The i800 is a Nextel-supported, Motorola-manufactured cellular phone. Nextel appears on the outer screen of the i880 because this phone works on the Nextel network. To change the Nextel logo on the outer screen of the i880 phone, you can change the phone's wallpaper.
Instructions
Manually Change i880 Wallpaper
1. Flip open the Motorola i880. Press the "Power" button located just below the "Star" key to turn on the phone.
2. Press the "Menu" key, located immediately to the left of the "left arrow" key, to display the phone's main menu. Use the phone's arrow and soft keys to highlight and select "Settings" from the menu. (The soft keys are the keys located on both sides of the up arrow key. Each key is labeled with a hexagon icon.) Select "Display/Info," then "Wallpaper" and then "Buy Wallpapers." Purchase the wallpaper you'd like to appear on the outer screen of the i880.
3. Open the phone's main menu. Select "Settings." Select "Display/Info." Select "Wallpaper." Select "External" to indicate that you would like to display a new wallpaper on the phone's outer screen display.
4. Highlight and select the wallpaper you would like to appear on the phone's outer screen.
Set Wallpaper Displayed on the Outer Screen of the i880 to Change Automatically External" to indicate that you would like to display several new wallpapers on the phone's outer screen display, to be updated automatically.
8. Select how often you would like the wallpaper update to take place. Choose "Select Pictures."
9. Choose the wallpaper pictures you want to appear in rotation on the phone's outer screen.
When purchasing speakers for you car, Sony car speakers are among those you should consider. Sony offers different models of speakers in varying sizes and specifications. By following a few steps, you can choose and buy Sony car speakers for your vehicle.
Instructions
1. Consider the size of the speakers. If you are looking for a new set of Sony car speakers, there are several things you should consider before buying. The first thing you should take into account is whether the speakers will fit in your car, particularly if you are just looking to replace existing speakers rather than add additional speakers.
2. Read Crutchfield Advisor to learn about different things that are important when buying car speakers. The primary things to consider are sensitivity, power handling and price.
3. Compare different types of Sony Car Speakers, using Shopping.com. Here you will be able to look at several different types of Sony Speakers and compare them. Select three or four types of Sony speakers in your price range and click "Compare" next to each one. At the bottom of the page, select "Compare Selected Items."
4. Read online reviews about Sony car speakers at Shopping.com, as well as other review websites such as Epinions and CNET. Decide which type and model of Sony car speakers you are going to purchase.
5. Look for deals on your speakers of choice at local car electronics stores in your area. Compare these prices to those you can find online at the different stores on Shopping.com.
6. Take into account the cost of shipping and installation. Though an online store may be able to give you a better price, the additional costs may make the purchase a bad deal.
Tags: types Sony, different types, different types Sony, into account, should consider, Sony speakers, Sony speakers
So your TV remote broke some time ago, and you finally got tired of getting up to change the channel manually. But now you're confused about program your new universal remote. Maybe you just took the batteries out and then lost the manual for your universal remote control. In most cases, it's pretty simple to program the remote---the hardest part is finding the exact code that matches your particular television model. Keep in mind, if you're watching TV on a set from 1960, it's highly unlikely that you'll find a code to work it with your remote.
Instructions
1. Look up your television model on the instruction booklet that came with your remote control. You can also check the resource links posted below to see if you can find your remote control model and look up the codes online.
2. Turn on your television set manually.
3. Press and hold down the "Code Search" button until you see the red light blink. Then press "TV" once to tell the remote that you want to program the television. Enter in the first code that you are given for your television model. Then try to turn the channels up, or to turn off the television to see if it worked. Repeat this process for all of the codes listed for your type of television until you get a response from your television.
4. If the manual entry doesn't work, press and hold down the "Code Search" button. Press "TV" again, but this time you're going to press "Code Search." Finally, press the off and on button until the television responds by switching off. That means that you have found the right code. Press "Enter" to lock it in. With some remotes, you can also do a full code search using the "Channel Up" button. Keep pressing up until the channel changes. If you accidentally pass the code, press "Channel Down" to attempt to go back to the correct code.
Tags: your remote, your television, television model, your universal remote, button until, Code Search, Code Search button
Damaged memory cards can hamper the performance of your camera.
It's frustrating when you click the shutter button down on your camera and nothing happens. You can troubleshoot your Canon PowerShot A720 IS digital camera by closing compartment doors securely, ensuring the power supply is working, and checking if the memory card is functional.
Restart
Restart your PowerShot; often this can resolve the problem. Make sure that all compartment doors are closed securely. If they are open even slightly, the batteries or memory card will not connect properly, preventing the camera from working.
Power Supply
The two AA alkaline batteries need to be charged and inserted in correctly into the PowerShot A720. If the batteries are dead or loaded incorrectly, the camera will not work. Low batteries can keep the camera from taking pictures or storing data.
Storage Trouble
Full or damaged memory cards will not allow the camera to store data to them. Damaged cards might be discolored or have missing contacts and may need to be discarded. If your Canon will not record data and a "Card Locked" message appears in the LCD, replace the SD or SDHC memory card with an empty one.
Tags: memory card, camera from, compartment doors, memory cards, PowerShot A720, your camera, your Canon
Lasers can be used to determine the distance between objects for a variety of applications.
Laser distance measurement tools include a variety of devices. The technique ranges from shooting a short burst of concentrated light toward a target to units that use continuous beams. The devices have photodetectors that receive the reflected light from the targets. By using the speed of light and the time taken for the lasers to travel to and from the targets, you can determine the distance.
Pulsed Time-of-Flight Method
The transmitter and photodetector used in this method are both optical systems. The detector serves as an antenna for the device. The device uses a short duration burst and high-peak power. Common applications include military range-finding, missile tracking and rocket tracking. Mathematical formulas take geometrical factors such as detector sensitivity, transmitter power and antenna size into account as they affect the difference between transmitted and received power. The effects of atmosphere upon beam density is factored in, as is diffusion of light by different types of targets.
Noncooperative and Cooperative Targets
A noncooperative target is considered to be an object that defuses the laser. Examples of this could include a tree, building or rock. The term noncooperative is used to indicate that the object has not been prepared to enhance the beam. A cooperative object has had its reflectivity enhanced to return a stronger signal. An example of this would be a cube corner reflector. This device is usually a prism in the shape of pyramid that allows internal reflection of the beam. This enables the reflected beam to be parallel with the projected beam for accurate measurement.
Beam Modulation Telemetry
This device uses a continuous wave laser. The method measures the time between the transmission of the beam at a given sine of the light wave and the receiving beam at the sine wave length. The more accurate models of this device use several frequencies of the beam modulation. Lower frequencies prevent ambiguous range measurement. Higher frequencies provide greater accuracy. The accuracy of this technique is affected by signal strength and noise. Turbulence in the air and variations in refraction will also affect accuracy. The method is primarily used in land surveying and land profiling.
Interferometric Methods
Interferometric measurement uses inference to provide highly accurate distance measurements. The technique relies upon the inferred spectrum of a given wavelength of a beam being transmitted. The beam is split into two at the transmitter and reflected off of two mirrors. One beam serves as a reference and the other as a measurement. The variation between the two beams can be measured and a precise distance determined by a photoreceptor or observer. This technique is suitable for controlled atmospheres and shorter distances.
Tags: determine distance, device uses, from targets, This device
Digital8 (also called D8) is a digital version of the popular Hi8 analog camcorder format. When Sony introduced the Digital8 format in 1999, it offered owners of Hi8 camcorders the ability to upgrade to a digital camcorder that also could play back Hi8 cassettes.
History
In the United States, Sony is the only company to manufacture and market a Digital8 camcorder, but a variety of consumer electronics companies offered Hi8 camcorders, including Panasonic, Canon and Toshiba.
Features
Digital8 camcorders record video in digital format at a rate that, according to Sony, is 2.5 times faster than traditional Hi8 camcorders. Digital8 camcorders can also record video at a resolution of 500 lines, where as Hi8 camcorders offer a resolution of only 400 lines, according to the Computer Desktop Encyclopedia.
Digital8 camcorders give you two options for handling the recordings: transfer video to a computer via FireWire technology, or connect the camcorder to a television for playback via RCA cables. Hi8 camcorders offer no direct means of connection to a computer; they connect to a television for playback.
Benefits
Digital8 camcorders allow people to record video in a digital format while using traditional Hi8 tapes. Prior to Sony's Digital8 format, playback of Hi8 tapes required a Hi8 camcorder or player. But because Digital8 camcorders can play back Hi8 tapes as well, people who previously used Hi8 camcorders can preserve their investment in memories captured on Hi8 tapes. The main benefit of Digital8 is that people can record in digital format but do not lose the ability to play the analog tapes that the Hi8 format uses.
Misconceptions
For digital recording, some people consider the Digital8 format of lesser quality than the MiniDV format. Digital8 and MiniDV formats record video in the same way and offer users an identical level of video quality. The main difference is the recording medium: Tapes for use in Digital8 (and Hi8) camcorders are about the size of an audiocassette whereas MiniDV tapes are a little larger than a matchbox (http://www.consumerreports.org). Both MiniDV and Digital8 camcorders capture video at a higher resolution than the Hi8 format.
Warnings
Although Digital8 camcorders can play Hi8 tapes, Hi8 camcorders cannot play back Digital8 tapes.
Tags: Digital8 camcorders, record video, digital format, Digital8 format, play back
Large flat-screen television sets are typically sized at 32 inches and over. A variety of manufacturers make these TVs using LCD, plasma or LED technology. The technical specifications of a large flat-screen TV include things such as the resolution, the contrast ratio, the amount of inputs and more.
Resolution
Most large flat-screen television sets display high-definition images, though the actual resolution will vary depending on the model. Some TVs will have a 720p resolution, while others will have a 1080p resolution. Both, technically, are high-definition and are vastly superior to the resolution of a cathode ray television, but only 1080p is considered to be "true" high definition.
Screen Size
The screen size of any large flat-screen television set is measured diagonally, from one corner to another. In standard electronics retailer classification.
Inputs
The number of inputs on your large flat-screen television set determines how many devices can be connected. All large flat-screen televisions have at least one HDMI input, one composite audio and video input and one component audio and video input. However, many televisions have multiple inputs of each, allowing for more devices to be connected.
Digital TV Tuner
All large flat-screen television sets have a digital television tuner, capable of being connected directly to a digital cable box or digital television antenna using a coaxial cable. This is in contrast to old cathode ray televisions, which had analog TV tuners. If you had a television with an analog tuner, you would first have to connect it to a digital converter box and then to an antenna to receive programming.
Tags: flat-screen television, large flat-screen, large flat-screen television, flat-screen television sets, television sets
Electricians know the simple wall switch as a single pole light switch. When wired properly, the switch performs by disrupting the flow of electricity when it is turned off. Most modern light switches have 2 means to connect the wires to it; they have screws on the side to fasten them, or small holes in the back to insert the wires. They also will have a green screw that is to connect the ground wire.
Instructions
1. Turn off the electricity going to the switch. This can be done at the fuse box or circuit breaker.
2. There will be 2 sets of wires, with 3 wires each. The first set will supply the electricity, and the second will go to the light fixture. Each set will have 3 wires, black, white, and copper. Strip 1/2 inch of insulation from each wire. The copper wire will have no insulation.
3. Bend the ends of the copper wires into hooks and fasten them to the green screw.
4. Connect the white wires together, and screw a wire nut onto them. Secure the nut to the wire with electrical tape.
5. Bend the ends of the black wires into hooks, and connect them to the screws, or push the straight wires into the holes on the back of the switch.
Tags: will have, wires into, Bend ends, fasten them, green screw, holes back, into hooks
Good boudoir photos are sensual, seductive and flattering. In order to take the best boudoir photos, planning your session in advance is essential whether you are the model or the photographer. By taking care in choosing the setting, lighting and accessories, your boudoir photographs will look natural and soft rather than stiff and posed. This makes the overall image more flattering, resulting in better boudoir photographs with minimal effort.
Instructions
1. Plan your locations. Make sure any areas being used in the shoot are clean and free of debris or distracting clutter that might interfere with the settings for the photographs. Select more than one location. While traditional boudoir photos are set in the bedroom, don't ignore the possibility of other areas or backgrounds such as blank walls.
2. Decide on your outfits. Avoid using tight-fitting lingerie or clothing for early poses, since this clothing leaves unflattering marks on the skin. Choose a variety of outfits in which you feel comfortable. While lingerie is standard, it is by no means the only outfit possible for a sexy, sensual photograph.
3. Choose your lighting. Soft, even lighting that is free of shadows creates the most sensual imagery. Natural lighting also works well; if you have access to natural light, plan your shoot for later in the day when the sunlight is less harsh.
4. Practice posing. If you are taking your own boudoir photographs, this means strutting your stuff in the mirror to get an idea of what poses are flattering. Choose poses that are soft and natural-- try to avoid poses that direct the viewer's attention away from the subject.
5. Plan your makeup. This ties in with your lighting choices--you will need heavier makeup to combat the effects of powerful posing lights and flashes. Using several different cosmetic looks adds variety to the shoot, but make sure that you save bolder looks for the end of the shoot.
6. Choose your hairstyles. This is another good way to add variety to a shoot. Some poses will lend themselves to flowing tresses, while others call for a sultry updo. For long looks, hair should remain natural, so avoid over-styling with products. Save the sprayed-on updos for the end of the shoot, so hairspray and clips don't cause unsightly crimping.
Tags: boudoir photographs, boudoir photos, Choose your, Good Boudoir, Good Boudoir Photos, Plan your, poses that
Multiple cable types are used to wire satellite television systems.
Wired pairs, fiber optics, and coaxial cable are all transmission media designed to get a signal from point to point. Satellite television systems use all three to receive signals, transmit audio, and communicate with network decoders. Although all three cable types are common in most homes, there are differences among their functions as related to satellite television service.
Satellite Television
Satellite television uses twisted pair, coaxial, and fiber optic cables to interface with decoders. Satellite television works by receiving a signal broadcast from an orbiting satellite above the Earth. These signals are then collected at a roof or pole-mounted dish, and sent into the home.
Twisted Pair
Twisted-pair cables, commonly used in homes as Ethernet cables, are used to wire computer networks. Twisted-pair cables are comprised of three to six twisted pairs of wires, used for signal transmission. Satellite systems also use phone wire, which is another form of unshielded twisted-pair (UTP) cable. In the case of satellite television, Ethernet cables are employed to network-equipped decoders with computer networks, so that subscribers can view decoder details and make remote programming changes. Phone wires are needed in many cases when ordering premium pay-per-view content. This data is sent to the provider during the nightly data download for billing.
Fiber Optics
Fiber optic cables are often used for sending digital audio signals from satellite decoders to home theater receivers. Fiber optics consist of glass or plastic strands that carry transmitted light as the signal carrier. This is a noise-free data system, which is inexpensive to employ on home and commercial devices. Fiber optic cables enable the use of "surround sound" with satellite decoder boxes.
Coaxial Cables
Coaxial cables consist of a copper center conductor surrounded by multiple layers of shielding. This is the cable used to connect a satellite dish to a decoder. These cables are highly resistant to electromagnetic and radio interference, making them ideal for sending delicate low-level digital signals to satellite decoders.
When a sound is first played, it is picked up by a microphone and translated into a sine wave that represents the sound. The carrier waves start out with no information inscribed in them until they are modified by the information from the electrical information from the microphone. These electromagnetic waves are more effective than mechanical waves, because electrical waves can travel in a vacuum while mechanical waves need a medium to travel in. Electromagnetic waves travel at the speed of light, which is faster than the mechanical waves that travel at the speed of sound.
Transmission
Radio transmission occurs when intelligence--sound or pictures--are transformed into sine waves and transmitted. Transmission can occur with amplitude modification (AM) or frequency modification (FM). Amplitude modification changes the size of the sine waves to represent the information and is most commonly used for transmitting AM radio stations and the image for televisions. Frequency modification alters the length of the sine waves to transfer information and is often used for FM radio stations and the sound of television stations. FM is preferable because it is resistant to static. The sine waves are broadcast by a radio tower. The more powerful the radio tower, the larger the area that the signal can be picked up.
Receiving a Transmission
To receive a radio transmission, you must have an antenna, tuner, detector, amplifier and speaker. When stations hit the antenna, they alter the magnetic fields and electric fields along the length of the antenna to transfer the electromagnetic wave into the receiving radio. The antenna will receive a multitude of different radio signals, so it is the tuner's job to select one frequency, or radio station, to focus on. The detector then translates the sine wave that the radio is picking up into sound, and the amplifier increases the sounds, which are then projected by the speaker.
Tags: sine waves, mechanical waves, information from, into sine, radio stations, radio tower
Conventional radars are effective in measuring precipitation through echoes and reflectivity, but are not as accurate in storm detection as the Doppler radar.
History
Radars aid in storm prediction
Until the 1980s, conventional radars were being used to measure precipitation to study weather patterns. In 1964, The National Severe Storms Laboratory began experimenting on the uses of the Doppler Effect on its radar, and the Doppler radar became a crucial tool in predicting and preparing for serious storms.
Function
Doppler radar can measure velocity of wind
Conventional radars can show the intensity of a storm, but only in regards to precipitation. The Doppler radar measures the speed and direction of the wind in addition to precipitation, and receives a more comprehensive view of a storm.
How They Work
Radars help us to prepare for severe storms
Conventional radars read precipitation by the intensity of its echo or reflectivity. The Doppler radar measures speed and direction rather than the intensity of a signal by using the principle of the Doppler shift.
Purpose
Tornadoes give off hook echoes
Conventional radars are helpful in predicting the intensity of precipitation. They also measure hook echoes and bow echoes, which indicate thunderstorms and, at times, tornadoes. However, a severe storm can occur without one of these signals, which is why the Doppler radar is more effective. It can measure tornado vortex signatures and wind shear, which the conventional radar cannot.
Problems with Conventional Radars
With the Doppler radar, we can better understand and be prepared for serious storms.
In addition to the fact that conventional radars do not detect wind velocity, they also misread by bouncing off matter that is not precipitation.
3D models have become a part of almost every type of media, from television and movies to video games and even printed ads. These models are created using 3D modeling applications like Maya, Cinema 4D or Hexagon. Although the particular tools used in these programs may vary, there are certain basic principles you should use in any of them when creating a 3D model that you intend to rig for posing and animation.
Instructions
1. Create models that do not have perfect bilateral symmetry. Of course, if the character is a human being, he has to have two legs and two eyes. And the general features from left to right need to be similar enough so that it seems to be from the same person. But an exact mirror image will seem unrealistic.
2. Ensure that all of the polygons that need to be "outfacing," are indeed, outfacing. If you have a flipped polygon, it will render as a hole in the model. While working in the modeling program, you should be able to tell if a polygon is flipped because the color is slightly different.
3. Create enough polygons in all the bendable areas of the model to ensure that joints and other parts bend realistically. A low number of polygons in an area like the elbow for instance can lead to crimping when the joint is bent. On the other hand, eliminate any unnecessary polygons in areas that don't need them, since this will make the file size larger than it needs to be, slowing the rendering process.
4. Export your model (if you want to use it in another program like Poser or Daz Studio) in Wavefront OBJ format. This is the most commonly used format, and can be imported and used by virtually all of them.
This convex mirror allows drivers and pedestrians to see a wide angle around a blind corner.
Mirrors and lenses are widely used optical devices that can change the way we see images. Curved mirrors and lenses bend the path of light beams to provide magnified, miniaturized, inverted and otherwise distorted versions of the images reflected off of, or passed through, them. Mirrors and lenses come in many different types.
Convex Mirrors
Convex mirrors reflect light from the outside of a spherical surface. They produce a smaller, seemingly distant version of reflected images and provide a wide angle of view. An example is a car's side rear-view mirror.
Concave Mirrors
Concave mirrors reflect light from the inside of a spherical surface. The focal point lies in front of the mirror. If the viewer is well behind the focal point, he or she sees a small, inverted reflection of him- or herself that grows in size as he or she gets closer. If the viewer is between the focal point and the mirror, he or she sees a magnified, right-side-up reflection of him- or herself. An example is a makeup mirror.
Cylindrical Mirrors
These mirrors reflect light from the outside of a cylinder. Much like a convex mirror, the reflection is smaller and more distant than the object, except only along one dimension. Along the dimension parallel to the axis of the cylinder, there are no distortions.
Biconvex Lenses
A biconvex lens consists of two convex surfaces (like the outside of a sphere) back to back. An object viewed through the lens appears small and inverted. The lens in your eye is a biconvex lens. If the object lies between the focal point and the lens, a viewer on the other side will see a magnified, right-side-up image of the object. Magnifying glasses use this principle.
Biconcave Lenses
A biconcave lens is the opposite of a biconvex lens. It consists of two concave surfaces (like the inside of a sphere) back to back. It is thicker along the outside than at the inside. A viewer examining an object through such a lens will see a small, right-side-up image of the object that appears closer than it actually is.
Plano-Convex Lenses
A plano-convex lens has a convex surface on one side and a flat plane surface on the other. It works in the same way as a biconvex lens, except that the light rays are bent at one surface instead of two.
Plano-Concave Lenses
A plano-concave lens has a concave surface on one side and a flat plane surface on the other. It works in the same way as a biconcave lens, except that the light rays are bent at one surface instead of two.
Convex-Concave Lenses
A convex-concave lens (also called a meniscus) has one concave and one convex surface. The distortion of one lens is countered by the distortion of the other. The relative curvature of the two surfaces affects the precise way the final image appears through the lens, with a wide range of possibilities. This is the kind of lens used in eyeglasses.
Tags: biconvex lens, focal point, light from, mirrors reflect, mirrors reflect light, reflect light, reflect light from
The Slingbox is a multimedia streaming device that enables you to stream the television to any Internet-connected computer. The Slingbox software runs independently from Windows Media Player, thus no further system modifications are needed once the Slingbox and its software are installed. Before long you will be able to take your favorite TV content with you on your computer wherever you have an Internet connection.
Instructions
Setup Slingbox Hardware
1. Determine which cable is appropriate for the connection between your Slingbox and set-top box. Choose component cables if the input jacks on the rear of your set-top box are colored red, green and blue. Choose composite cables if the input jacks on the rear of your set-top box are colored red, white and yellow. Insert the cables into the corresponding colored jacks on the backs of both your Slingbox and set-top box. Press firmly on the connections to ensure optimal audio and video quality.
2. Insert the included IR blaster cable into the "IR" port on the rear left side of your Slingbox device. Place the other end of the IR blaster on the front of your set-top box. This will enable you to change your television channels remotely.
3. Insert an Ethernet cable into the input jack labeled "Network" on the back of your Slingbox. Attach the other end of the wire into an available Ethernet port on your home network's router or switch. This will connect your Slingbox device to your home network and enable it to transmit your streaming video on the Internet.
4. Plug the circular end of the power cord into the "Power" port on the rear left-hand side of the Slingbox. Connect the transformer into an available power outlet on your wall and wait as the Slingbox automatically powers on.
Setup Slingbox Software
5. Launch your computer's Web browser and input the Web address of the SlingPlayer software download site. Click on the "Download Now" link at the top of the screen to download the software to your computer's desktop.
6. Double-click on the SlingPlayer installation file's icon to begin the installation. Select "USA" under the "Where is your Slingbox located?" and click "Next."
7. Choose the input connection that you used to connect your Slingbox to your set-top box. Click on "Composite" if you connected the two devices using composite video cables. Click on "Component" if you connected the two devices using component video cables. Press "Next" to save your settings.
8. Click on the "Power" button on the "Control Code Setup" page to test your Slingbox's ability to control your via the IR receiver. Click "Next" if your set-top box powers off upon command. Exit out of the SlingPlayer installation wizard.
Tags: your Slingbox, your set-top, your computer, cable into, cables input, cables input jacks
Photographing fog with a digital camera can be tricky, as fog can wash out color, making capturing images challenging. There are a few techniques you can do, and with each technique you create a different effect.
Instructions
1. Open up a stop if you're able to look down on fog. By opening up a stop, you balance the color in the photograph, much as you would when photographing snow with a digital camera.
2. Go down about 2/3rds of a stop to underexpose the shot when you are shooting through fog with a digital camera. This will have the effect of darkening the image by bringing out the fog even more.
3. Try opening the stop to +1/3 when you are shooting through fog with a digital camera. This can lighten the picture and the fog you are photographing with a digital camera.
4. Underexpose the photograph when you are photographing fog with a digital camera. Using this technique can create and enhance the mood of your photograph.
5. Photograph the fog with the different exposures to find the effect you like. You won't see the full effect until you transfer the image from the camera to your computer. However, if you use the histogram, you can check whether you have exposed the image too much or too little.
Tags: digital camera, with digital, with digital camera, camera This, digital camera This, opening stop, photographing with
A refrigerator only keepw food safe for four to six hours without power.
Home power outages can be inconvenient and wasteful. Refrigerators and freezers can only keep food safe for short periods of time, therefore if a power outage is expected to exceed a few hours, precautions must be made in concerning the safety of food items in kept in the fridge or freezer. When in doubt, throw it out. Nonperishable items are the safest to consume during power outages.
Refrigerator
Full refrigerators can safely preserve food for four to six hours without power as long as the internal temperature does not exceed 40 F. A refrigerator that is half or partially full will not preserve the food as well as one that is full. The length of preservation also depends on how frequently you open the door; if possible keep the door closed for the duration of the power outage.
Freezer
A full freezer that is kept closed at all times can preserve frozen items for up to 48 hours. If the freezer is only half or partially full, frozen food items will keep for only about 24 hours. The temperature inside of the freezer must remain below 32 F or items will begin to thaw.
Solutions
Keeping the doors of both the refrigerator and freezer shut will help preserve the food longer. If the power is going to be out for an extended period of time, move all items stored in the door to the core of the refrigerator and purchase blocks of ice or dry ice if available. A 50-lb block of dry ice can keep food safe in the freezer for an extended 48 hours. Dry ice placed in the refrigerator will also extend the life of the food as long as it is placed in a secure bag or Styrofoam carton.
Safety
If in doubt of the safety of thawed or warming food, throw it away immediately. Discard all frozen food that begins to thaw including meats, fish, poultry and anything that comes into contact with its juices. Dairy items in the refrigerator such as milk, cheese and yogurt should also be discarded if the temperature reaches above 40 F. Any meat or poultry items should be consumed immediately after two hours and discarded after four hours of power outage. Inspect all other items for safety by examining the smell and texture. Discard any items that come into contact with thawing meat or dairy liquid and clean up thoroughly.
Tags: food safe, four hours, power outage, preserve food, contact with, food items, four hours without
The term convex is used to describe anything that is shaped so that it curves outward at its center. It can also be used as a noun for any object that its convex.
Lenses
Convex---and its opposite, concave---are often associated with lenses. Light that enters one side of a convex lens is "bent" or distorted as it leaves the other side. Carefully adjusting the shape of the lens allows the light to be focused or distributed. Convex lenses are used not only in eyeglasses and cameras, but also in a variety of electronics like CD players.
Mathematics
Mathematicians use convex and concave to describe certain shapes. If all of the angles on the inside of a shape are less than 180 degrees, the shape is said to be convex. If an angle is larger, it is concave.
Mirrors
Another example of a convex object that everyone is familiar with is a mirror. Large, rounded, convex security mirrors are often mounted in stores or other public places to make it easier to see a large area on a relatively small mirror.
Toasters have been around for decades, but they lack in innovation. A fully functional toaster can be made in your own home using only basic supplies. Put your own personal touch on a toaster by following the steps in this article.
Instructions
1. The heating element you will use is a mixture of nickel and chromium, and can be found in any good hobbyist electronics store. If you cannot find a walk-in store, look online. Buy a spool of this inexpensive "nichrome" metal.
2. Build an apparatus, most likely in the form of a lever, that creates an electrical circuit when pressed down. The ends of this circuit should be attached to the heating element. When a power source is supplied to the circuit, the heating elements will then heat up.
3. Stabilize the heating elements by welding them to some sort of spring-loaded base, which you can fashion yourself or buy in an electronics store.
4. Build a timer. You can integrate an exact timer, or you can fashion one out of a capacitor, which charges predictably and will stop current flow after a given time, depending on the exact layout of the rest of the circuit.
5. Now that you have a functioning circuit to heat your toast, make sure you enclose the whole apparatus for safety. Good choices are metal or plastic. Be sure that whatever material you choose, you keep the walls reasonably far from the heating elements so that your toaster's exterior does not heat up and burn you.
Tags: heating elements, electronics store, heating element
If you are into taking pictures anytime, anywhere, then you may own a Nikon Coolpix L4. This nifty camera has the look and feel of a more expensive model, even though it is nowhere near the top of the line of Nikon digital cameras. Despite the great features this little wonder possesses---and at such a great value---it can have its problems.
Compatible Memory Cards
One of the most common mistakes when purchasing a digital camera is buying an incompatible memory card. This can cause quirks in the operation of your Nikon Coolpix L4 as well. You may experience the memory card (or camera) does not work with the memory inserted, while removing the memory allows for normal operation. You may also see that when you insert the memory card after the camera is on, the camera works. To avoid these issues, remember to check the compatibility of your memory card by referencing the Coolpix manual.
The Nikon Coolpix L4 Goes Through Batteries Quickly
Perhaps you take more pictures than your average person and your camera battery simply cannot keep up. You can always tweak your camera settings so that less power is used. For example, while shooting in the daytime, make sure your flash is turned off. There are also better battery alternatives out there. Try a NiMH rechargeable battery with a top of the line charger, and you are sure to get longer life out of your Nikon Coolpix L4.
Camera View is Blurry Even After Cleaning the Lens
If you are getting a blurry view or blurry images, there could be a number of problems. It could be the lens has crystalline deposits built up---an effect that occurs when cameras are stored in cold places and brought into the warm air, causing condensation. It could also be that the focus receptor is broken or even that your settings are not optimal for the type of environment you are shooting in.
LCD Screen Is Cracked
If your LCD screen is cracked, but the camera still seems to be operational, you may as well go the cheap route and have the LCD replaced before purchasing another camera. You can find cheap Nikon Coolpix LCD replacement screens on eBay or from the below link. When it comes to big repairs for your Nikon Coolpix L4, you can take it to a camera shop to get an estimate on the repair. If the price is more than $50, you may decide to replace your Nikon Coolpix L4 with a newer model.
Tags: Nikon Coolpix, memory card, your Nikon, your Nikon Coolpix, also that
The Sony Cybershot is a hand-held digital camera. There are various models of the Cybershot. Megapixels range from 6 to 14, and they each have different-size viewing screens. All the cameras share a Carl Zeiss lens, built-in flash, and a lithium-ion battery. Their functions are basically the same, which makes it easy to switch from one camera to another. Learning shoot with these cameras is simple with the built-in automatic functions.
Instructions
1. Press the ON/OFF button on the top of the camera to turn the power on.
2. Turn the dial on the top-right of the camera to AUTO. The AUTO function has a green camera with the word AUTO underneath it.
3. Frame the subject of the shot using the digital monitor on the back of the camera. Zoom in and out by pushing and pulling on the control surrounding the shutter button.
4. Depress the shutter button halfway to focus the shot. A beep will sound to indicate that the shot is in focus.
5. Press the shutter down the rest of the way to take the shot. Review the image by changing the dial to PLAY mode. This looks like a sideways triangle. Move forward and backward through the images with the arrow keys.
Zoom lenses are designed to cover a range of focal lengths.
As good as your 35mm film or digital single lens reflex camera may be, before the image ever reaches the film or digital sensor it has to pass through a lens. When you are shopping for a zoom lens there are few key things you should consider.
Speed
Zoom lenses have different maximum apertures. The lower the number, the larger the aperture, or hole, that allows the light to travel through the lens onto the film plane. More light coming through the lens means you can use a faster shutter speed when shooting a scene, versus a lens with a smaller maximum aperture. Fast lenses are ideal for sports or low-light shooting. While zoom lenses will never be as fast as prime (non-zoom) lenses, you can buy zoom lenses with apertures as fast as f2.8.
Focal Length
Focal length refers to the distance the zoom lens will cover. There are wide angle zoom lenses with focal lengths from 10 to 24mm, standard zoom lenses that cover a 24 to 70mm focal range and telephoto zoom lenses that cover 70 to 200mm or more focal lengths. There are also zoom lenses that cover a wide range, like the Canon 28-300mm IS zoom lens. This lens is ideal if you want to buy one lens and have it cover most of the focal lengths you will be shooting.
Image Stabilization and Third Party Lenses
Image stabilization or vibration reduction are features on lenses that help reduce the impact of camera shake on your photos, while shooting at slower speeds or longer focal lengths -- if you are not using a tripod. This feature is very useful, but also adds to the price of the lens. Third party lenses, manufactured by companies like Sigma and Tamron, have improved in quality since they were first introduced. While these lenses cost less than original equipment lenses, they may support all the features of your camera. Nikon has a series of lenses that transmit the focusing data to the camera's internal metering system. In turn, that helps determine the amount of power your flash needs. Third party lenses do not support those types of features.
Shop Around
Photo retailers often display models they are looking to sell at a discount when an updated version of a particular lens is released. You can also ask if your local retailer has a layaway plan that will allow you to pay for a lens over a few weeks or months.
Consider Used Lenses
While lenses are updated from time to time, if a lens is well maintained and looked after it can last for many years. Consult with a sales associate at the camera store you frequent and let him know what type of lens you are looking for. He may be able to find you a used lens, and it may include a short-term warranty. If the store does not have a lens you want, ask if they know of anyone who is considering selling one. You can also check on-line auction sites.
Tags: focal lengths, lenses that, zoom lenses, lenses that cover, that cover, through lens
Your HP iPAQ hand-held with Windows Mobile 5.0 lets you listen to music, watch videos, surf the Internet and work with Microsoft Office applications. Everything you need to recharge the battery on your iPAQ is included in the box when you purchase your Pocket PC. Read on to learn recharge the battery on an HP iPAQ.
Instructions
1. Locate the AC adapter and charging adapter for your HP iPAQ (one was included in the box when you bought it). If you can't find the original AC adapter, you can easily purchase another AC adapter that is compatible with your Pocket PC.
2. Attach the charging adapter to the plug on the AC adapter.
3. Insert the charging adapter into the slot at the bottom of your iPAQ.
4. Plug the AC adapter into a wall outlet.
5. Allow your Pocket PC to charge until the power indicator at the top of the iPAQ turns orange. This lets you know that your hand-held is fully charged.
6. Disconnect your iPAQ from the AC adapter.
7. Recharge the battery using the Desktop Cradle. Plug the AC adapter into an outlet and connect the adapter plug to the cradle.
8. Plug the USB connector cable on the Desktop Cradle into a USB port on your home computer.
9. Slip your HP iPAQ onto the cradle. You will know it's correctly placed if the power indicator at the top of the Pocket PC lights up.
10. Allow your hand-held to charge until the power indicator turns orange.
Tags: adapter into, charging adapter, power indicator, your iPAQ, your Pocket
You can upload pictures from your BlackBerry to your Picasa account via an app or unique email address.
Picasa is a free picture-editing application available for Windows, Mac and Linux systems, and is not available for BlackBerry smartphones. But third-party uploading tools are available for connecting to Picasa's online component and your online picture albums. The third-party tools are not free, but they do let you send pictures taken with your BlackBerry to your online Picasa albums.
Picasa Auto Photo Uploader
Picasa Auto Photo Uploader includes a user-friendly interface and a quick installation process. The program also includes an automatic uploading wizard that lets you schedule the date and time you want the application to upload your photos. Picasa Auto Photo Uploader is $0.99 (as of October 2011) and your BlackBerry smartphone must be running 4.2.0 or higher system software. Navigate your BlackBerry's Internet browser to the "Auto Photo Uploader for Picasa" link and click the "Purchase" button to download and install the application.
vCasa for BlackBerry v1.2.5
vCasa for BlackBerry v1.2.5 lets you upload, view and manage pictures from your BlackBerry to your Picasa albums all through an easy-to-navigate application. The program also lets you share pictures with other Picasa members as well as comment on pictures within one or more Picasa albums. vCasa for BlackBerry v1.2.5 is $2.99 (as of October 2011) and requires 5.0 or higher system software. Navigate your BlackBerry's Internet browser to the "vCasa for BlackBerry" link and click the "Add to Cart" button to download and install the application.
Uploading Via Picasa Email
You can also upload photos from your BlackBerry smartphone by sending the files to a free personalize Picasa email address. Navigate your BlackBerry's Internet browser to the "Picasa Web Albums Settings" link to create your personalize Picasa email address. Click the check box next to "Allow me to upload photos by email." Enter a word containing six to 15 letters and digits in length in the box next "Enter a secret word:." Your personalize Picasa email address will appear next to "Email photos to this address:." Write down the address and email pictures via your BlackBerry email service to that address. Click the "Save changes" button at the bottom of the Picasa settings screen to accept your personalize email address. You can upload up to 20 megabytes per email message to your Picasa account. Pictures upload to the "Drop Box" album unless you specify which album you want them in by entering the album's name in the subject line of your outgoing email message. You can also add a caption to the subject line to accompany the picture.
Picasa Technical Support
Navigate your BlackBerry's Internet browser to the "Picasa and Picasa Web Albums Help" link to access help if you encounter problems with uploading and accessing your Picasa albums. The Picasa help forum is free to use and answers a variety of questions including backup your online pictures, print pictures and share pictures with other Picasa members.
Tags: your BlackBerry, email address, Auto Photo, Auto Photo Uploader, BlackBerry Internet
Zenith has long been one of the main producers of television systems. Since becoming the first manufacturer to include a remote control, Zenith has always offered some of the best equipment for the money. If you are still using a 1986 big screen television from the company you have gotten great value. However, if the TV is beginning to fail you need to troubleshoot the hardware.
Instructions
1. Check the coaxial cable connection running form the exterior audio/video equipment to the Zenith television. If this is not connected completely into both devices the audio/video signals fail to be produced by the television.
2. Connect any cable service without a receiver box or antenna to a digital to analog converter box. This is required if you want to view broadcast content on the television, as on digital signals for television service is now created.
3. Power on the television and wait for it to warm up. It make take several minutes for the TV image to load, so a prolonged period of seeing no picture is typical.
4. Look over the video image. If the picture is slightly red, green or blue it means the color spectrum inside the television is beginning to fail. Nearby electronic stores are not going to carry this replacement product, although you can try local repair facilities. These stores may know where you can obtain replacement parts, although the equipment may be expensive as it is no longer produced.
5. If the TV fails to turn on it means you have blown a fuse. These fuses are obtained just like the color spectrum--although the fuses are more readily available. Open up the rear of the TV through the access panel and remove the current fuse--it is a tubular glass device. Slide in the new fuse and the television is ready to be powered back on.
Building a DIY ceiling TV projector is a project that requires a good deal of ingenuity, as well as an understanding of projector technology. Fortunately, if you're looking to build one, the hard research has been done for you, and everything from theory to plans to complete projector kits are available online. But before you choose the type of DIY ceiling projector you wish to build, a general plan of what's needed to mount the projector will help.
The Big Box
Your DIY projector's size will depend heavily on the parts used. The main element in producing the projected picture will be the monitor used for the project and, depending on the resolution you intend to project, this monitor will likely range from 15 inches to 17 inches. When you place that size monitor, along with the equipment needed to transform a flat screen LCD into a TV projector in a single enclosure, what you'll end up with is a big wooden box. Decorate it as you like; paint it or carve it. No matter what you do, it's still a big box, and a heavy one at that, weighing in somewhere between 20 and 40 lbs.---which makes mounting it to your ceiling a difficult task.
Rail Mount
Due to the weight of the DIY projector, you'll have to approach the mounting as a project nearly as big as building the projector was. Check your ceiling for structural supports that would make the mounting safer to those standing under your projector and less likely to cause damage to the ceiling itself.
The most convenient way to mount your DIY projector to the ceiling is by using a rail mount system, parts found at your local hardware store. To build this mount, you'll need two channel rails as your mount system. Attach the rails to your ceiling rafters. Pick a length that suits the room and the box. The longer the channels, the more adjustable the projector picture will be, as you can change the projected size by moving the box along the channels. Be sure to mount all holes in the center of the studs.
To run your projector through the channels, you'll need four threaded rods. On the channel end, use a nut that fits inside the channel without obstructing the rod's movement and a washer also inside the channel. Outside the channel, attach a second washer and nut to the rod, leaving enough rod between the two washers to allow unobstructed movement along the channel. You'll want to attach the other end of this rod securely to your projector box, drilling holes in the top of the box where needed. If you place two rods per channel, four for the box in total, you should have a secure mobile projector mount on your ceiling for your DIY projector.
Tags: your ceiling, your projector, ceiling projector, inside channel, mount system, mount your, picture will
An answering machine is a device which will answer the phone on your behalf after a certain number of rings. It will play a recorded message for your callers before it is ready to record their message. You can use the manufacturer's preset automated message or you can change it by recording your own outgoing message.
Instructions
1. Compose your message ahead of time. If not, you may end up stumbling, looking for the right words while you are recording your message or leaving out some important details. Composing your message before you begin recording will save you from having to record several messages before you find one with which you are satisfied.
2. Make it easy for your callers to listen your message. Record your message in a relatively quiet room without background noise. Speak loudly and clearly. For the benefit of callers who don't have much time, make your message as brief and to the point as possible.
3. Begin the recording process by first locating the "Change" button on your answering machine. This button initializes the answering machine for adjustments to the settings of the various features.
4. Locate the microphone on your answering machine and lean towards it until you are about nine inches away.
5. Locate the "Annc" button. Press and hold the "Annc" button until it beeps. Begin recording your message.
6. Watch the message window while you are recording your message. It keeps track of how much time has elapsed since you began recording. You can record a message that is up to three minutes long.
7. Locate the "Stop" button and press it when you have finished recording your message. The answering machine will play your message back at this point. If you are not satisfied with your message, repeat the steps to record it again.
8. Press "Annc" if you want to listen to your message again.
Tags: your message, recording your, answering machine, recording your message, Annc button, listen your, listen your message
An inexpensive consumer-grade webcam can be used for home security.
Create an effective security camera for your home or business using an inexpensive webcam and free downloadable software. Your do-it-yourself security system can be tailored to your individual budget and needs.
Instructions
1. Place the USB webcam to monitor activity.
2. Connect the webcam to your computer. If the computer is too far away, you'll need to use a USB extender cable or a webcam with wireless transmission capabilities.
3. Download free (open source) Dorgem 2.1.0 software. (See Resources.) On the main page, you'll read that Dorgem has been officially "discontinued" by the developer as of July 2008. This simply means that the developer is no longer offering support or working on updates, but that last stable release (2.1.0) is still available for download. Despite the discontinuation of development, Dorgem is still arguably the best freeware option for a webcam security front end in terms of size, speed and overall system drain.
4. If you are uncomfortable using a discontinued software package, other freeware options include Vidis Lite 1.3 and Webcams Watcher 2.0. Features are similar to those of Dorgem.
5. Install and configure the webcam software on your computer. You will need to choose whether to capture in still-frame or video format, as well as the rate and quality of capture, and the location to save the images to. Another important option is to decide whether you will capture at constant, regular intervals or if you will use Dorgem's built-in motion detection functionality to capture images only when the camera detects movement in the frame.
6. If you choose to capture images only when movement is detected (motion detection), you'll need to adjust your webcam's settings. High-contrast and high-sharpness setups will likely create some "noise" in every frame, causing false motion detection. But low-contrast, low-sharpness settings will reduce the detail in captured images.
7. Test your new security camera by walking through the monitored area. Review the captured images or video clip(s) on your computer and adjust the Dorgem capture configuration and webcam settings until you achieve satisfactory results.
Tags: motion detection, your computer, capture images, capture images only, captured images, images only, images only when
A fisheye lens is an ultra-wide angle lens that frames everything in front of the camera, as well as to the extreme right and left to create a spherically distorted image. There are two types of fisheye lenses: circular and full-frame. Circular types capture 180 degrees of the image to produce a circular image where the edges of the frame are black. Full-frame types capture 180 degrees of the diagonal and less around the edges so that a rectangular image is created. Originally called whole-sky lenses, fisheye lenses were used to study the sky and cloud formations. However, many photographers are adding fisheye lenses to their camera bags to lend an artistic or humorous touch to photos.
Portraits
Pick any person or animal and create a humorous portrait. Place the face in the center of the photograph because this area is the most magnified and appears the most convex. The edges of the frame will bend beyond the point of exaggeration and the result is a caricature-like image. Add the full body to make the head appear larger than the body. It's worth noting that when taking portraits it's best to place your subject against a neutral or uncluttered background because fisheye lenses have such great depth of field that it's impossible to throw the background out of focus.
Landscapes
Full-frame fisheye lenses are excellent for taking landscape shots because of their ultra-wide angle, and if there are no straight lines such as buildings, trees, or roads, the spherical distortion is minor or absent. Placing the horizon square in the middle of the frame so there is an even amount of sky and land also cuts back on fisheye distortion.
Cityscapes
In places where there are a lot of straight lines and elements to work with, the fisheye photograph gets very creative. The objects that are closest to the edges of the frame are going to be distorted the most. Abstract photography opportunities abound in the city with a fisheye lens by making use of the various lights, shapes and colors.
Radial Effect
Use your fisheye to create a radial blur effect that gives the look of motion or emitting light. To get the effect, slow the shutter speed to 1/25 of a second and press the shutter release button while you pivot the camera 90 degrees. Take several photos because not all of them will be keepers.
Tags: fisheye lenses, edges frame, fisheye lens, capture degrees, straight lines, there straight, there straight lines
Verizon Wireless offers a number of options for people who travel internationally. Verizon's native network uses technologies and frequencies that are unique to North America, which means that most Verizon cell phones will not work outside of North America. Verizon offers several solutions for international travelers.
Network Access Frequency Overview
Verizon uses digital wireless access frequencies only used in North America and part of South America. The frequencies are 850 Mhz and 1900 Mhz. Most countries in the rest of the world use the 900 Mhz and 1800 Mhz bands. To access networks outside of these areas a phone must have a radio capable of accessing frequency bands. Some Verizon phones offer international bands.
Phone Provisioning Overview
There are two types of cell phones. Code division multiple access (CDMA) is unique to North America and requires a cell phone that is tied to one particular network. CDMA phones require that the phone be provisioned with subscriber information by a technician working for the cellular network and thus are hard-wired into a particular proprietary network. GSM (global system for mobile communication) phones place provisioning information on a removable card called a subscriber identity module (SIM) card. Unlocked GSM phones use information on the SIM card for network access and can, thus, be used on any GSM network. Because Verizon uses CDMA technology, its phones do not support SIM cards for foreign networks. However, some Verizon phones offer dual functionality. They work on CDMA networks in the United States and have a slot for a SIM card for people traveling abroad.
Verizon International Phone History
Because Verizon is a CDMA carrier, hybrid international phones are a recent addition to Verizon's product line. Before the introduction of these phones, it was not possible to use Verizon phones outside of the United States. By adding tri- and quad-band radios to access different frequencies, Verizon phones became able to connect to other networks. In adding SIM-card functionality, some Verizon phones also gained the ability to connect to non-Verizon networks directly when traveling abroad. But due to technical limitations, some international destinations still do not support Verizon hybrid phones.
International Phone Rental
Verizon first began offering international cell phones through a rental service. These phones are, in fact, GSM phones that operate using foreign networks and have their own unique telephone numbers. To receive calls to your U.S. number, it must be forwarded to the international phone. Phone rentals are a good option for people who don't travel much and only occasionally need international cellular service.
International Phone Purchase
Verizon recently began offering phones that both support U.S. CDMA standards and international quad-band GSM standards. For people who travel frequently, these phones allow a customer to remain a Verizon customer while having their phone usable worldwide. Some of these phones have a built-in SIM card that prevents their use as phones native to a foreign network. However, some have a separate SIM card slot that can allow the phone to simultaneously operate on two networks.
Tags: Verizon phones, North America, people travel, Because Verizon, began offering, cell phones
We all know most cheap webcams look like crap and the good ones cost way too much. So if you have a digital video camera lying around, or actually even an analog one, you can use it as a webcam. The picture quality will be so much better than the average webcam.
Instructions
1. The basic idea behind this is that you want to use a webcam to video chat with people and you want it to actually look good but you don't want to spend over $100 for a decent one. You already have a digital video camera that can surpass the quality of any webcam so why double up and buy a really nice, dedicated webcam? Using your DV cam as a webcam makes the most sense. The only thing you're missing in order to do that is a video processing device for your computer. Thankfully, you can get one for as low as $15 these days. So the first step is to purchase one.
2. What you're going to want to use is called a video capture card. There are external boxes and all sorts of other devices for this but the cheapest would be to get an internal PCI one. It sounds complicated to add something to your computer but it's really quite simple. All you really have to do is open the computer and stick the card in and maybe install a driver for it. For further details, I'm sure there's an ehow article about installing PCI cards. I would recommend buying a video capture card from newegg.com. They have a good selection of cheap ones and all of them have ratings from people who bought them so you'll know which ones are good. Also, you might want to consider getting a TV tuner card/video capture card combo. Almost all capture cards these days have a tuner in them, plus it's awesome to be able to watch TV on your PC. You can even program it to record shows like a DVR. And don't worry about buying a really cheap one. Those $100+ cards like the ATI All In Wonder card aren't really much better at all, especially for webcam chatting. The only thing you'll want to look for when it comes to stats on whatever card you buy is what type of inputs it takes compared to what type of outputs your camera has. Most DV cameras will output using the standard yellow composite video port. Nicer ones will output with S-video. See the attached picture for a TV tuner card with one of each types of inputs.
3. Almost all video capture cards come with some sort of viewing software, as do most TV tuner cards. If you bought just a capture card, you should be all set. If you bought a TV tuner card, you may have to open the TV viewer program and switch it over to the video in setting instead of television before using it. If you don't, your webcam chatting program may ignore the input from the camera and send the person a live feed of whatever TV channel you were last watching. That's actually sort of a neat trick to do too.
4. Now that the software is all set up, plug your camera's video output into the card's input using the appropriate cable. If you somehow mismatched types, there are converters to go between s-video and composite, like the adapter shown in the attached picture. Once the camera is hooked up, turn it on and use your card's viewing software to confirm that you're actually receiving signal from the camera. As for the audio, I wouldn't recommend hooking up your camera's audio out to the card's audio in. Using a headset with a microphone or even just a cheap computer mic will sound a lot better and you won't have to sit so close to the camera.
5. Now that the capture card is functioning, all you need to do is set up your webcam program. The most common use for webcam discussions is an IM program like Windows Live Messenger, AIM, Yahoo Messenger, etc. Each program has a slightly different way to set the webcam settings but they each pretty much do the same things. First you pick which device you want to use, then you tweak how the picture looks. The attached screenshot shows what the current version of Windows Live Messenger's audio/video setup screen looks like. All you really have to do is choose your video capture device from the list. As you can see, I have a TV tuner/capture card made by AverMedia installed in my computer. On the following screen I think it asks you to set the brightness and contrast and that's about it. So then when you press the "start webcam conversation" button while talking to a friend using that program, it will start sending a feed directly from the camera through the capture card. So simply turn on the camera, point it at yourself, and you're ready to go.
Tags: capture card, video capture, digital video camera, from camera, tuner card, video camera, video capture card
The Bogen 3021 Pro tripod, which is properly known as the Manfrotto 3021 Pro, is an advanced amateur and professional tripod used to support video and still imaging equipment. It is still referred to as "Bogen," the name of the US agent for Manfrotto equipment during the early 2000s when this model was current. The 3021 Pro, which was launched and subsequently upgraded with minor improvements, was prized for its stability and versatility, as well as the quality of its construction. As of April 2011, production of this model is discontinued but it is available on the used market.
Physical Specifications
The Bogen 3021 Pro weighs 5.29 pounds, and its length when closed is 25.59 inches. The tripod is made from aluminum and it is available in silver or black finish. Its maximum height is 69.29 inches when fully extended, or 53.15 inches when the center column is not extended. The diameter of the column tube is 28 mm, and the leg tube diameters are 30 mm, 25 mm and. 20 mm for the top, middle and bottom tubes respectively. The mount is a standard 3/8-inch screw attachment type mount, and it was not shipped with an adjustable-position head.
Performance Specifications
The center column features a rapid adjustment lever, and it consists of two telescoping sections. The rapid-action lever leg locks have a run of only 45 degrees for extremely fast opening and closing. Leg angles are 25 degrees, 43 degrees, 73 degrees and 90 degrees, allowing for positioning of the camera at near-ground level for nature photography. The load capacity of the Bogen 3021 Pro is 15.43 pounds.
Flexibility
The Bogen 3021 Pro includes a center column that can be removed to serve as a lateral arm (mounted perpendicular to the bottom of the tripod rather than parallel to it). In addition, an upgraded version of the 3021 Pro allows for the head to remain mounted when the tripod is set at its lowest angle. An upgrade column is available to owners of the older version of the 3021 Pro.
Additional Features
The upgraded Bogen 3021 Pro includes leg warmers for two of the tripod legs, to make it easier to carry the tripod in cold weather. All models of the Bogen 3021 Pro include one built-in bubble level.
Tags: Bogen 3021, center column, degrees degrees, 3021 includes, Bogen 3021 includes
If you're a music lover and you want to enjoy your music collection the way that it was recorded to be enjoyed, you're going to need a quality stereo system. No, not one of those all-in-one mini systems, but a component system that you assemble yourself, for the perfect sound. There are a variety of considerations when you first start and it can seem like a long process, but once you begin testing and purchasing equipment, it will become a quick addiction.
Instructions
Equipment
1. The first thing that you'll need to do is determine a general budget. A stereo can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to several million. The cap is entirely up to you, so it is really important to know ahead of time how much that you intend to spend. This way you can focus on shopping for the right equipment.
2. Besides budget, some other considerations are size of the room where the stereo will be set up, type of music that you listen to, type of format that you listen to most (CD, MP3, satellite radio) and whether or not you would like to use the system for home theater as well.
3. Do some research before you begin shopping. Check out buyer's guides and online review sites to get an idea of quality components that are in your price range. Get familiar with brands and products that you like, so that you can go out and audition them at the shop.
4. Begin your shopping. In general, it's best to try out a few different stores and pieces of equipment to compare. If you intend to spend less than $1000.00 on your entire system, you will find the best selection in larger electronics stores such as Best Buy and Circuit City. These stores have a large variety of less expensive components. If you have more money to spend, be sure to visit specialized home audio shops, as well as the big electronics stores. The audio shop will have more expensive, high quality equipment that you won't find in larger chain stores. Use your local phone directory to find nearby stores.
5. Speakers are the best place to start, as they are the focal point of your system. Bring your own music and audition the speakers at the store. If you like a variety of music genres, bring a sample of your collection to see how the speakers perform with different instruments and frequency levels. There are hundreds of different speaker brands on the market, many of which you may not have heard of. In general, look for brands that specialize in speaker manufacturing as opposed to larger electronics companies. In the end, use your audition to determine the speakers that sound the best. Discuss the size and shape of your room with the salesman, as larger rooms will require a larger, more powerful speaker for best performance.
6. Next you will have to purchase a receiver (or individual components) to power your speakers. The receiver will serve as a middleman in processing the input from your audio input (CD Player) and relaying it to your speakers. If you are new to home audio, a receiver is the most simple and least expensive way to go; essentially, it includes all the components (preamplifier, amplifier, AM/FM tuner) in one. If you are looking for the best sound, and have the money, purchasing separate preamplifier, powered amplifier and optional tuner is something to consider. For the purpose of this introduction, we'll assume you'll be using a receiver.
7. When you begin shopping for a receiver, double check the power input(measured in watts) that your speakers require. Every speaker has a power range measurable in watts. Make sure to pick out a receiver that delivers enough watts-per-channel to supply your speakers with the power they require. Also consider other features of a receiver that you may want, such as built-in satellite radio tuner, number of channels (5.1, 6.1, 7.1--essentially the maximum number of speakers you'll be able to power) and supported formats and options (dolby digital 5.1, dts, THX).
8. Again, do your research and read the reviews. Ideally, you will also be able to test your receiver in conjunction with the speakers that you've chosen, to see how they perform together. Some quality receiver manufacturers include Marantz, Yamaha and Onkyo.
9. Unless you have already become a picky audiophile with a highly distinguished ear, you can spend less time with audio inputs. An inexpensive CD player or MP3 player will do. You can even just buy a cable to connect your iPod to your receiver or use a DVD player that you already own. Remember that CD's will have much better sound than a compressed file like an MP3, however.
10. Lastly, don't forget the cable. You will need speaker cable to hook the speakers up to the receiver and audio connections to hook your audio inputs to the receiver. You could spend a whole lot of time and thousands of dollars just for speaker cable, but less expensive speaker cable will do. A smaller gauge relates to a larger size cable that can carry more information and improve sound. Cable ranges from 12 to 18 gauge. As far as audio connections, use digital coax or optical cable when possible; otherwise, analog cable (red and white audio inputs) will suffice.
Set-up
11. Now that you've purchased your equipment, you're just a few simple steps away from hours of musical entertainment. Ideally, you'll want to place your speakers at opposite corners in front of the listening position (sofa or chair) about a foot or so away from the wall, however, your room shape may not allow for this, so determine the best placement you can based on your room. Different speakers may require different placement, so discuss this at the store when you purchase them. In general, the speakers should be slightly angled and pointing at the "sweet spot" where you'll be sitting. You can move the speakers around and listen for the best sound. It shouldn't take too long.
12. Hooking speakers up to the receiver is very easy. The speaker cable will have two individual strands of wire, labeled as positive (+) and negative (-) (at least one side should contain markings). Connect the positive cable to the left positive (red) input terminal on the receiver and left speaker and the negative cable to the left negative (black) terminals. Be sure that none of the strands of positive are touching strands of negative or your speakers will short and not play any sound. Repeat for right speaker.
13. Now, just hook up your CD player or other audio input to the receiver (the receiver will have marked connection terminals for various audio inputs), and you're all set up. Put in your favorite CD or song, sit down and enjoy.
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If you have ever shopped for a digital camera, you have noticed that every camera includes a prominent notation of the number of megapixels it uses. While you have likely realized that more is better, you may not know what a megapixel actually is and what it means for your pictures. Read on for a definition and background information.
Identification
Before considering the megapixel, you'll need to consider the pixel. In digital images, the pixel is the smallest component of the image and exists as a tiny square dot. Think of it like the atom of a digital image. An image is formed from millions of these tiny little square dots. A megapixel is a unit composed of one million pixels.
Function
Resolution is defined by the number of megapixels that a camera uses. Resolution is viewed as a formula such as 1600 x 1200. This equation relates to the number of pixels on the horizontal axis and vertical axis and when the numbers are multiplied it will equate to the number of megapixels on the camera. If you do the math in this equation, you'll get 1,920,000 or 1.92 megapixels, which is rounded up and considered a 2 megapixel camera.
Significance
The more pixels that are in an image, the higher the resolution of the picture and the better it will look. This is why a camera that has more megapixels is considered to be higher quality. Megapixels also determine the size of a picture that you can print while maintaining a quality, realistic image. Follow the second link for a chart of suggested megapixels/resolutions for picture sizes. If you choose a camera with too little megapixels/too low resolution, you'll get a fuzzy, poor quality image when trying to print larger photos.
Considerations
Although instinct may tell you to buy the camera with the most megapixels that you can afford, extra megapixels may not be necessary. If you don't intend to print large photos, the extra megapixels may be a wasteful expense, especially if you will be primarily using your computer to view photos.
Potential
Pixels are not just used for digital cameras but also digital devices that display images. Your computer screen monitor uses a number of megapixels to display the images that you view on screen as does a digital television.
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The total loss of a beloved remote control might seem like catastrophe, but it's not. The Philips Universal Replacement Remote works with almost any electronic device ever made (including that ancient thing you keep for company in the garage). This guide describes program a replacement remote control. Before you know it, you'll be back on the couch (or under the hood), remote in hand.
Get Acquainted
Your new remote looks very much like that long-lost one. You'll program it to remotely control your home electronic device by means of the device switching buttons at the top. In addition to the familiar changing, recording, and volume buttons is a Set button. This programming button is the smallest one and is set flush with the face of the remote.
Success will come more swiftly if you use fresh batteries. It's tempting to pair a partly used battery with a newer one, but don't; the remote's signal should be strong and sure. Write down your electronic device's brand name and model number from the front of the unit, or check the manufacturer's label on the back.
Since your replacement remote is truly universal, no owner's manual could include every kind of remote-controlled TV, VCR, or stereo ever manufactured. Over the years, Philips has made at least half a dozen types of universal remotes. With your notes and new remote in hand, it's time to get some online support.
Find the Device Code
The Philips Universal Remote site wizard helps you match the new remote with your home electronic unit. Turn the remote over to find its letters and numbers on the back. Using the wizard's dropdown menu, choose the same series of letters. A second menu lists numeric codes; carefully check that the numbers from your remote match that of your list choice.
The type, brand name and model number of your home device also are chosen from dropdown menus. Once all of your info has been entered, a Device Code Search link appears. Write down the codes shown in the popup Results window.
Program the Device
Back in the living room, make sure the home device is off, and then point the remote at it. Press and hold the Set button with the end of your pen; a small sensor light flashes once if the button has made adequate contact. Enter a Device Codefrom your list into the remote's number keypad. Again, press and hold the Set button; the right code number will cause the remote's sensor light to flash twice. Let up on the button then test the code by pressing the remote's power button. If necessary, try the other Device Codes in the same way; one of them is sure to work.
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