Read A Fujifilm S5100 Histogram

Digital cameras have the ability to display histograms on the rear LCD screen of the camera.

Released in 2005, the FujiFilm FinePix S5100 is a digital camera built around a 4.0 megapixel CCD (Charge Coupled Device) sensor and a 10x optical zoom lens. One the most useful tools on all digital cameras is a "Histogram." A histogram is simply the exposure represented in a graph. There are no bad or good histograms. As a photographer, you need to understand what the histogram is telling you about the exposure so you can make changes to get the right picture.

Instructions

1. Read the histogram from left to right. There are 256 levels of brightness in an 8-bit digital picture. Absolute black is the starting point at "O" and absolute white is the ending point at "255." The middle point is "128," and that is the 18 percent gray level at which light meters measure. The left side of the middle point measures the amount of dark areas in your picture, and the right side of the middle point measures the amount of light areas in your picture.

2. Observing a histogram where the majority of the peeks are on the left side of the histogram means that your picture has a lot of dark areas in it. This could mean the picture is under exposed. It could also mean you are shooting a night scene and have correctly exposed the picture to capture the dark sky.

3. Observing a histogram where all the peeks are on the right side of the histogram indicates your picture has a larger amount of bright areas. This could be an indication of over exposure, or correct exposure if you are shooting a winter scene where there is lots of snow.

4. Take a few shots of the same scene, and purposely under and over expose the scene. With practice, you will soon be able to look at a scene and have a good idea what a correctly-exposed picture should look like on the histogram. A scene that has both dark and bright spots will have sharp peaks at the left and right side of the histogram. A picture of a foggy day, will have the majority of peaks in middle of the histogram.

Tags: your picture, middle point, right side, side histogram, areas This

Recover Flash Media

The Adobe Flash Media server plays audio, video and data files using the Adobe Flash Player. Flash media files use the file extension SWF, and the files are stored in your computer's hard drive by default. Transfer flash media files from the hard drive to a portable storage device, if you wish. If along the way you accidentally delete your SWF files, retrieve them using a data recovery program, which you can download for free online.

Instructions

1. Download a free data recovery program online; for example, FileRestorePlus, Smart Recovery 4.5 and EASEUS (see Resources). Install the program on your computer and open the program.

2. Choose the "C:/" drive from the drive selection menu when prompted to do so. The data recovery program scans the drive for deleted files, including SWF files. The files are displayed as a list of thumbnails.

3. Select the SWF files you want to restore and click the "Restore" tab to return the files to your PC's hard drive.

Tags: data recovery, data recovery program, hard drive, recovery program, Adobe Flash, media files, your computer

Troubleshoot A Nikon Camera

Nikon, established in 1917, is a world leader in camera and lens manufacturing.

Nikon, established in 1917, is a world leader in camera and lens manufacturing. Nikon also manufactures microscopes and other optical products. Optical and precision technologies are at its product core. If your Nikon camera fails to function as expected, you should run through some troubleshooting steps before taking the camera in for repair or replacing it. Many problems can be easily rectified.

Instructions

1. Check to ensure that the camera is switched on if the monitor is blank. Make sure the battery is correctly inserted in the battery chamber and try charging it for a while--it might be exhausted. Press the shutter release button halfway to wake the camera up--it might have reverted to standby.

2. Make sure the subject is in the focus area when the shutter button is pressed half-way if the pictures are out of focus. Sometimes the camera will simply be unable to focus--the green AF lamp flashes in that case.

3. Make sure you don't shake the camera if the pictures are blurry. Reduce shake by using the flash. Select the flash mode, or try using the self-timer with a tripod.

4. Reduce the exposure compensation if the pictures are too bright. Increase the exposure compensation if the images are too dark. The flash has a maximum range, so if the images are too dark despite the flash triggering, move closer to the subject.

5. Check the camera isn't in playback mode if the camera doesn't take a picture when the shutter-release button is pressed. The flash can take a while to charge. The red lightening bolt icon will illuminate and flash when the flash is charging.

6. Move to a darker location if you can't see the monitor properly. Ambient light can wash the monitor out.

Tags: Make sure, 1917 world, 1917 world leader, button pressed, camera lens, camera lens manufacturing

The Differences In Nimh Batteries

Similiar looking batteries can have major internal differences.

The capacities, voltages, self-discharge rates and internal cell quantities of Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) rechargeable batteries vary significantly. Voltage is the most important characteristic, because too many volts will harm an electronic device and too few will make it function partially or not at all. Battery users discern most of these differences by looking at the NiMH battery or the package it came in.

Milliamp Capacity

Greater capacity allows batteries to provide the same amount of power for a longer period of time. Larger batteries tend to have a higher capacity; a "C" battery holds many more milliamps (mA) of power than a smaller "AA" cell. At the same time, some capacity differences exist within the same size of NiMH battery. An 800 milliamp battery often has the same physical size as a 1,000 mA unit. Capacity also affects battery lifespan, charging time and cost.

Output Voltage

Differences in voltage determine how demanding a device the NiMH battery will power. An 8.4 volt battery can run a boombox or a camcorder, while a single 1.2 volt unit will only power things such as tiny flashlights and clocks. Other typical NiMH voltage levels include 3.6 and 4.8. NiMH batteries achieve most voltages other than 1.2 volt by combining multiple cells in a battery pack.

Internal Cells

While most one-time use batteries consist of a single cell internally, NiMH batteries may contain one or several separate cells. Many NiMH battery packs consist of four or more cells, combined to achieve a certain voltage. For example, a 4.8V battery pack typically contains four 1.2V cells. It produces the same amount of power as four separate 1.2V NiMH batteries, but features a plastic outer coating and uses pieces of metal to combine power input/output into a single jack.

Self-Discharge

One of the more important differences among NiMH batteries is the rate of self-discharge, which determines how long they can sit unused before completely losing their charge. It proves especially important to have batteries with low discharge rates when traveling far away from a battery charger.

Low self-discharge batteries release a tiny fraction of the energy that other NiMH batteries lose each day, according to the California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery. Some major battery manufacturers produce low self-discharge NiMH batteries, but they remain harder to find than alkaline units or batteries with high self-discharge levels. Battery packaging advertises low self-discharge rates.

Tags: NiMH batteries, NiMH battery, amount power, batteries with, battery pack, NiMH batteries, same amount

What Is The Difference Between The Shure 58 & Sure 57 Microphone

The Shure 58 and Shure 57 -- officially known as the SM58 and SM57 with the "SM" standing for "Studio Microphone" -- are vocal microphones produced by Illinois-based audio electronics manufacturer Shure Inc. These devices are two of the most popular microphones used in the recording industry, with the SM58 and SM57 introduced in 1966 and 1965, respectively.

Description

The Shure SM58 and SM57 are classified as cardioid dynamic microphones. These are microphones that use a moving coil in a magnetic field to create an acoustic pickup pattern that resemble a cardioid. This is a curve created by a circle encircling around a fixed one of the same size, with a point on the perimeter of the latter serving as the curve's starting and ending point. The resulting curve creates an apple-shaped pattern deemed suitable for people who wish to isolate the vocals from background noise. Thus, the Shure SM58 and SM57 are sometimes referred to as unidirectional microphones.

Frequency Response

Each microphone has a frequency response, which is a range of frequencies that the device can accommodate for accuracy of sound. Thus, the wider the range, the more accurate the sound is. The frequency response is usually measured in hertz. The Shure SM58 has a frequency response range of 50 to 15,000 Hz. That of the Shure SM57 is slightly wider, at 40 to 15,000 Hz.

Sensitivity and Impedance

The Shure SM58 and SM57's sensitivity refers to the measure of response of the instrument to an incoming signal by producing an output signal. This is usually measured in dBV, a unit of measurement representing the relationship of decibels with voltage. For the SM58, the sensitivity is 54.5 dBV per Pa, or Pascal -- the unit of pressure used for measuring force. The SM57 is less sensitive, at 56 dBV/Pa. The microphone's impedance is the measurement of their opposition to electric current flow in ohms. The impedance of both mics is 150 ohms. Shure, however, notes that the actual rating is 300 ohms for the SM58 and 310 ohms for the SM57.

Physical Specifications

The Shure SM58 is a larger microphone than its SM57 sibling. It measures 6 3/8 inches in length and 2 inches in width, with a weight of 10.5 ounces. By comparison, the 10 oz. SM57 is 6 3/16 inches long and 1 1/4 inches wide.

Tags: Shure SM58, SM58 SM57, frequency response, Shure SM58 SM57, usually measured

Dry A Digital Camera

Since water can damage electronics, if you happen to get your digital camera wet, you will need to take action immediately to reduce possible damage to the device. It isn't guaranteed that any method used to dry out a digital camera will work, but it is certainly worth a try. It just might work.

Instructions

1. Take the batteries and any memory stick or memory card from the camera immediately after it gets wet. Gently try to remove as much moisture as you can with a towel.

2. Place about two inches of rice in a deep bowl. Place the camera in the rice and pour enough rice over the top of the camera to cover it completely. Leave the camera in the rice for a day. The rice should absorb the moisture from the camera.

3. Feel the rice every so often to test it for moistness. If it does feel moist, repeat Step 2 with fresh dry rice. Keep the camera in the rice for a few days.

4. Put fresh batteries and memory stick or card in the camera and see if it works. If it won't work, you can try the rice method again. After that, you can try taking the camera to a camera repair shop.

Tags: camera rice, batteries memory, batteries memory stick, camera will, digital camera, digital camera will

Spf Overdrive Vs Dba Overdrive

Overdrives enhance the sound of your guitar.

Stomp boxes are so called because to use them, musicians repeatedly step on the units to achieve a variety of sounds while playing electrical instruments such as guitars. These devices are also called effects pedals. There are a number of types. The overdrive effects pedal works in conjunction with the amplifier and other components to distort and augment sound. Smart People Factory (SPF) and Death By Audio (DBA) are two boutique manufacturers of overdrive effects pedals. The models vary in value based on the type of versatility and sound your music requires.

Versatility

The SPF Green Line overdrive stomp box has a mud switch that lets you access a wider range of frequencies (high and low) for the drive and tone controls on the board. This feature gives the SPF overdrive unit more versatility than the DBA overdrive unit. In addition, the DBA unit only has two knobs: one for volume and the other for drive. The SPF unit has a third knob that controls tone.

Power

Typical overdrive stomp boxes are powered by battery, DC power or both. This is the case for the SPF overdrive unit, which accepts a 9-volt battery in addition to the DC power supply. The DBA Interstellar overdrive unit is powered via DC only. This makes the DBA unit slightly less accommodating in certain situations, such as impromptu performances or those where power connections are limited.

Sound

The DBA unit augments the sound produced by your amplifier, providing fuller and more overwhelming audio. The SPF unit provides the same sound-augmenting capabilities, but because of it's versatile control knobs, you can also achieve a variety of sound tweaks and distortions.

Price and Durability

The Green Line overdrive unit from SPF sells for $230 from the company website, as of August 2011. Death By Audio's Interstellar overdrive unit retails for $180, as of August 2011. Either purchase offers comparable ruggedness because both models are made with metallic casing and components that hold up well to the rigors of being a mobile stomp box.

Tags: overdrive unit, achieve variety, August 2011, Death Audio, effects pedals, Green Line

What Rfid Means

Applications for RFID technology include passport identification.

Radio-frequency identification (RFID) technology is used to remotely track and identify objects. For example, using RFID, it is possible to inventory stock in a warehouse without having to handle the items physically.

Basic Components

RFID reader

RFID requires two major components. A tag that is placed on the object and a device that can remotely read the information stored in the tag. Unlike bar-code scanning technology, the RFID reader need not be within sight of the tag.

RFID Tags

RFID tag

RFID tags consist of an integrated circuit for storing and processing information and an antenna.

There are three types of RFID tags. Passive RFID tags rely on the receiver for power and cannot initiate communication with the receiver. Active RFID tags have their own power source and can initiate communication with the receiver. This gives them greater range and enables them to indicate their presence and location. Battery-assisted passive (BAP) RFID tags contain a battery that gives them greater range than passive RFID tags. However, like passive RFID tags, they cannot initiate communication with the reader.

Uses of RFID Technology

RFID technology is finding increasing use in inventory management.

RFID technology is being used in a growing number of application areas. For example, transit and toll passes, retail sales, inventory management and livestock identification.

Tags: RFID tags, RFID technology, communication with, initiate communication, initiate communication with, passive RFID, passive RFID tags

Use The Panasonic Hvx200

The Panasonic HVX is a very rugged, easy-to-use camera that allows users to cheaply record beautiful images and video.

The Panasonic HVX200 is a popular prosumer (between consumer and professional-level) high-definition video camera, commonly used in shoots for television and web videos. It is the HD descendant of Panasonic's DVX-100A and DVX-100B standard-definition video cameras. The camera is designed for ease-of-use, so using it properly is necessary for professional purposes. A skilled camera operator can make a decent living using the HVX200.

Instructions

1. Charge the battery by inserting the battery into the battery charger and plugging it into an electrical wall outlet. The battery charger will indicate that the battery is fully charged by illuminating the green light on the front of the charger.

2. Insert the battery into the back of the camera with the battery contacts facing down until it clicks into place.

3. Insert the P2 card into the P2 card slot on the back of the camera. The electrical contacts of the P2 card must be facing towards the camera, and the label on the P2 card should be facing up. Make sure the "write-protect" slot on the card is set to "Off" (the card will reveal an orange stripe if it is write-protected).

4. Turn the thumb-switch on the back of the camera to the "On" position. Press the "Open" button on the left side of the camera to pop out the LCD screen. You should be able to see a live preview of what the camera is capturing.

5. Set the switch on the left of your camera by the lens to "Manual." This will allow you to manually focus the lens by turning the focal ring at the front of the camera left or right. Turning it left makes objects further away come into view. Turning it right makes closer objects come into view.

6. Set the shutter speed to capture video at the desired speed by clicking the Shutter speed '+' or '-' button on the left of the camera, by the LCD screen. A fast shutter 1/240 is good for shooting slow-motion footage and requires a lot of light, and a slow shutter such as 1/8 is good for shooting in low light or for making blurry effects. 1/60 is the most common shutter setting used in video.

7. Set the Iris by turning the f-stop wheel at the front of your camera towards the bottom. A low f-stop such as f/1.2 or f/2 is ideal for low-light situations, and it will also create a shallow depth-of-field (making the background blurry). A high f-stop, such as f/12 is good for outdoor situations with a lot of light. You may also want to turn on the Neutral-density filter located towards the front of the camera on the left to further limit the amount of light that hits the lens if shooting in full sun.

8. Decide your shooting format by clicking the menu button on the top of the camera. Navigate using the arrows to "Shooting Settings," and decide your shooting format. Your options are 720p/30i, 720p/60i, 620 x 480, 1080i/30i, 1080i/24p, and 1080i/60i. Television is often shot in 1080i/24p to replicate a "film-type" look.

9. Press the red button at the back of the camera to record a shot when you have the camera set to shoot as you want it. Press the red button again to stop recording.

Tags: back camera, your shooting format, 1080i 1080i, battery charger, battery into

Connect An Rgb Component Video To An F Type Coaxial Cable

An F-type coaxial cable is one of the most basic types of video cable connection. A set of RGB component cables is among the newest standard. If you're trying to connect a device using component cables and your TV's only available input is coaxial, you have a small problem. There are few, if any, adapter switches that connect these two cables together. You'll need to get creative with a composite cable acting as a middleman, plus two devices that can make an F-type/composite connection and a composite/component one.

Instructions

1. Connect a set of component video cables to the output of whichever video device you are using, be it a DVD player or digital video recorder. You will also need RCA audio cables (red and white plugs only) for the device's sound. Connect these to the red-white ports next to the red-green-blue ports the component cables use.

2. Attach the other end of your component (video and audio) cables to the input of an RCA A/V distribution amplifier, which you can find at an electronics store. These devices usually have more than one channel on this end, so connect them to Channel One.

3. Connect a set of RCA composite cables to the output of the distribution amplifier. This device has ports for both component and composite cables. The composite ports are the same colors as the plugs: yellow, white and red.

4. Plug the composite cables into an RF-to-composite adapter. This device, which you can get from the same electronics store (the two devices are often displayed next to each other), usually has one set of RCA ports, and they are input.

5. Link the adapter to your TV's input with an F-type coaxial cable. The adapter has two coaxial ports; use the one that says "output" or "TV." If another coaxial cable is currently connected to the TV's port, unhook it and connect it to the "antenna" or "input" port on the adapter.

Tags: coaxial cable, component cables, composite cables, audio cables, cables output

Mount A Tv In A Media Cabinet

A flat screen TV can be mounted into a media cabinet with a minor modification. A false wall of the cabinet may need to be installed to allow the TV to be as far front as desired. After this modification, a standard wall mount bracket can be attached, to which the TV can be hung. A second alternative method is to use an articulating mount that extends, allowing the TV to be pushed back when not it use, if that is what the viewer desires. The TV also can be placed in the cabinet on its stand without the need for mounting.

Instructions

Build the False Wall

1. Cut 1-by-2 lengths of wood with a saw to the width of the wood mounting panel. You'll want two lengths of 1-by-2, one for each side of the cabinet space.

2. Cut 1-by-6 lengths of wood to the width of the cabinet mounting space using a saw.

3. Drill wood screws through the 1-by-2 pieces into the sides of the cabinet mounting space at the same distance from the top of the cabinet space.

4. Drill pilot holes in the 1-by-6 or 1-by-8 mounting board at both ends. Then drill wood screws through those holes into the mounted 1-by-2 pieces to secure the mounting board.

5. Drill four woods screws through a flat mounting piece of a wall flat mount to mount the bracket to the prepared surface in the cabinet.

6. Attach the other half of the TV mount to the rear of the flat screen TV.

7. Fit the mounting bracket and TV onto the other section of the mounting bracket that has been secured to the mounting surface.

Use an Articulating Mount

8. Secure the mount to the back wall of you cabinet. Drill at least four wood screws through the mount placed against the back wall.

9. Mount the TV to the articulating mount in the same manner as on any wall.

10. Pull the TV out as much as a foot for viewing, and push it back into the cabinet when not in use.

Tags: screws through, wood screws, wood screws through, 1-by-2 pieces, articulating mount

Repair A Nikon Zoom Lens

Nikon has been producing lenses and cameras since the early 1900's.

Nikon has been lenses since the early 1900s. When they introduced their single lens reflex cameras in the 1950s, they produced lenses to fit those cameras. One hallmark of Nikon is the ability to use just about all Nikon lenses on any Nikon camera. Whether your camera is manual focus, film or digital, your Nikon lens can be used on all of them. This means there are a lot of Nikon zoom lenses still being used. When a zoom lens needs repairs, there are a few things you can look for yourself, but it is usually best left for a trained repair technician.

Instructions

1. Inspect the lens, and try to determine why it is not working. If the lens is a newer autofocus type of lens, cleaning the electrical contacts on the back of the lens may fix your problem. Clean these contacts with a cotton swab that is moistened with rubbing alcohol. Dry the contacts using a micro fibre cleaning cloth.

2. Inspect the inside of the lens by looking through the front and rear elements. You may be able to see what is causing your lens to stop functioning by this visual inspection. Taking a zoom lens apart is best left to a trained technician, especially if the lens is still under warranty.

3. Look at the front and rear elements themselves, and see if there is any dust or debris on these elements. They can show up as white or dark dots in your pictures, and fixing this problem is as easy as cleaning the lens elements with a microfiber cleaning cloth.

4. Look in the small gap around the outside of the lens barrel when it is extended into the zoom position. This opening is very small, but dust or sand grains can become lodged in there and prevent the lens from functioning properly. Try to remove the dust or debris using a small toothpick or needle. Do not use compressed air, as this may drive the debris further into the lens and create more severe problems.

Tags: best left, best left trained, cleaning cloth, dust debris, front rear, front rear elements

Mount Discs For A Tomtom

A TomTom's holding device attaches to your windshield using a large suction cup, which will not stick to dashboards. Applying a mount disc to the dashboards allows the holding device to stay in place. Once the TomTom holder is attached, the GPS unit can then be placed into the holding device, which allows the driver to more easily view and enter information into the TomTom while she is sitting in the driver's seat. Because TomTom mount discs use a gentle adhesive product, they are easy to remove and safe to use in vehicles.

Instructions

1. Clean the dashboard with a damp cloth to remove dust and residue. Allow the dashboard to fully dry.

2. Remove the backing from the TomTom mount disc.

3. Stick the adhesive side of the mount disc onto the dashboard. Press firmly to ensure the mount disc is secure.

4. Place the TomTom holder over the mount disc, so the cradle is facing up. Move the TomTom holder a bit to ensure the holder suction cup is sticking to the mount disc. The holder is now mounted and ready to be used with a TomTom GPS unit.

Tags: mount disc, holding device, TomTom holder, TomTom mount

Upload Pictures To A Verizon Wirless Pictures Account

Verizon Wireless allows users to upload pictures from their phones to an online account. Here is how you can upload pictures to a Verizon Wireless Pictures Account.

Instructions

1. Once you have an account created, take a picture with your Verizon Wireless cell phone.

2. Go to the menu portion of your cell phone and scroll over to “Get It Now.”

3. Press the number 2 on your keypad or select “Get PIX & FLIX.”

4. Press the number 3 on your keypad or select “MY PIX.”

5. Select whichever album your pictures are in.

6. Scroll through your pictures and select a picture that you would like to upload to your Verizon Wirless Pictures account. You can only upload one picture at a time.

7. Once you are at the picture, press the button on your keypad that takes you to “Options.” Normally, this button will be labeled on the screen of your phone.

8. Press the number 2 on your keypad or selected “To PIX Place.” The picture will then automatically upload to your Verizon Wireless Pictures account.

Tags: Verizon Wireless, your keypad, number your, number your keypad, Press number, Press number your, your Verizon

Make An Easy Homemade Solar Cell Light Bulb For A Science Fair

Solar panels can be small.

A solar cell converts light into electricity. When light shines on a photocell, it produces a tiny amount of voltage. The voltage produced by a single solar cell is very small, about 1/2 volt. This is too small to drive a load; therefore, a number of solar cells are connected in series to produce a higher voltage. A solar panel, consisting of a number of solar cells, can be used to drive a load, such as a light bulb. It is fairly simple to make a solar cell-driven light bulb for a science fair.

Instructions

1. Strip about 1 inch of insulation from each end of a 1-foot long, red insulated wire and a 1-foot long, black. This can be done with a wire stripper, or light a candle, hold the end of a wire in the flame for a few seconds, take it out and pull off the insulation piece using pliers. Don't touch the wire end with bare hands immediately because it will be fairly hot.

2. Identify a 3 V, 100 mA solar panel's positive and negative terminals. You should see two wires extending from the solar panel. In most cases, the positive wire is red and the negative wire is black, but colors may vary. Check the solar panel markings to identify the correct polarity. The negative polarity is the ground.

3. Strip 1 inch of insulation from each of the solar panel's two wires. Use the method you used previously.

4. Connect the solar panel's positive terminal wire to any one of the two wires of a 100-Ohm, 1/4-watt resistor. This can be done by holding both wires side by side and then twisting them together with fingers or pliers.

5. Connect the other end of the resistor with the 1-foot long, red wire. Do this by placing their ends side by side and twisting them together with fingers or pliers.

6. An LED's positive lead is longer than its negative lead.

Connect the red wire's other end to the longer lead (positive) of a light-emitting diode (LED). Use the method you used previously.

7. Connect the LED's shorter lead (negative) to the 1-foot long, black wire. Place the wire ends side by side and twist them together with fingers or pliers.

8. Connect the black wire's other end to one of the two leads of a small, push-button switch. Because push-button switch leads are very stiff, you can simply wind the black wire around the lead to make the connection.

9. Connect the push-button switch's other lead to the solar panel's negative (ground) wire. Use the method you used previously.

10. Press the switch's push button. This will light the LED. Do not keep the light on for more than a few seconds because it may burn the LED. You may push the button, however, as many times and as often as you want.

Tags: solar panel, 1-foot long, black wire, fingers pliers, method used, method used previously

Recharge Button Cell Batteries

Recharge Button Cell Batteries

Button cell batteries are known for their small features. These thin energy cells are used to provide battery power for hearing aids, electronic devices and watches. They require a very thin profile, allowing gadgets to benefit from their compact nature and style. Most people buy new button cell batteries whenever their old ones run out of power. However, it is possible to recharge your button cell batteries without seeking the help of a professional. Recharging batteries, versus buying new ones, will save you money.

Instructions

For Cyclic or Fast Charging

1. Insert your battery into the open slot of the button cell battery charger. Use clear tape to seal it in place if the battery does not fit tightly into the charger.

2. Switch on the charger's power button and charge the cell battery until it reaches the terminal voltage of 2.40 to 2.45 volts per cell at 58 degrees Fahrenheit. This is equivalent to 14.4 to 14.7 volts for a 12-volt battery, with a temperature of 20 degrees Celsius, and will place your button cell batteries on cyclic or fast charging.

3. Leave your battery on this voltage until the dial shows a charge current of 0.01 x C amps. Most battery amp-hour rating is at C.

4. Turn off the battery charger and remove the newly charged button cell battery.

For Standby Service or Float Charging

5. Insert your battery into the open slot of the button cell battery charger. Use clear tape to seal it in place if the battery does not fit tightly into the charger.

6. Switch on the charger's power button and set it on float charging mode. Charge the button cell battery at a continuous voltage of about 2.25 to 2.30 volts per cell at 58 degrees Fahrenheit. This is equivalent to 13.5 to 13.8 volts for a 12-volt battery, with a temperature of 20 degrees Celsius. The charger will regulate your button cell batteries into its own current level.

7. Turn off the battery charger as soon as the button cell batteries are completely charged. You can check the dial to determine the status of the battery's charge. Remove the battery from the charger.

Tags: button cell, cell battery, battery charger, button cell battery, your button cell, button cell batteries

8mm Camcorder Cleaning

Before high definition home video cameras and miniDV tapes, there were 8MM camcorders. 8MM camcorders started off as an analog camera system for home use, an morphed into 8MM digital camcorders. The tapes these cameras used were roughly the size of a cassette tape. Like most other camera devices, you will need to constantly keep the camera clean to keep the camera producing the best possible content available.

The Lens

Of all the parts of an 8MM camera to keep clean, the lens is the most important. If the lens were ever to become damaged, it wouldn't matter how clean the rest of the device is. You can clean the lens by occasionally using lens cleaning fluid and wipes. For those who wear glasses, you can use the same fluid and cloth. You will not want to use fabric from your clothing because you may inadvertently scratch the lens. In addition, if you see a piece of debris on the lens, do not use your fingers. Your fingers will leave oil and dirt on it.

Inside the tape deck

Because the tape deck leads to the inside of the 8MM camcorder, it is important to keep it free of dust and other particles. If dust were to find its way into the camera, it may damage the image or scratch the tape. Do not blow dust or other particles out with your mouth. No matter how hard you try, some form of condensation will escape your mouth. This extra moisture can damage certain areas in the deck. Instead, use an air blower, such like one you would find at a doctor's office (appearing like a mini turkey baster). Also do not use condensed air cans. These cans are pressurized and can damage parts.

Clean Insde the Camera

After you have cleaned the entire camera, you may want to use a cleaning tape. This cleaning tape is covered in specialized chemicals used to clean up anything along the tape track. Insert this tape just as you would any other tape and press play. Allow the tape to run for a few minutes. Once the time has past you can remove the tape. Allow a few minutes to dry before inserting another tape into the deck

Tags: clean lens, cleaning tape, dust other, dust other particles, keep camera, other particles, tape deck

Troubleshoot A Cd Player

Although you will rarely be able to repair your own CD player, you may be able to diagnose problems. That can help you decide whether to have it repaired.

Instructions

1. Check all connections, such as from player to amplifier or receiver and receiver to speaker. Check and clean contacts on RCA jacks and cables and try a different input on the amplifier or receiver.

2. Clean the lens. Use only a special CD lens cleaner and follow the instructions carefully.

3. Check the traverse assembly (the metal rod that the laser travels along and the gear that drives it) if CDs aren't recognized or won't play, frequent skipping occurs at random, CDs randomly get stuck in one spot, the player can't find tracks correctly, or cleaning the lens doesn't work. Dust and lint may be interrupting its function.

4. Have the laser-head assembly checked by a repair person if the traverse assembly seems intact and free of debris.

5. Check for a stuck CD if the drawer won't open or close or will only partially open or close. If there isn't one, have gears and belts replaced.

6. Lubricate the gears if the CD player will only play certain tracks or up to a particular point on a disc.

7. Look for broken plastic parts, such as gears and clips.

8. Look for loose or broken internal connections.

9. Have the power supply replaced if your CD player overheats.

10. If your player won't recognize a disc, make sure the CD is properly loaded and not scratched, and that the lens is clean.

Tags: your player, amplifier receiver, open close, traverse assembly, will only

Reset A Mytouch 3g Slide

If you've recently acquired a MyTouch 3G Slide phone from someone, you might want to reset the phone to its original default settings and delete the previous owner's personal information. Likewise, if you plan on giving the phone to someone, you'll want to reset it to protect your data. There are two ways to perform a hard reset on the MyTouch 3G Slide. If you simply want to reset the phone by turning it off then back on, push and hold the "Power" key to turn it off, and then push and hold the "Power" key to turn it back on.

Instructions

Primary Method

1. Push the "Home" key then push "Menu." Tap the on-screen "Settings" button.

2. Scroll down and then tap "Privacy."

3. Tap "Factory Data Reset." Tap "Reset Phone" then "Erase Everything."

Secondary Method

4. Push and hold the "Power" key to turn the phone off.

5. Push and hold the "Volume Down" button and then tap "Power."

6. Release the "Volume Down" button when the Android images appear on your screen.

7. Push "Volume Down" to highlight "Clear Storage" and then push "Power."

8. Push "Volume Up" to select "Yes."

Tags: hold Power, hold Power turn, Power turn, then push, Volume Down, want reset, Down button

Locate People Using A Cell Phone & A Gps

You will need a handheld GPS to search for someone in emergency situations

A global positioning system (GPS) can help get you where you need to go. It can also help track a missing child or older adult. With a GPS, it is possible to pinpoint a person's location within as little as three feet, although the usual distance is up to 30 feet. A combination of the GPS and the user's cell phone can help emergency personnel do this, since cell phones now transmit GPS coordinates. There are also programs available that allow the average person to track another person's cell phone using a location-based program.

Instructions

Establishing a Location Using a Cell Phone

1. Use an enabled phone to transmit location information

Give one of the phones above to your loved one. Each of these phones has the ability to transmit location information back to a home user. Sign up for Sprint Mobile or Accutrack online. These programs allow you to track the phone's movements online. The Accutrack program also allows you to see the speed at which that phone is moving, which is important information especially for parents of teens who are new to driving. The Sprint Mobile Locator also allows you to do this.

2. A GPS/cell phone combination may not work well if it is in the trunk of a car

Get the user to turn on the cell phone and keep it in a clear and open location. The reception of the GPS signal may be hampered when the user is in a tunnel or if the cell phone is in the trunk of a car.

3. You will see the cell phones on a map and you can click on them to get the exact location

Log in to the internet. Go to the Accutracking or Sprint Mobile account sites, depending on what you signed up for. Log in. Your account will show the locations of the phones you are tracking. Check to see where the cell phones are located.

4. Go to the location you have noted.

Right click to get the exact longitude and latitude coordinates. Put these coordinates into your GPS. It will give you instructions on get to that location.

Tags: cell phones, Sprint Mobile, also allows, cell phone, cell phone, location information, transmit location

Convert Negatives Into Digital Photos

Use a scanner with your computer to digitize negatives

As the world of photography goes digital, many people are faced with trying to save hundreds or thousands of 35 mm negatives from the days of film cameras. One way to preserve precious memories is to digitize the negatives and store the images on a computer or recordable CD. Instantly, old photos gain new life, and can be emailed to family and friends or assembled into a digital slide show for screening on a computer or home theater.

Instructions

Convert Negatives into Digital Photos

1. Attach the negative adapter to your scanner or use a dedicated film scanner, which will produce the best results but can be expensive. Dedicated film scanners are available at photography shops and electronic stores, starting at around $100.

2. Clean the negative, if necessary, with a lint-free cloth and insert into the scanner's negative adapter.

3. Decide how you are going to use the converted images. This will help you determine the best scanning resolution. Use 600 dpi (dots per inch) for photos you plan to email. Set the resolution on your scanner to at least 1,200 dpi to print a 4-inch-by-6-inch photo and at least 2,000 dpi for prints 8 inches by 10 inches and larger. Be aware that the higher the dpi, the more storage space will be needed on your computer's hard drive, so consider burning the images to a CD after converting the negatives to digital.

4. Follow the scanner's software instructions to scan and digitize your negatives. Save all the converted images in a file and store them under you're My Photos folder.

5. Adjust the contrast, color, size and other image qualities using Adobe Photoshop or other editing software. It is best to adjust picture quality after the scan, not during the scan.

6. Store your negatives in protective plastic sleeves and keep them in three-ring binders or plastic boxes with tight-fitting lids.

Tags: Convert Negatives, converted images, Digital Photos, digitize negatives, negative adapter, your computer, your negatives

Read Lens Markings

The numbers on your camera each mean something different.

Camera lenses vary in focal length, aperture, construction, depth of field, focusing distance and special features. Lens markings will appear in a few different places on the lens. Lenses that are designed and manufactured for the professional market typically have more information on them than less expensive consumer-grade lenses. Understanding the markings on the lens is important not only to identify the type of lens, but also to know what size filters can be attached to them.

Instructions

1. Hold the lens and look on the top of the barrel near the back. On manual focus lenses there will be ring of numbers indicating the "f stop" position or aperture of the lens. On autofocus lenses, this function is usually controlled by the camera.

2. Look on the barrel towards the front of the lens. Note the window with numbers that change as the lens focuses. This is the focusing distance. There are usually two sets of numbers that give the focusing distance in feet and in meters.

3. Look at front of the lens to see a series of numbers around the perimeter. They indicate the focal lens. This number will generally appear with "MM" behind it. The starting aperture number begins with the letter "F." Another number on the front will be for the diameter of the front element. This tells you which filters you can attach because they are sold in different diameters.

Tags: focusing distance, front lens, numbers that

Calculate A Macro Lens

Calculate a Macro Lens

Macro lenses are lenses that are described as having a 1:1 magnification factor. This means that the physical size of the object being photographed is equal to the size of the projected image on the digital sensor or film. These lenses are specially designed to capture the fine, intricate details of small objects. Not all macro lenses are created equal, however, and many designated with the "macro" name are not true macro lenses. To calculate your macro lens, use a simple magnification formula, plugging in values you collect from a test shot taken with your lens.

Instructions

1. Calculate the distance between the front of your lens and your subject, in millimeters, with your tape measure.

2. Determine the focal length of your macro lens. The focal length is typically printed on the lens itself and will probably be a value between 50 mm and 200 mm.

3. Divide the focal length of your lens by the distance between you and your subject minus the focal length. For instance, if you are 200 mm from your subject and shooting at a focal length of 50 mm, subtract 50 from 200 (150) and divide 50 by that number. In this case, the value would be 1/3.

4. Create a ratio to find your magnification factor. In the above example, the magnification factor would be 1:3, which means that the size of your subject is three times its apparent size in the camera. Therefore, the example lens is not a true (1:1) macro lens.

Tags: focal length, your subject, magnification factor, your lens, Calculate Macro, Calculate Macro Lens, distance between

Replace The Spool In 120 Film

Kodak developed 120 film in the early 20th century for use in its Brownie line of cameras. The distinctive format of 120 film has allowed it to endure the transition to digital photography primarily because the format allows certain aesthetic color advantages that 35mm film and digital photographs do not. When you want to shoot a new roll of film, it can seem daunting to replace a roll of 120 film if are unfamiliar with the parts of your camera, but with a little patience it can be done.

Instructions

1. Open your camera's film compartment. Usually you will have to turn a screw or a plate on the back or the bottom of the camera counter-clockwise to open the compartment. Every camera is slightly different, so consult your user manual if you are unable to find a releasing mechanism. The back of the camera will pop out when you have successfully done so.

2. Remove the empty spool from the side of the camera that you see it in. This is called the supply side, and it is holding the end of the previous roll of film that the camera has shot. You must place this empty spool in the compartment on the opposite end of the back of the camera (called the take-up side). If there is no spool in the back of the camera, you can go to a camera shop and they will likely have an extra one you can have.

3. Tear apart the foil wrapper that your new roll of 120 film is in. Carefully peel off the tape that keeps the roll intact.

4. Place the new spool of 120 film on the supply side of the camera (the side that does not rotate if you twist the film advance knob).

5. Pull the paper (unravel the spool), so an arrow appears, indicating that you are on the right path. Insert the end of the paper leader into the tab in the center of the empty film spool that you previously moved.

6. Wind the film advance knob on the side of the camera until the film becomes taut and begins to wind around the empty spool.

7. Close the camera and wind the film-advance knob until the red window or frame counter on the outside of the camera reads some form of "1" or "#1." Occasionally cameras will read "S" before they get to "1." Many cameras also will make a clicking sound when they reach the appropriate frame number.

8. Shoot the roll of film, advancing to the next number in between shots.

Tags: roll film, back camera, empty spool, side camera, advance knob

Format A Sandisk Micro Sd Card

Micro SD cards can be formatted just like a computer hard drive.

When you buy a SanDisk micro SD card, it will be formatted properly. However, there are times when you want to erase everything on the card or possibly eliminate errors you might see when using the card. Formatting the card can be done with any computer that has an external or internal card reader, and it takes less than a minute to return your card to like-new condition.

Instructions

Formatting on a Computer

1. Insert the tiny micro SD card into slot located at the bottom of the the larger SD card adapter. If you are using an external card reader, plug the card reader into your computer.

2. If the Plug and Play menu opens, close it. Right-click on "Start" and select "Open Windows Explorer."

3. Right-click on your card. It should be listed in the pane on the left.

4. Select "Format."

5. Select any preferences you want to set, such as what file system type, and then begin the formatting process.

Formatting With a Cellphone

6. Insert the Sandisk micro SD card into the card slot on your cellphone. The card slots on some older micro SD-enabled phones is behind the phone's battery. Power your phone down before removing the battery.

7. Hit your phone's menu button. In the menu, locate the "Settings" or "Setting and Tools" option. Browse the "Settings" menu for the "Memory" or "Phone Storage" option.

8. Locate the "Card Memory" option and then choose the format option to erase the SD card.

Tags: card reader, micro card, card into, micro card into, your card, your phone

Do A Calculator Trick

Do a Calculator Trick

Calculator tricks are simple mathematical formulas, but to the people watching they look like magic. You can perform these feats almost anywhere since the only prop you need is a calculator.

Instructions

1. Ask someone to choose a number between 1 and 9. Give him a calculator and ask him to multiply the chosen number by 9. Then have them multiply the result by 12,345,679.

2. Guess their mystery number by looking at the final number on the calculator. If the calculator reads 333,333 then the original number they entered was 3.

3. Call someone the phone and announce that you can predict if they will have good luck of bad luck in their future. Ask them to choose a three digit number and enter it into a calculator twice, for example if they choose 457 they would enter 457,457.

4. Ask the subject to concentrate on the display to make this trick work. Tell him that the number is divisible by 11, and have him verify by dividing the number by 11.

5. Announce that the number now appearing on the calculator display is divisible by 13, have him verify by dividing it by 13. Ask him to divide the final answer by his original 3 digit number and the new number will determine fortune, the answer will be a 7 meaning good luck.

6. Try predicting bad luck with someone else Have him divide by 7 in Step 6 instead of 13 and the final answer will be 13 symbolizing bad luck

Tags: answer will, Calculator Trick, digit number, divisible have, divisible have verify, final answer

Use A Document Camera In The Classroom

A document camera can be conncted to an interactive whiteboard.

Similar to an overhead projector, a document camera scans and projects two- and three-dimensional objects, whether they are still or moving. This allows teachers to present a wide range of material to a whole class of students. Incorporating a document camera into lessons is easy and allows teachers to prepare fun and interactive activities and lessons in no time.

Instructions

1. Display student records. Use the document camera like a class notice board to display upcoming class activities or events timetable to students. It can also be used to show missing assignments, class homework grades and attendance records.

2. Develop writing skills. Teach students properly form letters by projecting the letter images on to a whiteboard via a document camera. Students can then write over the projected letters until they are confident forming them. Track individual progress by letting each student have a turn.

3. Read together. With a document camera, you can share a book with the whole class, even if you only have one copy. Use the camera to practice reading aloud, focus on individual words and phrases or study images and illustrations together. This also eliminates the need for photocopying multiple copies of one story or sheet.

4. Demonstrate new techniques. Students no longer have to crowd around your desk while you show them to mold clay or dissect a frog. This is particularly useful if you have limited resources or clean-up time.

5. Monitor individual students. If you have a student who struggles to stay focused and on task, get him to complete his work under the document camera. As his work will be projected to the entire class, both the teacher and other students can monitor his work from anywhere in the classroom.

6. Give student feedback. Project good examples of classwork and homework to students using the document camera and demonstrate why this piece scored highly. Alternatively, display an individual piece and allow the class to peer edit the document.

Tags: document camera, document camera, allows teachers, whole class

Create A Dark Room For Film Developing

Developing your own film can save you money and time.

It's essential to have a darkroom when developing film, because the process involves the use of light-sensitive materials. If the photographer exposes the film to light at the wrong point, the film will go black. Also, the photographer must develop film, and fix it by applying a series of chemicals, before she can expose the film to light or use it to create photographic prints.

Instructions

Preparation

1. Find a room with few or no windows. Large closets can work, but a windowless, otherwise unused bathroom or laundry room is ideal, since these rooms provide running water. However, do not use a bathroom as a temporary or dual-use darkroom; that is, don't start using the area as a bathroom after making it a darkroom. Developing chemicals often have an unpleasant odor, and they can also stain surfaces and fixtures.

2. Clean the room. Remove all extraneous material and dust by scrubbing the walls with a brush and sandpaper. Paint the room white and apply a coat of sealant (pick a type of sealant that you can wipe clean easily).

3. Look for openings where light can enter the room, like around the door frame or windows. Block these openings. For large gaps, nail a wooden plank over the opening. Cover smaller gaps with black garbage bags or heavy black fabric. For tiny cracks, use felt weatherstripping.

4. Install an extraction fan on an external wall to ensure adequate ventilation and comfortable working conditions. Some developing chemicals may be unhealthy, particularly when concentrated in a small space.

Set-Up

5. Organize the room into wet and dry areas, and keep the two areas as separate as possible. Designate wet areas for chemical storage and mixing, washing equipment, and tank and tray processing. Use the dry area for storing your equipment and anything electrical. If you use your darkroom to process photographic prints, keep your enlarger and photographic paper in the dry area as well.

You'll be working in low light, so your storage areas should be uncluttered and your containers clearly marked.

6. Provide darkroom-safe illumination. Red 15-watt lightbulbs have little effect on unprocessed film if used in moderation. However, no type of darkroom light is completely safe for film.

One useful trick is to direct the lights towards the ceiling, so that the light bounces off the ceiling before hitting any light-sensitive materials. This will also reduce shadows, and make it easier for you to see what you're doing.

If you intend to use the room for photograph printing, check what type of light your photographic paper requires (the package should have bulb and filter specifications).

7. Stretch a clothesline along one side of the room. Put metal clips up on the clothesline to hold film while it's drying after the developing and fixer baths.

It's best to keep dust and other particles away from drying film, so place the clothesline in a small closet in the darkroom, if possible.

8. Place a timer in a highly visible location on the wall, so that you can easily follow developing time requirements. Most photographers use Gralab timers, which show up well in dark spaces.

Tags: film light, light your, light-sensitive materials, photographic paper, photographic prints

Replace Capacitors In An Antique Radio

Old capacitors in an antique radios must be removed and replaced with like-size and type.

Capacitors are used to smooth out signals and voltages in electronics, especially radios and televisions. Capacitors pose a problem in older antique radios because they have components within them that degrade over time. When reconditioning an antique radio to make it operational, you may need to remove an old capacitor and replace it with a new one of the same size. Capacitors are rated and measured in farads, microfarads or picofarads. These ratings are printed on the exterior of each capacitor. Ceramic capacitors are flat disks, while electrolytic capacitors are round vertical cylinders. Electrolytic capacitors with polarity (positive and negative sides) must be installed in the proper direction on the board.

Instructions

1. Remove the exterior cabinet or casing from the radio by removing all screws with a Phillips-head or flat-head screwdriver. Lift or pull the exterior away from the interior metal chassis to reveal the circuit board.

2. Remove all screws that secure the circuit board to the risers in the radio chassis so that the board can be tilted or rotated as necessary when preparing to desolder old capacitors and to solder in the new ones. Keep the circuit board mounting screws in a separate location to help in easing reassembly.

3. Plug in the soldering iron and wait 10 minutes for it to come to maximum operating temperature. If the soldering iron has an adjustable temperature switch, set it between 25 and 35 watts, with 25 watts preferred.

4. Draw out a rough sketch of the circuit board and how components are laid out on that board. Draw this out on a blank piece of typing paper. Draw a circle in the locations where capacitors are located and write down the type and farad values inside of those circles. Ceramic and mica capacitors are round disks or flat rectangular-shaped devices, whereas electrolytic capacitors are vertical cylinders with a (+) printed near one wire leg and a (-) on the other wire leg.

5. Mark all positive (+) sides of the electrolytic capacitors on the board. If a capacitor is electrolytic, place a small red dot on the circuit board where the positive (+) wire of the capacitor pushes through the board.

6. Unroll a 4-inch piece of desoldering braid from the spool and use wire cutters to cut the length from the spool. Put on a pair of thin leather gloves to protect fingers and hands from any hot solder splatters and from hot desoldering braid.

7. Rotate the circuit board to expose the underside. Touch the desoldering braid across the two solder beads holding the capacitor in place, and then press it down with the hot tip of the soldering iron. The heat will distribute across the braid causing the solder to melt, as the old solder will be absorbed by the braid. Once the old solder has been absorbed, use a pair of needle-nosed pliers to pull the capacitor away from the board. Don't use fingers, as the capacitor may be hot to the touch. Use a new piece of desoldering braid when desoldering each capacitor.

8. Slide the wire legs of the new capacitor through the holes in the board where it is to be installed. For non-electrolytic capacitors, it doesn't matter which leg goes through which hole. For electrolytic capacitors, look for the red dot placed on the board and slide the positive (+) wire leg through that marked hole. Press the capacitor downward onto the board until the bottom of the capacitor touches the board.

9. Hold the new capacitor on the board and reach around to the bottom where the wire legs are protruding through the board. Gently bend the wires outward slightly to prevent the new capacitor from falling off the board while soldering.

10. Touch the tip of the soldering iron to one of the legs on the new capacitor, making sure the tip of the soldering iron touches the leg and the metal pad on the underside of the board so both are heated. Allow the tip to heat the leg and the pad for about 5 seconds, then touch the tip of the solder to where the leg is in the hole. Allow just a small bead of solder to melt onto both the wire and the circuit board pad, then remove immediately. Apply a bead of solder to the other leg in the same way.

11. Desolder and install only one new capacitor at a time until all have been replaced, making sure the capacitors are all replaced with the same type and size as the ones being replaced.

Tags: circuit board, soldering iron, desoldering braid, electrolytic capacitors, antique radios, away from, bead solder

Pentax 645 Vs Mamiya

Two popular medium-format film camera brands that can be purchased on the cheap on the used market are the Pentax and the Mamiya. Both brands have an excellent reputation for reliability and image quality. Also, both offer the popular 645 format, which is the smallest of the medium formats and therefore offers you the most portable camera, but also the medium-format resolution. In general, the Mamiya is more flexible, and the Pentax is less expensive and easier to use.

Format In Its Sunset

Medium-format film cameras used to be an essential tool for professional photographers during the film era. After all, you can't increase the resolution of film, so you have to build a bigger camera if you want bigger, high-resolution prints. Recently, digital SLRs, even 35 mm varieties, have begun to offer resolutions on par with medium-format film cameras, so professional photographers have been selling their medium-format film gear and upgrading to digital.

Medium Format Is a Different Animal

If you are purchasing your first medium-format film camera, prepare yourself for the inconvenience of a giant, noisy camera with few auto settings. These cameras usually have two separate batteries for the camera body and the winder, and the shutter is so large, a tripod is necessary to avoid the blurry effect of camera shake.

Pentax

The Pentax is a smaller 645 than the Mamiya, but that comes at the expense of a removable back.

Pentax manufactures medium-format film cameras, 35 mm film cameras, and digital 35 mm cameras, and their cameras offer an excellent viewfinder and lens selection. If you currently own or plan to purchase Pentax 35 mm camera gear, some of the accessories, like the flash, will be compatible with a Pentax medium-format film camera. However, Pentax does not currently offer digital medium-format cameras, so if you plan to upgrade to this high-end format, your lenses may go to waste.

The lack of a digital upgrade path is one reason used Pentax medium-format film cameras are cheaper, even if you purchase a body with auto-focus, which is a feature only available on the newer and more expensive Mamiyas.

Mamiya

Mamiya only sells medium format cameras, and currently manufactures a digital version. If you plan to someday upgrade to a digital medium format camera, you will be able to continue using the Mamiya lenses on this camera.

However, it is not clear whether medium-format digital cameras will remain popular in the face of digital 35 mm cameras becoming capable of higher and higher resolutions.

Mamiya offers removable backs, which means you can have a back fully loaded with another roll of film ready when the last one is used up, or switch to another kind of film, or switch to a digital back.

Specific Models

As both Pentax and Mamiya have been making medium-format cameras since the 1970s, it is important to make an apples to apples comparison with the models. On the Pentax side, the best cameras to consider are the 645N, and 645NII. For Mamiya, look for the 645 Super, Pro or AF. These models are new enough to be compatible with most lenses and have enough features to make medium-format photography pleasurable.

Tags: film cameras, medium-format film, digital cameras, film camera, medium-format film, medium-format film camera

Record A Directv SA Vcr

DirecTV provides users with clear digital television and the option of DVR recording. Subscribers who want to store some of those shows on videocassette, however, need to make a simple connection. This connection allows you to not only record DirecTV programming but operate your VCR and watch DirecTV at the same time.

Instructions

1. Set up the DirecTV cable box and the VCR next to each other. This makes it a lot easier to adjust and attach cables. Typically, the DirecTV box should go on top of the VCR, but sizes vary, so place the smaller electronic device on top of the larger one.

2. Connect the cable that is coming from the wall to the DirecTV input that is labeled"SAT IN" or "Cable In." If the DirecTV is already connected, the cable should already be connected, and should not be touched.

3. Connect a coaxial cable from the "TV Out" port of the DirecTV box. Connect this to the "Cable In" or "SAT IN" port on the VCR. This will commonly be the bottom port on a VCR, but connections vary from model to model.

4. Connect a coaxial cable from the "OUT TO TV" port and directly into the coaxial input on the back of the television.

5. Make sure that both the VCR and DirecTV are set to operate on the same channel. This is usually either Channel 3 or Channel 4.

6. Turn on the DirecTV box, VCR and television. Check the connection by pressing the VCR/TV button and calling up the appropriate channel on the VCR.

7. Test the recording by placing a blank tape in the VCR and recording for a few minutes. Stop the tape, rewind and play it back to make sure everything worked correctly.

Tags: already connected, cable from, cable from port, coaxial cable, coaxial cable from

Difference Between Pay As You Go & Prepaid

As technology has advanced, mobile phone use has increased. Many mobile carriers provide both contract and prepaid options for customers. Prepaid phone services have gained popularity because of their static cost and lack of a contract.

Prepaid Phones & Plans

Prepaid mobile phones do not require a contract and the consumer pays for minutes or time in advance. If a user fails to pay, they do not incur fees or service deductions and the phone becomes disconnected from service until another purchase is made.

The term "prepaid" can also refer to non-contract service plans that include a monthly charge and additional services such as unlimited minutes or data.

Pay As You Go Plans

"Pay as you go" refers to prepaid cell phone plans with consumable minutes instead of a non-contract service plan. A user purchases minutes in card or digital form, and refills them as necessary depending on usage. Pay-as-you-go phone types differ in number of minutes per card and the length of time the phone will remain active between minute purchases.

Advantages & Disadvantages

Because prepaid cell phones do not require a contract, there is no possibility of late payments or late fees. Minutes are used at the customer's discretion and the phone will stop working when the minutes are gone or activation time has expired.

As-needed minutes in prepaid systems provide a low-cost alternative for users who do not use their phones frequently or wish to cap their phones' usage. However, prepaid plans can be costly when used excessively, because of higher per-minute costs. Some prepaid plans also require at least one minute purchase per month for continued service, and some place expiration dates on remaining minutes.

Tags: minutes card, non-contract service, phone will, phones require, phones require contract, prepaid cell, prepaid plans

Set Your Camera For Action Shots

A picture taken with a camera's action mode.

Action shots are fun, and they are easy to take with a digital camera. There is very little you need to do to get great shots, but here are the settings you need for perfect action shots.

Instructions

Using Action Mode

1. Look at the top of your camera for an icon of a man running. This icon stands for the digital camera's action mode.

2. Set your digital camera set to action mode by switching the dial to this icon.

3. Take a picture in this mode to capture a great action shot.

Action Settings for Digital Camers Without Action Mode

4. Set your camera to its manual setting by switching it to the icon marked by a capital '"M."

5. Set your camera to a fast shutter speed setting such as 1/250th, 1/500th or 1/1000th of a second. Many cameras will automatically do this when set on "Shutter Priority." "Shutter Priority" is marked by a capital "S."

6. Turn off your flash.

7. Take a picture in this mode to capture a great action shot.

Tags: camera action mode, digital camera, your camera, action mode, action shot

Troubleshoot An Hp Photosmart M525

The HP Photosmart M525 digital camera allows you to capture digital photos and video, which you can transfer to a computer using HP's Image Transfer software package. As with all electronic devices, you may experience problems with the Photosmart M525 while you are using it. Rather than immediately taking the camera to a repair shop, troubleshoot the problem, whether you think it is related to the camera's hardware or software. Troubleshooting problems can help you avoid unnecessarily having the camera repaired by a professional.

Instructions

Camera Does Not Respond

1. Open the camera's battery compartment and remove the batteries. Install new batteries, making sure you follow the battery orientation as shown on the battery compartment door.

2. Reset the camera if it still will not respond. Open the battery compartment door and remove the batteries, then push on the memory card to eject it from its slot.

3. Unplug the AC power cord from the camera, if it is plugged into the camera.

4. Wait five seconds, then slide the batteries back into their compartment, following the orientation shown on the inside of the compartment's door. Close the battery compartment door and turn the camera on and see if it responds.

5. Open the battery compartment door and press the memory card firmly into its slot so it clicks and stays in its slot. If the camera does not respond with the memory card in, remove the card and replace it with another.

The Camera Will Not Take Pictures

6. Look at the camera's "Power" button to see if it is flashing. If it is, wait a couple of minutes to allow the camera to finish processing the last picture you took.

7. Turn the camera off and then on again. Press the "Shutter" button hard all the way down, since it will press partway down if pressed lightly.

8. Turn off the camera and open the battery compartment. Press on the memory card to eject it, then insert an empty memory card if you have one.

9. Connect the camera to a computer using the dock or the USB cable if you do not have another memory card. Open the HP Image Transfer software by double-clicking on the software's icon on the computer's desktop.

10. Turn the camera on and try taking pictures after you have finished transferring all the images over to the computer. If the camera still will not work, take it to a repair shop.

Tags: battery compartment, memory card, compartment door, battery compartment door, Photosmart M525, camera still, camera still will

Install A Car Audio System Capacitor

Car audio capacitors store electrical energy and release it to maintain proper current flow. This improves car amplifier performance, especially when power demand is great, such as when the volume of the music is loud. A car audio capacitor is installed on the power line leading from the battery of the vehicle to the amplifier it is serving. Installation only requires a few wire connections.

Instructions

1. Remove the end of the power line leading to the amplifier from the battery of your car.

2. Cut the power line in a spot about one foot from the amplifier with a pair of wire cutters.

3. Remove 1/2 inch of insulation from each end of the cut wire with a set of wire strippers.

4. Loosen the two terminals marked (+) on the capacitor with an Allen wrench until there is an opening large enough for the bare ends of the cut wire to be inserted. Slip the ends of the wire into the terminals--one wire per terminal--and tighten them with the Allen wrench.

5. Loosen the (-) terminal of the capacitor with the Allen wrench. Slide the end of the capacitor's ground cable into the opening then tighten the terminal.

6. Loosen the ground bolt for the amplifier with a wrench. Slide the end of the capacitor's ground wire under the bolt and tighten the bolt.

7. Replace the power line back onto the battery.

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Locate A Microphonic Tube In An Amplifier

One of the most common failures in vacuum tubes is the development of microphonic properties. This occurs when the tube begins to act as an antenna and introduce stray sounds into the circuit, which is obviously a problem for amplifiers. Microphonic vacuum tubes not only make the amplifier noisy but also may be a precursor to amplifier damaging electronic failures. Luckily, locating microphonic vacuum tubes is easy.

Instructions

1. Remove the access panel and inspect area around vacuum tubes. If tubes have individual metal covers remove them (they usually twist off). If any tube is broken or cracked, it must be replaced. If the area around any tube looks as if it has been melted or burned, there may be an electrical problem and the unit should be referred to a qualified technician. Connect the amplifier to a speaker if one is not built into the unit.

2. Turn the amplifier's main power switch on, but do not turn on the standby switch if unit is equipped with one. Give the unit three to five minutes to heat the tubes, and look for each tube to illuminate a faint orange glow from its filament wires. If a tube does not glow, it may be bad. Do not touch the metal chassis of the amplifier.

3. Activate standby switch and allow another three to five minutes for the high voltage to fully power up. Adjust settings to a normal volume. If the unit makes crackling noises with volume adjustment, the tubes are probably not the problem.

4. Avoiding the metal chassis, gently tap each tube with the eraser end of a pencil. Each tap should result in a gentle thump, similar to bumping against a microphone, through the speaker. If any tap results in feedback or crackling, the tube is microphonic.

5. Gently wiggle each tube with the pencil eraser (try not to actually move the tube) if no tube appears microphonic after tapping. Any noise suggests the tube is microphonic.

6. Power down the amplifier and write down the numbers on any microphonic tube. You will need these numbers to order a replacement. Replace access panel.

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Make Your Samsung Epic 4g Phone Into A Wifi Hotspot

Connect your laptop to the Internet using your Samsung Epic 4G smart phone.

The Samsung Epic 4G smart phone allows you to convert your phone into a Wi-Fi hotspot and connect up to five devices. Such a set-up will keep you from running around searching for an area that offers free Wi-FI. If you're stuck in an airport or staying overnight at a hotel, you won't have to pay extra for Internet service. You can connect your laptop or other media device to your phone's Wi-Fi network.

Instructions

Enable 4G

1. Press the "Home" button, which looks like the outline of a house, on the bottom of your Samsung Epic 4G phone.

2. Click the "Menu" button to the left of the "Home" button.

3. Click the "Settings" icon, which looks like a gray box with a spoke in the middle.

4. Scroll through the list and click "Wireless & Networks."

5. Press "4G" until a check mark appears, indicating the 4G network is enabled.

6. Click the "Home" button. The 4G icon will appear to the left of your signal bars in the upper-right corner of your screen. The separate sets of bars above the 4G logo indicate the strength of your 4G signal. When the bars above the 4G logo are completely gray and the 4G logo is white, you have a weak signal. When you are no longer receiving a 4G signal, your 4G logo will be gray and a 3G logo will appear, indicating that the 3G network is now enabled. If both of the logos disappear, you are not receiving any signal. You must have either a 3G or a 4G signal to use your phone as a Wi-Fi hotspot.

Enable Sprint Hotspot

7. Press the "Applications" icon, a blue box with four whites squares in it, in the lower-right corner of your Samsung Epic 4G phone.

8. Press the "Sprint Hotspot" icon, which looks like a phone with two signal bars on the right side, until a check mark appears to the right of the icon, signaling the Spring hotspot function is enabled. A pass-key allowing you to connect other devices to the phone's network will appear on the screen. Write the pass-key down.

9. Enable Wi-Fi on your laptop or other device that you want to tether to your Samsung Epic 4G phone.

10. Search for the Wi-Fi network affiliated with your Samsung Epic 4G phone. The name of the network will begin with "SPH-D700XXX." To change the name of the Wi-Fi network affiliated with your Samsung Epic 4G phone, press the "Menu" button; the "Settings" icon; and "Device Name." Enter the new name for phone's Wi-Fi network.

11. Click the network affiliated with your Samsung Epic 4G phone on the device you want to tether to your phone'ss Wi-Fii network. Enter the pass-key, and click "OK." Your device will now be tethered to the Wi-Fi hotspot on your Samsung Epic 4G phone.

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What Do The Different Types Of Flashes On A Camera Mean

Camera flash units help you light scenes for better photos.

Ever since the use of flash powder to light up a scene for slow image plates in the 19th century, photographers have used the sudden burst of light to make their photos possible. When plates changed to film, the media still was very slow, meaning the light-sensitive material took some time to capture light. Film emulsions got faster, but photographers often still needed to supplement available light. With the transition to digital cameras, you still need a flash in many circumstances.

Fill Flash

Almost all modern cameras have a small built-in flash called a fill flash. Whether you use a simple point-and-shoot camera or an expensive digital single-lens reflex camera, this flash is available. As the name implies, this kind of flash works to fill in shadows slightly. For example, if you are shooting an image of a newly married couple on a sunny day, shadow may fall on their faces while all around them is bright. The fill flash is designed to provide enough light to fill in the shadow and brighten the faces without looking like a glaring, bright and unnatural flash of light.

Direct Flash

Direct flash is the type of electronic flash unit that sits directly atop medium- to high-end cameras such as DSLRs. This kind of flash unit attaches to the camera through an accessory shoe on top of the viewfinder. In most cases, it connects electronically to the camera through a contact in the base of the shoe. You also can connect this type of flash with a small cord. Because the flash sits directly on top of the viewfinder, the line of the flash is directly at your subject. This gives a wide area of light to cover your image field. It is the most common DSLR accessory, especially for those photographers who need extra power in their flash for indoor subjects. The main problem with this common flash is that if you photograph people with it against a dark background area, their retinas may reflect the light through their open irises and produce "red eye," in which their eyes appear bright red.

Bounce Flash

Bounce flash solves the problem of red eye and also allows for less direct lighting. A bounce flash typically looks the same as a direct flash except that the flash head pivots to varying degrees. This allows you to bounce the flash off the ceiling or a wall if you turn the camera vertically. The result is softer lighting because no direct flash reaches your subject. You can use the different angles to adjust how the light falls on your subjects.

Bracket Flash

Mostly professional photographers use a flash bracket. It makes the camera heavier and a bit unwieldy, while at the same time giving it a little more stability. The bracket attaches to the camera, usually through the tripod socket. It holds your electronic flash unit off to the side of your camera. This works as a compromise between direct and bounce flash. While the flash is directly toward your subjects, it is not in a direct line with the lens, but off at an angle. This usually cuts down red eye and allows for more overall illumination of the scene.

Tags: bounce flash, flash unit, attaches camera, camera through, direct flash