A child who loves robots might also enjoy making one as a craft project.
If you have a young child who's interested in robots, one way to further this interest is to make a robot craft out of toilet paper tubes and cardboard boxes. A project like this is ideal for children ages 5 to 12.
Instructions
1. Choose a box for the robot's body. The best size is about the size of a shoe box. Hold it vertically and cut a hole in the top with your scissors that's just big enough to fit one of the toilet paper tubes. Fold the cardboard that you cut into the box.
2. Tape the toilet paper roll with sticky tape. This will be the robot's neck, so it must be able to hold up the head.
3. Glue a small cardboard box onto the other end of your shoe box. When it's dry, cut two holes for the legs of the robot. Push the extra cardboard back into the box, then tape a toilet paper tube into each of the leg holes.
4. Make the robot's legs longer by taping another toilet paper tube to each of the legs you already have.
5. Tape together two toilet paper tubes for each arm. You won't need to cut out any holes for the arms, because you can glue them straight to the sides of the box. Glue only a quarter of the arms and let the remainder stick out as if the robot is moving its arms.
6. Add a small cardboard box for the head of the robot. Cut a hole to fit the toilet paper tube, but this time, make the hole on the bottom to connect the head with the neck. Tape it into place.
7. Cut out cardboard features to use as the robot's eyes and mouth, and glue them into place. Make the eyes out of two individual egg holders from an egg carton. Simply cut some cardboard to make the mouth.
8. Cut holes in the tops of two small, sturdy cardboard boxes to fit two toilet paper tubes. Tape the feet to the legs of the robot.
9. Spray-paint the entire robot silver. Do this outside to reduce fumes and to avoid getting paint on items in the house. When the paint is dry, the robot is complete.
Tags: toilet paper, paper tubes, toilet paper tubes, paper tube, toilet paper tube, cardboard boxes
If you have used single-use cameras in the past with little luck, you may need to buy a disposable camera meant exclusively for indoor use. An "indoor" disposable camera is ideal for events that take place inside, in dim lighting or even outdoors when the sun is rising or setting.
Instructions
Choose and Use a Disposable Camera
1. Choose a camera with a slower film speed for indoor use. Most indoor situations involve little movement by your subjects, so a slower speed is appropriate. On the other hand, you would need a faster film speed at an outdoor sporting event or when photographing animals. A faster film speed is reflected by a higher number. For instance, 800 is faster than 400.
2. Shop for a camera with a flash to use indoors, just in case you need it. Some flashes are automatic, while others may require you to press a button to charge the flash.
3. Keep the flash away from mirrors and windows once you are ready to take pictures. These types of surfaces could reflect the flash right back into the camera and destroy your shot.
4. Snap photos from the appropriate distance. Disposable cameras have fixed focuses and are meant to be used between 3 and 10 feet of your subject.
5. Hold the camera steady. No matter which camera you buy, your photos probably won't turn out right if your hands shake or you get your finger in front of the lens.
6. Collect single-use cameras to use at all of your events, and get plenty of practice. Experiment with different brands and film speeds until you get better at taking indoor pictures. Eventually, you will know which disposable indoor camera is best for your indoor use.
7. Buy an extra camera to keep at home or in your car. It's always a good idea to have a single spare camera at your disposal.
Tags: film speed, camera with, camera your, disposable camera, faster film, faster film speed
Wearable computers allow you to interact without touching a keyboard or mouse.
Although advances in mobile phones allow you to watch TV or surf the Web from nearly anywhere, mobile phones aren't the same as wearable computers. The theory behind wearable computers is that they are always on and constantly connected to the wearer -- not just activated when pulled out of your pocket. Not yet commercially available, many researchers, such as Dr. Steve Mann of the University of Toronto, have designed wearable computer prototypes.
Wearability
One of the main differences between mobile phones and wearable computers is that mobile phones aren't actually attached to you. You might carry the phone in your pocket or purse for easy accessibility, but you don't actually wear it attached to your body. Wearable computers may be either attached to your wrist or contained in a headband with an eye piece or glasses, allowing you to interact instantly without pulling the device out of your pocket or purse.
Always On
According to Dr. Steve Mann, a top researcher in the field of wearable computers, wearable computers feature "always-on" capability. This means that while you are wearing the computer, you have instant access to it by voice commands or the use of specially designed digital gloves that follow your hands' movements. There's no need to press a button to activate the screen, which is required by many mobile phones. He defines a wearable computer as one that is a continuation of the the person wearing it, not an external device that is activated when needed.
Augmented Reality
Another difference between a mobile phone and a wearable computer is that the computer can augment your reality, enhancing experiences in ways a mobile phone cannot. For example, if you're visiting a historic site, you can access a map of the site on your mobile phone as well as interesting facts. On a wearable computer, such as one that uses eye glasses, however, you can see the map overlaid on the actual scene in front of your eyes with real-time arrows pointing you toward your next destination at the site. It could also project words as you view certain objects at the site, providing historical data on each object that you might miss if you had to access it on your mobile phone.
Reactions
Mobile phones are designed to react to commands you enter. For example, it places a call when you press "Send" or uses a GPS app to map your route when you enter your current location and destination. On the other hand, wearable computers theoretically should react to your location, environment and activity. The wearable computer may monitor your vital signs and notify you if an activity raises your heart rate too high, or it might automatically provide a map overlay on your interactive glasses if you tell a friend that you can't remember where you found that cute restaurant.
Tags: mobile phones, wearable computers, mobile phone, wearable computer, your pocket
There are so many different types and manufacturers of digital cameras today that it can be tough to make a decision. Before looking at the camera's specifications, it is important to understand your requirements from a digital camera. Do you just need the camera for website images? If so, you don't need to buy the highest resolution camera. Do you plan to print your images? If so, what is the largest size print you will need? Are you looking for a camera to replace your old film camera? Do you need different lenses? Ask these and other questions that will help you refine your needs. People selling cameras will always try to "sell up" and they always have "deals." Understanding your requirements will help you negotiate their sales pitches. Do your research online before entering a camera store--and follow the tips below to help you define your requirements.
Instructions
1. What type of camera do you want? Even small digital cameras like the Canon Powershot SD1100 have resolution of 7.1 megapixels offering high quality. Do you want a camera you can carry in your pocket or purse? Do you need multiple lenses? What sort of zoom capabilities do you need? Explore the websites of the camera manufactures to understand and explore the capabilities of the cameras you are considering. There are basically three types of digital cameras. First there are cameras that come with your phone, which have fairly low resolution and can be frustrating to use. The second types are compact digital cameras or "point-and-shoot" cameras that offer many features and resolution choices and are small enough to carry in your pocket. The third types are digital SLR cameras which are full-featured cameras that look like old analog 35mm cameras and offer many different lenses and accessories.
2. What are your resolution requirements? Digital camera manufacturers describe resolution in terms of megapixels. A megapixel is equal to one million pixels. A pixel is the smallest component of an image, but the pixel also carries color and intensity information. Sometimes pixel information is presented by a grid expression like 800 x 600 resolution which is 480,000 pixels The higher the megapixel number, the higher the resolution and also the higher the cost. A 6 megapixel camera is roughly equivalent to a 35mm film camera. This will allow you to print images with clarity up to 11 by 14 inches.
3. What sort of controls do you need? Most digital cameras, including digital SLR cameras, offer a variety of automatic shooting modes. If you are taking a portrait, choose the portrait setting and shoot away. However, many of these cameras do not offer many manual controls. Do you need to control shutter speed to blur or freeze motion? Do you need to adjust ISO sensitivity to shoot in low-light conditions? Do you need to control the f-stop to adjust depth of field? Professional and advanced amateur photographers want to be able to control these factors and will frequently choose a digital SLR because these features are included. This doesn't mean that it is the right choice for you. Personally, I think everybody needs two digital cameras: one for the pocket and one for the camera bag.
4. What sort of focal range do you need? One of the more confusing specifications is the listing of optical zoom and digital zoom. Optical zoom is the focal range that is produced by the camera's optics. On a digital SLR you actually zoom using the lens much in the same way you would on a film SLR camera. The range is adjusted by moving an element inside the lens that adjusts the focal range. Optical zoom produces clearer images than digital zoom in which the zoom is created by algorithms. When purchasing a point-and-shoot camera select the one that has the best optical zoom. Also keep in mind that the more zoomed in you are on a subject, the more camera shake will impact the clearness of the image. Consider image stabilization features on digital SLR lenses above 200MM.
5. Do you need to be able to focus manually? Anyone who uses a digital camera will tell you that sometimes auto focus just doesn't work. Auto focus uses contrast information to help make the focus, and if there are heavy contrasts in the center of the image area it may have trouble focusing. Some point-and-shoot cameras and all Digital SLR cameras allow you to manually focus.
6. Do you need to adjust white balance? White balance is the way the digital camera sets the white point allowing for the pure creation of color. Most people leave white balance set on auto and never adjust it. There may be times that you will want to change the white balance. This is especially true when shooting vivid colors. All digital SLR cameras and many point-and-shoot cameras allow for the manual adjustment of white balance. If you are just buying a camera for family snapshots this may not be a needed feature, but if you plan to approach photography seriously, you should consider white balance control as a needed option.
Tags: digital cameras, white balance, cameras offer, cameras that, digital cameras
Cell phone chargers are a critical asset to cell phone users. Chargers keep the phone usable. However, overcharging and battery types may cause some phones to develop problems. Below are some facts about cell phone chargers and new updates.
Universal charger
One size fits all chargers will be available for cell phone users on January 1, 2010 in Europe. Cell phone makers such as Nokia and Sony have collaborated to make this possible. The Micro-USB will be the standard charger for all the phones affiliated with the collaboration. That means that no matter what phone you have this charger will work.
Blackberry
The Blackberry already has a Micro-USB. For any model Blackberry, you can use the same charger.
Cell phone charger pen
Avon sells a pen that writes and also charges most cell phones, such as Motorola and Samsung. The pen can be purchased in blue or black ink. Also, the charger runs on 3 AAA batteries.
Charging phones
The type of battery your phone has determines how soon your phone will charge. Higher mAh batteries charge longer than lower mAh batteries. It is recommended to charge your phone at night when you are not busy.
Overcharging
It is not good to charge your phone for more than 24 hours. This may cause your phone to malfunction, and the battery may soon fail.
First charge
When you first get your phone, it will have a full charge. It is recommended that you allow the phone to register a low charge before charging again to make sure that the phone charges properly.
Tags: your phone, your phone will, cell phone users, charge your, charge your phone, phone users, phone will
If your lens is not working, your pictures will not turn out.
Camera lenses are an integral component of your camera. Before any image is recorded on the film or digital sensor, it must pass through the lens. Whether you have a point and shoot or single lens reflex model, your pictures are not going to turn out if your lens is not working. There is not a lot you can do yourself to repair point and shoot camera lenses. Other than cleaning the front glass element and inspecting for debris, lenses should be serviced by a technician. If you have an SLR, you may be able to fix your lens.
Instructions
1. Press the lens locking button, rotate the lens and remove the lens from your single lens reflex camera. If you are using a digital SLR, place a body cap on the camera to prevent dust from entering it.
2. Inspect the lens thoroughly by looking through the lens from both the front and rear of the lens. You are looking for any foreign debris inside the lens or any indication that part of the lens has become loose and is impeding its operation.
3. Clean the electrical contacts on the rear of the lens. Any auto-focus lens relies on electrical signals from the camera to work properly. It may affect the lens performance if these contacts are dirty. Clean the contacts using a cotton swab moistened with rubbing alcohol. Dry the contacts using a microfiber lens cloth.
4. Inspect the lens barrel and the small gaps between the outer lens barrel and the barrel containing the lens elements. Small debris can become lodged in here and may affect lens performance. Remove the debris using a small needle. Do not use compressed air as this may cause the sand or debris to become further lodged inside the lens.
Using a cable DVR (digital video recorder) is a way for family members to have their favorite television programs available for viewing when the time is convenient. The option to record two programs at a time, or record one while watching another, are great tools for working around busy schedules. The decision to buy a cable DVR over leasing from a cable company is often more a financial decision.
Instructions
1. Buy a cable DVR to schedule programs in advance for recording. Depending on the brand of DVR and cable service, you can schedule programs several days to several weeks in advance.
2. Choose a cable DVR that records standard, enhanced and high-definition programming to get the most recording options. Technology is continually changing, and television programs are progressing at various levels, so make a selection that covers multiple recording options.
3. Get a cable DVR with high-quality output to make your television viewing a home theater experience. You can find a superior all-digital video quality DVR from your cable company or through a retail outlet.
4. Purchase a single-tuner DVR to record a program while watching a previously recorded program. A dual-tuner DVR allows you to watch a program while recording another program, or you can record two programs while watching an already-recorded program. Make your selection based on the amount of recordings you expect to make.
5. Check with your local cable service provider to determine your options to buy a DVR. The unit you choose must be compatible with the connections and service available in your area.
6. Ask if a cable digital video recorder can be used with an external hard drive before you buy it. In the places where this technology is available, it provides the user with an extended recording time.
Tags: while watching, cable company, cable digital, cable digital video, cable service
The Tivo Series 2 DVR is a personal video recorder that allows you to record TV shows as they happen or as scheduled. In order to hook up a Tivo Series 2 DVR, you need to connect it to a cable or satellite box, then connect the Tivo to a TV.
Connecting the Cable Box to the Tivo
Connect a coaxial cable from the wall jack to the "RF In" ("Cable In" or "Ant In") on the back of the cable box. Connect a coaxial cable from the "RF Out" ("Cable Out" or "Ant Out") on the back of the cable box to the "RF In" on the back of the Tivo. Connect the IR cable into the IR port on the back of the Tivo and place the other ends of the cable above and below the IR sensor on the cable box. Secure the ends in place using the adhesive pads included with the Tivo.
Connecting the Tivo to a TV
Connect a coaxial cable from the "RF Out" on the back of the Tivo to the "Ant In" on the back of the TV. Alternately, you can use yellow, red, and white RCA cables to connect from the "Output" jacks on the Tivo to the "Line In" jacks on the TV. If you use coaxial cables, set the Tivo "CH 3/4" switch and the TV to channel 3. If you use RCA cables, set the TV to the input you used (e.g., Line 1).
Connecting the Tivo to a Telephone Jack
Connect a phone line cable from the phone jack on the wall to the back of the Tivo into "Phone In." You can also connect either a wired or wireless network adapter into the USB port on the back of the Tivo.
If you have deleted movie files and want them back, they can be brought back from oblivion through the use of a few tricks. As long as you try to restore your movie files quickly after you delete them, then you'll have a chance of getting them back. The longer you wait, the more likely it is that you won't be able to recover the movies.
Instructions
1. Check your recycling bin first. Double-click on its icon on your desktop to open it.
2. Right-click on any movie files you want to recover there and select "Restore."
3. Download and install recovery software like Pandora or File Scavenger. Click on "Download Now" on the main page to begin download. Open the installation file once you have it to install.
4. Open a program such as Pandora. Click to indicate that you've already checked your recycling bin for the files. Select a drive from which you hope to recover the movie. Click on the "Browse" option.
5. Start browsing to begin mapping out deleted files on that particular hard drive. Look through the folders. Right-click on a movie file you find and select "Recover." Choose the folder that it will restore into, and click "OK."
Tags: files want, movie files, movie files want, Right-click movie, them back
Fill flash will solve the common problem of dark faces when photographing a person against a back-lit scene, such as a person sitting in front of a window. Fill flash is the technique of forcing the flash to fire, even when there is enough light for a picture.
Instructions
Point and Shoot Cameras
1. Look for the button with a lightning bolt symbol. This is the button that changes the flash mode.
2. Change the flash mode to "on" by pressing this button. On some cameras, pressing the button will bring up a menu to select flash mode. On others, it will cycle the flash mode between off, on, red eye removal and automatic. Flash On mode is indicated by a lightning bolt on the display's flash mode indicator.
3. Compose the photograph.
4. Press the shutter release. The flash will fire.
5. Check the exposure on the LCD monitor. The back-lit scene should be properly exposed, as should the faces.
Single Lens Reflex Cameras
6. Decide which type of flash to use. If your camera has a built-in flash, press the button to pop the flash up. If you are going to use an external flash, affix the flash to the camera's hot shoe.
7. Press the button with the lightning bolt symbol. While holding the button down, rotate the camera's rear control wheel until only a lightning bolt is shown on the top LCD display. If you are using the built-in flash, this is the balanced fill flash mode. If you are using an external flash with a mode button, press the mode button until either TTL or both TTL and BL are shown on the flash's LCD screen.
8. Compose the photograph.
9. Press the shutter release; the flash will fire.
10. Check the exposure on the LCD monitor. The back-lit scene should be properly exposed as should the faces.
Tags: flash mode, lightning bolt, back-lit scene, flash will, back-lit scene should, bolt symbol
Downloading images from a corrupted memory card is possible.
Corrupt photos are digital photo files that have some kind error written in them. The problem may prevent your photos from being viewed or transferring properly from your camera to your home computer. A corrupt file does not necessarily mean that the pictures are lost forever. You may be able to recover the corrupt images yourself by using software available on the Internet.
Instructions
1. Select the software you want to use to try and recover your corrupted photos.There are a number of programs available, including "Photo Rescue," "ADRC Data Recovery" and "Recover Files 2." These programs are either free or have a free trial period.
2. Open the software you just downloaded to your computer.
3. Connect the memory card or digital camera to your computer using a card reader or USB cable. Wait a moment for your computer to acknowledge the new connection.
4. Run the software on your memory card or digital camera. The user interface is different from program to program but the steps are essentially the same. You must select the icon identifying your memory card or camera for the software to analyse.
5. Select the file you want to download to your computer. Identify the location you want the image to be saved to and click "Ok" or "Save." You should now be able to open the corrupted file on your computer.
Tags: your computer, memory card, camera your, card digital, card digital camera
ATI alternatives to the NVIDIA GeForce 8800 series video cards.
The NVIDIA GeForce 8 series of computer video graphics cards were produced in 2006 to 2008, with the 8800 series models representing the most expensive versions. The 8800 series used faster memory and larger data buses for more memory throughput and faster performance. ATI, NVIDIA's largest rival, also had video card produced from 2006 to 2008 that directly competed with the NVIDIA GeForce 8800 series.
ATI Radeon HD 3870
The ATI Radeon HD 3870 was produced in 2007 using a 55 nm fabrication process. The 3870 is just slightly faster in performance compared to the NVIDIA GeForce 8800 GT. The 3870 was produced in models that used either 512 or 1024 MB of video memory. The GPU speed was 775 MHz. The 3870 had a peak bandwidth of 72 gigabytes per second while using a 256-bit memory bus.
ATI FireGL V7700
The ATI FireGL V7700 was produced in 2007 using a 55 nm fabrication process. The V7700 is based on the 3870 GPU, but is designed for professional applications. The V7700 is just slightly slower in performance compared to the NVIDIA GeForce 8800 GT. The V7700 was produced in models that used 512 MB of video memory. The GPU speed was 775 MHz. The V7700 had a peak bandwidth of 72 gigabytes per second while using a 256-bit memory bus.
ATI Radeon HD 3850 X2
The ATI Radeon HD 3850 X2 was produced in 2008 using a 55 nm fabrication process. The 3870 is just slightly slower in performance compared to the NVIDIA GeForce 8800 GT. The 3850 X2 was produced in models that used 2x 512 MB of video memory for a total of 1024 MB. The GPU speed was 2x 668 MHz. The 3850 X2 had a peak bandwidth of 2x 53 gigabytes per second while using a 2x 256-bit memory bus. The 3850 X2 is two regular 3850 cards electronically connected together for a faster connection.
ATI FireGL V7200
The ATI FireGL V7200 was produced in 2006 using a 90 nm fabrication process. The V7200 is based on the ATI Radeon X1800 XT GPU, but is designed for professional applications. The V7200 is just slightly slower in performance compared to the NVIDIA GeForce 8800 GT. The V7200 was produced in models that used 256 MB of video memory. The GPU speed was 600 MHz. The V7200 had a peak bandwidth of 41 gigabytes per second while using a 256-bit memory bus.
One of the delights of travel is revisiting all those out-of-the-way places-with you in them-as you share the photos from your trip. But if you're the photographer, you should master a simple camera function to be able to put yourself in the picture. Using the self-timer can give you crisp, memorable photographs of yourself in any exotic destination, even when there isn't an obliging local to click the shutter.
Instructions
1. Check your camera's manual for specific instructions about engaging the self-timer. It's worth trying the self-timer function a few times before you set out on your travels to be sure you are comfortable with all the steps. If the manual has gone missing, experiment with typical steps to discover how they work for your camera model.
2. Open the menu on the camera and look for a timer symbol. On most digital cameras, this is a circle with one hand in the 11 o'clock position and a single dot at noon. Select the timer from the menu.
3. Look on your screen or in your viewfinder to compose the shot. Determine where you will position yourself in the picture and focus on that distance. If you will be posing with other people, focus on their faces.
4. Avoid shooting directly into the sun or very bright light because you will be backlit in the photo and your features will be in shadow. At the same time, try not to pick an angle that has you squinting into the sun.
5. Press the shutter halfway down to focus the shot and set the exposure.
6. Still checking through the viewfinder, press the shutter entirely down and hold until it clicks. You've started the timer. Do not stand in front of the camera when pressing the shutter to start the timer as you may change the auto-focus and ruin your shot.
7. You now have 10 seconds to rush into place and compose yourself for a fabulous image. For about eight or nine seconds, a light will blink regularly on the camera or a beeper will sound as it counts down to the click that signals exposure. For the last second or two the light will remain steady or the beeper will speed up as a warning. Unless you want a blurry "art" shot, you'd better be in place and posed before the last few seconds.
8. After the shutter clicks, check the picture in your viewfinder to be sure it is in focus and captures what you wanted. If there is room for improvement, try again.
Tags: beeper will, light will, Self Timer, Self Timer Camera, Timer Camera, your camera, your viewfinder
The Archos 604 is a portable media player with support for both video and music files. The 30GB hard drive of the 604 can hold thousands of songs and dozens of movies, all of which can be played back on an easy to use interface. In addition, the 604's LCD screen measures 4.3 inches, which is much larger than many media players in the same class.
Firmware
Archos will occasionally update the operating system, or firmware, of the 604. The updates often are made to fix any issues with the system or to make it run faster. Sometimes a new application is added to the system through a firmware update. It is important to keep your 604 updated with the latest firmware as it will keep your unit working at its best.
To check if your firmware is up to date press the button with the symbol of the arrows wrapped into a circle located to the left of the "MENU" button. The "Setup" screen will display. Navigate to "System" and press "OK" to bring up all of the information about your 604. Check the number next to "Firmware Vers.:" and write it down.
Open your web browser and navigate to the "Firmware" page of the "Archos" website (see link in the Resources section below). Select 604 from the drop down menu and compare your firmware to the latest firmware download.
If you need to update your firmware, download the file from the website. Hook the 604 to your computer using the USB cord supplied with the device. Once Windows recognizes the device, open "My Computer" and double click on the icon for the 604. Click and drag the downloaded firmware version to the "Data" file in the 604 directory. Close the directory and remove the 604 from your computer.
Turn on the 604 and navigate to "System Settings," "Update Firmware" and press "OK." The 604 will prompt you to reconnect the 604 to your computer. Once connected the firmware will update.
Using the Audiocorder
In addition to the music and video playback features of the 604, you can record audio on the device. This feature can be used for several reasons, such as shopping lists or an audio journal. The files can be played back on the 604 or exported to your computer. To record on the 604, navigate to the "Audiocorder" icon on the main menu screen and press "OK." The "Audiocorder" menu has several options for customizing your audio recording, including naming the recording, choosing the format and increasing or decreasing the sample rate, which increases or decreases the sound quality.
Press the "X" button to bring up the "Recording" screen and press "OK" to start recording. The sound is picked up by the microphone located on the left side of the 604. Press "OK" to pause the recording at any time and "X" to stop recording.
Reset
You may find that the 604 freezes during use, making the device inoperable. When frozen, the buttons do not work and the screen stays locked. There are several reasons why the 604 freezes, but the most common are an error in the operating system or a build up of static electricity in the device. To reset the 604 when it freezes, press and hold the "Power" button for 15 seconds. The device will be forced to power down. Once powered on again, the 604 will work as normal.
Tags: your computer, your firmware, firmware download, firmware will, keep your, latest firmware, located left
Most cameras, phones and other devices store pictures on memory cards instead of internal memory. Memory cards have the advantage of being both removable and upgradeable. Most of these devices can connect directly to a computer via USB to act as a card reader, allowing the computer to access the files stored on the memory card. For devices without this functionality, you need to remove the card from the device and insert it into a memory card reader built into your computer or an external USB memory card reader.
Instructions
1. Put your device into USB transfer mode. For many cameras this involves changing the camera mode switch to the "Play" icon. Consult your device's owner's manual for more information about USB mode on your device. If your device cannot connect to a computer via USB, remove the memory card from the device. In most cases this involves opening the memory compartment door and pushing the memory card into the device to unlock it. Consult your device's owner's manual for more information about removing the memory card.
2. Click on the "My Computer" button in your computer's "Start" menu to open the list of storage devices attached to your computer.
3. Plug your device's USB cable into its USB port. Plug the other end of the cable into an available USB port on your computer. Alternatively, insert the memory card into your computer's memory card reader. If your memory card reader is an external memory card reader, insert the card and then plug it into your computer.
4. Double-click on the icon for your device in the "My Computer" window. Your device will appear in the window shortly after you connect it.
5. Browse to the pictures folder on your device. It may be located within a folder labeled "DCIM," "Camera," "Media" or something similar.
6. Click on "My Pictures" in the "Start" menu to open your pictures folder. Right-click on the folder's background and select "New Folder." Type a name for the new folder and press "Enter."
7. Press "Alt" and "Tab" on your keyboard at the same time to switch back to your camera. Hold the "Ctrl" button on your keyboard while you click on each of the pictures that you want to transfer to your computer. Alternately, press "Ctrl" and "A" at the same time to select all of the pictures in the current folder.
8. Press "Ctrl" and "X" at the same time if you want to remove the pictures from the memory card and transfer them to your computer. Press "Ctrl" and "C" at the same time if you only want to copy the pictures from the memory card to your computer, leaving the original pictures on the memory card.
9. Press "Alt" and "Tab" at the same time to switch back to your new pictures folder. Press "Ctrl" and "V" at the same time to transfer your pictures to your computer. When the transfer is complete, click the "Eject Device" icon in the taskbar and select the name of your device to prepare it for removal. When prompted by the computer, you can remove your memory card or device from your computer.
Tags: memory card, your computer, your device, card reader, same time, memory card reader
Sirius Satellite Radio is a satellite radio service that operates in the United States and Canada. It provides music, sports, news and comedy channels, among many others, for a monthly fee. Sirius is different from regular radio stations because of its variety of channels and its clear, static-free reception. Sirius radio also currently has fewer commercial breaks than regular radio stations.
Instructions
1. Purchase and install your Sirius radio receiver. You can install it yourself according to the instructions or have it professionally installed.
2. Choose the subscription plan you want. You can find a link to the available Sirius radio subscription plans in the Resources section below.
3. Make sure the antenna is pointing up.
4. Press the "Power" button on your receiver and wait for it to finish loading. A phone number for activation will scroll across the screen when it is finished.
5. Press the "Menu" button on the receiver. "Sirius ID" should appear highlighted on the screen.
6. Press the "Select" button.
7. Write down the Sirius ID number that appears. This number can also be found on the packaging from your radio. It will be below a barcode and say "SID" in front of it.
8. Turn your Sirius radio to channel 184.
9. Call the number that scrolls across your screen when the receiver is first turned on, (1-888-539-SIRIUS) or visit Sirius radio's website, linked to in the Resources section below.
10. Follow the instructions on your computer or from the phone number to pick your subscription plan and activate your radio.
Tags: Sirius radio, Activate Sirius, Activate Sirius Radio, number that, phone number
The HTC Cingular 8525 was originally installed with Windows Mobile 5.0, however a ROM update to Windows Mobile 6.0 eventually arrived through the official HTC website. While that ROM is no longer officially available through HTC there are still ways to obtain the official ROM. Once downloaded you can then update your device using the pre-installed Windows Mobile Device Center found on your Windows Vista operating system.
Instructions
1. Fully charge your Cingular 8525.
2. Download the Cingular 8525 ROM update from the Rapidshare link located in our reference section.
3. Plug in your phone to your computer using a USB cable (a cable should have come with your phone).
4. Wait for Windows Mobile Device center to launch once you have plugged in your phone. If WMDC does not load you can also click on the Windows "Start" button, click "All Programs" then click the "Windows Mobile Device Center" icon.
5. Browse to the ROM download location using the Windows Mobile Device Center file browser. Click on the ROM file to launch the installation process and allow it to install on your phone. The phone will reset itself and alert you when the process is complete.
6. Remove your phones USB cable and you are now ready to use Windows Mobile 6.0.
Tags: Windows Mobile, Cingular 8525, Mobile Device, Windows Mobile Device, your phone
Plenty of processors continue to develop film such as Kodak Advantix film.
Not everyone uses digital cameras. Some people prefer film to digital and continue to use advanced photo system (APS) film to take pictures. Although digital photography is today's norm for taking and printing photos, plenty of outlets still develop film, including Kodak Advantix film. Options for developing Kodak Advantix film include mailing your film to an processing lab for development or taking your film to a local certified processor to handle.
Instructions
1. Remove the Kodak Advantix film from the camera and place in a dry envelope, resealable plastic storage bag, or container. Keep unexposed film in temperatures of 70°F or lower. You should develop the film soon after exposure.
2. Mail your film to a major film-processing center like Snapfish or The Photo Place. You can visit their websites to get instructions, costs, and mailing address information. Many labs offer free shipping labels on their websites that you can print off and use for mailing in your film.
3. Take your rolls of Kodak Advantix film to your local photo developer. Certified processors will have the "Advanced Photo System Photofinishing" logo displayed.
4. Receive your photos from the processor. Certified processors are required to return the film cassette with your negatives inside, and an index print showing all photos, in addition to the prints.
5. Order reprints, as desired. Use the index print to identify which photos you want reprinted. You will need to return the Kodak Advantix film cassette to the processor to get reprints processed.
Tags: Kodak Advantix, Kodak Advantix film, your film, Advantix film, Advantix film, develop film
Heading off into the backcountry often presents a trade off between solitude and safety. Even if you've spent years hiking trails alone and armed with just a map and a compass, you'll appreciate the security offered by a few, lightweight, electronic wilderness aids.
Instructions
1. Consider packing a Global Positioning Satellite system (GPS). Operated by the U.S. Air Force, GPS satellites transmit signals to ground receivers which should be placed under an unobstructed sky. GPS receivers don't work as well in canyons or dense forests. Your GPS will lock onto the transmissions of at least four satellites. By analyzing the time differences it can identify the direction in which you are traveling and estimate your speed. Garmin makes a range of models from basic handhelds, to more sophisticated models that incorporate maps. You can even plan your trail ahead of time on your home computer and download your route to the GPS.
2. Personal Locator Beacons (PLB) send out distress signals on a 406 MHz frequency that is constantly monitored by the US Air Force. If you get one that is tied into a GPS receiver, your exact position will be transmitted in an emergency. REI, the outdoor co-op, sells ACR Electronics Terrafix 406 GPS I/O Personal Locator Beacon with built-in GPS.
3. Don't rely on a cell phone. They don't work far from cell phone towers. For true backcountry telephone capability, get a satellite phone. Iridium has a network of 66 satellite orbiting to provide voice and data communication worldwide. To use one, you must buy not only the phone, but a prepaid plan. West Marine sells an Iridium 9505A Satellite Phone.
4. Get charged up. None of these devices will continue to work without electricity, so a solar charger is essential. Solio's Classic model is supposed to provide ten minutes of talk time on most phones for sixty minutes of charging.
Insert a Sony memory card into your electronics device to save a favorite memory.
Sony produces memory cards that are not only compatible with its own cameras and other devices, but that are also compatible with many other brands and types of electronic devices. Sony makes installing its memory cards easier by featuring some simple directions on the front label of the cards. Once the card is inserted correctly into the device, you must make sure you lock the card into place.
Instructions
1. Locate the memory card slot on your device. If using the card on a digital camera, the memory card slot might be accessed on one of the sides of the camera. The memory card slot might also have a cover over it. Just pull the cover off with your fingers and push it to the side. On some Sony cameras, the memory card slot is located near the battery bay underneath the camera.
2. Remove any memory cards that may already be installed in the device. Do this by simply pulling the card up with your fingers.
3. Arrange the Sony memory card so the Sony label is facing you. Be sure the arrow on the label is facing up.
4. Insert the Sony memory card into the slot on the device. Make sure the arrow on the label is still pointed up as it goes into the slot.
5. Push the Sony memory card into the slot until it locks in place. Then, replace the memory card slot cover, if there is one.
Burn DVDs of Sony Handycam footage for long-lasting memories.
The Sony Handycam is a digital camcorder that can be connected to a computer or stand-alone DVD burner to create copies of video footage on DVD. Besides creating a long-lasting copy on DVD, the advantage of burning video to disc is to free up space on the Handycam by deleting old footage. The Handycam connects to a computer or stand-alone DVD burner with a USB cable. The computer must be equipped with a DVD burner to copy Handycam footage onto disc.
Instructions
1. Connect the Handycam to the computer or stand-alone DVD burner with the USB cable, inserting the plug on one end into the port on the back edge of the camcorder and the other end into a USB port on the PC or stand-alone burner.
2. Insert a blank DVD in the computer's media tray or the stand-alone burner and close the tray.
3. Press the "Menu" button on the Handycam to review the available video files. Highlight and click the desired files for burning to DVD, using the up and down arrow keys on the camcorder.
4. Press the "Record" button on the stand-alone DVD player to transfer the selected video files from the Handycam to the DVD.
5. Open the Handycam software on a computer connected to the camcorder by clicking the program name or the Handycam icon on the desktop, if burning a DVD to the PC's DVD drive.
6. Click the "Transfer Video" tab to open a folder of available video files on the Handycam. Click the left mouse button to select the desired videos for burning to disc, then click "Transfer". Copies of the videos will be stored automatically on the computer.
7. Open the software that manages the computer's DVD burner, such as Windows DVD Maker or iMovie on an Apple, by double-clicking the program name.
8. Click "Add Items" in Windows DVD Maker or "Import" in iMovie to open a folder on the computer containing available video files. Click once on each video file for the DVD and select "Add" in Windows DVD Maker or "Import" in iMovie.
9. Click "Next", then select menu styles and other features from the options on the software.
10. Click the "Burn" button to record the videos to the DVD.
Tags: stand-alone burner, video files, available video, available video files, computer stand-alone, computer stand-alone burner, Windows Maker
Protozoa constitute a group of microorganisms, also known as protists, some of which are responsible for serious diseases in humans, such as malaria and Chagas' disease. Chemical compounds and natural extracts can exhibit antiprotozoal activity, thus offering valuable resources in medical research. Protocols for antiprotozoal activity include tests with plant extracts, phenethyl-4-aminopiperidine, and cationic 2-phenylbenzofurans.
Plant Extracts
According to an article published in the "International Journal of Phytotherapy and Phytopharmacology," some plant extracts called alkaloids exhibit antiprotozoal activity. These plants include the genera Annona and Xylopia, native to Brazil. This protocol involves the drying of leaves and posterior alkaloid extraction in alcoholic solution, the protist culture in fetal bovine serum and 5 percent human urine medium, and mice cells culturing in a fetal bovine serum medium. The extracts are then tested in protists and also in the mice cells, to check whether the compounds are toxic to mammals.
Phenethyl-4-Aminopiperidine
Phenethyl-4-aminopiperidine is a chemical compound used to test antiprotozoal activity against many protists, including Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense, which causes trypanosomiasis and is transmitted to humans and other animals through the bite of the African tsetse fly. Before testing the effects of phenethyl-4-aminopiperidine in the protist, technicians cultivate them in vitro in a medium of glucose, horse blood serum, amino acids, and the chemicals 2-mercaptoethanol and sodium pyruvate, the American Society for Microbiology says.
Cationic 2-Phenylbenzofurans
Cationic 2-henylbenzofurans are chemical compounds with antiprotozoal properties against the microorganisms that cause malaria, trypanosomiasis, and leishmaniasis. According to the "Journal of Medicinal Chemistry," the protocol to evaluate antiprotozoal properties of phenylbenzofurans involves in vitro testing of the microorganism's resistance to such compounds. This protocol also consists of posterior comparison with well-established drugs, such as pentamidine and melarsoprol, used to treat these diseases.
A light box is a photography studio in miniature. It's an enclosure designed to give the photographer total control over the light and shadows cast on a small object. It's especially useful for preventing reflections from appearing on shiny surfaces of things like musical instruments. Professional light boxes can cost $75 to $150 or more, but the photographer on a tight budget can get similar results for a fraction of the cost.
Instructions
Construction
1. Choose a cardboard box big enough to hold and display your subjects. The open top of the box will become the window for the camera to peer into, while the remaining sides will become lighting windows.
2. Cut windows into the box. Turn each remaining side of the box into an open window by cutting out the side. You'll want as much open space as you can manage; leave about an inch of cardboard available as a support frame.
3. Add the paper. Sheets of white tissue paper from a nearby gift store are perfect for this step. Cut them to the same size as the sides of the box, and tape them down over the open windows. The paper will soften the light cast across the subject, so there won't be crisp black shadows cast. As an added bonus, they will isolate the subject from the rest of the room, so there won't be any distracting reflections.
4. Add the backdrop. The last piece of the construction is one sheet of poster board. This is used as a backdrop, to hide the cardboard and tape of the inside of the box from the camera. Place it inside the box, beneath and behind the subject, curving up to the top of the box.
5. Prepare the light box for use. Set the box on one side so the flaps are vertical. Place the subject inside, and set up the lights outside. Place the camera on a tripod just outside the box, and pull the flaps close around the lens.
The Palm Centro smartphone contains a host of features, such as MP3 player, video camera, personal organizer, Internet access and texting. Just trying to figure out how all of these things work can be difficult and time consuming. However, actually activating the phone isn't. In fact, Sprint makes it so easy that even the least tech-savvy out there can accomplish it. It can even be done in from the privacy of your own home, without so much as setting foot in the store, and in a matter of minutes.
Instructions
1. Power on your Palm Centro and an "Activation" menu will appear asking you to input your phone's ESN/MEID code. This is found either on the barcode on the box your Centro came in, or in the "Activation Error" screen which appears if you enter the wrong code. Find the code and enter it into the phone.
2. Select the language you wish to use on your Palm Centro and click "Confirm." The phone will then set the language.
3. Accept the terms and conditions by highlighting and clicking "Accept" on the menu.
4. Follow the prompts to create a profile. Enter your name in the box that appears and choose a password. Enter your email address in the next box and click "Next." The Centro will now create your profile.
5. Complete the short video tutorial and your Centro will be activated. If you have bought your Palm Centro secondhand, you can activate it by logging onto the Internet and going to http://www.sprint.com/activate/. Enter the phone's telephone number in the box and follow the prompts to activate your Palm Centro.
Tags: Palm Centro, your Palm, your Palm Centro, Centro will, Enter your, your Centro
Great pictures can be ruined when your subjects' eyes glow red. The common problem of red eye in photos can be frustrating, but luckily red eye is easy to reduce. Caused by the angle of light reflecting off blood vessels in the eye, red eye can be greatly reduced without any fancy photography equipment.
Instructions
1. Increase light in the room. Open windows, turn on lamps and make your interior spaces as bright as possible. Take pictures in the brighter rooms of the house. The brighter the area where you are taking pictures, the less likely you are to get red eye in your photos.
2. Walk closer to your subject. Don’t rely on the zoom feature of your camera so much. As you zoom the lens, the angle between your flash and the lens gets closer, making it more likely for your subject to get red eye. If you want a close-up photo, physically move yourself closer to the subject.
3. Turn off your flash. Red eye can’t happen without the use of your flash. When shooting indoors, in a bright environment, you usually don’t need a flash anyway. Some camera flash modes will tell your camera to set the flash off every time. Turn off this feature and try natural light photos in brightly lit indoor locations.
4. Go outside to take pictures. Use natural light to illuminate your photos. Sunlight and daylight will not cause red eye in photos. Take pictures in the shade so your subject isn’t squinting into the sun.
5. Turn your subjects to the side a little bit. Eyes at an angle are less likely to reflect a flash. Subjects looking straight on into the camera are more likely to get red eye. Take pictures while people are busy and not looking directly into the camera. The informal posture will help reduce red eye.
Tags: Take pictures, your flash, your subject, camera flash, into camera, less likely
Professional jewelry photographers will typically use an object called a "soft box" to photograph their subjects. A soft box is a large, semi-transparent container designed to diffuse light. Because the subjects inside the soft box do not receive direct light, the photographer avoids highlights, reflections and shadows common when using a flash. A photographer can use either natural or artificial light to light his soft box. Amateur photographers who do not wish to invest in an expensive soft box can make their own that works just as well and produces beautifully lit jewelry photos.
Instructions
1. Select or purchase a large, semi-translucent Rubbermaid bin. The file boxes work well, but any container large enough to fit your jewelry will also suffice.
2. Place the container in an area that receives a lot of light. Outside is best, but bins can also be placed near a bright window. If natural light is not available, artificial lighting including flashes, work lamps or standard household lamps may be used as well, as long as the camera is properly white-balanced for the temperature of the light. Most cameras will do this automatically.
3. Disable your on-camera flash. All of the light will be coming from around the container to illuminate your jewelry. Using an on-camera flash will remove the soft box effect and create harsh highlights and shadows on your jewelry.
4. Lay the bin onto its side horizontally with the open end facing toward your camera. You will be shooting into the open end of the bin, and will want any light coming from above and any side to be diffused.
5. Mount your jewelry near the center of the bin. Earrings can be hung on decorative cards or stuck in foam, while necklaces and bracelets can be draped or laid out. Try to choose simple mounting that does not distract from the jewelry and features complementary colors to blend well.
6. Select a backdrop and affix it to the bottom of the bin behind your subject. A bit of tape with solid tissue paper works best, as it will allow the light to come through, but any backdrop can be appropriate.
7. Compose your shot, remembering to use a narrow Depth of Field so that the details of your backdrop and any plastic container that may be visible blurs into the bokeh (the soft, out-of-focus area of a photo).
One of the biggest advantages of digital photography is that memory cards can be used over and over again. The disadvantage is the cards can get "gunked up" with bytes of data that can cause problems when shooting photos. There are several ways to avoid this problem.
Instructions
1. Copy all the images from the memory card both to a computer hard drive and to optical media such as a CD, DVD or Blu-Ray disc. Check both copies to make sure they open without glitches.
2. Move all the data on the memory card to the Trash while the card is in the card reader attached to the computer. Then empty the Trash. This is the easiest, fastest way to erase a memory card, but sometimes it doesn't clear all the memory. This method can be used three out of four times. If this method works for you, only do it three out of every four times. One out of every four erasures should be done as explained in Step 3 to prevent a build-up of erroneous data.
3. Put the memory card in the camera. Go to the camera's menu and find the Erase, Format or Initialize feature. Since the card is formated for your camera, this is the better way to erase it. The camera will remove everything from the card and reformat it. This usually takes longer than deleting files using the computer, but it clears the card completely.
4. Do a couple of test shots. View them on the camera's screen or the computer to make sure they are not corrupted. If they are, erase or initialize the card again to clear it.
Tags: memory card, data memory, data memory card, every four, four times
Alarm clocks have awakened us ever since they were first patented in 1847. Today, modern alarm clocks have digital components that replace mainsprings with batteries and swap clockwork for circuit boards. Though designs for digital alarm clocks vary, several common features can be found on nearly all of the models now sold.
Display
Digital clocks usually have a common LED or LCD screen. The display will show the time and indicate whether it is a.m. or p.m. Other indicators will show when the alarm is activated and whether it is set to buzz, beep or use an alternative audio source such as a radio. Some will also display the date.
Buttons and Switches
Though the specific button configuration will vary from one model to the next, most alarm clocks provide some of the following.
The snooze button is a larger button, often centrally located. Pressing this button when the alarm is sounding will silence it, but only for a brief period.
Clock-setting controls will usually have two or more buttons, allowing the user to change the time or the alarm by cycling through hours and minutes. These buttons frequently use up and down arrows to tell which direction the time will cycle when pressed.
Clocks with a built-in radio will also include digital or analog controls that allow the user to change the station, change the volume and switch between AM and FM bands. These clock/radio models will also offer a switch or button that allows the user to toggle between the standard alarm or radio broadcast when the alarm is activated.
Power Source
Like all electric devices, digital alarm clocks require electricity to operate. Several models plug into a standard wall socket while others run on battery power.
Many alarm clocks use both, relying on the outlet power for normal use but turning to the battery as a backup power supply when there is a blackout or when the unit is unplugged. Units without such a backup are prone to resetting completely when power is disrupted. As a result, a late-night power outage can prevent the alarm from working the next morning.
Internal Circuitry
Unlike mechanical alarm clocks, which relied on a carefully designed gear system to tell time and sound an alarm, digital clocks have few moving parts internally. Instead, the clock and alarm will both be contained on a single circuit board. This circuit board will include a timekeeping element, such as a basic quartz clock mechanism.
AM/FM Radio
As noted, many alarm clocks are dual-function clock radios. These radios are usually built to offer an alternative to the default buzz or beep that the alarm clock would normally use. They are also able to function independently, allowing the user to listen to the radio without disrupting the function of the clock.
Speaker
Finally, all digital alarm clocks include one speaker or more, both for sounding the morning alarm and playing music from the radio. Higher-end units will offer stereo or multichannel sound, but most alarm clocks will have only one speaker, with mono sound capability.
Tags: alarm clocks, alarm clocks, clocks have, digital alarm, digital alarm clocks, when alarm, will also
Each digital camera requires you to use a specific type of memory card.
Due to the growing popularity of portable devices, memory cards have become ubiquitous in consumers' daily lives. From smartphones to digital cameras and even portable video game consoles, many different devices now require you to purchase flash memory cards in one of 25 various and incompatible formats. Thus, it not surprising that manufacturers have designed adapters to help you transfer the contents of those cards between devices or onto a computer.
Memory Cards
Flash memory cards contain a chip that stores data on digital cameras, as well as smartphones, gaming consoles and MP3 players. Memory cards also can handle data transfer between computers, although USB flash drives more frequently perform that job. If you need a device to read the contents of a card format it doesn't support, such as when transferring pictures from a new camera to an older computer, a memory card adapter facilitates that process.
Card-to-Card
Priced at less than $5 at electronics or camera retailers, card-to-card adapters make it possible to plug a memory card into a slot originally designed for another, larger type of card. For example, the MicroSD and MicroSDHC to SD adapter from Sandisk lets you insert MicroSD or MicroSDHC cards into Secure Digital slots.
The NEON MicroSD to Memory Stick PRO Duo Dual slot adapter enables MicroSD cards in devices that normally require Memory Stick Pro Duo cards. Another adapter, Semco's ESDCFII: Extreme MMC, SDHC, SD to CF Type II, lets you insert Extreme MultiMediaCards, in addition to SDHC and SD cards, into CompactFlash II slots.
External USB
External USB adapters are small devices that plug into a USB port on your laptop or desktop computer. Most have more than one type of memory card slot so you can, for example, connect your camera's CompactFlash cards and the Memory Sticks from your PlayStation Portable console.
After you plug an external adapter into a USB port, any card inserted into it will appear as an extra drive in Windows Explorer, the native application that manages your computer's drives and files. A new window, known as AutoPlay, will automatically open and let you to perform certain tasks automatically, such as play songs or view pictures stored on the card.
Typical models of external USB adapters, which generally retail for under $10, include the Kingston 19-in-1 USB 2.0 Flash Memory Card Reader FCR-HS219/1; the IOGEAR 12-in-1 USB 2.0 Pocket Flash Memory Card Reader/Writer GFR209; and the Transcend P5 9-in-1 USB 2.0 Flash Memory Card Reader TS-RDP5K. These models, respectively, enable your computer to read 19, 12 or nine different memory card formats.
Internal Desktop Computer
Overshadowed by the popularity of external USB adapters, internal adapters go inside a standard desktop computer, and range from a Peripheral Component Interconnect plugged directly in a motherboard slot to Integrated Drive Electronics readers attached to your motherboard by a flat, ribbon-like IDE cable that's traditionally used by older hard drives and CD or DVD drives.
In addition to requiring some basic technical know-how for installation, internal adapters typically let you insert memory cards into slots below or above your CD or DVD drive, which may be less accessible than an external adapter sitting on your desk.
Internal adapters usually cost less than $20 and include the Sony MRW620/U1/181 Internal 17-in-1 Memory Card Reader/Writer; the Sabrent 64-in-1 Multi Flash Media Card Reader (CRW-UINB); and the Rosewill RCR-AK-IM5002 USB2.0 75-in-1 Internal Card Reader.
PCMCIA
The Personal Computer Memory Card International Association Card format, now shortened to PC Card, is a type of slot often seen on laptops produced before 2008. With the advent of fast USB2 and USB3 connections, however, laptop manufacturers stopped integrating PCMCIA slots into new models.
A PC Card adapter looks like an oversized credit card and allows you to insert a memory card directly into a PCMCIA slot. This can be particularly convenient if your laptop doesn't have USB 2.0 connectors -- the PCMCIA technology that supports faster transfer rates.
Most PC Card adapters cost between $20 and $50, depending on the manufacturer and the type of cards they support. Common models include the SanDisk 6-in-1 PC Card Adapter; the Sony PCMCIA Memory Stick(R) Reader, which only reads Memory Sticks; and the Sandisk SDAD109A11 Digital Media Memory Card to Express Slot Adapter, which supports seven common memory card formats.
Although MP3 players are becoming more and more popular, CDs are still the standard form of recording and distributing hard copies of music. In order for the CD to play at its optimum level, the CD player must be able to reproduce the sound at a high quality. Just like any other product, there are both good and bad models on the market. By learning rate CD players, you can effectively inform the public regarding what to buy.
Instructions
1. Position the CD player in an open room. Clear any objects or materials away from the CD player's speakers. Sit comfortably in a chair if you plan on listening using head phones.
2. Insert a CD that has a wide range of sounds. Record a mix CD that includes bassy hip-hop, high-end pop and midrange rock. This will test the range of the CD player's speakers.
3. Measure the amount of power. Turn the volume knob upward until you hear distortion. This is the peak output level of the stereo. A decent stereo will not distort as easily. Immediately reduce the volume if you begin to feel pain in your ears.
4. Evaluate the equalizer. Stereos with more settings and features give the user a much wider range of sound. Press the bass-boost option, and experiment with the different presets to test out its capabilities.
5. Note how often the CD skips. Most portable CD players will have an anti-skip switch around the edge. Jog or do something active to test this feature. If you have a bigger stereo, the CD should rarely skip at all.
PocketPC's like the HP iPAQ can use Bluetooth technology to sync up with hands-free headsets, cameras, and even computers. By using Bluetooth technology, a person with an iPAQ can do many things without ever having to take it out of their pocket. Follow these steps to connect a Bluetooth device to an HP iPAQ.
Instructions
1. Tap the Bluetooth icon on your iPAQ. This is located in the lower right-hand corner of your PocketPC.
2. Tap the "New" icon then tap "Connect." This will tell your iPAQ you want to connect a new device to it wirelessly.
3. Tap "ActiveSync" via Bluetooth. This will let your iPAQ know you want it to connect to a Bluetooth device using the Microsoft ActiveSync program.
4. Hit "Device" after reading and clicking through the Bluetooth information. Clicking "Device" will generate a list of all of the Bluetooth devices in your proximity.
5. Choose the icon that represents the device you want to connect to. Clicking the icon will let your iPAQ know you want to connect to that particular device.
6. Click "Finish" to end the process.
Tags: want connect, your iPAQ, Bluetooth device, Bluetooth technology, connect Bluetooth, connect Bluetooth device
In electrical wiring and electronic circuits, a ground is zero-voltage connection that is used as a fail-safe to prevent electrical surges that can damage components or even start fires in the case of large appliances. Impedance is the ground's resistance, or its ability to block or stop a power surge. Portable devices known as ground testers are used to test the impedance of electrical grounds. Testing the impedance of a ground can be done in approximately five minutes with one of these ground impedance testers.
Instructions
1. Press the power button on the front panel of the tester to the "on" position. Wait until the "ready" light comes on to proceed with testing.
2. Choose whether you want to run a 25-amp or 30-amp test by hitting the corresponding test selection button.
3. Insert the plug of the item you will be testing into the plug slot on the right-hand side of the tester's front panel.
4. Attach the tester's return lead to the body of the item you will be testing the ground on.
5. Press the tester's "start test" button and then view the results on the display screen. The "pass test" light will light up if the object's ground impedance is adequate or not surpassing 0.1 Ohms.
Tags: front panel, ground impedance, item will, item will testing, will testing
Put a Video on the Computer From a Panasonic Camcorder?
Panasonic is one of the largest producers in home based video cameras in the world. Many of the large movie production studios also use Panasonic equipment. However, if you have recorded your own content onto a Panasonic camcorder, you probably want a way to import the video content onto a computer so you can edit and create your own finished product.
Instructions
1. Insert the video tape into the Panasonic camcorder. Most Panasonic video cameras use a MiniDV video; however, others user larger DV tapes, while others record onto DVDs, memory cards or internal hard drives. Whatever the media used to record the video make sure it is inserted into the camera.
2. Connect the Panasonic camcorder to the computer. If the camera and computer have a Firewire cable port, use this because it provides better quality uploads and streams the video faster than other cables. However, USB cabels can also be used to send the video content to the computer.
3. Launch your video editing software on the computer. There are a wide range of video editing programs you can use on your computer, some of which actually come free on the operating system when you first purchase it. Windows computers, for example, come with Windows Movie Maker installed.
4. Power on the Panasonic camcorder and set it to "VCR." This turns the camera into playback mode.
5. Select the "Capture" option in the video editor. You are going to be given a selection of different video devices you can record and import video from. Select the Panasonic camcorder you have connected to the computer. Click the "Record" button and the video is going to begin the capture process. Click "Stop" once all of the video content from the Panasonic camera has finished its capture.
Tags: Panasonic camcorder, video content, Computer From, Computer From Panasonic, content onto
Radiant heat from the sun is like water. It seeps into the home where there is ready access. If you have some missing or damaged roofing tiles, water will eventually enter the breach. If your house has windows, the sun will shine in. Since no one wants to live in a home without windows, you need to mitigate the entry of unwanted heat creatively without sealing yourself up in a box. The techniques available are elements of passive solar design.
Instructions
1. Map the sun's path across the southern sky (or northern sky if you are in the southern hemisphere) and identify the windows that receive the most direct sunlight. Windows on the east let in the mellow morning sun, which can be desirable if your area gets chilly at night. The southern and western windows allow the bulk of the sun's heat into the home.
2. Replace the windows in the trouble areas with new windows rated by the National Fenestration Rating Council or the Department of Energy's Energy Star program. There is a standard set of specifications for windows, including Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC), which measures a window's ability to block heat, and U-factor, which measures the window's ability to retain heat. An SHGC of .4 or less is recommended for reducing heat from southern and western windows while an effective U-factor is around .35 or under.
3. Install outdoor roller shades if window replacement not an option. These block up to 100 percent of the sun's heat, but they block all of the light as well. Outdoor roller shades are good for little-used rooms or high windows under vaulted ceilings.
4. Attach solar screens to the outside of the windows. These are also SHGC rated, but they let in light and preserve a view of the outside, unlike the roller shades.
5. Install a solar mesh shade on the inside of the window. These shades block up to 85 percent of ultraviolet radiation, but you can see through them and visible light shines through. They can be cut to order or bought off the shelf for standard window sizes.
Tags: roller shades, Block Heat From, block percent, From Windows, Heat From, heat from, Heat From Windows
Satellite radio can broadcast over an enormous range. Many people enjoy the service for its very specific music genre channels, talk radio channels featuring politics and sports, and few or no commercial interruptions. Satellite radio does come with a few disadvantages, however.
Subscription Fee
Satellite radio requires a monthly subscription fee, which as of 2009 runs between about $7 to $13 depending on length of contract and other options. There also is a one-time activation fee.
Receiver Purchase
The subscriber also must purchase a receiver to pick up the satellite signals. If the subscriber eventually decides to switch to a different company, that requires buying another receiver.
Signal Interruptions
Satellite signals can be blocked by buildings and other obstructions. Weather conditions also can interrupt the signal.
Signal Limitations
As of 2009, service is is limited or unavailable in certain parts of Alaska, Hawaii and United States territories.
Non-Local
Satellite radio does not provide local stations, so people cannot receive local news or weather information through the service.
Mature Content
Mature content is available through satellite radio. This can be a problem, for instance, if you're listening to Howard Stern's talk show when your kids walk into the room.
Tags: Satellite radio, radio does, Satellite radio does
Most computers now come with a pre-installed video editor, such as Windows Movie maker and iMovie. With the video editing software you can piece together your very own movie and add a music sound track. You can use any video content you want, from videos you have already imported onto the editor to movies you have downloaded from the Internet.
Instructions
1. Launch your video editor. If using Windows, click the "Start" button followed by "All Programs," then select your video editing software. If using a Mac, click the "iMovie" star icon found on your dock.
2. Click the "File" tab followed by "Import." Select the video clip you want to add to the video editing software. It will appear in a small library at the side of your program.
3. Select "File," "Import" again if using Windows and select the audio file you want to import. If the music is on a CD, insert the CD, select the CD icon and choose the track you want to use with the video clip. If using a Mac, click the sound note icon on the right of the screen then select the audio track you want to import.
4. Click-and-drag the video file to the timeline in the video editor. The movie starts at the beginning of the timeline.
5. Click-and-drag the audio track down to the timeline. It appears on the audio track portion of the timeline. Press the "Play" button to listen to your music in relation to the video clip. If you want to change the location of the audio file, click-and-drag it on the timeline to adjust its location.
6. Select the "Export" option in your video editor. When the export window appears, title the video, select a location to save the file to, then click "OK." The audio and video clip are now merged into one and exported to your computer.
Tags: video editor, your video, audio track, editing software, video clip