial photography, need aerial, photography business, aerial photography business, brick-and-mortar structure, business plan
You have all of those great videos you've taken stored on the minitape in your camera, but now it's time to share them with the world. Moving your favorite video clips and other files from your Panasonic NV-DS65 to your computer can be an intimidating, and sometimes frustrating, task if you don't follow a few simple steps. The key here is using the right equipment and good software.
Instructions
1. Install the drivers and other software that came with your video camera to your computer. Also check the Panasonic website to make sure you have the newest version of the drivers. Your computer will not recognize the camera unless the proper drivers are installed.
2. Connect the NV-DS65 to your computer using a FireWire cable. Do not use USB. Purchase a FireWire card for your computer if you don't already have a FireWire port available.
3. Turn on the camera, and the computer will recognize it and set it up for use on your PC.
4. Transfer the video file to your PC by viewing it directly from the camera using your video editing software. Windows MovieMaker and iMovie, which come packaged with PCs and Macs, are adequate to do this.
5. Save the video as a file on your computer using your video editing software.
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A fisheye lens is one of the available distortion lenses.
One of the elements of photography is the variety of lenses available. While a specific camera does affect an image, the lens actually produces 80 percent of the image quality and style. One lens may be appropriate for most of your photography needs, but having one or two extra lenses can add some variety to your collection. Basic consumer point-and-shoot cameras don't have the ability interchange lenses. The different lens types can only be used on dedicated Singe Lens Reflex cameras.
Adjustable Zoom Lens
An adjustable zoom lens comes with most cameras and is capable of zoom, typically between a wide angle focal length like 18 mm and a semi-telephoto length like 85 mm. This lens is sufficient for most casual photographers due to its versatility. It provides only a "standard" image sharpness and is a good walk-around lens. In addition, these lenses are generally cheap at around $100.
Prime Lens
A "prime" lens is a lens that isn't capable of zooming in or out. While this sounds like a disadvantage, prime lenses provide a much sharper image quality and shallower depth of field than zoom lenses. These lenses are available in as many angles as zoom lenses, from the ultra-wide 10 mm to the extremely telephoto 300 mm. Professional photographers typically carry at least two prime lenses with them to a shoot to allow for different types of shots. The lenses' ability to have shallow depth of field is useful for night time shots as well.
Telephoto Lenses
Telephoto lenses are capable of ultra-high magnification and are most often used for sports or nature photography. Basically, when you can't get acceptably close to your subject, mount the telephoto lens. When using one, a tripod is strongly recommended to reduce accidental camera shake, and some even have a tripod mount to reduce strain to the camera body. While fun to use, the longest and fastest telephoto lenses are used mainly by professionals who need the extra visual reach.
Specialty Lenses
You can immediately identify a fisheye lens by its round appearance and you can use it to show a wide scene, or even a 180-degree angle. Your photo collection would appear extremely bizarre if you had only a fisheye, but this lens makes a counterpart to a normal range lens. Another specialty lens is a Lens Baby, which produces a special visual fringe around the edge of a photo that you would otherwise need add digitally. Like the fisheye, a Lens Baby makes a distinct accessory addition to your lens kit.
Macro Lenses
Macro lenses are used to take photos of close-ups. Most normal lenses aren't capable of focusing on objects that closer than a foot from the lens, but many macro lenses can focus on objects that are merely centimeters away. These are most often used to show texture or close details and to photograph very small objects.
Your home entertainment console is not complete without an equalizer. Many devices come with one built in; but if yours does not, installing an equalizer is the best way to insure that your audio sounds perfect with your chosen speaker selection.
Record companies began using equalizing techniques in the 50's, and soon these controls found their way into home audio systems.
When working in a recording studio, having an equalizer will help you insure that your voice always sounds its best.
All sounds produce vibrations at a certain frequency level. Equalizers help you choose which you want to hear the most.
Instructions
1. Look behind your equalizing unit. You should see two sets of two jacks. One labeled "Output" and one labeled "Input". The jacks on your equalizer should be RCA-style.
2. Look behind your stereo unit. You will see two jacks that are designed to output audio. These will be going into your equalizer.
3. Look at your two RCA cables. One end of your cable goes into the output jack on your stereo. You will plug the other end of these into the input jack on your equalizer.
4. Plug your remaining RCA cable in. One end will go into the equalizer output, the other into your speakers.
5. Play audio through your device. You will be able to change the frequency levels by moving the sliders.
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Your typical auto-focus lens should be a smooth-working machine.
Pro and amateur photographers alike can admire the smooth feeling of a well-oiled camera. But when an auto-focusing lens feels like sand and won't focus properly, then something is clearly awry. That something may be the focus helix, an assembly common to many lenses, which allows the lens to slide back and forth and adjust the focus. The hard part is taking apart the lens to get at the helix. Once you're there, re-greasing is a quick task.
Instructions
1. Dip your rag in acetone and use it to wipe all the grease off the focus helix. Be sure to get into the grooves of the helix. Remove all the old grease from the assembly, because this can cause the lens to work slowly.
2. Apply a light coating of grease to the helix. Apply enough so that the function improves significantly, but not too much, because this will cause the assembly to get clogged up and stall.
3. When reassembling the lens, wipe off any excess grease from the focus helix that comes into contact with other parts of the lens. This will allow your lens to work well and keep the grease where it needs to be.
4. Once the lens is reassembled, work the focus to its limit back and forth several times with your hand in order to seat the grease in the assembly.
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