Convert Itunes Music Into Unprotected Mp3s

Having any one of the number of iPod players on the market is wonderful, except that the files must be downloaded into the iTunes program and aren't compatible with anything else, not even another MP3 player or playable on a computer. Designed to discourage piracy, protection of iTunes has made the portability from one venue to another a hassle.

Instructions

1. Try burning the iTunes music onto a CD and iTunes videos onto a DVD using a computer. Apple allows this process without worrying about copyright or interference from DRM files, the digital rights management files that protect iTunes in their ACC or MP4 formats.

2. Rip the files from the freshly burned CD or DVD back onto the computer and choose the file type preferred. This is a good option to convert only a handful of files. It's labor intensive and cost prohibitive for those who want to convert an entire library of thousands of files, which works better with software.

3. Determine what level of computer knowledge you have and if you want to pay for the software needed. Several software options remove DRM files, others convert to MP3 formats, while others can convert to a wider range of formats. Some are free, but require more knowledge to install and operate.

4. Know the operating system that you have, and find a software system that's compatible. Programs like Audacity work with almost any type of operating system, but Audio Hijack works on Mac OS X only.

5. Decide if the conversion process is enough for what you need or if the actual DRM file needs to be removed. Programs like Easy WMA and Koyote convert the files to MP3 and other formats, but don't remove the file.

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Touch Screen History

A touch screen is a unique type of visual display device that allows the user to physically interface with the computer or other electronic device by touching the screen. Whether you are using a local ATM or making a phone call on one of the newer cell devices, in one form or another, we are all exposed to touch screen technology.

Apple iPhone.

History

In 1971, Sam Hurst, an instructor at the University of Kentucky, invented the first touch sensor called the "Elograph." This very early version of a physical interface more closely resembled the touch pads on some older laptops; it was dark and non-transparent like modern touch screens. Hurst patented his sensor in 1972 and used it as the focal point of a new business called Elographics. In 1977 Siemens Corporation offered to financially support an effort by Elographics to produce the first curved glass touch sensor interface, later called a "touchscreen."

Resistive Technology

The most prevalent touch screen technology is the original resistive technology pioneered by Elographics. The term, "resistive" refers to the way the system registers the touch of the user. Basically, the resistive system is comprised of five components, including the CRT (cathode ray tube) or screen base, the glass panel, the resistive coating, a separator dot, a conductive cover sheet and a durable top coating. Because a resistive touch screen responds to the pressure of the touch, a variety of input devices can be used (i.e. finger tips, finger nails, glove covered fingers, or a stylus). Of the several touch screen technologies in use today, resistive touch screens are the most used because of their durability, versatility, ease of integration and low relative cost.

Other Touch Screen Types

Other touch screen technologies have been developed over the years. The major difference between each new technology has been the way a user's touch is detected. Infrared scanning systems register a touch when a field of infrared beams is interrupted. A surface-acoustic wave touch identifies a touch by the reduction of the acoustic signal at the point of contact on the screen. Capacitive touch screens use the body of the user as a ground for a small electric current promulgated over the screen.

Applications

Some of the more noticeable applications for touch screen technology include the iPhone, from Apple, most electronic kiosks use touch screen interfaces, and self service isles of many grocery stores. Newer applications include monitors and keypads for personal computers, flat panel televisions, and interactive display screens for use in the medical and health care environment. New marketable applications are being produced at an incredible rate.

Potential

Using existing touch screen technology, there is an incredible potential to reduce size, weight and portability limitations on interactive hardware like computers and televisions. Paired with other technologies like robotics, scientists are able to perform complex, physical interactions in harsh or remote locations. With the inevitable technological advances in touch screen technology, this technology could continue to have an increasing impact on our daily lives.

Tags: touch screen, screen technology, touch screen technology, touch screen, touch screens, resistive touch

Download Ringtones To A Lg Env

The LG enV is a popular model phone available to subscribers of the Verizon Wireless network. Verizon offers customers plenty of ringtone options when using their LG enV. You can use several methods in order to download the ringtones onto your Verizon cell phone and then set them as your default call or messaging tone. Verizon will charge a fee for each ringtone that you download on their network.

Instructions

1. Open the flip of your LG enV. Press the "OK" green choice in order to arrive at Verizon's Get It Now menu on your phone. Choose "Music & Tones" from the list of options found on this menu.

2. Select "Get New Ringtones" from the next menu option you are presented with. You will then have to decide on a ringtone application to download onto your phone in order to browse the different sounds available. VZW Deluxe Tones has a large library of tones.

3. Browse the ringtones until you find one that you want for your phone. Highlight the title of the song and you will be presented with a preview or purchase option. Choose to buy the ringtone and it will automatically start to download. After the download is complete you can set the tone as your default ringer.

4. Go to the Verizon Media Store website on your PC to download ringtones for your LG enV. Search the library and buy the ringtone online. You will need to provide the site with your Verizon account information. You can use the USB cable included with your cell phone to sync the ringtone from your PC onto your phone.

5. Change your selected downloaded ringtone on your LG enV. Under the "Settings & Tools" menu of your LG enV you will find both the "Call Sounds" and "Alert Sounds" options. Select either option to set your downloaded ringtone.

Tags: your phone, onto your, cell phone, download ringtones, downloaded ringtone

Fix A Kodak Easyshare C613 Camera

If you have been taking pictures for a while with your Kodak EasyShare C613 camera, chances are you may have run into some minor technical difficulties. These problems may include power failures, lens problems and memory card issues. Some basic repair steps can be taken to rectify some of these problems. Use these simple troubleshooting tips to solve common problems you may encounter, and get back to shooting great pictures in no time.

Instructions

1. If your camera does not turn on, remove the batteries for a few seconds, then put them back in. Turn on the camera. If the green ready light comes on, then continue using it. If it doesn't, install a new set of batteries and power it on again. If your camera turns on, use it normally. Ff it still does not turn on, then it may need servicing. If your camera was dropped or accidentally immersed in liquid, it is beyond your repair and will need servicing. If you have been using your camera in very hot temperatures, it powers off from overheating. If this happens, leave your camera off for 10 minutes, then power it bak on on. If it still does not power up, place the camera in a cooler temperature and leave it for 10 minutes, then power back on.

2. If you see a starting error code, turn off your camera, then remove the batteries and the memory card. Wipe the battery contacts with a soft lint free cloth. Reinstall the batteries, and turn on the camera. If there isn't an error code, continue with normal use. Re-insert your memory. If you see the same error code again, then it may be corrupt or damaged. Try using another memory card, and make sure it is a SD/MMC. If the camera is freezing when you insert the memory card, turn off the camera, then remove the memory card completely. Wait a few seconds, then reinsert the memory card.

3. If your pictures are appearing blurry, clean your lens. Slide open the lens hood, then apply some cleaning solution onto a clean, soft lint-free cloth. Clean the lens in circular motions until it dries. Do not apply solution directly to the lens. If your images are still blurry, try moving 2.6 feet from your subject when using macro mode so as to blur the background while maintaining focus on your subject. If your subject is way too far for the flash to detect, the pictures can be blurry. Stay within 7.9 feet when you are taking pictures in regular mode.

4. If you are experiencing short battery life, remove the batteries and clean the metal contacts in the battery compartment with a soft, lint-free cloth. Limit power draining mode, such as previewing pictures and videos, as well as using the flash. If you have a connecting dock that supports a battery recharge, make sure that feature is on. Use your manual for information on set the camera to "Auto Off" mode. In this mode, depending on what the time limit is, the camera will power off automatically when not in use to preserve battery power.

Tags: memory card, your camera, error code, remove batteries, your subject

Fix A Jammed Nikon Lens

Fix a Jammed Nikon Lens

If the lens on your Nikon digital camera isn't opening when you power up your camera or refuses to retract when you turn the camera off, the lens mechanism in your camera may be jammed or broken in some way. You may also get a "Lens Error" message on the camera's LCD screen accompanied by various lens problems. Often this situation requires you to send your camera in for repair, but there are a couple things you should try first.

Instructions

1. Turn your camera off and remove the battery. One reason for your camera lens not extending or retracting may be an exhausted battery. Fully charge your camera battery and put it back into your camera. Push the power button, and see if the lens extends. If the lens problem persists, turn your camera off and remove the battery again. Leave the battery out of the camera overnight.

After making sure that the battery is fully charged, insert it back into the camera. If the lens still will not extend, and the "Lens Error" message persists, you may want to buy a new battery and use that in your camera. If none of these methods fix the lens error, it may not be a problem with the battery.

2. Inspect the lens and the front of your camera for any sand or grit that may be obstructing the lens. If you see any, turn your camera on, and, using a dry, non-abrasive cloth, gently wipe the sides of the lens barrel. When you have cleaned off the lens barrel, blow gently on the front of your camera to expel any dust or grit that may have been dislodged by the cloth but wasn't wiped away. It may be best to do this even if you do not happen to see any sand or other obstructing materials, as often the grit is minuscule. Turn your camera off and restart it. If the error message persists, you may repeat this step again if you wish.

3. Send your camera in to the company or take it to some other reliable camera repair shop if the lens still refuses to extend or retract. This is probably the most reliable way to fix any lens problem that you may encounter, as the people working on your camera should be experts at the job.

Tags: your camera, camera lens, back into, camera remove, camera remove battery

Things I Need To Get With A Gps Navigation Device

Get the most out of your GPS with additional accessories.

Global positioning satellite (GPS) units offer peace of mind, enabling users to locate restaurants, gas stations and even keep track of children. In recent years, GPS units have become more affordable and are now carried by many retailers. If you're in the market for a GPS unit, some additional purchases to consider might be a home or vehicle charger, a protective carrying case or a GPS mount.

Charger

While most GPS units come with at least one charger, you might consider purchasing an additional one. This will come in handy if your charger is lost or damaged, or if you're purchasing a used GPS with only one type of charger. You can purchase a wall charger for indoor use, or a car charger. Some retailers carry package deals that include both. If you have several devices, pick up a universal charger that will work with multiple brands.

Case

A carrying case is an important accessory to consider, since it will house the unit when not in use. While most GPS units will come with some type of case, chances are it will not offer the type of protection you'll need. Often, manufacturers provide drawstring bags for safe-keeping. This option might be sufficient if you're planning to keep the unit in the center console or glove compartment of your vehicle. A leather case is a better option if you'll be transporting the unit in a bag from your home to your work, or while vacationing. If your GPS unit is used for hiking, camping or other rugged conditions, opt for a harder, more protective plastic case.

Mount

A GPS mount adds convenience and safety. Mounts typically include attachments that work for dashboard or windshield-mounting, which ensures visibility at eye-level. If properly mounted, the unit will remain safely in place regardless of bumpy roads and sharp turns. If your mode of transportation includes a motorcycle or bicycle, you'll want to purchase a handlebar mount. Most can be used with any cylinder-shaped frames, such as the types used on snowmobiles, golf carts and 4-wheelers.

Tags: carrying case, come with, most units, used with, While most, While most units, will come

Fix A Dv Tape

Repair your DV tape.

DV (digital video) tapes are small, lightweight tapes used in DV cameras and decks. These tapes generally hold about an hours worth of footage and were first introduced to the consumer market in the mid 1990s. Because of their small size, they can sometimes be damaged in a camcorder or when handling. Fixing a DV tape isn't different than fixing any other type of video tape, but, because of their small size, can be challenging.

Instructions

1. Find a flat working area with good light, such as a desk or table. Spread out the lint-free cloth on the table.

2. Place the tape on the table, upside down. Remove the screws holding the tape case together on the bottom. Gently pry the case halves apart with the edge of a flat bladed screwdriver.

3. Put on the rubber gloves. The oil on fingers can damage the tape oxide.

4. Identify the damaged portion of the tape. Cut out any mangled or damaged pieces with the razor blade. Splice the tape back together using tape splicing tape. Apply the repair tape to the unshiny side of the DV tape.

5. Use the end of the pencil to rewind the tape so that all the slack is taken up.

6. Replace the tape cover. Secure with the screws.

Tags: small size, their small, their small size

Fix A Cracked Lcd Screen On A Camera

It is possible to replace a cracked LCD screen.

The LCD screen of a camera flips out so the user can view what she is filming. LCD stands for liquid crystal display. These liquid crystals produce the digital image that is shown on the flip-out screen. If the LCD screen turns white, or if the image is flipped upside down, it needs repairs of some kind. Dropping the camera or getting the camera wet can account for these issues.

Instructions

1. Purchase a new LCD screen. Unhook the battery from the camcorder. Pull out the damaged LCD screen to expose the screws which hold it together.

2. Remove the screws from the LCD screen with the screwdriver. Flip the screen over to expose the opposing screws and remove them as well. Unscrew the screws surrounding the camera face itself.

3. Remove the back cover of the LCD screen with care so as not to rip out the connecting cords. Unhook all of the cords connecting the LCD screen to the camcorder, as well as the data label. The yellowish transparent data label sends information to the LCD screen itself.

4. Remove the bright blue circuit board from the camcorder to expose the panel of the LCD screen. Detach the damaged LCD screen and put it aside.

5. Place the new LCD screen where the old one was removed. Put the circuit board over the fresh screen. Attach the connecting cords as well as the data label. Position the back cover back on the LCD monitor. Screw the removed screws back in their original position. Turn on the camera to ensure the LCD was connected successfully.

Tags: data label, back cover, circuit board, connecting cords, damaged screen, from camcorder, itself Remove

Pandigital Computer Connection Problems

A computer connection is necessary for transferring content and installing firmware updates on a Pandigital Novel. These eReaders run on the Android operating system and connect using high-powered USB 2.0 ports. When connection becomes a problem, it can often be narrowed down to faulty USB connections, computers and media storage devices. Inspecting the components that aid in connection can restore Pandigital Novel USB connections for blazing data transfer speeds.

System Requirements

Pandigital Novel eReaders are compatible with Windows and Mac operating systems. However, if your computer doesn't meet the recommended system requirements, you are likely to run into connection problems. Pandigital Novels are compatible with Windows XP and newer operating systems (32 or 64-bit). In addition, a minimum processor speed of 1.0 GHz or higher, a minimum of 256 MB of RAM and up to 500 MB of available disk space are necessary to run Pandigital Novels properly. Before connecting your eReader, verify your computer meets the system requirements. If you are using Windows, clicking the "System Information" control on the Start menu will display your computer's information. If you're using a Mac, view system information by clicking the Apple logo and clicking "About this Mac."

USB Problems

Pandigital Novels connect using a USB cable attached to the USB port on the eReader and the computer. If the USB cable your using is faulty, your computer won't recognize the eReader as an external hard drive. USB hubs can also cause connection conflicts because they may be incompatible with Pandigital Novel, so connecting the eReader directly to the computer may solve the connection problem. In addition, other USB devices may cause connection conflicts, so disconnecting them and connecting the eReader to the computer alone may improve connections.

Media Cards

Pandigital Novels are compatible with SD/MMC Cards. Before connecting your eReader to the computer, verify that the card you're using isn't damaged or corrupt. In addition, check the lock feature on the side of the card and verify it's in the unlock position, or the card will be write-protected. If the SD/MMC card isn't properly formatted, you may run into problems. If you're using a Mac, formatting the card with FAT32 option allows the eReader to recognize it.

Tips

Installing the latest system updates on your computer can improve connection problems. In some cases, the connection problem may be with the reader, so pressing and holding the "Power" button for at least 10 seconds will reboot the device, which may solve connection problems. If you're still experiencing connection problems even after performing these troubleshooting steps, contact Pandigital support for additional troubleshooting.

Tags: your computer, Pandigital Novel, Pandigital Novels, compatible with, eReader computer

Plastic Lens Camera Alternatives

You might think using plastic lenses on cameras in these days of high technology is retro and might not produce the best images. You would be right, but both of these reasons is what makes plastic lens cameras an alternative to the ultra-sharp images you can get on a digital single-lens reflex camera.

Lensbaby

The glass for the lens elements in modern SLR camera lenses is some of the best, sharpest and clearest ever made. It records what you point your camera at in exquisite detail. Which is great, but not always what you want. For example, if you are taking a portrait of a pretty woman against a backdrop of flowers outside, if she isn't far away from the background, she and the flowers both will be in focus. This may detract from the portrait. Use a Lensbaby, instead, which is a plastic lens without a focusing ring that will fit on your SLR. Focus it by pulling it toward you with both hands. Pull it to one side to focus on the woman; the other side will remain out of focus and give the flowers a soft effect.

Holga

Use the entirely plastic Holga camera as another alternative. This camera was made for the booming market in China in the 1980s. It has a fixed-focus plastic lens, light leaks and other problems, and uses 120 film. It may be the worst camera available, and that's why it has such a following. Even the company claims no two Holga cameras are exactly alike. Because of the poor quality of the plastic lens, you can get extraordinary photos, images that you may not have conceived of. Light flares may occur and different portions of the image may fade to fuzzy. If you use color film, the lens may give you colors you don't expect.

Harinezumi

The third alternative is the Digital Harinezumi by Superheadz. It actually is a digital camera, but with all the low-end aspects of a Holga. While there is an LCD screen, use it to view photos shot. Frame photos with the plastic square on top. It basically is point-and-shoot. It has low saturation and a less-than-sharp image. Use it to shoot video clips that will end up looking a bit like old 8mm film.

Tags: plastic lens, that will

Expose A Black And White Negative

Film is sensitive to light. Its sensitivity forms the foundation of how photography works. A camera is a light tight box with a small opening, which allows a specific amount of light to enter for a specified amount of time. When a negative is exposed to light, silver halide crystals react to create an image. Too much light on a negative produces over exposure and the picture loses detail. Under exposing a negative produces a print with strong gray tones instead of sharp black and white tones.

Instructions

1. Learn the camera's settings. Repeatedly getting the right film exposure requires solid camera knowledge.

2. Place the light meter on your subject's skin tone, if you are photographing a portrait.

3. Take one meter reading on the most lit part of your frame and another one in the shadow. Average the two shutter speeds or apertures, and use that setting to take your photograph. This procedure will allow you to compensate for harsh lighting.

4. Use your camera's Portrait and Landscape settings. These settings will give more specific automatic exposure suggestions for your environment than the Automatic setting.

5. Select the right film speed. Choose a film with a high ISO for low light, and a low ISO for bright and sunny lighting.

6. Look in your camera's viewfinder, and lightly press the shutter. Look at the figures at the bottom or side of the viewfinder. Locate the poles or digits. This gives you a specific reading for exposing the film and will tell you adjust your camera settings for the right exposure.

7. Change your shutter speed or aperture until the marker in your viewfinder is centered. This creates a balanced light reading.

Tags: your camera, camera settings, negative produces, right film

The Best Budget Beginner Cameras

Many inexpensive cameras are designed for daily use.

Not too long ago you had to be a photography expert to use a camera effectively. Adjusting controls were difficult to master, and the lighting had to be just right. Furthermore, prices put cameras out of reach for many people. Many cameras in 2011, however, are designed with the layperson in mind -- and they are relatively inexpensive.

Significance

Before computers and digital cameras, learning use a camera took discipline. You had to adjust the focus, the iris opening and the flash. You also had to compensate for differing light levels. You would have to load the film in, and a lab would develop the film into photographs. You would usually have to invest time and money to learn the photographer's skill. When digital cameras were introduced, the film and manual adjustments were removed from the process. In 2011, digital cameras have internal microprocessors. In essence, the internal computer calculates out all the variables, and makes the adjustments. Being digital, you upload the images to your computer, and print the photographs in your desktop printer. This eliminates the lab process of developing film.

Price Range and Features

When digital cameras were first introduced to the marketplace, it was not uncommon for a camera to cost $1,500. Prices have dropped significantly -- in 2011 most beginner cameras retail for about $100 to $300. This is a wide leeway. As a rule of thumb, the lower priced cameras have less features than the higher priced cameras. For example, some of the more expensive cameras are shockproof and able to withstand being dropped. Others are waterproof, and are able to be used underwater. If the camera is used by children, spend a little more for a shockproof camera. If you you enjoy water activities, Olympus states the Stylus Tough 8000 can be used to a depth of 33 feet.

Resolution

Digital camera resolution has evolved significantly over the years. Camera resolution is stated in megapixels. The more the megapixels, the sharper the image. Early digital cameras usually had a two or three megapixel resolution. If you ever saw a grainy picture, it's because the picture was taken with a low resolution early camera. In 2011, megapixels usually range from 10 for a low end camera, to 14 or more for a higher end camera. The more the megapixels, the sharper the picture. Your goal should be to get a camera with the highest megapixel count for the money you can spend.

Manufacturers

Try to purchase a camera from a large manufacturer. Some of these include Canon, Sony, Polaroid, Panasonic and Kodak. All these manufacturers provide a warranty that states the camera is defect free when new. Furthermore, all large manufacturers have factory authorized service centers. If you drop a camera and it needs to be repaired, most big cities have a service center.

Tags: digital cameras, camera more, cameras have, cameras were, digital cameras were

Replace An International Sim Card

If you've ever tried to use your cell phone overseas, you know how expensive it can be. If you have a phone with a SIM card, you can save a fortune by buying local SIM cards when you travel internationally, then switching back to the American SIM card when you return. To do this, your phone must be "unlocked." Some phones come unlocked; others are tied to a network. To unlock your phone, contact your network provider, who will do it for a fee. Alternatively, many cell phone shops will do this for you.

Instructions

1. Check that all of your contact details (such as phone numbers and such) are saved on your phone and not your SIM card. If they're saved on the card, once you remove it you won't be able to dial the numbers. Transfer them to the phone.

2. Switch off the phone. Remove the back of the phone to expose the battery. Every phone is different. If you're not sure do this, follow the instructions that came with the phone.

3. Lift out the battery. Most batteries come out easily. If yours doesn't, use a flat-head screwdriver to gently pry it out of the phone. You will then see the SIM card. It's small and rectangular with one corner missing. If you have an iPhone, the SIM card isn't located under the battery. It's in a slot at the top of the phone. Use a paper clip to press down on the dot next to it to eject it.

4. Slide out the SIM card with your finger. If there is a thin piece of metal covering the SIM card, use the screwdriver to move it to access the SIM card.

5. Place the new SIM card in its place and replace the battery and the cover.

6. Turn on the phone. The phone should recognize the new SIM card and find a network. If you get the message "Invalid SIM," your phone is not unlocked. Contact your network or a cell phone store.

Tags: your phone, cell phone, your network

Watch Battery Types

Watch battery manufacturers offer several types and sizes of batteries. Some batteries are referred to as watch batteries even though they are used for other purposes, such as hearing aids, because they resemble watch batteries. Some varieties of watch batteries have been developed because batteries containing mercury have been banned due to environmental concerns.

Different watches require different batteries.

Definition

According to Rob Berkavicius, who has been servicing Accutron watches for more than 30 years, the main thing that makes a battery a watch battery is its construction. Watch batteries are made to adhere to strict parameters that minimize the possibility of leakage inside a watch. The energy an appliance gets from a battery, or cell, depends on the type of chemistry inside the cell, the amount of that chemistry and the ambient temperature surrounding the appliance. In addition, different types of watch batteries serve particular applications. For example, some watches requires low current for a long time, while others need reliably constant voltage.

Mercury Batteries

Berkavicius says mercury was the main type of cell for watches for more than half a century. They were extremely good at delivering a constant voltage; in fact, some watches were designed to use a mercury cell. However, mercury is considered a deadly poison, and environmental concerns have caused this type of cell to be banned in most countries.

Silver Oxide Batteries

Silver oxide cells have a higher energy than mercury cells and are rated at 1.62 volts. They have a similar design as well, with a constant voltage throughout their lifetimes. Further, they do not have harmful chemicals. They are better than mercury batteries overall, although they have about half the useful shelf life. These cells are used mainly in watches.

Lithium Batteries

Usually referred to as "coin cells" because they resemble coins, lithium batteries used in watches contain lithium-manganese dioxide and are rated at 3.0 volts. There is another type of lithium cell containing lithium-thionyl chloride that has a higher voltage but normally is not used in watches requiring constant energy. For example, a quartz watch that requires intermittent energy is suitable for this type of lithium cell.

Alkaline Batteries

Alkaline cells are the least expensive battery on the market, with zinc-alkaline chemistry and a rating of 1.5 volts. Its voltage is not very constant, and it has a relatively short shelf life. Free watches and toy watches usually contain this type of battery. It is environmentally safe.

Zinc Air Batteries

These are not watch batteries at all, but are mentioned here because they are often found on racks with watch batteries. They are not at all suited for watches because they must be vented to the outside of the battery to work. A good use for these is in hearing aids. The potential for water to be formed and ejected from the cell makes this battery type unsuitable for use in watches.

Tags: watch batteries, because they, constant voltage, this type, batteries Some, because they resemble, environmental concerns

Put A Wireless Camera In A Remote Location

A camera in a remote location

Wireless Photography brings together the medium's creative and technical aspects. This is not a simple task, you must first understand the basics of photography and your equipment. Cameras and wireless shutters can be expensive, and there are always new products entering the market, so it is best to shop around first. You don't need to blow your mortgage payments to go remote. There are also different types of transceivers. Some are infrared, these require line of sight with the camera. Others are radio based and have set working distances. Most brands have a dedicated shutter too.

Instructions

Start to Finish

1. Take one transceiver and attach it to the hot shoe on top of the camera. Set both transceivers to the same radio channel, if there are multiple choices.

2. A camera attached to a tripod.

Attach camera to the tripod or gorillapod by screwing it into the bottom of the camera. Move on to Step 3 if you are not using a tripod.

3. Turn on the camera, followed by both transceivers. Test the shutter release by pressing the button on the off-camera transceiver. Ensure a clear line of sight from the camera to shutter release.

4. Remote locations to place camera

Place the camera in remote location. Secure the camera, either using the tripod or to a nearby object using ball bungees. Look through the eyepiece to set composition. If you are outdoors and rain is likely, place a protective cover such as a plastic bag around the camera.

5. Get close to wild animals with remote shutter release.

Travel allocated distance from camera and press the transceiver when ready. Camera will photograph remotely.

Tags: shutter release, both transceivers, camera remote, camera remote location, from camera, line sight

Print A Poster With An Inkjet Printer

Print a Poster With an Inkjet Printer

Printing a poster with an inkjet printer represents a challenging but doable task. With some ingenuity, you can print a full-sized poster even with a normal letter/A4 inkjet printer. Just follow these steps.

Instructions

1. Look for special driver settings. Many drivers have a multipage option or poster setting.

2. Open up the program you'll be printing from. This could be Microsoft Publisher, Powerpoint or the design program of your choice.

3. Choose the file you want to print and click the "Print" option.

4. Choose your printer. There should be a drop-down menu with a list of printers. Select yours.

5. Click the "Properties" option. This will open your printer properties.

6. Look for a "Page layout" section. It might have a tab of its own or you might find it under the "Page setup" option.

7. Choose the "Poster printing" option. This should enable you to be able to print on several pages that can be taped together.

8. Specify your size. There are usually presets for this, like "3 x 3" or "2 x 2". This affects how many sheets of paper your poster will be printed on.

9. Create your document. Make your poster as if you were printing it on a single page.

10. Print. Be sure your settings have been saved.

11. Tape the pages together. Some programs include a bit of overlap, so try to visualize the whole poster before you tape.

Tags: inkjet printer, option Choose, option This, Poster With Inkjet, Print Poster

Format A Micro Sdhc Card On A Cell Phone

Format a Micro SDHC Card on a Cell Phone

Micro SD cards have become a standard memory format for cell phones. The HC in micro SDHC stands for "high capacity." These cards are a storage medium for music, photo, video and other files that can be recorded and/or played on mobile devices. Micro SD/SDHC cards require formatting by the device prior to use to establish the correct type of file storage.

Instructions

1. With the cell phone switched off, insert the micro SDHC memory card into the phone's memory card slot. Turn the cell phone on.

2. Navigate to the cell phone's "Settings" menu. (For example, on a Verizon phone, this is labeled "Settings & Tools".)

3. Scroll through the "Settings" menu until you find a menu item labeled "Memory" or similar. Click to open that menu item.

4. Click on "Card Memory" (or similar) selection.

5. If the menu presented does not have a specific selection to erase/format the micro SD card, click "Options." Locate the "Format" option and click to select.

6. Confirm the selection. This may require you to press "Yes" (such as on an AT&T phone) or enter a lock code (on Verizon phones, this is the last four digits of your cell phone number).

7. Wait for a message that indicates the formatting is complete. You can then remove the card or leave it in the phone to store data on the card.

Tags: Card Cell, Card Cell Phone, cell phone, cell phone, Format Micro, memory card

Bluetooth Hs850 Instructions

The HS850 is a hands-free headset released by Motorola in 2004. The headset is Bluetooth-compatible and features a wireless connection of up to 30 feet and up to eight hours of talk time before the battery needs to be charged. The HS850 takes only a few minutes to pair to your phone, and is easy to use when making and receiving phone calls.

Pairing

The HS850 needs to be connected, or paired, to a phone prior to operation. This link between the headset and the phone will allow you to make and receive calls from your headset. To pair the headset to the phone, close the boom on the headset to turn off the device. Press and hold the multifunction button until the indicator light on the HS850 turns on. This usually takes about three seconds. Once the indicator light comes on, open the boom on the headset. The indicator light should stay on when you open the boom. If it does not stay on, repeat the process.

Next, locate available Bluetooth devices on your phone. Each phone is different and has a different procedure for finding Bluetooth devices. Check the instruction manual that came with your phone for information on scanning for devices. When the scan is complete, a list of available Bluetooth devices will appear on the screen. Choose "Motorola HS850" from the list. If you are prompted to insert a passkey, enter 0000.

You will see the indicator light on the HS850 blink rapidly 10 times when the devices are successfully paired.

Making and Receiving Calls

The HS850 allows you to control many of your phone's functions by using the control buttons on the headset. The most important button for making and receiving calls is the multifunction button as it controls nearly all of the functions. The boom on the headset must be open to use any of the following functions. Please note that all of the functions of the HS850 may not be compatible with your phone. Review your phone's instruction manual for information on compatible functions.

To make a call using voice dial, press the multifunction button once and speak the contact's name. This will dial the number.

If you want to redial the previous called number, press and hold the multifunction button. The phone will redial the last dialed number.

To answer an incoming call, press and release the multifunction button. You can reject a call by pressing and holding the button.

Placing a call on hold requires you to press and hold the multifunction button. Use the same method to answer an incoming call when you are already connected to another person and to switch between two active calls.

Finally, to end a call press and release the multifunction button.

Tags: multifunction button, your phone, indicator light, Bluetooth devices, boom headset, hold multifunction, hold multifunction button

How Is A Lithium Battery Made

Anode and Cathode

All kinds of batteries have more or less similar mechanisms for producing electricity; the only difference is their materials and construction. A battery is actually a group of linked cells with two main components: the anode and the cathode. Electricity is produced when the cathode and the anode are placed between a substance that can conduct electricity, called an electrolyte. The anode draws oxygen atoms towards the conductor, creating an electric flow. When the circuit is complete (i.e. when a battery is installed in the device and the switch is turned on), the electricity will flow from the anode and out of the cathode producing an electric current.

Chemistry

"Lithium battery" is actually an umbrella term for a family of different cell chemistries which comprise many kinds of cathodes and electrolytes. There are over 20 kinds of chemistries for making a lithium battery. Some are designed for the consumer market while others have industrial and commercial applications.

Basic Structure

Probably the most common lithium battery is the metallic lithium battery, which is a flat and circular metal object, commonly seen in watches. In this kind of chemistry, lithium is used as the anode as all other lithium cells do, while manganese dioxide is used as the cathode. The metallic lithium battery has four layers. The first layer is the anode cup which contains the lithium. The second layer is a thin layer of lithium salt soaked in an organic solvent or electrolyte and acts as a separator between the anode and the cathode. The third layer is the cathode, which contains a tablet of manganese oxide. Finally, the fourth layer is the cathode can, which is the bottom of the cell. It contains a carbon layer that serves as a current collector and has a gasket around its inner edge.

Working Mode

Through the anode, the current flows into the battery and then flows out again through the cathode. The chemical reactions between the two generate the power of the lithium battery and consequently power the device or appliance once the battery is installed.

Tags: lithium battery, anode cathode, battery actually, battery installed, cathode which, layer cathode

Use An Infrared Camera For Thermal Detection

Black and white infrared images look surreal.

Infrared cameras are cameras that translate the infrared energy emitted by a person, animal or object, which is usually invisible to the human eye, into a visible picture. Infrared cameras work particularly well for thermal detection due to their sensitive responses to different degrees of heat. When translating the infrared energy emitted, the hotter temperatures are a redder color, while the cooler temperatures are a bluer color. Infrared cameras have been used for thermal detection in low-light situations, as well as determining fevers amongst large groups of people.

Instructions

1. Turn on your infrared camera.

2. Adjust the aperture setting manually or automatically for the light conditions for which you're photographing. Low lighting will require a more open aperture, while bright settings will require you to stop down to prevent overexposure of the image. Many infrared cameras automatically adjust to lighting conditions.

3. Point the camera lens in the direction which you want to test for thermal detection. Click the shutter button to take a picture.

4. Compare the colors produced on your infrared image to the color and temperature graph of your camera. Most digital infrared cameras provide a side-by-side viewing of the infrared image and the temperature translation graph.

5. Match the warmer colors to the temperature scale to complete your thermal detection investigation.

Tags: energy emitted, Infrared cameras, infrared cameras, infrared energy, infrared energy emitted, infrared image

Get A Credit For Chain Text Messages

Chain mail has come in a variety of forms over the years, from handwritten chain letters to e-mail spam. But the latest version, chain text messaging, unlike its annoying cousins, does something that they do not: incur a charge to the receiver for receipt of the message. Thankfully, unsolicited chain text messaging is illegal. Follow these steps to receive a credit and try to reduce future spam attempts.

Instructions

1. Text the sender with the words "QUIT," "STOP" or "CEASE." By doing this, you create a "paper trail" of your attempts to stop unsolicited texts.

2. Call your service provider and advise them that you were hit with chain text messages and that you also responded to the chain as advised in Step 1. Ask your provider to block the sender and to credit your account for both the unwanted texts and your response.

3. File a complaint with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) by following the link in the Resources section. Although this action does not help you to retrieve lost monies from your service provider, the FCC will impose fines or issue citations to any company that has violated the CAN-SPAM Act of 2003, the National Do Not Call Registry, the Telephone Consumer Protection Act or any of their other related regulations.

4. If all else fails, sue the chain texters and/or your telephone service provider. Cell phone service providers typically credit the monies without any issues, but they typically can only block unsolicited messages from e-mail addresses. If the chain texter is sending chain text messages from a cell phone, then you may have to sue to force the sender to stop.

5. Register your information at the National Do Not Call Registry by following the link in the Resources section. Companies must remove you from their call lists (this also includes text messages) within 31 days of registration.

Tags: service provider, text messages, Call Registry, chain text, chain text

Back Up The Iphone 3g

IPhone 3G backups are created immediately after connecting the device to your computer, and they create a copy of your device's bookmarks, applications, contacts, calendar information and mail to a backup folder on your computer's hard drive. These backups are created in case the iPhone needs to be restored, and can be used in the iTunes program on your Mac or PC. The backups are organized by date and time, and remain on your computer until they are manually removed.

Instructions

1. Connect the iPhone 3G to your computer via the device's USB cable.

2. Start iTunes, and select "iPhone" or your device's name in the "Devices" section of iTunes.

3. Click the checkbox next to "Encrypt iPhone backup." Create a password in the password field to encrypt your iPhone backup's information.

4. Right-click the name of the device and click "Back Up" on the shortcut menu. For Macintosh computers hold the "Control" key on the Mac keyboard and click the name of the device to display the shortcut menu.

5. Right-click the iPhone's icon and click "Eject" from the shortcut menu to remove the iPhone 3G from your computer.

Tags: your computer, shortcut menu, backups created, iPhone backup, iPhone your, name device, your device

Find The Best Camcorder For Teens

The life of a teenager is one worth recording. The teenager especially believes this, but will believe it even more years down the road when they can look back on themselves in their youth and all the attendant folly, freedom and chaos. Recording for them is a simple joy, and their camera should match this simplicity. Here is find the best camcorder for teens.

Instructions

1. Get an analog video recorder. They are a great deal cheaper (and going down in price) in the face of the blooming digital video recording market, and the analog video tapes are easy to use and view.

2. Keep options and menus to a minimum. This will likely be the first video camera many teens will have, so to overwhelm them with options is both costly and counterproductive.

3. Think small and sturdy. Unless serious filmmaking is on the agenda, most teens want a camera they can tote around and catch memories with. Expect it to be abused in backpacks and pockets.

4. Get a disposable digital camera. If you have a feeling this is a phase, or think that the teen just wants to record one particular event, some stores offer a digital camera for about $30 that can record 20 minutes of material.

5. Consider a waterproof housing or weatherproof camera. Not every teenager is a future oceanographer, but almost every teenager spills drinks, falls in puddles or has other unfortunate encounters with liquid.

Tags: analog video, digital camera, every teenager

Smart Phone Work

Introduction

Smart phones are PDAs (or personal digital assistants) that have color screens and audio and telephone capabilities. They are palm-top computers and cellular phones rolled into one.

Smart-Phone Features

Smart phones are mini PCs and have many of the capabilities of a regular PC, but also serve as phones. They come with wireless network connectivity, email capability, a browser, a pager, fax, Internet access, a calendar, an address book, a contact list as large as the phone's memory, a touchscreen and an operating system that enables the phone to function like a computer. Added features on smart phones include embedded cameras and video cameras. Some smart phones have music players, FM radios and navigation software to give directions.

Micro-Browser and Keyboard

The micro-browser is a compact browser designed to be used on a mobile phone. It is specially designed for small screens and portable devices. The differences between a regular PC browser and the micro-browser are its size and the need to connect to a mobile-phone tower or cellular-phone network for downloading data. The data display is through HTML and XML. The qwerty keyboard is a feature that has all the components of a regular PC keyboard in a handy portable device. A stylus is provided with some smart phones; data can be written directly on the screen with the electronic stylus or pen.

Operating System

The smart phone is a miniature computer and requires an operating system like a PC. The Symbian operating system is the most popular and enjoys the largest market share. It has come under criticism because of the virus it often downloads to the phone in the form of Trojan horses.The iPhone is the operating system for smart phones manufactured by Apple. Blackberry introduced smart phones as business machines; their users will be able to connect to an intra-company cellular service. Microsoft has introduced Windows Mobile for the growing smart-phone market. The open-source operating system Linux is popular among many smart-phone companies. Palm Source is the operating system in Palm smart phones; Android from Google is a recent operating system used by smart phones.

The Smart-Phone Camera

Smart phones usually have an embedded camera and the infrastructure to share pictures. The camera and the phone work as an integrated duo for instant picture communication. A photograph can be shared within minutes among everyone who is on the phone's "Contacts" list.

The Smart-Phone Portable Office

A smart phone is a portable office. The user can access and send information, mail and messages. He can edit and read text, both in HTML and in PDF formats. All smart phones can be synchronized to a PC so the user has information from the PC literally at her fingertips at all times. Smart phones have organizers and organizer alarms to help busy professionals. A businessperson can access or read documents at any time and at any place. The smart phone is usually sleek and lightweight for easy portability, yet it packs in a great deal of software. Any number of contacts can be entered in the "Contacts" list, depending on the memory of the phone. This feature makes it unlike the mobile phone, which allows only a limited number of contacts regardless of the memory.

Tags: operating system, smart phone, smart phones, Contacts list, mobile phone, number contacts

Diy Aluminum Sheet Bending

Aluminum is flexible and thus easily bent.

Aluminum is a soft, ductile metal with a range of commercial and industrial uses. Aluminum sheeting, for example, is commonly used as weather-protective siding on homes or storage sheds. Because of its softness in pure form, aluminum is often alloyed (combined with other more rigid metal) to increase its strength. However, even alloyed metal is easily bent. Though brakes --- machinery used to create bends in all types of sheet metal --- are commonly used to create precise angles in aluminum sheeting, it is also easily shaped using tools from your home workshop.

Instructions

1. Draw a guiding line onto the metal using a straight edge ruler and a felt tip pen. If the sheet you are bending is wider than the ruler, you may wish to use a tape measure to finish drawing the guiding line.

2. Open the bench-mounted vice and place the aluminum sheet between its clamps.

3. Align the guiding line with the edge of the top clamp before tightening down the vice. This ensures a smooth, uniform bend along the length of the guiding line.

4. Lift and push the protruding metal toward the vice until a bend of the desired angle is formed. If the aluminum sheet is wider than the clamps, loosen the vice, move the sheet over (ensuring that the guiding line is straight against the clamp edge), and retighten. Repeat this step until the entire width of the aluminum sheet is bent along the guiding line.

Tags: guiding line, aluminum sheet, commonly used, easily bent, used create

What Are The Uses Of Ultraviolet Rays

A dentist can use ultraviolet rays to clean a patient's teeth.

Ultraviolet rays have a wavelength shorter than visible light rays, so humans can't see ultraviolet light although some animals, such as bees, are capable of seeing it. Ultraviolet rays can damage cells, so a beach visitor may put suntan cream on her skin to protect it from ultraviolet light. Ultraviolet rays are useful to humans for sterilization and scientific measurement.

Sterilization

A hospital can take advantage of the destructive quality of ultraviolet light by shining it on counter tops, surgical tools and other items in order to sterilize them. A medical device manufacturer can also use ultraviolet light to remove harmful bacteria from medical implants. Ultraviolet rays don't leave any residue behind, which makes cleanup easy.

Therapy

Ultraviolet rays can treat certain diseases. During ultraviolet therapy, the ultraviolet rays kill fungus infections and can remove skin rashes and discoloration, according to the Baylor College of Medicine. Shining ultraviolet light directly on the skin as a medical treatment is risky because ultraviolet light can also cause skin cancer.

Water Purification

Water treatment facilities also shine ultraviolet rays on water to remove harmful organisms. According to West Virginia University, ultraviolet light treatment is useful if a chemical spill occurs because it can destroy toxic chemicals before they contaminate local waterways. Ultraviolet water purification does not leave any aftertaste behind.

Chemical Identification

Spectroscopy uses ultraviolet rays to identify chemicals. Some chemicals do not absorb much visible light, but they do absorb ultraviolet rays well. According to Michigan State University, ultraviolet light helps scientists identify double and triple carbon bonds, so it can help determine the molecules in a blend of gasoline.

Microscopes

Ultraviolet light is useful for manipulating and viewing very small objects. An ultraviolet microscope uses ultraviolet rays to help a scientist see objects that are too small to view with visible light. Ultraviolet rays are also useful for high-tech manufacturing. A computer chip fabricator, for instance, can use ultraviolet rays to etch designs on the chips.

Telescopes

Ultraviolet rays provide images of very distant objects. According to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), an ultraviolet telescope provides a better view of the younger stars in a galaxy because older stars produce more red and yellow light, so it is difficult to see the newer stars with a standard telescope.

Tags: ultraviolet light, ultraviolet rays, ultraviolet light, Ultraviolet rays, visible light

Find Rfid

This small RFID chip could allow you to find lost items.

Radio-frequency identification is a technology that communicates via electromagnetic waves to send data between a terminal -- the RFID chip reader -- and an electronic tag attached to an object. The technology is particularly useful for tracking and finding lost items. You can read some tags from several yards away. If you purchase a RFID chip reader, you can find any object that has the attached chip.

Instructions

1. Switch on the RFID chip reader and move to the general area you believe the item you are searching for to be in. Typically the RFID tag on the lost object will respond with a beeping noise or indicator on your device.

2. Follow the signal indicated by your RFID chip reader. Depending on the model you have purchased, the reader will indicate the direction of the lost item with a series of quickening beeps or an actual visual direction.

3. Manually search for the item when the RFID chip reader indicates that you are in the immediate vicinity of it.

Tags: RFID chip, chip reader, RFID chip reader, lost items

Basics For Using An Slr Camera

Basics for Using an SLR Camera

In today's world of digital photography SLR cameras are top of the line, but they were once only available to professional photographers. What makes them so popular is that any amateur can achieve professional results with a user manual, a minimum of practice and a maximum of enthusiasm. Despite that SLR cameras come with a large number of features, using them properly requires just a few basic skills that anyone can learn.

Function

SLR cameras, an acronym meaning single lens reflex, function by using a mirror positioned behind the lens to reflect light into the viewfinder as you're composing your shot.

Settings

Even though digital SLR cameras provide a multitude of advanced manual settings, you can also set your controls to the automatic setting so that you only need point your camera and shoot. Your user manual will tell you exactly how this works.

Shutter Speed

Shutter speed refers to how long the image sensor is exposed to light. Fast shutter speed can freeze your subject in mid-action while slow shutter speed can apply blurring to action to indicate movement; both speeds are useful for any kind of photography and can often give your photos a polished, professional appearance.

Aperture

Adjusting your aperture, or F/stop, will change your depth of field in order to focus on only the elements you wish. Shallow depth of field---low "F" numbers---will render a photo in which your main subject is clearly in focus while blurring out the background; deep depth of field---high "F" numbers---will bring all elements of your composition sharply into focus.

Exposure

Both shutter speed and aperture are crucial to getting the right exposure for your images, which means the total amount of light that the image sensor inside an SLR camera gathers. Your user manual and experimentation will help you learn the best ways to achieve perfect exposure.

ISO

ISO, an acronym for International Organization for Standardization, refers to the sensitivity of the image sensor to the light that is present. A high ISO allows you to take photos in low light settings, but can also apply more "noise" or "graininess" to your images. Read your user manual and practice to get the best results.

Composition

Experiment with atypical compositions, distances and angles as you practice with your camera. Despite all the fancy settings available in SLR cameras, nothing beats the element of human contribution.

Tags: user manual, image sensor, Basics Using, Basics Using Camera, light that, settings also, shutter speed

Make A Gps Bike Mount

GPS bike mounts can encounter a variety of problems, including vibrations, bump-resistance and shutting off or breaking as a result of road or trail obstacles or even just bumpy surface. While the GPS manufacturer's bike mounts do work, there is a home-made version that is cheaper, easy to make and effective in guarding against vibration and other issues.

Instructions

1. Decide on the length of inner tube, depending on the size of the GPS unit you are trying to secure. Use half of a MTB inner tube, or road tube, cut lengthwise for a larger GPS unit (like the Garmin 76-series) and use a quarter of the inner tube for a smaller unit.

2. Tie one end of the inner tube on to the left side of the handle bars an inch from the middle handlebar pole. A simple knot will do. Inner tubes have great grip to them, so just make sure you pull it tight. Wrap the tube a couple of times down the stem of the handlebars, then place a 2-inch car wash sponge on the stem of the handlebars.

3. Place the GPS unit on the sponge and continue wrapping the inner tube. The pattern you use to wrap the GPS unit to the sponge, stem and handlebars will depend on where the buttons and features are located on the GPS. Make sure it is secure, then tie the tube onto the other side of the handlebars.

4. Wrap tightly every step of the way. This will keep the inner tube from slipping and keep the GPS unit solid against the sponge and handlebars. This is especially important if you ride off-road often and encounter many bumps along the way.

Tags: inner tube, stem handlebars, bike mounts, sponge stem, sponge stem handlebars, unit sponge

Diy Camera Slider With Pvc Pipe

Enhance your camerawork with a DIY slider.

Ever wonder how filmmakers follow the action with those smooth tracking shots? The camera slider, also known as the dolly, allows you to mount your setup on a movable tripod. The base of the tripod slides along a track and enables you to shoot a moving subject with ease. While the camera sliders used in motion pictures may cost a fortune to construct, you can design a do-it-yourself slider with a few inexpensive materials. The movie-making experts at Backyard FX recommend using PVC pipe to create the tracks of your camera slider.

Instructions

1. Place your 1-by-4 piece of lumber onto a flat worktable. Measure 3-feet down the lumber to determine the center-most point. Draw a pencil line across the middle of the wood.

2. Wear a pair of work goggles to protect your eyes throughout the construction process. Cut the lumber in half with a table saw to create two identical 3-foot pieces. Place one of the 3-foot pieces to the side for later use.

3. Measure 7 inches down your piece of lumber and draw a pencil mark. Cut along the pencil line with the blade of the table saw. Place the 7-inch piece of lumber to the side for later use.

4. Measure 18-inches down your 3-foot piece of lumber. Draw a pencil mark in the center of the wood. Drill a hole through the pencil mark using a quarter-inch drill bit.

5. Align the pieces of PVC along the edges of the 3-foot lumber to create the tracks for your camera slider. Drill four screws into each of the PVC pieces to hold them in place. Place one screw every 9 inches down the length of the PVC.

6. Flip your T-shaped PVC fittings upside down. Place two of the fittings onto each of the tracks to create the sliders for your camera dolly. Align the 7-inch piece of lumber over the T-shaped PVC fittings.

7. Trace the position of the fittings onto the 7-inch piece of wood. Remove the T-shaped fittings from the tracks of your camera slider. Flip the 7-inch piece of lumber over and place it onto the worktable.

8. Align the T-shaped PVC fittings over the 7-inch piece of lumber in accordance with the trace lines. Drill one screw through each of the fittings to secure your sliders in place. Cut out four small pieces of felt that have a square shape.

9. Apply a small amount of hot glue to each of the pieces of felt. Place one piece of felt over each of the screws located in the T-shaped sliders. Align the sliders onto the tracks of your camera dolly.

10. Drill a hole through the center of the 7-inch piece of lumber. Insert a one-quarter-inch bolt through the hole and attach your tripod's camera mount. Place the 3-foot piece of lumber atop your tripod with the slider tracks facing up.

11. Drill three screws through the holes of your tripod and into the base of the lumber. Secure your camera onto the mount. Slide your camera along the tracks to test out your homemade dolly.

Tags: piece lumber, your camera, 7-inch piece, 7-inch piece lumber, camera slider

Compare Gps Models

Global positioning system (GPS) devices use satellite signals to determine the exact location of the device. This makes them helpful when driving, hiking, camping or traveling in an unknown area. Not all GPS devices are made alike, and even models offered by the same company can differ in their features. Compare the various characteristics of standard GPS devices to choose one that best fits your needs and lifestyle.

Instructions

1. Compare the size and weight of the GPS devices. Some models are heavy and bulky and are intended to be hung or mounted in a vehicle. Other models are lightweight and compact and designed to be carried. The best size varies according to your intended use for the device and whether you need it to be portable or not.

2. Inspect the screens on the different models. Even devices that are the same size can have screens of different heights or widths. The bigger the screen, the better, especially when you're planing to use the device while driving. CNET recommends viewing the screen from different angles to make sure it's readable, even when you're not looking at it head-on.

3. Check the battery life. If you need a portable device, for hiking or camping, a long battery life is critical. Devices designed to be used in a car will often be attached to your car's power source, so battery life isn't as crucial.

4. Review the included maps. Many GPS models are regional, meaning they only come with built-in maps for a specific country or continent. This is fine if you don't plan on using it outside of the country or continent. If you need a GPS device for traveling abroad, make sure it either comes with maps preloaded or includes an option to download and install maps later.

5. See how many points-of-interest (POI) come on the GPS model's maps. POIs include gas stations, hotels and other attractions, and having them pre-marked saves you the trouble of having to enter addresses or search for them manually. The more, the better. Budget GPS devices often have a few hundred thousand POIs, while more expensive devices may have millions, according to GPS Magazine.

Tags: battery life, country continent, hiking camping, make sure, need portable, screens different

What Is The Difference Between The Nikon D40 & D40x

Nikon, it's fair to say, has confused a lot of people with the D40x. The DSLR camera's predecessor, the D40, had debuted just four months earlier, in December 2006, when Nikon rolled out its replacement in early 2007. These two cameras are very similar, with only a handful of improvements in the D40x and a 30 percent price jump.

About Nikon's DSLR Prosumer Cameras

These cameras have one key similarity you should understand before looking at their differences. The D40 was Nikon's second prosumer camera, a professional DSLR aimed at the budgets of entry-level SLR photographers. It replaced the Nikon D50, which was the last entry DSLR from Nikon to have a built-in auto focus drive motor -- a feature removed in the D40. The D40, and D40x after it, rely on the autofocus capabilities of Nikkor's AF-S and AF-I lenses. Older Nikon lenses don't work in autofocus mode, meaning the D40 and D40x aren't compatible with as many lenses (with full functionality) as the D50 or higher-end Nikon DSLR cameras.

Sensor

The major upgrade in the D40x was its sensor, which though physically the same size (23.7 by 15.6mm) has nearly twice as many active pixels. The D40 has a 6.0 megapixel sensor, whereas the D40x has 10.0 megapixels. The increase in megapixels means that the D40x can capture photos at a maximum resolution of 3872 by 2592 pixels. The D40 has a maximum resolution of 3008 by 2000 pixels. This means that blown-up photos will distort at a smaller size with the D40 than with the D40x, but when displayed on your computer, the photos will look similar, if not identical

Sensitivity

The D40x also has a slightly wider range of sensitivity options, with a lower base ISO of 100 (compared to a low ISO of 200 on the D40). Both cameras max out at ISO 1600 with a boosted sensitivity mode of 3200. The advantage of a lower base ISO is that well-lit photos taken at the lowest range will appear clearer with the D40x, but the difference is truly slight. Most lighting situations require higher ISOs, not lower, and the times you may use ISO 100 will be numbered. The D40 compensates for a higher base ISO with a flash sync speed of 1/500 of a second, which is faster than the D40x's 1/200 of a second.

Continuous Shooting

The D40 featured a continuous shooting rate of 2.5 frames per second. Nikon improved this in the D40x, which shoots continuously at 3 frames per second. This depends on the speed of your lens and the shutter speed settings, of course, but the base rate is faster in the D40x.

Price

The three upgrades on the D40x lead to about a $200 price difference in the kit model of the cameras, with the D40 selling for $599 with a kit lens when it debuted in December 2006 and the D40x going for $799 with the same lens just four months later. Prices vary considerably as of publication time, as both camera models have been discontinued and can only be purchased used.

Tags: with D40x, December 2006, four months, frames second, just four, just four months

Improve The Quality On A Zenith Tv

Your Zenith TV comes preconfigured from the factory with standard picture settings, however the default settings may not work perfectly for the individual lighting factors of your home theater setup. You can improve the picture quality from your Zenith TV by tweaking the picture settings in the built-in menu. The picture settings can drastically improve the image quality while not impacting the functionality of your TV

Instructions

1. Turn on your TV and a video source such as a Blu-ray player, DVD or set-top box to display a picture on the screen.

2. Press the "Menu" button on the remote to open the menu screen. Highlight the "Settings" option and press "Enter." Scroll to the "Picture" option and press "Enter." Press the down arrow on the remote to highlight the "Brightness" option.

3. Press the left or right arrow to raise or lower the brightness or black level of the picture. Adjust the setting so that the color black is deep and full but darker images still have discernible details. Press the down arrow to highlight the "Contrast" setting.

4. Press the left or right arrow on the remote to edit the "Contrast" or white level setting of the Zenith. Adjust the contrast level to about 50 percent where the light colors are bright but the edges of lighter shapes are crisp and clearly defined. Press the down arrow to highlight the "Color" option.

5. Use the arrow keys to adjust the "Color" setting of the TV. The color settings affect how colors are displayed on the TV. Keep the color settings close to the factory default, as the color setting can distort the natural picture of the images on the TV.

6. Press the "Menu" button to save the picture settings and exit the menu page.

Tags: picture settings, down arrow, Press down, Press down arrow, arrow highlight

Wire A Sony Cdxgt310

The Sony CDX-GT310 is part of Sony's car audio range of products. Features include a CD player, fully adjustable treble, bass and middle settings, and an LCD display. Fitting the CDX-GT310 into a car is an easy process, although it does take a bit of time to do. If you are fitting this stereo yourself, plan for it to take about 30 minutes to do, as you will need to connect all of the car speakers together with the CDX-GT310.

Instructions

Wiring a Sony CDX-GT310

1. Connect the ground lead--this will be either black or brown in color--to a metal surface on the car. Connect the live yellow and red wires to the accessory position on the power terminal.

2. Connect the front stereo speakers to the terminal bus at the front audio bus out terminal section. If you have rear speakers, connect these to the rear audio bus out terminal section on the terminal bus.

3. Place the stereo protection collar into the fitted stereo recess on the dashboard. Fit the stereo bracket around the CDX-GT310 stereo and rotate the release keys. Adjust the stereo bracket using the keys so the CDX-GT310 can be released from the bracket easily. Remove the bracket and fit it inside the protection collar.

4. Connect the terminal bus to the terminal bus input at the rear of the CDX-GT310. Slide the CDX-GT310 into the stereo bracket. Test the stereo by turning the ignition over.

Tags: stereo bracket, audio terminal, audio terminal section, CDX-GT310 into, protection collar

How Do Ir Diodes & Detectors Work

Infrared is invisible light just above red in the spectrum.

Infrared (IR) diodes operate by converting electric current into infrared light. Infrared detectors do the opposite; they detect infrared light by turning infrared light into an electric current. The electric current generated by an infrared detector is a signal that indicates infrared light.

Infrared Light

Infrared images can be taken with digital cameras fitted with filters.

Infrared light is electromagnetic radiation similar to visible light, which is measured by wavelength in nanometers (nm). IR is a longer wavelength (above ~720nm) and is invisible to the naked eye. It can be used to form images with common digital sensors such as charge-coupled devices (CCDs) chips found in digital cameras and even cellphones with cameras. Infrared sensors are used to interpret remote television and audio controls. Among their other uses are motion detectors and automatic door openers.

Light-Emitting Diodes

Television remotes use an LED to send an IR signal to televisions.

Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) produce light when they receive an electric current. The energy of electrons in the electric current is converted to light. Different types of LEDs produce different wavelengths of light. Infrared LEDs produce light in the range of infrared. You can "see" infrared light through imaging with a digital camera. If you focus on the transmitter on the front of the remote and press a button, the infrared signal will appear on the digital camera's display screen as a white or pink light.

Infrared Detectors

IR detectors are LEDS wired to produce electric current when exposed to IR light.

Infrared detectors are also LEDs. They are wired differently so that they convert incoming infrared light to an electric current. The current is sent to a device that reads the current to determine the strength of incoming light, or to interpret signals meant to control a television, for example.

Sensitivity

Electronics are manipulated to increase the sensitivity of IR detectors.

IR detectors can be made more sensitive through electronics. Amplifiers make IR detectors extremely sensitive so that even very faint signals are recorded. Sensitivity can be adjusted so a detector is suitable for its anticipated purpose.

Uses

An automatic door opener uses one LED to transmit IR light. A second LED is used as an IR detector. When a person approaches the IR light, the light is reflected off the person back to the detector. The detector sends an electric current to a controller that then opens the door. The sensitivity can be adjusted so that the door opens when a person is at a certain distance from the door. More sensitivity causes the door to be opened when the person is farther away (reflecting less IR back to the detector).

Motion Detectors

Motion detectors can operate without an IR light source. They can sense the infrared generated by an object. In this case, the detector would not have a diode for emitting light, just a diode for receiving IR light. A lens concentrates the IR energy on the detector, and when an object is sensed, an electrical signal is sent out.

Tags: electric current, light Infrared, infrared light, LEDs produce, automatic door