What Is The Difference Between Sd & Mmc Memory

Secure Digital memory cards are lockable.

Consumers have a choice between Secure Digital (SD) and MultiMedia Card (MMC) technologies when purchasing flash memory cards for devices such as audio players or digital cameras. Currently, MMC cards are slightly outdated and SD cards are more popular.

Transfer

SD cards maintain an advantage with data transfer speeds up between 10 and 20 MB/s, while MMC memory cards can only read or write data up to 9 MB/s. While both cards had a similar transfer rate at one time, SD cards have seen improvements in transfer rate while MMC cards have not.

Capacity

SD cards have a larger range of data capacity than MMC cards, which can only store 32GB of data. In contrast, SD memory cards are available with capacities of up to 2 TB. 1, 2, 4 and 8GB capacities are common with SD memory cards.

Write Protection

SD memory cards have a security feature known as write protection. When the card owner moves a switch on the card into the correct position, the card becomes locked and data cannot become lost or erased until the owner unlocks the memory card. MMC memory cards do not offer this feature.

Physical Appearance

SD cards are slightly larger than MMc cards, to prevent insertion into MMC slots. The dimensions of an SD card are 32 mm by 24 mm by 2.1 mm, while the dimensions of an MMC memory card are 24mm by 32 mm by 1.4mm.

Tags: memory cards, cards have, cards slightly, memory card, Secure Digital, than cards, transfer rate

Use Geometric Composition In Photography

Most people regard geometric composition as the use of geometric shapes in art. Although a myriad of artists use this skill in drawing and painting, applying geometric composition to photography is less common. After obtaining a good camera, you can begin concentrating on learning apply this skill in photography.

Instructions

1. Find a good camera that you're comfortable with to create your images. Currently, digital cameras are the most popular.

2. Explore the different settings on your camera. Find out if your cameras offers a variety of color modes. Test out the neutral setting which creates a natural look, the saturated mode causes colors to appear radiant and pronounced. The sepia tone creates a brownish tint and lends to an old-fashion appearance.

3. Decide on a scene to photograph. Take a walk outdoors and find a natural scene. Choose a still life setting. Remember that the subject you select to photograph could affect the color mode on your camera.

4. Photograph three objects in each scene as a general rule. Although this strategy is by no means required, it often makes for an effective image. The outside objects act as a frame and the inner object becomes the focal point.

5. Use diagonal lines to draw even attention to the focal point. These diagonal lines can be either real or imaginary.

6. Frame the image with something in the foreground. Start by photographing a house, use a tree or a bush in the foreground as a frame for your focal point.

Tags: focal point, diagonal lines, geometric composition, good camera, this skill, your camera

An Explanation Of Ionizer Purifiers

Ionizer purifiers remove dust and allergiens from the air and are sometimes recommended for asthmatics.

Ionizer purifiers are air purifiers used to remove dust and allergens from indoor air. Ionizers work by charging naturally occurring particles in the air, called ions, with an electrical charge. The electrically charged ions attract dust and allergens, making them heavy enough to fall to the ground, where they can be easily cleaned up. Ionizers often are recommended for asthmatics and those with allergies. However, ionizer purifiers have some drawbacks.

How They Work

Ionizer purifiers send out a stream of negatively charged ions---atoms or molecules that have lost an electron. The negative ions generated by the purifier are attracted to positively charged particles of dust and allergens in the air and cling to them. After enough negatively charged ions cling to a particle, that particle also can become negatively charged and will stick to any positively charged surface, such as the floor or other surface. After they fall out of the air, the dust and allergens are not at risk of being inhaled and can be more easily cleaned up. Some ionizer purifiers also use a magnetic plate to attract and trap particles.

Benefits

Ionizer purifiers work quickly. Fanless ionizers are quieter than most filter-based purifiers because they do not require air to be sucked into the purifier. Fanless models also use less power than purifiers equipped with fans. Because they do not usually have filters, ionizers require little maintenance and cleaning. You will not need to replace filters or clean the ionizer purifier regularly, as you do with some other types of air purifiers.

Drawbacks

Ionizer air filters need to be used constantly to ensure that particles in the room will remain charged. After you turn the ionizer off, the particles will lose their charge and float up through the air again, where they can be inhaled. Most ionizer purifiers do not remove the particles from the air. You also need to dust and vacuum regularly to remove the dust and allergens from the room. In some cases, negatively charged particles can be attracted to the mucus membranes in the body, which can trigger an allergic reaction.

Ozone Concerns

Ionization produces ozone, a naturally occurring molecule consisting of three oxygen atoms. Ozone can be hazardous in large concentrations in enclosed environments. Most air purifiers, and other electronic products, produce some ozone. The Code of Federal Regulation has set a voluntary maximum level for ozone produced by household devices at 50 parts per billion. Some ionizer purifiers produce higher levels of ozone than this and may be dangerous to people with serious respiratory conditions.

Tags: dust allergens, negatively charged, remove dust, allergens from, charged ions, charged particles, dust allergens from

What Is A Sd Card

SD cards are portable solid state flash memory cards that are hot-swappable between different devices for instant secure memory storage. They are used by everything from desktops and laptops to digital cameras and video game consoles.

Varieties

SD cards come in three basic flavors: the oldest and largest SD card, the more recent and widely used miniSD card, and the smallest variety, microSD card.

SD Cards

Standard-size SD cards are not often utilized by computers and devices in modern days because the smaller cards offer plenty of data capability for most purposes.

miniSD cards

Newer miniSD cards are most often used in digital cameras and camcorders, and more recently have seen adoption in home and portable video game consoles and MP3 players, as well as in many other handheld devices.

MicroSD cards

MicroSD cards are the most recent addition to the SD card lineup. They are most often used by cell phones and other pocket-sized computing devices.

Capacity

Modern miniSD cards hold up to 128GB of data, with higher capacity cards continually in development. MicroSD cards available to consumers cap out at 32GB, but larger-capacity cards are in the works.

Tags: MicroSD cards, miniSD cards, cards most, digital cameras, game consoles, most often

Make A Homemade Tv Antenna

Save the time and expense of buying a "rabbit ear" antenna if you need a TV antenna for just a few days.

Cable and satellite TV offer viewing of virtually any program on hundreds of channels; however, cable or satellite services may not always be available. If you have recently moved into a new home or apartment and have to wait several days before cable or satellite can be installed, quickly fashion a homemade TV antenna so that you can still watch programs delivered from a local broadcasting station.

Instructions

1. Use scissors to cut a 1/2-inch diameter hole into the center of a removable top of a plastic can, such as a Pringles can. Use scissors to cut a 1/2-inch diameter hole into the bottom center of the plastic can.

2. Cut the coax connector terminal off one end of a coax cable. Strip 1 inch of the foil and plastic dielectric from the end of the cable so that only the metal core remains at the end of the cable. Strip 5 inches of the plastic jacket from the end of the coax cable that no longer has a connector.

3. Spread and straighten the wires surrounding the coax cable out to the side of the cable. Place the coax cable, connector end first, through the plastic can and through the hole in the bottom of the can.

4. Insert the coax cable end that does not have a connector through the hole in the plastic can lid so that six inches of cable protrude from the top of the lid. Snap the lid in place on the top of the can and over the wires extending from the side of the cable, so that the lid holds the wires and cable in place and at least 1 inch of wire protrudes from the top of the can.

5. Completely cover the can in aluminum foil ensuring that the foil is tight against the can and against the wires protruding from the top of the can. Only the coax cable ends protruding from the top and bottom of the can should be visible.

6. Connect the coax connector terminal at the end of the coax cable to a TV to start using the antenna.

Tags: coax cable, cable that, 2-inch diameter, 2-inch diameter hole, cable Strip, coax cable that

Buy A Song From The Itunes Store

Buying songs directly from the iTunes music store not only saves you a trip to your local store, but it comes instantly available to burn onto your own CD or load into your MP3 player. Shopping for any song you wish to purchase is simple and affordable as well. Follow these steps in order to buy a song from the iTunes store.

Instructions

1. Click on the iTunes icon on your computer to open the application. Search through Apple's Web site (see below) and download it for free if you don't already have it installed.

2. Select the "Music Store" button in the "Source" list in iTunes. It is located six icons beneath the top of the source list. This opens up the iTunes music store.

3. Sign into your iTunes music store account.

4. If you have not already established an account with iTunes, select the "Create New Account" tab in the upper middle portion of the pop up screen.

5. Select "Agree" in the Terms and Conditions portion of the Account Creation section, indicating you acknowledge the terms of use of the music store.

6. Fill in your email address, password, password verification and secret question and answer where prompted. Click on "Continue" to advance to the last signup screen.

7. Have your credit card or bank card on hand to type in your credit card number, security code and expiration date, and the mailing address of your card's account holder. Click "Done."

8. Search for a song by typing its title or part of the title in the "Search" option at the top left of the music store. You can also use the "Power Search" option, which gives you the ability to search by the album's name, the artist/composer or both.

9. Select the song(s) you wish to purchase, and click on the "Buy Song" gray icon box at the right of the listing. You can also click on "Cancel," which will bring you back to the song selection screen.

10. The purchased song is downloaded into your iTunes music library, and will be listed by title. Your credit card or bank card is charged for the song.

Tags: iTunes music, music store, credit card, into your, iTunes music store, bank card

Print Photos From A Cd

You do not need expensive software to print your archived pictures. You can quickly and easily print photographs saved to CDs using Microsoft Windows' built-in photo viewer. Print your photos in a variety of standard sizes, such as 5x7 or 8x10, or save waste and print multiple pictures on a single page with the convenient 3.5x5 or wallet size.

Instructions

1. Place the photo CD in to the CD-ROM. When the pop-up page appears, select "Open in File" to view the photos on the CD.

2. Select the photos you want to print by clicking on each one while holding the CTRL key on the keyboard.

3. Right click on a photo and select "Print." Select the printer you will use, the size of the paper and the quality of the print you would like.

4. Select the size of the photo you would like to print from the options in the menu at the right of the print window.

5. Choose the number of copies you would like to print. Place photo paper in to the printer as directed by the manufacturer and then click "Print."

Tags: would like, like print, Place photo, would like print

Power Down A Sonos Remote

The Sonos 200 Controller is an intuitive device that allows you to access your Sonos-enabled sound system. The Sonos 200 Controller can be placed into two different low-power usage modes. In locked mode the controller will turn off its screen and not respond to input but will remain ready for use and will continue to consume a small amount of power. In deep sleep mode, the controller will power down completely until it is returned to its charging cradle.

Instructions

Locked Mode

1. Open the music menu by pressing the "Music Menu" button at the bottom of the screen.

2. Select "Settings" in the music menu then select "Controller Settings" from the settings menu.

3. Select "Lock Controller." The controller will turn off its screen and no longer respond to your input.

4. Hold the zones button (the button with the house icon on it) for two seconds to unlock your device.

Deep Sleep Mode

5. Open the music menu by pressing the "Music Menu" button at the bottom of the screen.

6. Select "Settings" in the music menu then select "Controller Settings" from the settings menu. Select "Advanced Settings" from the controller settings menu.

7. Select "Turn Off Controller" and your controller will now completely power down.

8. Return your controller to its charging cradle to turn it back on.

Tags: controller will, music menu, menu Select, Settings from, settings menu

Sony Cybershot Features

Sony's Cyber-shot line of digital compact cameras includes the H Series that features "Sweep Panorama" technology for 3D viewing. The HX5 model, weighing only seven ounces, captures both still images and video clips. The Cyber-shot HX5 won three awards: European Imaging and Sound Association Award -- Best Product 2010-2011, Compact Camera; Technical Image Press Association Award 2010 Award; and Which? Best Buy Award 2010.

Intelligent Sweep Panorama

The Cybershot HX5 features "Intelligent Sweep Panorama," using one Sony G lens to record up to 100 images at different angles as the camera moves in a sweeping motion, to record a three-dimensional image. The photographer can select from three panorama sizes. The BIONZ processor aligns and stitches the images to produce an ultra-wide, three-dimensional image viewed with 3D glasses on the Sony Bravia 3 High-Definition TV.

Technical Specifications

The HX5 also produces 1080i HD high definition movies with audio video compression (AVCHD), to allow smaller files for the personal computer. The Sony G lens features 10X optical zoom range and a 25mm equivalent wide angle useful for landscape and group shots. The 3-inch liquid crystal display (LCD) displays high contrast and a wide viewing angle. This LCD shows a bright image in a wide range of lighting conditions. High image resolution is 10.2 megapixels for detailed enlargements. The ISO speed ranges from ISO 125 to 3200.

The built-in flash system includes auto daylight synchronized flash and red-eye reduction. To help reduce risk of subject or motion blur, this model features an anti-motion blur mode. To capture action sequences, the continuous shooting mode allows recording up to 10 frames per second.

Sensor

According to Sony, the Exmor R CMOS Sensor is twice as sensitive for capturing light as other camera sensors. The back-illuminated design allows light to fall onto receptive areas without any blocking. Unlike other cameras that boost signals electronically and produce noisy or grainy images, this sensor records detail in low light conditions with less grain. This technology allows large, 13 x 19-inch full frame prints. For difficult, low light conditions, the Handheld Twilight mode produces six frames and then blends them into one crisp image.

Recording and Playback

The HX5 uses the JPEG recording format. Recording media includes the Memory Stick Duo for still images, the Memory Stick Pro Duo, Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo and SC/SDHC/SDXC Memory Card (Class 4 or higher for movies). The supplied software is Picture Motion Browser version 5.0 for Windows.

High-definition playback includes trimming, zoom, image rotation, cue and review. Viewers can watch the HD slideshow with music on the LCD or an HD TV. When images are burned to a disc, the recording can also be played on Blu-ray Disc players and Sony PlayStation 3 systems.

For travelers who want to record the location and local time on each image, this camera includes a built-in GPS receiver that records latitude, longitude, altitude and direction the camera was pointing to during the shot. Mapping software reads this geotagging data during playback. With the aid of online maps, viewers can record the location of each shot.

Tags: Memory Stick, Sweep Panorama, Association Award, Award 2010, Intelligent Sweep, Intelligent Sweep Panorama

What Is A Midi Interface

A Musial Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) allows a computer to communicate with musical inputs such as keyboards, microphones and other electronic sound devices. MIDI was originally developed for the storage of audio files to be recalled at a later date.

Recorder

MIDI serve as the connector that allows a computer to record any variety of audio data from many different sources. It can isolate the channels to capture any one component (i.e. guitar or vocals) or all component unified.

Data Processor

Though they do not audio data back and forth, the MIDI converts data into specified MIDI files. MIDI files process data in real time, allowing for accurate integration and manipulation.

Computer Control

Beyond the transfer of date, the MIDI has become essential in having computers control components attached to the interface. This has made sound mixing far easier.

Hardware Becomes Software

While MIDI were once only hardware devices with supporting software, it has developed into a software driven tool. Converting a file into a *.mid file is easy and free to anyone with a little research on the internet.

Modern Uses

MIDI is now used in cell phones and a number of consumer electronics. Its function is to generate music and transport it efficiently through FireWire or USB interfaces.

Tags: allows computer, audio data, MIDI files

Installing Air Conditioner Aluminum Windows

Air conditioning units install into aluminum windows.

Air conditioners are installed in all types of windows. These window unit air conditioners are used to cool rooms that are warm in the summer months. They are also used in houses that do not have central air conditioning. Window units are installed directly into the window. The process is the same whether the window is aluminum, wood or vinyl.

Instructions

1. Open the window. Go to the window on the outside of the house. Center the L-bracket along the bottom of the window. Screw the bottom side of the L-bracket into place below the window sill with sheet metal screws. Connect the top side of the bracket directly to the window sill with sheet metal screws. Screw through the provided holes and straight into the bottom of the window to connect the top bracket.

2. Set the air conditioner onto the window sill from the inside of the house and close the window so it is snug on top of the air conditioner. Move the accordion panels on the air conditioner to cover the openings on each side. Close the window to hold the air conditioner in place.

3. Secure the accordion panels to the window frame along the upper sash of the aluminum window with sheet metal screws and a drill. Drill and install screws through the provided holes in the frame of the air conditioner along the top of the unit. Install screws into the frame along the sides and at the bottom of the air conditioner to further secure it in place.

4. Fill the gap between the window and the lower sash with a strip of foam insulation. The gap is located between the bottom window sash that has been raised to make room for the air conditioner and the top window panel. Stick the insulation down into the opening to help seal the gap.

5. Plug in the air conditioner and turn it on. Adjust the settings and make sure it cools the room.

Tags: bottom window, metal screws, sheet metal, sheet metal screws, window sill, with sheet

Repair A Receiverbased Home Theater System

Repairing a receiver-based home theater is a risky job that really shouldn't be undertaken by an amateur. There are a lot of expensive parts and pieces that could get damaged by unskilled hands. Instead of attempting any complex repairs, review these small fixes that might help you repair your receiver-based home theater system.

Instructions

1. Make sure the receiver is plugged in and turned on. Check to see that none of the wires have come loose. These are two of the most common problems with home theater equipment.

2. Look through your owner's manual. Most have a large section devoted to troubleshooting. Your problem might just be covered in its pages.

3. Change the batteries in the remote control. You might just have a dead battery.

4. Clean the DVD player internally. Kits are available commercially that clean the laser lens by using a special cleaning solution and a DVD with small brushes on it.

5. Check the speaker wires to see that they are not broken or frayed. To replace the wires, measure the distance of the speakers and cut the wire to that length. Strip plastic shielding from the last 1/2 inch. Connect the positive and negative terminals into the proper inputs.

6. Call the manufacturer and tell them your problem. Try to be as specific as possible. The more information they have, the better they can assist you. If the manufacturer is stumped because of your problem, call a repair-technician.

Tags: home theater, might just, receiver-based home, receiver-based home theater, your problem

Underwater Photography Schools

Learn take underwater photographs.

Underwater photography requires special camera equipment and an understanding of underwater camera techniques to be able to take proper underwater photographs. There are several underwater photography schools that teach the necessary skills needed to take beautiful pictures underwater.

Jim Church School of Underwater Photography

The Jim Church School of Underwater Photography is operated by Mike Haber and Mike Mesgleski, associates of the underwater photographer Jim Church. The school is operated on the Aggressor Fleet, which travels to places such as Belize, the Cayman Islands, the Galapagos Islands and Fiji. Each course is a week long, with instruction on land and underwater that include presentations, photography critiques, demonstrations and help taking photographs under the water. There are courses included for beginning and advanced underwater photographers, digital underwater photography and post production.

Jim Church School of Underwater Photography

209 Hudson Trace

Augusta, GA 30907

305-234-0903

jimchurchphoto.com

Nikon School of Underwater Photography

The Nikon School of Underwater Photography teaches digital underwater photography programs every week in Bonaire, one of the islands in the Netherlands. Nikon offers an underwater photography package complete with seven night hotel reservations, diving equipment rental, six days of diving and Nikon SLR digital camera rentals complete with all the needed camera equipment. Rates vary depending on the type of hotel and time of the year.

Nikon Headquarters

1300 Walt Whitman Road

Melville, NY 11747-3064

631-547-4200

nikonusa.com

SEA&SEA School of Underwater Photography

The SEA&SEA School of Underwater Photography in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, offers a variety of one- to four-day classes for underwater photographers of all skill levels. The SEA&SEA school places emphasis on education about equipment handling and maintenance, marine environment protection and diver safety. Classes include digital underwater photography training at beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels, and a course on use underwater photography and Adobe Photoshop. Discounts are available for signing up for several courses at once.

Pro Dive International

429 Seabreeze Blvd.

Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316

954-776-3483

prodiveusa.com/uw-photo.html

Tags: School Underwater, School Underwater Photography, Church School, Church School Underwater, digital underwater

Store A Cell Phone Battery

Cell phone battery

Storing your cell phone battery correctly can prolong the life of the battery and also make the battery last longer between charges when it is put to use.

Instructions

Storage

1. Let your battery run down to about 40% charge. Lithium ion batteries are used in the most recent crop of cell phones, and they depreciate quicker when stored at full charge.

2. Store your battery in an airtight container or bag. This will keep out moisture that may damage or otherwise reduce the life of your battery.

3. Store your battery in the refrigerator. A cool place provides optimal storage for cell phone batteries.

4. When you are ready to use your stored battery, leave it outside the refrigerator for an hour before using. Cell phone batteries cannot operate at refrigerated temperatures.

5. Clean the battery contacts on the battery and on the phone with rubbing alcohol. This permits maximum energy transfer between the battery and your phone.

Tags: your battery, phone batteries, Store your, Store your battery

What Is A Tachometer

Tachometers measure rotational speed.

The tachometer is an instrument used for measuring rotational speed. The speed measured is usually that of a rotating shaft being driven by an engine. Tachometers are commonly installed in sports cars, large trucks, airplanes and ships to measure engine speed.

Electronic Tachometer

Electronic tachometers are designed to measure frequency, whether sine-wave or pulse. The input pulse waves, clipped and shaped by a discriminating circuit, are allowed to pass through a gating circuit to the displaying decade counters. The open time of the gate is controlled by a crystal oscillator or other suitable time base. The displaying counters are responsive to the number of pulses passed by the gate in a definite time.

Electric-Generator Tachometer

A widely used and flexible form of electric tachometer comprises a combination of electric generator and indicator. There are two principal forms: a DC generator with a DC voltmeter, and an AC generator with an AC voltmeter (or DC voltmeter with rectifier). In either case, the DC voltmeter is proportional to the shaft speed.

The AC generator form may include a circuit that is responsive to frequency and affected only slightly by voltage, giving greater accuracy.

Direct-Current Tachometer

The direct current tachometer is a small permanent-magnet generator with an output of 2 to 10 vaults per 1,000 revolutions/minute. A high-resistance voltmeter, calibrated in revolutions per minute, indicates the speed. The low starting and running torque makes it useful for measuring wind velocity. Besides measuring speed, the DC tachometer is used as a stabilizing component in velocity servomechanisms.

Alternating-Current Tachometer

The alternating current tachometer can be constructed with a stationary winding and a revolving permanent-magnet field. They generate voltage and frequency that are proportional to speed of rotation. The voltage may be rectified and applied to a permanent-magnet moving-coil instrument calibrated in revolutions per minute.

Eddy-Current Tachometer

The eddy current tachometer, also known as drag type, is widely used for automobile speedometers and for measuring aircraft engine speed. The magnetic fields caused by these eddy currents create a course that opposes the turning magnet field.

Tags: current tachometer, generator with, revolutions minute, calibrated revolutions, calibrated revolutions minute, engine speed, generator with voltmeter

Smart Media Card Vs Multimedia Card

The 'digital revolution' has meant different things to people in many walks of life. The photographer can now choose between a digital camera versus traditional film. Music lovers can now more easily carry around a variety of songs and share them with friends. Cell phones have increased in capabilities and storage. All of these innovations and more have meant that storage media has had to evolve along with the capabilities of these personal and professional devices. Two formats of digital storage media are Smart Media cards and MultiMedia Cards.

History

These two formats actually have different evolutions. Smart Media was one of the earlier developments in digital storage designed to compete with other storage options at the time. The MultiMedia Card (MMC) is actually the precursor to one of today's more popular formats, Secure Digital (SD), but MMC still has many users.

Smart Media

Smart Media was developed and released in 1995 by Toshiba as a hopeful successor to the floppy disk as it was the same size and shape and could fit into PC drives. Instead of the rotating floppy material, which can wear out and suffer mechanical breakdowns, solid state memory incorporating one or multiple memory chips lasts longer and offers larger storage capacity. Smart Media was popular with the early adopters of digital photography.

MultiMedia Card

MultiMedia Cards were developed and released in 1997 by SanDisk and Siemens AG with a much smaller package, being about the size of a postage stamp. One drive for this was that the same users that used Smart Media for digital photography were needing a smaller and faster format with more capacity for the new cameras that were coming out with higher resolution.

MMCs were also finding use in other devices such as music players, video game consoles, and mobile computers. Many computers have built-in slots to accept different media cards, which include MMC and SD formats. Also available are card readers that plug in to a USB port on the user's PC.

Considerations

Smart Media has a shortcoming in that it does not have an onboard controller and often, in order for a device to use the larger capacities that became available, would require firmware updates. In some cases updates where not available. Additionally, the data transfer rates were limited to that of the floppy disk format which could mean long waiting periods when copying larger files.

MMC as a format has enjoyed more innovations than the Smart Media card. With the advent of smaller personal devices there has been parallel development in smaller packaging known as Reduced-Size MultiMedia Card (RS-MMC), MMCplus, MMCmobile, MMCmicro, and MiCard. All these architectures are usable in standard MMC slots with the use of mechanical adapters. These developments are intended to keep MMC in competition with SD and its smaller formats.

Future

Smart Media Cards are no longer manufactured but are available from some retailers for those users who own legacy equipment.

With ongoing developments of technology being matched by MMC architecture design, there is likely to be continuing use of MMC for the foreseeable future.

Tags: Smart Media, developed released, digital photography, digital storage, floppy disk, MultiMedia Card

Leica Minilux Instructions

The Leica Minilux is a point and shoot 35mm film camera.

Released in 1995, the Leica Minilux is a basic point and shoot film camera designed for amateur photographers. Despite carrying the Leica name plate that has been associated with high quality professional cameras for years, the Minilux lacks the features that professionals demand. The camera has a built in flash, but no attachment for external flashes. The fixed 40mm f2.4 lens does not allow for the attachment of filters used for color correction in color film or added contrast in black and white photography.

Instructions

1. Open the back of the camera by sliding the release on the left end of the body to open the film door. Place a roll of film into the right side of the film cavity, draw the film leader across the back of the opening, thread the film onto the take up reel on the left side of the camera and close the door.

2. Rotate the collar switch located underneath the round dial on the top right of the camera from the "Off" position to either the "P" position for the "Professional" mode, or to the numbers which control the aperture of the lens.

3. Rotate the dial above the collar switch to either the "AF" position to place the lens into autofocus or select from the pre-determined lens focusing distances represented by the numbers on the dial. Using "AF" is the best approach for accurate focusing.

4. Hold the camera up to your eye and press the recessed shutter release on the top right of the camera to activate the metering and focusing programs. Compose the picture by looking through the viewfinder and press the shutter release to take the picture.

Tags: Leica Minilux, collar switch, either position, film camera, point shoot, right camera

What Is A Camera Filter

What is a Camera Filter?

Before digital photography manipulation was possible with Adobe Photoshop and other programs, the photographer still had a great deal of control over the image. This was true both in the darkroom and with the camera itself.

Along with film choice---which had a great deal to do with the final image---photographers often used camera filters to alter the "look and feel" of the photos. These first were colored gels and later glass used in front of the lens.

Types

Basic filters such as UV (ultraviolet) and "haze" filters give a little clarity to the image, but are used primarily to cover the lens to avoid scratches. Pros don't usually recap their lenses between every shot, so they keep the filter on the camera all the time.

Function

Past the basics, there are filters to "warm" or "cool" the image, add contrast or do a variety of other things, including adding special effects such as prism colors.

"Warming" an image means adding a "warmer" color such as light orange or red. "Cooling" means adding a "colder" color such as blue or green. These can be used on both black and white and color photos. In black and white, colored filters will tend to give more or less contrast. Using a dark red filter with black and white images, for example, will give very dramatic effects. A blue sky will become very dark. White areas will be sharply white.

Effects

Other filters include polarizing glass that can enhance contrast and reduce flare. Diffusion filters can give a soft focus effect to photos. There also are star and rainbow effects filters that can add different dimensions to photos.

Effects

On a 35mm single-lens reflex camera or the equivalent digital camera, the lenses have threads for camera filters. The filters also have threads, so they can be used in combination. You can, for example, add a red filter over the UV filter.

Warning

Darker colored filters will change the exposure by decreasing the light coming into the lens. Auto exposure will compensate for this, but if you shoot manually, be aware of the difference.

Benefits

Since most of these effects now can be done in Photoshop, filters are not as popular as they once were. They still have a valid place in photography however, especially for those who like traditional photography and those who like to experiment with images.

Tags: black white, Camera Filter, camera filters, color such, colored filters

Garmin Gps Tricks

From its humble beginnings in 1989, the Garmin company ranks high as one of the leaders in global positioning system (GPS) technology. Garmin manufactures GPS units for a variety of applications, including auto and marine navigation, outdoor recreation, and avionics. Some GPS tricks are specific to the use and scenario for which the device is used. However, some general principles apply across the board. A GPS unit is not a substitute for a map and compass. The GPS unit provides real-time location data and direction while the user is in motion. A map puts the location in context.

GPS Signal

Avoid common sources of GPS signal interference when possible. Accuracy of navigation depends upon the GPS unit's ability to obtain satellite signals. In order to get a position, GPS unit must obtain signals from at least three satellites to triangulate. Large buildings, heavy forest cover and topography hamper the device's reception. Signal interfere can affect all Garmin GPS units.

Planning

Plan your route prior to travel. Garmin GPS units include the proprietary MapSource software, which provides detailed road and feature data. These maps can be viewed on a computer. Select routes, waypoints and areas of interest. Waypoints are manually-selected points. Add a short description for each point. After planning, upload the route to the GPS unit.

Upload detailed map data. The GPS unit holds baseline data for major roads and features in its internal memory. More detailed data is available for uploading into the GPS unit, using the MapSource software. Before uploading map information, clear any unnecessary detailed files. Select map units to upload into the unit. Map units are typically counties. MapSource data is most suitable for auto navigation.

Survey the terrain prior to hiking trips. In addition to the MapSource software, topographical data is available with Garmin's BaseCamp software. Map data is comparable to that of the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). Reviewing the topography allows you to plan a hiking route best suited for the ability of all the hikers. Pre-planning helps avoid obstacles prior to discovering them on the trail.

Geocaching

Install the Garmin communicator plug-in. The Garmin communicator plug-in is a free Internet browser plug-in for downloading GPS information available on various websites. Geocaching.com is the definitive source for geocaching information. Geocaching uses GPS technology to locate hidden caches. Cache information including GPS data is available from the website. Geocaching.com uses GPX files to deliver cache data. GPX or GPS Exchange Format is a light-weight XML data format. Geocaching and GPX data is available for the Garmin Colorado or Oregon units.

Tags: data available, MapSource software, communicator plug-in, detailed data, Garmin communicator

Buy Speakers For An Ipod Shuffle

If you want to share music using your iPod shuffle, you will need a pair of speakers. Finding a pair of speakers for your iPod shuffle is easy. Read on to learn buy speakers for an iPod shuffle.

Instructions

1. Consider compatibility. Your iPod shuffle does not have traditional speaker ports, the red and white slots which are typically located on the back of a receiver. The speakers you buy will need to be able to connect to your iPod through the headphone jack.

2. Consider your options. When choosing speakers for your iPod shuffle you should think of size, shape and color of the speakers.

3. Set a price range. Speakers are not always cheap so you will need a price limit to ensure that you can buy a quality set of speakers without overspending.

4. Narrow down your list using price and features as a guide.

5. Study consumer reviews. Consumer review Web sites offer the opinions of people who actually own speakers for the iPod shuffle.

6. Compare prices online and in-store.

Tags: iPod shuffle, will need, your iPod, your iPod shuffle, iPod shuffle

Make A Motion Sensor Camera

This project is not suited for the electronically challenged. However, if you are motivated to count deer at a blind in the woods or catching your kids stealing cookies from the cookie jar, you can build your own spycam with a few parts available through the Internet or at electronics parts stores and a little acumen at soldering and gluing.

Instructions

1. Open the motion sensing door chime (availabe online or at electronic retailers such as Radio Shack) by unscrewing the back and prying the two molded plastic halves apart. Remove the circuit board and motion sensor from the speaker using the soldering gun at the speaker connections. The circuit board and sensor are the only parts you need from the casing. Make sure you don't disconnect them from each other.

2. Using a USB mini DVR with a 5 mm pinhole video camera with audio, remove the micro-switch attached to the DVR (it's about the size of a match tip). Solder a standard diode (e.g., a 1N4007) to the switch contacts. Note the striped side (the cathode side) of the diode. Solder the diode with the cathode side away from the switch to the negative terminal of a 220uF capacitor. The other side of the diode is hot glued to the other Reed relay terminal. (Remember these are the two inside Reed relay connections). Hot glue the other side of the diode to the Reed relay. In effect, when this small contraption is turned on, the motion sensor will send continuing pulses to sense motion. The capacitor will limit the sensor to one "trigger," in effect making it a momentary switch.

3. Connect (solder) the positive side of the capacitor to one motion detector contact and connect (solder) the non-striped end of the diode to the other contact on the motion detector. The two outside contacts from the relay should then be soldered to the DVR, completing the circuit.

4. When finished with all connections, install a 9-volt battery onto the circuit board. Don't worry, you'll see the preconnected battery pad that is already attached to the circuit board. After 15 seconds, move your hand in front of the sensor and the spy cam will detect motion and turn on the DVR.

Tags: circuit board, Reed relay, side diode, cathode side, motion detector

Connect The Tv Cable To An A/V Receiver

A home theater setup will generally consist of a larger screen HDTV as well as a set of surround sound speakers. This setup is further complicated by the addition of Blu-ray players, DVD players and video game systems. An A/V receiver will connect all of your audio and video devices in one place, allowing you to leave your TV on a single input and change devices through the A/V receiver. Connecting your cable TV through the systems highest quality HD connectors will give you the best picture possible.

Instructions

1. Connect your source cable line into the "ANT IN" input on the back of your cable box.

2. Connect the "HDMI OUT" output on your cable box to the "HDMI IN" input on your A/V receiver with an HDMI cable.

3. Connect the "HDMI OUT" output on your A/V receiver to the "HDMI IN" input on your television. Your TV cable will now be connected through your A/V receiver, and the cable signal will be available on your television.

Tags: your receiver, cable Connect, cable Connect HDMI, Connect HDMI, Connect HDMI output

What Is An Rfid Number

Radio-frequency identification, also known as RFID, is a technology developed for use in identification and tracking that uses radio waves. RFID technology has a number of applications related to its ability to track and identify an object, and is currently deployed in a number of fields. RFID tag signals contain information such as a log number, which has an entry in a contextual database. This entry's information relates to the item the tag is attached to.

How It Works

In simplified terms, RFID is a three-part system. It consists of, first, an RFID tag and a transponder electronically programmed with unique information pertaining to what the tag is related to; for example, a pet or an inventory item. The next element is a reader, which is equipped with an antenna and a decoder that captures the unique signal coming from the tag and interprets the information. The final piece of the equation is a host computer, which houses software. This software processes the data captured by the reader from the tag and provides information related to the tag's entry. For example, an employee at an animal shelter can scan a pet with an RFID tracking chip, and bring up a file on a computer. This could reveal records regarding the pets' owners, vaccinations and medical history.

Common Applications

RFID is used in a number of different ways. One of the most well-known is the already-mentioned identification for pets, which involves placing an RFID tag under the animal's skin. RFID technology is also put to use in systems like EZPass, an electronic toll-collection system, or in ExxonMobil's SpeedPass RFID keychain user to electronically pay for gasoline.

Potential Uses

RFID could be implemented in the future for other electronic payment systems, and also for use as an inventory control system. Each item can have a unique ID, allowing for advanced control of each individual item in inventory, instead of blanket information for any product with a certain brand's barcode. For example, a grocery store employing RFID technology instead of barcodes could scan an entire cart full of different products in a manner of seconds without removing them, and instantly tally the total cost. This is because the reader doesn't need to come in contact or line-of-sight with a tag in order to react. This example could go a step further, with the user paying for the purchase with an RFID electronic payment device and covering the entire purchase with a single wave by the reader. Anyone trying to steal something from this store can set off a reader by the entrance, which can trigger an alert. A similar system is already in place in many stores selling controlled or electronic items that need to be de-activated before being removed from the store.

Other Technologies

RFID is often compared to other technologies, which it may someday replace. These include barcodes and the magnetic strips on credit cards and other card systems. Each of these can be difficult to work with, as wear on the magnetic strips or damage to the strip can make them difficult to pass through the reader, and a barcode that is creased, smudged or otherwise impaired may not read properly at all. However, in all cases, these technologies do one thing: identify a specific object, person or value, and register it with a computer for further use.

Problems with RFID

RFID are not foolproof devices. Two common problems that occur in RFID technology are reader collision and tag collision. Reader collision occurs when two or more readers overlap while trying to read the same tag. Since the tag can only answer one query at a time, both read attempts fail. Carefully set up RFID systems can avoid this problem. Tag collision occurs when many tags are contained in the small area, flooding the reader with signals. RFID vendors are continuously developing systems better equipped to respond to only one tag at a time to try and deal with this issue.

Tags: RFID technology, with RFID, collision occurs, collision occurs when, electronic payment, magnetic strips

Change A Mudd Watch Battery

Changing a battery in a watch takes only a few minutes.

Changing batteries in your Mudd watch is a straightforward process; it requires the same steps as changing a battery in any watch. All you need to change the battery in a watch is a small screw kit that you can get at a watch store.

Instructions

1. Unscrew the back cover of the watch using a screw driver. Some watch back covers do not have screws; in that case use your nails to flip open the back of the watch.

2. Unscrew the spring that holds the battery in place. Keep all screws in a safe place such as a cup to not lose them.

3. Take the battery out of its case with a plastic tweezer. Use a magnifying glass if you cannot see small items easily.

4. Insert the new battery in the same position as the old one. Check that the watch is functioning perfectly and the counter is moving.

5. Screw the back cover on. Replace the rubber seal between back cover and battery if the watch has one.

Tags: battery watch, back cover, that watch

Chroma Key Photoshop Tutorial

Remove a uniformly-colored background with Photoshop.

Chroma keying is the process of removing a specific color from an image so that another image behind it will show through. This technique is commonly employed by television meteorologists, who stand in front of a green or blue backdrop that is later removed with chroma keying to allow a weather map to show through. Apply the chroma key effect to still images in Adobe Photoshop with the Color Range selection feature.

Instructions

1. Launch Photoshop and open the picture you want to chroma key.

2. Press "M" to select the marquee tool. Choose "All" from the "Select" menu or press Ctrl-A to select the entire image.

3. Right-click the image and choose "Layer via Cut." This will separate the image from the "Background" layer and allow you to remove parts of it.

4. Choose "Color Range" from the "Select" menu. A new window appears.

5. Move your cursor over the image behind the "Color Range" window (move it aside if you can't see the image). The cursor changes to the symbol of the Eyedropper tool. Click the image in the color region you intend to remove. The small image in the "Color Range" window changes to give you a preview of the selection. Choose "Grayscale" from the "Selection Preview" drop-down menu to show this same preview on the image itself behind the window.

6. Set the "Fuzziness" slider to 100, then increase or decrease its value and observe the change in the preview image. Ideally, the foreground of your image will appear sharply defined in black against a white background. If there are dark artifacts in areas you want removed from the image, move the slider to the right. If you can discern internal details of the foreground, move the slider to the left.

7. Click "OK" to dismiss the "Color Range" window and implement the selection you specified. The "marching ants" (animated dashed line) effect appears to highlight the selected area. Press "Delete" or choose "Clear" from the "Edit" menu to remove the selection. Place another picture on a layer behind the current one to test the chroma key effect, or save the image as a Photoshop document to use it in other compositions.

Tags: Color Range, Color Range window, Range window, chroma effect, from image, from Select, from Select menu

Software For A Sharp Vlah131 Hi8 Analog Camcorder As A Webcam

You can turn your standard video camera into a webcam.

A web camera, or webcam, facilitates communication over the Internet. Although most computer systems now come with this option, your current system may lack the hardware. It is possible to use your own Sharp VI-AH131 Hi-8 analog video camera as a webcam, with the assistance of a computer program.

Equipment

No matter what program you decide to use with your Sharp Hi-8 video camera, you are going to use the same connection method -- a USB data cable. Although the video camera comes provided with the USB cable, it is possible to purchase a replacement from your local electronics store, should you not be able to locate the current USB equipment.

DVDriver

DVDriver is a computer program designed to give you the ability to use a video camera as a webcam. You must purchase the program, but once downloaded you just need to connect the Sharp video camera to your computer via USB data cable, then launch the software and select the Sharp video camera as the webcam. The software tells the computer to see the camcorder as a web camera, allowing you to now use any webcam communication software installed on your system (such as an instant messenger program or Skype).

Active WebCam

Active WebCam allows you to use your Sharp video camera as a security video camera for monitoring over the Internet. Although you can also use the camera inside your home, you just aren't able to sync it up with other Internet programs. Once purchased and installed on your computer, you need to connect the video camera and launch the software. The computer is now able to detect the camera and displays it on the program screen.

WebCam DV

WebCam DV functions much like the first option, where you install the program, connect your Sharp video camera and use a instant messenger or other video chat program with the camera. However, this software does provide a free-trial version, so you can test out the program before purchasing the full title. The test only lasts for a limited time, so make sure to use the trial within the first few days; otherwise, it is going to expire before you actually try out the programming.

Tags: video camera, camera webcam, Sharp video, Sharp video camera, your Sharp

Connect A Satellite Receiver To A Vcr

If you have satellite television, you can connect the satellite receiver to a VCR to record movies and TV shows. If you do not connect the devices properly, shows will not record or you might not see the shows on your TV screen. To properly connect both devices to your TV, you need to connect them so that the VCR is between the satellite receiver and the TV.

Instructions

1. Look at the back of the satellite receiver, VCR and TV to determine what type of cables you can use to connect them. Most VCRs have audio/video cable ports and coaxial cable ports. Satellite receivers and TVs also have these connection options. Some newer VCRs might have HDMI or HD component connection options. Choose what connections you want to use and get the appropriate cables.

2. Connect the "Output" ports on the satellite receiver to the "Input" ports on the VCR using the appropriate cables.

3. Connect the "Output" ports on the VCR to the "Input" ports on the TV using the appropriate cables.

Tags: appropriate cables, appropriate cables Connect, cables Connect, cable ports, cables Connect Output

Buy A Microphone For Speech

If you are dictating into a recorder, you don't want to pick up the conversation in the next cube. Yet if you are recording a conference meeting, you want to pick up everyone at the table. This article covers selecting the right type of microphone for specific uses.

Instructions

1. Buy a magnetically shielded microphone to use with a computer (these are normally sold as "computer microphones").

2. Make sure the microphone has the correct plug if you will use it with a computer, portable recorder or camcorder.

3. Buy a unidirectional microphone for dictation, for use with a public address system, for broadcasting or for other situations in which you want to pick up only an individual voice.

4. Consider a stereo, cardioid or unidirectional microphone for interviewing.

5. Use a lavaliere (clip-on) microphone when you need your hands available and won't be using a podium.

6. Buy an omnidirectional microphone for recording lectures or meetings.

7. Employ a close-talk microphone (one that is built into a headset) for word processing with voice-recognition software. If a microphone is included with the software, use it instead of any other computer microphone you have.

8. Buy a close-talk or stick-on microphone for basic computer speech recognition (operating system instructions, task control, and so).

Tags: want pick, unidirectional microphone, with computer

Information On Solar Cars

Photovoltaic (PV) cells make solar cars a viable form of transportation. The cells use a medium such as silicon to transform sunlight into electricity. This electricity is used to power a battery, which gives power to the solar vehicle.

First Solar Car

William G. Cobb, a worker at General Motors, invented the first solar car in 1955. This solar car consisted of 12 selenium PV cells and a small Pooley electric motor.

Function

Solar cars have solar arrays (which consist of PV cells) mounted on top of the vehicle in order to convert solar light into electricity. Converters transform the PV energy into usable electricity. Once this electricity is converted, some of it is stored in the batteries and the rest of it is used to fuel the car.

Solar Car Racing

Hans Tholstrup and Larry Perkins pioneered solar car racing in Australia in 1983. This event spawned worldwide solar car racing competitions that helped promote public awareness about solar vehicles. Universities and automobile manufacturers compete annually in solar racing competitions.

Development

Venturi AstroLab, a French auto manufacturer, has developed one of the first commercially produced electric-solar hybrid cars.

Design

Most solar cars need a large surface area (the roof) to collect the sun's rays. That requirement dictates the design; many solar cars look like flat-topped turtles.

Tags: into electricity, racing competitions, solar cars, solar racing, solar racing competitions

Ideas For A High School Community Service Project

Community service

Many high schools require their students to choose and execute a community service project as a way to teach the students the value of donating their time for the good of others. Volunteering time and efforts in a community is an important experience for young people as a part of a well-rounded education.

Food Drive

Organize a nonperishable food drive. Choose a central location where donations can be collected. Make up colorful full-page flyers and post them on community bulletin boards. Walk door to door and pass out the flyers to residences in the community. Inquire about the possibility of running advertisements in local papers and on local television channels. Donate the proceeds to local food pantries.

Recycling Program

Visit a local recycling center to learn how materials are recycled in your community. Identify any areas within your community that could benefit from improvements to their recycling program. Examine the practices and procedures at your own high school to see if changes can be made to improve its recycling program. Brainstorm ways that recycled materials can be used within your community. Plan a way to use recycled paper materials, and organize a collection of these materials. Include an educational presentation to help community members learn about the benefits of recycling paper materials.

Service at Church

Offer to help in various ways at a local church. Many churches need help with passing out bulletins, helping with educational classes, assisting with communion services, participating with music production or assisting members who have special needs.

Adopt a Class

Select an elementary school class and spend time each week with the children in the classroom. Read to the children, create special math games designed to make learning fun, and offer tutoring services if individual children are in need of extra help. Set up a writing program, and encourage the students to write letters to you and you can write letters back to them.

Clean Up

Organize a project to clean up a portion of the community. Enlist the help of volunteer students and adults to help pick up trash in a specific area. Break the volunteers into smaller groups, and assign an adult to supervise each group of students. Provide gloves and trash bags, and choose a day to work to clean up the community.

Car Wash

Organize a car wash for community vehicles. Enlist volunteer workers to wash police cars and other community fleet vehicles. Choose a day, provide the materials and meet in a parking lot to wash vehicles for the community.

Tags: your community, paper materials, recycling program, within your, within your community

Download Verizon Games To A Cell Phone

Verizon phones are automatically connected to the Verizon media store, where all types of gaming applications can be searched for and downloaded to the phone for unlimited access. The Verizon media store enables users to download directly from the phone with minute navigational instruction. Game applications can be purchased and downloaded to the phone within seconds.

Instructions

1. Unlock the cell phone's keypad by pressing the unlock button on the phone's touchscreen or keypad.

2. Press the center navigation key on the phone's keypad to access the main menu.

3. Go through the phone's main menu by pressing the down navigation key, and select "Get it Now" or "Media Center."

4. Press the "Extra" tab in the "Get it Now" or "Media Center" folder to view the game applications available on the Verizon network.

5. Select "Get it Now Search" to browse the media store's catalog for games you can download to your Verizon phone.

6. Click on the thumbnail image for the game you want to download to your Verizon phone.

7. Select the "Buy" action below the game's thumbnail image and description. You will be redirected to a download link for the game once it is purchased.

8. Press the "Menu" key to begin downloading the game to your cell phone. The game will then be stored to your phone's media content and "Games" subfolder.

Tags: media store, your Verizon phone, cell phone, download your, download your Verizon

What Frequency Is Bluetooth

Bluetooth has found its way into many devices ranging from personal computers to cell phones. The nearly ubiquitous technology is said to have been named after King Harald Bluetooth, who ruled Denmark in the 10th century.

Frequency

Bluetooth operates in the 2.4 Gigahertz band.

Distance

Bluetooth signals typically travel over a distance of 10 to 300 feet. Because Bluetooth uses radio frequencies, the devices do not have to be within line of sight of each other.

Developers

Bluetooth was developed in 1994 by Jaap Haartsen and Sven Mattisson while they were working for Sony Ericsson in Sweden.

Interference

Bluetooth frequencies are shared by cordless phone and WiFi devices. To limit the effects of interference, Bluetooth uses frequency-hopping technology. This shifts the Bluetooth frequency in 1 Megahertz increments across the 2.4 to 2.485 Gigahertz-alloted bandwidth to a point where interference is lowest.

Classes

Class 1 Bluetooth devices have an effective range of 300 feet. Class 2 devices have an effective range of 33 feet. Class 3 Bluetooth devices have an effective range of 3 feet.

Data Rate

Bluetooth frequencies allow data rates of up to 24 Mbps when using Bluetooth 3.0. Future technological advances might increase this rate further.

Tags: devices have, devices have effective, effective range, effective range feet, have effective, have effective range, range feet

Back Up The Garmin Sd Card

Store backup information on a GPS unit's SD card.

Garmin GPS units read saved map information stored on a standard SD card and use the information to coordinate your specific directions. However, if you want to back up the map information, just in case something every occurs to the SD card, you can save the data directly onto your computer. This copies the map information, making it ready in case you ever need to upload the data onto a different SD card.

Instructions

1. Open the SD card slot on the side of the Garmin GPS unit. Push the exposed card in towards the hardware to unlock it. This pops the card out slightly, allowing you to remove the card from the Garmin device.

2. Connect the USB cable running out the rear of the SD card reader into one of the USB ports on the computer.

3. Slide the Garmin SD card into the open slot on the SD card reader. Momentarily, the computer states it has detected the new, removable storage device.

4. Click "Start," "(My) Computer" and double-click the removable device icon. A window loads with all the Garmin SD maps (and other information stored on the card).

5. Click and drag the files from the open window onto the computer. You may copy the files to any location on the system (ranging from the desktop to any self-made folder). This backs up the data stored on the Garmin SD card.

6. Close out the open SD card window, right-click the device icon and choose "Eject" when the device menu appears. Once the icon disappears from view you are able to remove the SD card from the SD card reader.

Tags: card reader, card from, device icon, Garmin card, information stored, remove card, remove card from

Copy Photo Slides To Digital

Copying photo slides to digital involves a process called scanning. A scanner works with technology similar to a photocopier to create a digital copy of a picture that can then be stored on the hard drive of a computer, on an external memory device, or burned to a media disc. Most scanners are designed to copy multiple slides at once, speeding up what would otherwise be a tedious process of placing one slide at a time on the scanner plate.

Instructions

1. Arrange slides to be scanned in the template, orienting each cardboard slide mount in the same direction to save time later when working with the digital copies on a computer (it won't be necessary to rotate pictures right-side up, for example). Slides fit snugly in the rubberized template.

2. Place the template face-down on the scanner glass and close the cover.

3. Open the scanner software on the computer by clicking the Start button in the lower left-hand corner and choosing All Programs. Double-click on the scanner software to launch the program.

4. Click Settings and choose the Scan Slides option to set the scanner for multiple pictures. This way, each digital copy of the slides can be selected individually for color adjustments, cropping, and printing.

5. Press the Scan button on the scanner control panel or click the Scan button on the computer screen to begin scanning the slides.

6. Click the File tab at the top of the computer screen and choose Save As, then type a name for the group of slides that have been scanned and digitally copied.

7. Click OK to save the copied slides to the folder created in Step 6 on the computer's hard drive.

Tags: computer screen, digital copy, hard drive, Scan button, scanner software

Use An Isight Camera

The Apple iSight is a great piece of technology-a high-quality webcam and digital camera complete with useful software. Mac OS X comes with Photo Booth and iChat, both programs that take advantage of the iSight. iMovie, part of the iLife suite, also utilizes iSight. Current Macs come with the iSight built right in to the monitor, so there's no need for separate setup.

Instructions

Photo Booth

1. Click the Spotlight magnifying glass in the upper right hand corner. Type Photo Booth in, and click the application.

2. Click the big red button in the center to take a picture.

3. Click the film strip icon in the bottom right to set Photo Booth to video record. As above, click the big red button in the center to start recording.

iChat

4. Click iChat in the top left, then Preferences.

5. Click on "Audio/Video" to confirm the camera and sound are working.

6. Click on the green video camera to the right of your friend's name in your buddy list window to initiate a video chat.

Tags: Photo Booth, button center

What Equipment Do I Need To Become A Dj

DJing systems can help you make great music.

There are certain specific pieces of equipment needed to start as a DJ, and they can be expensive. However, once you have obtained these pieces of equipment you can build on them as you become more and more skilled at the art of DJing. These components include decks, a mixer with at least 2 channels, an amp, speakers and some sort of media library, be it a large collection of music on your computer or iPod, or crate upon crate of vinyl records.

Decks

The deck is the component that actually plays the music. Right now, outside computer DJ set ups are turn tables or CD players. CD systems are the best, as they provide longer life and great sound to whatever you are playing. Turntables tend to break down much more easily but are great because you can mix and scratch on them. They are how the art of DJing came to form. You can buy quality CD systems for around $500 and quality turntables for as low as $150.

Mixers

Mixers mix the quality and amplitude of the sound and allow you to switch from one song to the next effectively by finding similar beats and tones in completely different types of music and slowly or seamlessly merging them together. A two channel mixer is acceptable to start, but a three to four channel mixer is a better investment, especially if you have use for a microphone. Professional mixers have three to four channels, one for a mic and three for turntables or CD systems. Make sure the mixer offers a phono/line if you want to use turntables. Decent mixers can be purchased for around $200.

Speakers & Amps

Arguably the most important feature in your system, your speakers and amplifier project your sound. The main thing to pay attention to when buying amps and speakers is that the RMS power rating of your speakers is about half that of the amplifier you want to buy. If you don't do this you'll blow your speakers. The amplifier and speaker set-up will be the most expensive purchase in your DJ system, and should really be bought only after you have gotten the hang of it and are ready to play for an audience.

Tags: your speakers, channel mixer, pieces equipment, speakers amplifier, three four

Purchase The Best Rechargeable Battery

Purchase the right type of rechargeable battery for your device.

Not all rechargeable batteries are created equal. Wonder why some are so much more expensive than others? There are factors other than just the name brand to look at when searching for the "best" rechargeable battery. If your digital camera dies only after a few hours of use, it could be the type of rechargeable batteries you are using.

Instructions

1. Review the latest technology before purchasing a rechargeable battery. In July 2011, Consumer Search rated the hybrid Nickel-Metal Hydride (Ni-MH) cell batteries the best among the best for high-draining rechargeable devices, such as digital cameras and gaming remote controls. Ni-MH batteries come charged, so there is no waiting to charge them after buying. Ni-MH batteries also hold their charge well during use, and for an extended period of time while being stored away. Technology changes rapidly, however, and next year the Ni-MH might be old news; for right now, however, they're considered the "best."

2. Review each battery's mAh rating. A battery's mAh stands for milliampere-hour, and indicates the battery's energy storage capacity -- the higher the rating, the better it can handle constant high-drain devices. As of the date of this publication, high-capacity Ni-MH batteries can have up to 2900 mAh. An mAh of 2850 or 2700 is also very good. This is where price differences play a factor in determining the best battery for your needs, so be sure that you are comparing the same mAh rating when comparing different batteries.

3. Calculate your device usage. Think about the device you are buying the rechargeable battery for, and how many hours per day you plan on using it. Take the knowledge that you have gained about Ni-MH batteries and their mAh ratings and determine how much power your battery is going to need. If you are purchasing a battery for your digital camera before your vacation, a higher mAh will give your camera longer life; purchasing rechargeable batteries for your son's game controller ... and want an excuse to have him stop playing after a certain amount of time? Purchase lower mAh batteries that need to be charged more frequently.

4. Purchase your rechargeable battery from your favorite electronics store or online. As discussed, compare prices based on your individual device needs and find your best price from a reputable manufacturer.

Tags: battery your, Ni-MH batteries, rechargeable batteries, rechargeable battery, battery your digital, digital camera, purchasing rechargeable

Nokia N95 Tips & Tricks

The Nokia N95 is a sophisticated smartphone released in 2007. Along with the standard features found on most mobile phones, the N95 has many additional storage, connectivity and security features. Most of these extra features are easy to use and take only a few minutes to set up.

Memory Card

The N95 supports several different types of applications, many of which create or open files that take up a large amount of the phone's built-in memory. To compensate for the phone's limited memory, the phone includes support for microSD memory cards.

The memory card slot is located on the left side of the phone. Open the memory card slot cover by lifting up on the cover, sliding it to the right and pulling out. Slide the microSD card into the slot with the contacts facing up and in. The card will click when it is secure. You can now save additional files created by the phone on the extra memory provided by the microSD card.

Faster Downloading

You can increase the speed of downloaded content on your N95 by activating its High-Speed Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA) support. When HSDPA is enabled, email messages and browser pages will download to your phone at a much faster speed.

Note that the speed of uploaded content, such as an email message you are sending, will not be as fast as the prevailing HSDPA download speed. Once this high-speed link is enabled you can use the browser on the N95 as normal.

To turn on HSDPA, press the action button located to the left of the navigation buttons and select "Tools" and then "Settings."

Choose "Connection" and press the square button in the middle of the navigation buttons. Highlight "Packet Data Connection" and press the square button.

Finally, highlight "High-speed Packet Acc." and press the square button a third time.

Keypad Lock

As with most mobile phones, the N95 is susceptible to inadvertent button pressing when it is placed in your pocket or in a bag. The N95 has a keypad lock that will keep this from happening.

To lock the keypad, close the phone and press the left soft key and then the right soft key. Check the phone's manual to identify these soft keys. Use the same button combination to unlock the phone or slide the phone open to unlock it.

The N95 also has an automatic locking function. To set the automatic keypad lock, press the action button to the left of the navigation buttons and choose "Tools," then "Settings," and then "General." From there, choose "Security" and then "Phone and SIM Card."

Highlight "Keypad Autolock Period" and press the square button to enable the automatic keypad lock. The keypad will lock when the phone is closed or after the phone is idle for a short period of time.

Tags: press square, press square button, square button, navigation buttons, action button, automatic keypad

What Do Optocouplers Do

An optocoupler---also referred to as an opto-isolator, photocoupler or photoMOS---is a piece of an electric circuit that transfers electricity between two other parts without allowing them to make a direct connection. While optocouplers offer element isolation similar to a relay component, they are often a better choice for circuit designers, as they are smaller and fit easily into the microcircuit systems used in electronics.

Function

An optocoupler is essentially an optical transmitter and an optical receiver connected by a non-conductive barrier. It uses a beam of light to transfer energy from one circuit element to another, and it can handle incoming voltages of up to 7500V. The barrier that separates the two side of the optocoupler is made from a transparent glass or plastic polymer that does not conduct electricity but does conduct light. The actual physical device of the optocoupler is usually encased in a dark, non-conductive casing. It is attached into the electric circuit through small metal teeth and has holes on either end of the small cabinet for wire connections to pass through.

Features

The most important feature of an optocoupler is its electricity transfer efficiency. An optocoupler's efficiency is measured through its current transfer ratio (CTR), which is the relationship between the current change on the output side of the barrier and the current change on the input side of the barrier. Most optocouplers work at a CTR between 10 and 50 percent.

Significance

Optocouplers are most often used to separate two circuit elements that are operating on extremely different voltages. This prevents damage to the part working at a lower voltage. They also work to keep the two elements from being damaged by reverse voltage or power surges. Because of this trait, optocouplers are best utilized in associated with on/off switches and the transfer of digital data. They are commonly found between a transmitter and a receiver in an electric circuit.

Considerations

Optocouplers are often constructed with light emitting diodes (LEDs) as part of the optical transmitter side. An LED produces light when voltage is added to it, making it a perfect light source for an optocoupler. Incandescent lamps are also sometimes used in optocouplers, however they are not as efficient as LEDs, as they distort input signals and do not last very long.

Benefits

Optocouplers play integral roles in many common household items, such as telephones, cellular phones, computer circuits, internet modems and even the entire house electrical circuit. Optocouplers have also become essential to modern televisions as the technology and complexity of digital components has grown. They are used extensively to separate the parts of the circuit that manage the cable receiver, screen performance and screen settings.

Tags: electric circuit, circuit that, current change, does conduct, optical transmitter, side barrier

Use A Polarized Light Microscope

The magnification lenses on a microscope rotate easily.

Polarized light travels on one plane or, very simply, in one direction, according to Physics Classroom. Unpolarized light, on the other hand, travels in a multitude of directions. Forms of this light include the light from the sun, or from a lamp. A microscope using polarized light allows you to see an object by reflecting light onto or through the object placed in the microscope. Once you learn the basics of polarized light microscopy, using a polarized light microscope is rather easy.

Instructions

1. Place your prepared slide on the square or round microscope stage, with the center of the object you want to view placed in the center (usually a transparent area in the stage).

2. Turn the microscope to "low power." On a microscope, low power equals the lowest level of magnification. Microscopes indicate levels of magnification with numbers preceding an "x," so the lowest number preceding an "x" indicates the lowest power or magnification.

3. Lower the lowest magnification lens all the way, without touching the slide, using the "coarse focus" knob. Out of the two focusing knobs on a polarized light microscope, the "coarse focus" knob often appears larger than the "fine focus" knob. Look through the eyepiece.

4. Turn the "coarse focus" knob slowly, raising the magnification lens until the object in the slide focuses.

5. Turn the "fine focus" knob if the "coarse focus" knob did not focus in on your slide.

6. Change to the larger magnification by gently rotating the objective lenses. When focusing the microscope on high magnifications, only use the "fine focus" knob.

Tags: focus knob, coarse focus, coarse focus knob, fine focus, fine focus knob, light microscope

Differences Between The Livescribe Pulse & The Livescribe Echo

Livescribe smartpens allow you to link audio recordings with your hand-written notes. The Pulse is the older, original smartpen, and the Echo is the newer model. Both pens serve the same function and work in the same basic way, but they do have slightly different designs and features.

Design

The most basic difference between the Pulse and the Echo smartpens is the design. The Pulse is matte silver, while the Echo is a sleek black. The Echo has a more ergonomic design -- the writing half of the pen is considerably thinner than the top half of the pen. The bottom of the Pulse is thinner than the top, but not noticeably so. The Echo has a rubber grip on the bottom of the pen, which the Pulse completely lacks.

Function

The Pulse and Echo smartpens work in the same way. To use the pens, you must have Livescribe dot paper. As you write, the pen records audio and links it with your writing. Review your notes and tap your smartpen anywhere on your writing -- the pen plays back the audio recorded at that exact moment. Both pens have an embedded microphone and speaker to record and play back audio. The Pulse includes the Livescribe 3-D recording headset. You can use the headset with the Echo, but you have to purchase it separately.

Features

Both pens feature a 96-by-18-inch OLED display, an ARM 9 processor and a high-speed infrared camera capable of recording over 70 images per second. The camera records the dot paper, not regular pictures. Both pens connect to your computer so you can transfer your notes and audio recordings. The Pulse includes a proprietary USB mobile charging cradle, while the Echo includes a standard micro USB cable. At 2 GB, the Pulse smartpen has less available memory than the Echo. You can purchase an Echo with either 4 GB or 8 GB of memory.

Packages

The Pulse and the Echo offer a note feature without audio recording and paper replay, which means you tap the paper to replay audio from that moment. The Echo offers password protection of your paper replay. Both pens include a scientific and basic calculator. You can purchase additional applications for either pen at livescribe.com. The Echo smartpen includes a launch line application, which makes it easier to launch the smartpen applications.

Tags: Both pens, paper replay, Pulse Echo, audio recordings, back audio