The T-Mobile myTouch is a color touch-screen smart phone that runs on the GSM 850-1900 network. This phone features many multimedia functions, such as a 3.15-megapixel camera and the Android operating system. The myTouch also has a number of basic functions, such as the ability to lock the SIM card to protect your phone's information. As a result, you may unintentionally get locked out of your myTouch phone because you entered the passcode PIN login incorrectly too many times. But the process to unlock the phone is fairly straightforward.
Instructions
1. Contact your provider and inform them that you have locked-out your myTouch phone and need you phone's PUK (PIN Unblocking Key) code.
2. Press the "Power" button to turn the phone on.
3. Touch the "Emergency Dial" icon, then enter the following sequence: "* * 05 * (your PUK code) * (your new PIN) * (your new PIN) #" into the keypad on your screen. If your PUK code is "77777" and you are changing you PIN to: "0000," then the sequence you would be entering is: "**05*77777*0000*0000#."
Tags: functions such, myTouch phone, your code, your myTouch, your myTouch phone
Your cell phone can be a useful tool for quickly taking snapshots of friends and family. If you've accidentally deleted an important photo, you don't need to lose that memory forever, as it is a relatively simple process to recover lost data. When you delete a file from your phone's memory it isn't actually deleted. You can use a file recovery utility to scan through your phone's memory and recover the lost image file.
Instructions
1. Use one of the Resources links to access a data recovery program such as Recover My Files or Data Doctor Recovery. Download the program and follow the on-screen installation instructions.
2. Remove the cell phone's memory card. Insert the card into the corresponding port on your computer's built-in memory cards reader.
3. Acquire an external card reader if your computer doesn't have a built-in unit. Attach the card reader to a USB port and then insert the memory card into the reader.
4. Open the data recovery program. Choose the option labeled "Complete Recovery" or something similar. Click "Next."
5. Click the check box that corresponds to the memory card connected to your computer. Click "Next."
6. Scroll through the list of file types that the program can recover. Click the check box labeled "Images" or "Graphics." Select "Next."
7. Click "Start" and wait for the program to search for deleted image files on the phone's memory card. Check through the list of detected files and find the one you want to recover.
8. Click the file and then choose "Save." Choose the location on your computer's hard drive or on the phone's memory card where you want the recovered file to be saved. Repeat the process with any additional image files you want to recover.
Tags: memory card, your computer, phone memory, phone memory card, your phone memory, card into
When an SD card is reformatted all of the data on it, including any photographs you had stored, will be entirely erased. If you discover you still need some of the photos after reformatting it is still possible to recover them by using a file recovery program that searches through the memory on the card and arranges it to reconstruct the deleted files.
Instructions
1. Open your web browsing program and navigate to a website that offers a file recovery program such as "F-Recover" or "Snap Files Restoration" (see Resources below).
2. Access the downloads section of the website and click on the link to download the installation file for the program. Click on "Save File" if your web browser opens a second window asking what action you want to take.
3. Wait a few moments for the installation file to finish downloading. Click on "My Computer" in the "Start" menu and navigate to the folder where your downloaded files are sent to. Double-click on the installation file. Follow the prompts that will appear on your screen to complete the installation process.
4. Double-click on the new icon that will appear on your desktop for the recovery program. Insert the SD card into the card reader on your computer if it has one or instead plug it into an external device such as a camera and connect a USB cable to an open port on your computer.
5. Click on "Drive" and then choose the drive letter that corresponds to the SD card's location on your computer. Click on "Destination" and set the location where you want the recovered files to be saved to.
6. Click on "File Type" and choose "Images" from the drop down menu that will appear. Click "Start" to begin the file recovery process.
7. Wait for the program to finish recovering the files. Navigate to the destination folder you specified and drag the files back onto the SD card.
Tags: file recovery, installation file, recovery program, that will, that will appear
So you have all these crazy, spontaneous pictures on your cell phone. What now? This is how you can get those pictures off your cell phone and print them out or save them to your computer.
Instructions
1. Find out which card your cell phone camera uses. This should be in the manual. Most phones use MicroSD cards. Usually goes in side of or behind battery plate of phone.
2. Purchase MICRO/MINI SD card for your cell phone. You can get a 1GB card for under $10. A 1GB card will hold a couple hundred pictures. The card should come with the micro/mini card itself, plus an adapter. You will need this adapter.
3. Put the card in the cell phone, read the label and make sure you are putting it in the right way. Never force the card if it resists. If it resists, you are trying to put it in the wrong way.
4. Take Pictures with your cell phone!
5. Remove the card from the cell phone and put into adapter, again, be careful. If the card resists, you are not putting it in right. This adapter is an SD card adapter.
6. Take the card to any photo shop or retailer and put the card into their instant photo maker. You can even edit on these machines. Print pictures out for just a few cents a print. This is is the simplest way to print picture from your cell phone. It doesn't matter if you have Sprint, Verizon, or AT&T cell phone service, they all print the same.
7. You can also put this in the SD card slot on your desktop or laptop computer and save them to your hard drive. If you do not have an SD card slot on your computer you can purchase a card reader at just about any retail or electronic store for under $10. The card reader plugs into your USB port and allows you to read images off the card. Enjoy!
Tags: cell phone, your cell, your cell phone, adapter card, card reader, card resists, card slot
Every portable device can encounter an error and lock up from time to time, and the Microsoft Zune audio player is no exception. In the event that your Zune freezes, however, there are several troubleshooting options available for you to unfreeze the Zune. Reset your Zune to restore normal operation, then sync it with the Zune software to see if updated firmware is available to help prevent it from freezing in the future.
Instructions
1. Press and hold the back-arrow button while holding up on the directional pad. If you have a Zune HD, hold the power button. After five to 10 seconds, the Zune will reboot and operate as normal.
2. Launch the Zune software, and connect the Zune to your computer using the USB cable. Allow a moment for the Zune to be detected by your computer.
3. Click "Settings," "Device" and "Device Update." The Zune software will scan the Internet to see if a new version of the Zune firmware is available for your device. Follow the prompts to install the new firmware. Depending on what problems are addressed by the new firmware version, problems with your Zune locking up should be reduced or eliminated.
Tags: your Zune, Zune software, firmware available, your computer
When the iPod appeared on the market, it gave birth to a new generation of on-the-go music players. Many feel that the iPod has rendered portable cassette and CD players obsolete, eliminating the need to constantly buy and change batteries. It provides users with hours of entertainment--until its battery needs to be recharged. Avoid disappointment and get more use out of your iPod by charging it and using it to listen to music simultaneously.
Instructions
1. Connect the iPod to a USB port on your computer with the help of the USB wire provided with the iPod. The device will automatically begin charging. Open the iTunes application and wait while your iPod is synchronized with your music library. Once synchronization is complete, plug your headphones into the device, which will continue to charge, and access your music as you would ordinarily.
2. Use the charger provided with the iPod to connect the device to a wall socket. Detach the headphones from the device and insert the AUX-in connector from a set of speakers into the headphone jack on the iPod to broadcast the music.
3. Insert the iPod into the cradle of an iPod speaker dock. The iPod will begin to charge as soon as the dock is plugged into an outlet. Turn the speakers on and scroll through your playlists as your normally would to select and play music.
Tags: provided with, provided with iPod, with iPod, your iPod, your music
Knowing read an AC DC adapter is a skill that comes in handy during a variety of home projects. You can easily match power cords to devices by comparing voltage and polarity, and if an adapter is damaged you can use the information to find a replacement.
Instructions
1. Identify the voltage. Next to the word "output", you'll see a number with a "V" after it (such as 12V). This is your voltage.
2. Identify the amperage. After the volts, there will be another number with "A" or "mA" after it (such as 3A or 500mA).
3. Find the diagram that shows three circles connected by lines. The center circle will be open on one side. Whichever sign it opens to is the polarity of the tip. If the circle opens to the plus sign, it is tip positive. If it opens to the minus, sign it is tip negative.
4. If possible, compare the information from the AC DC adapter to the device it powers.
5. Check the Input section to determine the voltage it requires from the wall outlet. A rating between 100 and 120 volts denotes standard voltage used in the United States. A rating of 200 to 240 volts denotes voltage used in a foreign country, and the adapter will require a voltage converter to work in the United States.
Tags: after such, number with, number with after, United States, voltage used
In June of 2007, gadget-philes everywhere scrambled to get their hands on the new Apple iPhone. Perhaps you were one of the lucky ones who held out until Steve Jobs dropped the price by 200 dollars. In any event, you are ready to get on board with the little hand-held wonder device that also makes phone calls. Here is switch to an iPhone.
Instructions
1. Get your current affairs in order with your wireless provider. If you are already an AT&T customer, you're in pretty good shape. It should just be a matter of changing your current wireless plan. If you are currently using a different provider, there might be a bit more work to do.
2. Plead a case to your current provider that current changes in rates and fees have seriously affected your service in a negative way. You will have to provide valid proof that any service changes they have made affect you directly. If you make enough of a case, you may be able to terminate your contract without incurring any cancellation fees.
3. Transfer your current wireless contract to someone else. You can do this by finding a friend or relative in the market for a wireless provider or by finding a site online that specializes in buying, selling and trading cell phone contracts.
4. Bite the bullet and pay the early cancellation fee or grit your teeth and wait for your current contract to expire. Who knows? Maybe if you're patient enough, the iPhone prices will drop again.
5. Purchase your iPhone. You can buy one at any number of Apple stores, online at the Apple store or through a local AT&T store. Going online is still useful, as it helps you locate which stores in your area have iPhones in stock.
6. Activate your new AT&T iPhone contract. As mentioned before, if you are already an AT&T customer, you may just have to rework your current wireless plan.
Tags: your current, current wireless, your current wireless, already customer, current wireless plan, wireless plan, wireless provider
A radar detector, also known as a "fuzz buster," is an electronic device that makes a driver aware if a law enforcement official is detecting his speed. Police have been using speed detection devices since the 1950s. Radar detectors used by civilians started to become popular in the 1970s. The legality of radar detectors has been disputed over the years. It is illegal in some countries and remain illegal in Virginia, Washington D.C., and on military bases.
Radar
To understand how radar detection works, you must first understand the concept of radar. Radar was first developed during World War II. A radar system emits electromagnetic waves towards an object, the waves are then bounced off the object back to the receiving device. This method can be used to detect an objects' speed, direction and range. Since the development of radar, there have been inventions that prevent detections by radar, such as stealth aircraft and vehicles. A radar detection device only alerts the operator if he is being detected, it doesn't prevent the detection like a stealth.
Detecting the Signal
Radar detectors are similar to radio receivers that are in your car or home. Radio receivers pick up signals in AM and FM frequencies. Radar detectors find the frequencies that are used by police officials using radar guns. Once the radar detector finds a frequency being directed at your car, it signals the driver somehow, most likely by beeping. It is a simple technology. Although, as law enforcement agencies expand the frequencies to detect speed, companies need to produce more radar detectors.
Other Types of Speed Detection
Of course, law enforcement agencies are aware of radar detection technology and have sought out other ways to detect a speeding motorist. The latest way cops use to detect speed, is to use a laser gun. This type of gun fires hundreds of lasers at a car, the lasers then bounce back to the gun. By multiplying the speed of light by the time the lasers reach the gun, the speed of the car can be detected. This technology is called LIDAR, and is still not as popular as speed guns using radar because of the amount of equipment already in service.
Tags: radar detection, detect speed, Detector Work, enforcement agencies, have been, Radar Detector Work
Protecting an unopened disposable camera through an airport terminal is easy.
Disposable cameras are very convenient for vacations and other circumstances where you do not have a standard camera handy. They are cheap and easy to get and use. The film in disposable cameras can be vulnerable to x-rays and care should be used when taking a camera through an airport due to the security checkpoints that use x-ray machines. Protecting an unopened disposable camera in an airport terminal just takes some planning.
Instructions
1. Buy a digital disposable camera when possible. The digital memory in the camera will not be affected by x-ray machines and the camera can be carried hassle-free.
2. Pack a film disposable camera in your carry-on bag instead of checked baggage. Kodak reports that carry-on baggage is subjected to less intense radiation that should not damage film. Checked baggage undergoes heavier x-ray levels and this likely will damage any unprocessed film.
3. Request a hand search of your carry-on baggage if you have a disposable camera and will be going through five or more security checkpoints on your trip, since multiple exposures to the lower x-ray levels still can damage the film. Hand searching of photographic film and equipment is permitted by Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations if requested, but this might not apply at foreign airports.
4. Keep your disposable camera in a lead-lined carry-on bag. Check with the manufacturer to verify the level of protection but a lead-lined carry-on can minimize the effects of the x-ray machine on your film.
Tags: disposable camera, disposable camera, airport terminal, camera through, camera through airport, camera will, carry-on baggage
iTunes is the default media program for managing Apple devices such as iPods and iPads. It allows you to import music from CDs and purchase single tracks and albums from its music store. The Droid is a multimedia smartphone that uses the Android operating system. It allows you to upload and play your favorite songs on the go. While the Droid isn't compatible with iTunes, you can still transfer previously saved iTunes songs to your phone with the help of a middleman, a software program that can be linked to iTunes.
Instructions
1. Download and install Motorola Media Link. Motorola Media Link is a free program developed by Motorola for syncing content from your computer to Droid phones. It allows you to transfer content from iTunes to your phone.
2. Connect your Droid phone to your computer using the USB cable, then launch Motorola Media Link if it doesn't launch automatically. The program will display your phone's content.
3. Click the "Sync" entry in the taskbar of the main window. The "Sync" window will open and displays the "General" tab. Click the "Music" button.
4. Launch iTunes without closing Motorola Media Link. Click "Library" in the iTunes pane to view your songs. Drag songs from the iTunes library to the name of the albums or playlists in the phone list where you want to copy them. The songs will automatically be transferred to your Droid phone.
5. Close iTunes. Click the "Eject" button in the Motorola Media Link program's panel. Disconnect your phone from your computer.
Tags: Media Link, Motorola Media, Motorola Media Link, your phone, your computer, content from, Droid phone
Deleting pictures from an SD card is a habit for many people. They simply glance at the digital screen and decide that a photograph isn't worth keeping and automatically hit the delete button. However, the resolution on the digital screen often isn't high enough to accurately determine if the picture is really good or bad, so photos should be kept until you can view them on your computer screen. Fortunately, it is possible to recover pictures that have been deleted from your SD card.
Instructions
1. Do not take any pictures using the SD card once you realize you have deleted a picture you want to recover.
2. Ensure that you have the SD card installed in your camera. Connect the camera to your computer via the USB cable (like you would if you were downloading pictures).
3. Go to the link in the Resources section, and download ArtPlus Digital Photo Recovery to your computer.
4. Begin the program and choose "Run Digital Photo Recovery."
5. Click "Next" to choose the drive your SD card is located in and the folder you want your recovered pictures to be saved to.
6. Select "Start" to begin scanning your camera. The process may take anywhere from several minutes to several hours, depending upon the amount of images on the SD card.
7. At the end of the scan, a dialogue box will alert you to save the recovered pictures to the chosen location.
Tags: your computer, Digital Photo, Digital Photo Recovery, digital screen, Photo Recovery, recovered pictures, that have
The BlackBerry device is enabled to use memory cards, otherwise known as media cards, for additional storage. Once the memory card is installed into the device. the BlackBerry reads the card and integrates the card into the BlackBerry file system. To recover photos from a memory card on a BlackBerry, connect the device to the computer and use the BlackBerry's "Mass Storage Mode" to recover, view and copy photos from the card.
Instructions
1. Plug the BlackBerry device into the computer using the USB connector cable. Make sure the memory card is installed in the device.
2. Press the trackball or trackpad on the "Yes" option when prompted on the BlackBerry to allow "Mass Storage Mode." The BlackBerry device registers on the computer as a removable drive.
3. Right-click the Windows "Start" button and click "Start Windows Explorer" to launch the file manager.
4. Click on the BlackBerry removable drive entry in the left navigation pane. A folder named "BlackBerry" will appear in the right pane.
5. Click on the "BlackBerry" folder to open. Note: Some devices will display the media card as a separate folder, but many simply integrate the files on the media card with all files on the device.
6. Navigate to the "Pictures" folder. Recover your photos by selecting them, and dragging them into a new location on the hard drive.
Tags: BlackBerry device, card installed, Click BlackBerry, Mass Storage, Mass Storage Mode
In the digital camera era, the deletion of a valuable picture is an occasional reality. If you're just starting to use a digital camera, know it's not always your fault when a picture gets deleted. Corruption in the memory card can happen without human interaction. Fortunately, you can still retrieve deleted pictures on a digital camera by using a manual method through the camera or by using specific software.
Instructions
Basic Method of Picture Retrieval
1. Understand that a deleted picture is never really gone on a digital camera and can usually be extracted from deep inside the camera's memory card. If a valuable photo is deleted, stop saving additional pictures on your memory card if you want to have any chance of recovering a lost picture.
2. Remove the memory card from your camera so you won't accidentally take more photos Reinsert the memory card in the camera when you are ready to try to retrieve the deleted photo.
3. Connect your camera to your computer and have your camera search all files on your memory card. Most brands of digital cameras allow you to open your memory card on a computer so you can locate files. Consult your camera's manual for searching inside all the common JPEG, TIFF, DNG and RAW memory card files.
Software Method for Picture Retrieval
4. Search for software that helps you retrieve lost photos off your digital camera. Free titles include PC Inspector Smart Recovery and PixFix Free Photo Recovery.
5. Download the free software, in this case PC Inspector Smart Recovery, onto your computer and connect your digital camera (with the memory card inserted) to your computer.
6. Remember which drive on your computer you've connected your camera to so you can indicate it to the software when starting a scan.
7. Open the PC Inspector Smart Recovery software and indicate from which drive to recover data. Choose a folder on your computer in which to store your recovered photos.
8. Start the software and let it do a thorough scan of your digital camera's memory card. Keep in mind that this software takes time to scan your memory card depending on how many pictures you have stored on it. It takes the longest scanning higher-quality RAW files.
Recovering Lost Photos
9. Look in the computer folder you earlier selected to find all of the lost pictures the PC Inspector Smart Recovery program found.
10. Move your lost pictures to a more convenient folder on your computer's hard drive.
11. Know that if you don't see your retrieved photo in the folder you selected, it's not necessarily a hopeless case. Consider purchasing a software photo retrieval program because some paid programs have special features that can still find a missing photo.
Tags: memory card, your computer, digital camera, your camera, Inspector Smart, Inspector Smart Recovery, Smart Recovery
Portable televisions are made to be used anywhere and in any circumstance. However, you are often going to find the signal quality lacking, if you can obtain a signal at all. Some handheld televisions have a built in A/V input, and with this connection you can connect the portable TV to outside devices such as gaming systems and even cable receivers. With the connected cable receiver, you can watch all the programming a standard-sized television broadcasts when connected to the receiver.
Instructions
1. Plug the RCA audio/video cables into the "Video Out" ports on the back of the cable receiver. Make sure the colors of the cables match the colors on the connection ports.
2. Insert the opposite end of the cables into the "Video In" ports on your handheld television.
3. Power on the TV and the cable receiver, then select "Input." This changes the connection to the video input. You can now watch the cable programming on the portable TV. Change the stations with the cable receiver remote control instead of the handheld device.
Tags: cable receiver, cables into, cables into Video, into Video, into Video ports, Video ports
Before buying an underwater digital camera, it's important to determine where you'll use it and how often. Also, you must decide on the size, style, color and the brand of the camera. Features, picture and waterproof quality are also important when picking an underwater digital camera.
Instructions
1. Decide on the use of an underwater digital camera before buying it. Consider buying the camera if you plan to travel and spend lots of time outdoors and underwater. It's handy to have a digital camera that's not only waterproof, but also crush proof and weatherproof.
2. Pick a style and a color. Choose a camera with a bulky design or a slim design. Get a camera that fits into your hands as well as in your travel bag or purse. Underwater digital cameras come in all colors, such as silver, black, blue, pink or yellow.
3. Think about the features that you want. These digital cameras can be used in depths ranging from 10 to 30 feet of water. Some waterproof cameras come with a protective case, while others contain gaskets or seals to keep water from getting into the camera.
4. Choose a camera with additional features, such as an LCD screen that reduces sun glare when taking photos. Experts also recommend getting a 6-megapixel camera if you want to create 8 x 10, printer-quality photos. Zoom and movie-making capabilities are also common with underwater digital cameras.
5. Have computer access so that you can upload photos. Read the product specifications to see if the camera is Windows- or Mac-compatible. Verify that the camera has plenty of memory or can accommodate memory cards. Some underwater digital cameras can store hundreds of photos.
6. Buy an underwater digital camera within your price range. There are some that cost under $25, while others cost nearly $500, depending on the brand.
7. Determine the brand that you want to buy. Read the product descriptions, specifications and reviews to help you decide. Test the camera if you're shopping in a store.
Tags: underwater digital, digital camera, digital cameras, underwater digital camera, camera that, camera with
An overhead light projector is traditionally powered by a powerful incandescent light. An electric current runs through a small filament. The filament is a resistor, which is a device that resists the flow of electricity. The electric current is turned into heat by the resistor, making the filament hot enough to glow and generate light. Because the incandescent light creates so much heat, a fan is usually installed to blow heat on it.
The Fresnel Lens
The light shines through a Fresnel lens, which is a flat lens that uses small grooves to focus light. Because the Fresnel lens is flat, it creates a transparent surface that can be used to display things. Presenters typically use transparencies, which are sheets of clear plastic with diagrams, writing or other information, to display their information. The sheets are centered on the Fresnel lens so the light can shine through them, carrying the image to a wall or screen.
The Mirror
Above the Fresnel lens is a mirror angled at 45 degrees. The light from the projector goes straight up to this mirror and bounces off it toward a wall or screen. The screen displays the image. Many projectors also have a second lens in front of the mirror, which allows the presenter to focus the image. The size of the projected image depends on how close or far the projector is from the wall--the further away, the larger the image.
Tags: electric current, Fresnel lens, Fresnel lens, incandescent light, light Because
Easily transfer recorded footage onto a computer using an SD card.
Many video cameras come with a built-in memory card slot. This allows you to record content directly onto an inserted SD memory card, instead of using the tape, hard drive or mini DVD that is used as a default recording media. Thankfully, recording onto an SD card is similar to recording onto the standard hardware; you just need to change one setting on the video camera.
Instructions
1. Insert the SD card into the SD card reader of the video camera. Without an SD card slot, it is impossible to use the flash memory card on the camera.
2. Power on the video camera and place it on "Memory Card" instead of just "Record." This allows you to record video directly onto the SD card. Typically, this adjustment switch is on the top of the camera (or directly on the back, next to the LCD screen). Different options on the switch range from "Record" to "VCR" to "SD Card."
3. Press "Record" and the content is saved directly onto the SD card. Press "Stop" to stop the recording process.
4. Select the "Playback" feature on the video camera, then choose "Memory Card." Each recording is saved as its own individual video file.
TiVo is a digital video recorder that allows you to record television programs, download music videos, view weather forecasts, news, sports and other informational services. Along with the many TiVo services available is software that allows you to download shows directly from your TiVo. The software also allows you to upload music and pictures. You can upload videos if you have the premium version. Downloading shows from your TiVo to your computer allows you to watch shows later while freeing up space on your TiVo's hard drive so you can continue recording your favorite programs.
Instructions
1. Download and install the utility named "DirectShow Dump" (see Resources).
2. Go to "Start" then "All Programs" and scroll through until you find "Direct Show Dump Utility" and click on it to start the program.
3. Click on the "Add Files..." button and locate the file you wish to convert. Click on the file and click "Open." Your TiVo file will automatically start converting and its file extension will change to mpg.
Tags: your TiVo, from your, from your TiVo, that allows
DVR/VCR combo devices are not manufactured or sold in stores. With coaxial cable and splitters, however, you should be able to link your DVR to a video cassette recorder to create your own homemade combo. With this combo, you should be able to record anything on your TV to either the DVR or a video cassette. You can also dub any DVR recording to a cassette if you need an extra copy or have to delete something from the DVR memory.
Instructions
1. Make sure your digital video recorder is properly connected to the TV. If the DVR came with your cable/satellite package, it was most likely installed by the technician. It has the receiver box's output connected to the DVR's input and the DVR's output to the TV. This should be done with RF coaxial cables, which are the thick black cables that are twisted into place.
2. Unhook the cable attached to the TV's input port and connect it to the VCR's input port. Connect another cable to the VCR's output and the TV's input. The broadcast signal should now transmit through the VCR to the TV.
3. Connect the DVR to the VCR with RCA cables (the three-pronged cables with the yellow, white and red plugs). They should be connected to the DVR's RCA output ports and the VCR's RCA input ports (the yellow, white and red circular sockets). This should now send any recordings on the DVR to the VCR.
4. Turn on the TV and DVR. Use the DVR's "Record" function to record anything that is currently broadcasting on TV.
5. Insert a recordable cassette tape into the VCR if you wish to record a live TV broadcast or anything recorded on the DVR. The tape's "write protect" hole must be covered by the original tab or a piece of adhesive tape. A blank tape will work best. Tune the VCR to the Line Out (L-1) channel.
6. Tune the TV to the desired channel or play the DVR's recorded program you wish to duplicate. Press the VCR's "Record" button when you are ready to start recording. A better method is to press the "Record" and "Pause" buttons together, then press the "Pause" button again when you're ready to record.
7. Press the VCR's "Stop" button when you are finished recording. Rewind and play back the tape to make sure it recorded properly.
Tags: button when, input port, record anything, should able, This should, video cassette, when ready
Showcase family memories as canvas wall art displays.
Creating a personalized photo canvas project requires the use of high-resolution digital photo images and canvas printing paper. Photo design software to process the digital images and an inkjet printer are also required components for a canvas photo project. Canvas mounted photos offer a personalized alternative to commercial art hangings and store bought gifts for loved ones.
Instructions
1. Select or take photo with a high-resolution digital camera. Use a camera with 7.0-mega pixel resolution or higher for photo clarity.
2. Purchase canvas inkjet printer paper.
3. Purchase or make a canvas frame.
4. Use photo-processing software to enhance and enlarge the photo. Adobe Photoshop or Kodak Photo Gallery software is recommended. Convert the photos to black and white or sepia tone if desired.
5. Select printing options in the software program tab. Select "Canvas" or "Card Stock" in the paper selection window.
6. Print a test image on standard paper. Print the final project. Lay the project on flat surface and let the ink dry for 15 minutes.
7. Stretch the canvas over a wood frame and nail it in place with paneling nails.
Lightboxes allow you to display some of your best work by enlarging it and making your work the focus on the screen. Many scripts to do this are made available online by using JavaScript or CSS coding. Making a lightbox in Flash is best used on a fully-Flash website, rather than just as an embedded flash file. It will allow you to get the full effect, a similar effect as the other JavaScript or CSS-based lightbox codes.
Instructions
1. Create your Flash file. In this situation, making an entire site in Flash would work best, as the lightbox will fill up the entire screen this way.
2. Open the Library by navigating to "Window" on the drop-down menus, then "Library." Click the "New Symbol..." button on the bottom left corner of the Library window to make a new movie clip. Select Movie Clip, name it "Flashbox" and click OK. You have just created the movie clip you will be working with.
3. Open your movie cli, and create a small grey box, using the rectangle shape tool (R, O, R, O). Your box should be no larger than 3px by 3px in the first frame of your timeline.
4. Create a new keyframe, Frame 5 of your timeline by selecting Frame 5 and right clicking on it. Select "Create a New Keyframe" from the drop-down window. In the fifth keyframe, you will now have a copy of the same box you created in the first frame.
5. With the box in the fifth frame selected, choose the "Free Transform Tool" from the tool bar, and select your box. With this tool selected, pull at the grey box until it fills the entire stage. Place your photo on the stage by navigating to "File," then "Import" and "Import to Stage" and select your file. Adjust its size using the "Free Transform Tool" as you did with the grey box.
6. Create a close button by navigating to the Shape Tool on the toolbar. Select the Shape Tool, and place a small circle on the stage. Pull the circle into the Library. Select "Button" as the file type, and name your button. Give your button an Instance Name in the Properties window (navigate to "Window", "Properties" and again "Properties"). This will be the name used to call it in ActionScript.
7. Pull a copy of your movie clip onto your main stage, and in the Properties window, give the movie clip an Instance Name.
8. On your main stage, create a button or thumbnail, and drag it into your Library. This will be the button that will open up your lightbox, so use a thumbnail of the image in your lightbox if you wish. After pulling it into the Library, select "Button" as the Type in the "Convert to Symbol" window and name your button in the field above the Type selection. Give your button an Instance Name in the Properties window.
9. Add another layer by selecting the "Insert Layer" icon from the bottom left corner of the timeline box. Click on your layer name and type "Actions" in the box. This is where your ActionScript will go. In your new keyframe, navigate to "Window", then "Actions." In the "Actions" window, write the following, making sure to change the words in caps to your instance and function names:
10. Click back on the movie clip, and once inside, right-click on your timeline, and from the drop-down menu that appears, select "Create Shape Tween." Add another layer by selecting the "Insert Layer" icon from the bottom left corner of the timeline box.
11. Click on your layer name and type "Actions" in the box. This is where your ActionScript will go. In your new layer, on the fifth frame, select F6 to create a new keyframe. Navigate to "Window", then "Actions" to open up your ActionScript window. Write "stop()" in the window. After the stop();, write the following, changing your instance and function names accordingly:
Fujifilm, founded in 1934 to make motion picture film, now has a line of digital cameras.
Fujifilm offers a complete line of digital cameras including professional models and point and shoot cameras intended for amateur photographer and photography enthusiast consumers. Fujifilm's line of point and shoot cameras include high-zoom, compact and subcompact models. Each has their own advantages, so it is important to rate each camera closely to find the right one.
Instructions
1. Rate FuliFilm digital cameras using product information at the store, but also go online for more detailed specifications on the FujiFilm website.
2. Look at the Fuji camera's pixel rating. This is the number of dots used to make up an image. The more pixels, measured in megapixels, which is 1 million pixels, the sharper the image will be. Fuji has digital cameras offering anywhere from 10 megapixels to 14.2 megapixels. All lines of Fuji digital cameras, except the high-zoom F-series and the XP series, which offer special protective features, include at least 14 megapixels.
3. Find out the file format the camera uses. Most Fuji digital cameras save images using the popular jpeg format, which is a compressed filed format ideal for amateur use. However, the RAW format is available on some S-series cameras. The RAW format produces uncompressed images which have a large file size but are ideal for professional editing.
4. Look at the camera's light sensitivity. Sensitivity is measured in ISO. The higher the ISO setting, the brighter the exposure. Fuji offers cameras with ISO capabilities ranging from 64 to 10,000. The higher-end S-series and F-series have the widest range of ISO settings, making them more flexible.
5. Check out the camera's zoom capabilities. The Fuji high-zoom F-series has digital cameras offering zooms up to 30X. However, high-zooms make for large, heavy cameras. Fuji's compact and sub-compact models in the A-series, J-series and Z-series offer zooms from 3X to 5X.
6. Look for special features. The XP series offers cameras that have protection against dust, water, shock and freezing temperatures. The new media-conscious Z-series offers the ability to record and easily upload movies to YouTube and upload movies and pictures of Facebook.
Tags: digital cameras, cameras offering, digital cameras, digital cameras offering, Fuji digital, Fuji digital cameras
The transition to digital TV was completed June 12, 2009. As of this date all TV broadcasters in the United States ceased broadcasting analog TV signals, and are now exclusively broadcasting digital TV signals. Analog TVs will work with digital cable with the aid of an external digital tuner.
Features
Analog TV sets are not equipped with right the kind of internal TV tuner to receive and decode digital TV signals. This, however, does not mean that an analog TV set is useless. Now, in order to watch TV programs on an analog TV set, you simply have to augment the TV with an external digital tuner.
Options
If your analog TV set is hooked up to an active digital cable box or satellite receiver, your TV is all set. Cable boxes and satellite receivers qualify as forms of external digital tuners.
Other Options
If you don't subscribe to a cable or satellite service, you could also use a VCR or DVD recorder which is equipped with an internal digital tuner (also referred to as an "ATSC tuner) as your TV's external digital tuner. Barring any of these other options, your TV needs to be outfitted with a digital converter box in order to pick up your local TV channels.
Tags: digital tuner, external digital, external digital tuner, cable satellite, digital cable
Rio MP3 players are excellent devices for athletes and those on the go. Rio players come with Rio Music Manager software, which makes copying, downloading and transferring music easy and intuitive. Here's a look at use the software and fill up your MP3 player.
Instructions
Transfer Music From Computer
1. Connect the Rio MP3 player to the computer with the USB cable.
2. Launch Rio Music Manager on your computer.
3. Click "My Music" on the left of the screen. Rio Music Manager will begin to scan your computer for compatible files. To check the locations that Rio is scanning and add additional locations, click "Tools," then "Options," then "Music Location."
4. Click on the track, album or artist that you'd like to transfer. Rio will categorize tracks by genre, artist, album, songs and playlists. Select from within these categories. To choose multiple categories, hold "Ctrl" down when selecting. To choose all, hit "Ctrl" and "A."
5. Hit the green arrow button, and your files will be transferred.
Copy Music From a CD
6. Launch Rio Music Manager.
7. Insert desired CD into your computer's CD-ROM drive. Select "CD-ROM" from the list of devices in Rio Music Manager.
8. Select tracks that you want to copy. Hold down "Ctrl" to select multiple tracks.
9. Click the green arrow. Rio Music Manager will begin copying tracks from the CD to your computer. You can then copy them from the computer to the MP3 player by following the steps in Section 1.
Tags: Music Manager, your computer, green arrow, Launch Music, Launch Music Manager, Manager will, Manager will begin
Use a studio umbrella for a soft, even light from your Speedlight.
Many of today's digital cameras have either a built-in flash or a flash that will automatically pop up when it is needed. In addition to these built-in flashes, Nikon produces a line of external flashes they call "Speedlight." Nikon Speedlights can be attached to the hot-shoe mount on the digital camera or they can be triggered remotely. The remote trigger feature allows you to attach a Speedlight to an umbrella and stand for a softer light.
Instructions
1. Connect an external flash adapter to the umbrella stand. This adapter will have a slide bracket similar to a hot-shoe mount that will allow you to connect your Speedlight to the stand and turn the locking ring to secure the Speedlight into place. Insert a studio umbrella into the holder and tighten the knob to hold it in place.
2. Turn on your Nikon Speedlight and press the "Menu" button on the rear of the flash and set the Speedlight program to "I-TTL." This program will automatically communicate with your Nikon DSLR.
3. Slide a Nikon Wireless Speedlight Commander unit onto the hot shoe on the top of your Nikon camera. This unit will transmit exposure and other data from the camera to the Speedlight. This exchange of information will allow the camera and Speedlight to work together to create the right amount of light to capture the correct exposure.
Tags: your Nikon, camera Speedlight, hot-shoe mount, studio umbrella, that will, umbrella stand
Emerson brand VCRs are among the highest quality of video cassette recorders. Many refurbished models are available at surplus or online stores. Like many other models, they are very easy to record video tapes with, especially when recording cable or satellite TV. You just need to ensure the recorder is properly connected to receive the cable signal and send it to your TV. The Emerson VCR also has input ports to which you can connect anything temporarily to record.
Instructions
1. Make sure the VCR's input is connected to the output of your TV source. Disconnect the cable linking the TV with your cable/satellite box at the TV end and connect it to the port that says "IN" in the back of the VCR. Connect the VCR's "OUT" port to the TV. The RF coaxial ports will be the best connection.
2. Connect any other device you want to record from to the VCR through the audio/video ports in the front of the VCR. This includes things like a camcorder, DVD player or game console. This requires RCA composite video cables. If the VCR's ports aren't colored, the cable plug order from left to right is yellow, white and red.
3. Set the VCR's channel accordingly. The channel buttons are usually directly below the cassette slot. To record from the TV, set it to channel 3 or whichever TV channel is carrying the cable/satellite signal. For an external device connected in front, tune it to the Line In (L-1) channel.
4. Insert a recordable cassette tape into the VCR. The write protect slot on the left end of the tape must be covered. Cover it with a piece of adhesive tape if the original tab was removed. Make sure the tape is rewound by pressing the Rewind button, which is the left-hand button within the circle of buttons on the panel's right.
5. Press the Record button to begin recording. This button is usually labeled in red letters and is a small button located to the side of the circle of buttons that include Play, Rewind and Fast Forward. Only on very older models should you need to press the Play button while holding down on Record.
6. Hit the Stop button to end the recording, which is located under the cassette slot with the Power and channel buttons. Press this button a second time to eject the cassette. Or rewind the cassette and use the Play button to play back the recording.
Tags: cable satellite, cassette slot, channel buttons, circle buttons, Make sure, Play button, record from
Many hunters, outdoorsmen and nature photographers enjoy the convenience and flexibility of trail cameras, appreciating the ability of the devices to capture an image without human intervention. With special consideration, these cameras can also be used for indoor purposes ranging from personal photography to home security.
Choose the Proper Camera
Hunters and outdoorsmen who already have trail camera equipment may find themselves limited to a specific make and model, but some types of trail cameras seem more suited to indoor use than others. Trail cameras fall into one of three general categories: digital cameras with infrared, invisible flash; standard digital cameras with regular flash and film cameras with flash. Since most indoor conditions typically require a camera's flash to fill in shaded areas and shadows, the visible flash on either a film or digital camera may suit the needs of indoor photographers. For home security applications, though, the invisible infrared cameras may offer a more subtle, discreet vehicle for capturing images. Using these descriptions of the camera types available, select the trail camera that best fits your particular indoor photography needs.
Set Up Lighting
Despite the numerous flash options, manufacturers design trail cameras specifically for use in outdoor, natural lighting conditions. Since natural sunlight creates much brighter, well lit conditions, a user may need to supplement lighting conditions when using a trail camera indoors. A number of photographer's lamps are commercially available and easily accessible through discount chains and online retailers, but professional lighting costs can run into hundreds or even thousands of dollars. To avoid these costs, consider using bright fluorescent or incandescent lights already available in the home to create ideal lighting conditions for trail cameras. Use the camera's flash system to help fill in the shaded areas and gaps. If possible, position the camera in front of the light source to prevent silhouetting.
Trigger the Camera's Shutter
The most striking difference between traditional cameras and trail cameras involves activation of the camera shutter. Because trail cameras are designed for placement along a trail and automated photo taking, their shutters are typically activated by either a timer or a built-in motion sensor. For indoor, non-security use, a user must configure the camera to allow manual image capture. This configuration is available through a simple setting on some models; though other, more basic models may require the user to trip the shutter by exposing some movement in front of the camera. Alternatively, users who own cameras with time-lapse functionality may set the time-lapse interval to the shortest possible setting, then time the upcoming shutter exposure. By choosing the proper camera, adjusting lighting to optimal levels and manually triggering the shutter (or working with the time lapse delay), a user may conveniently use a trail camera much like a traditional, manually operated indoor camera.
Tags: trail cameras, cameras with, lighting conditions, trail camera, camera flash, digital cameras, digital cameras with
Canon produces a wide range of cameras, lens and accessories for photography, including external flashes. These external flashes are powerful, solidly constructed and produce good light. They are also compatible with Canon's Evaluative - Through The Lens exposure systems, E-TTL I and II. If you use the flash with a Canon camera that also uses these exposure systems, the flash will adjust itself automatically to the correct power setting based on the exposure of the scene and its composition. The flashes are easy to use with any camera, however.
Instructions
1. Insert four AA batteries into the Canon flash. Slide open the battery door on the side of the flash, insert the four batteries in the orientation described on the interior of the battery door, and close the battery door by sliding it shut.
2. Attach the camera to your flash using the hot-shoe adapter foot, located on the bottom of the flash unit. This plastic foot slides into the metal or plastic clip on the top of your camera from the rear. Once the flash is in place, tighten the connection by turning the knob directly above the hot-shoe adapter.
3. Press and hold the "Power" button until the flash turns on.
4. Listen for the tell-tale whining noise to indicate that the flash is charging.
5. Press the "Mode" button to switch between modes on your Canon flash, including manual, automatic and E-TTL.
6. Adjust the flashes power by pressing the "Mode" button until the fraction on the top-middle of the LCD screen flashes. This is the power setting for your flash and can be adjusted in manual mode. Use the up and down arrow buttons to adjust the power up or down. When you are finished, exit the flash menu by pressing "Mode" until nothing on the LCD screen is flashing.
7. Press the shutter button to activate the shutter and take an image. The flash will fire when the shutter does, adding light to the scene.
8. Examine the image on the back of your DSLR camera to check the amount of light added to the scene and adjust the flash's settings based on the result.
Digital SLR cameras have removable lenses that you can interchange with other lenses, depending on the type of photographs you are taking. Pentax makes camera lenses for digital SLR cameras. The lenses provide you with more control over how you shoot photographs when compared to point and click cameras by including the option for manual focus and zoom. Learn mount, operate and remove Pentax lenses from your digital SLR camera before use.
Instructions
1. Align the red mounting dot on the Pentax lens with the mounting dot on the camera. Insert the lens in the camera mount and turn the lens to the right until it clicks in place.
2. Pinch in on the lens cap tabs and pull the lens cap away from the lens when you are ready to use the camera. Protect the lens by leaving the lens cap on until you are taking pictures.
3. Move the "Focus Mode" switch on the side of the lens to "AF" for automatic focus mode or "M" for manual focus mode. When in "AF" mode, the camera adjusts the lens to focus on the subject of the photograph. When in "M" mode, you must focus the camera by hand.
4. Press the shutter button halfway when in "AF" mode to automatically focus on the subject and then press the button fully to take the photograph. Twist the focusing ring on the end of the lens to the left and right while looking through the viewfinder to focus on the subject of the photograph when in "M" mode and then press the shutter button fully. When using "AF" mode, you can further adjust the focus when holding the shutter button halfway by turning the focusing ring to the left or right, as you would in "M" mode. Press the shutter button fully when you are done to take the photograph.
5. Twist the zoom ring on the lens to the right for telephoto zooming and to the left for wide-angle shots. The zoom ring is the large ring in the middle of the Pentax lens.
6. Press the lens cap onto the Pentax lens before removing it from the camera. Press the lens release button on the camera, twist the lens to the left and pull it off of the camera.
A public address system allows large audiences to receive amplified sounds from small groups such as bands, singers and speakers. Setting up a PA system is simple--send your sound one direction only. Sounds go from instruments and microphones and are processed through amplifiers and an equalizer, and then are ultimately reproduced much louder through the speakers. Use this guide to set your system up and get your music or announcements delivered to the masses.
Instructions
1. Before connecting anything, make sure the power switches are off on all devices, and that master volume on the soundboard is turned down.
2. Plug the XLR end of the cable into the bottom of the microphone and insert the other end into the terminal on soundboard labeled "Input."
3. Plug any instruments into the the soundboard via the Hi-Z cable. Plug one end into the instrument and the other end into the "Input" terminal on the soundboard. Instruments and microphone should each be plugged into a single channel.
4. Run one end of the speaker cable from one of the terminals under the "Speaker" heading of the soundboard and the other end into the "In" terminal on the back of the speaker. This is done for amplified soundboards with built-in equalizers. Connect any other speakers the same way.
5. Run a Hi-Z cable from the "Main Out" on the mixer to the "Master Input" on the equalizer for setups using a non-amplified mixer. Run another Hi-Z cable from the main output on the equalizer, and run the other end into the master input on the amplifier.
6. Run a speaker cable from the terminal on the back of the amplifier to each speaker. Power on all of the devices. Run sound check while slowly elevating the master volume.
Tags: cable from, other into, Hi-Z cable, Hi-Z cable from, into terminal, master volume, other into terminal
The voice mail service can be accessed directly from your wireless cell phone.
Cingular Wireless, now known as AT&T Mobility, allows customers the ability to access their voice mail directly from their wireless cell phones. If a customer wants to retrieve his voice mail messages from a phone other than the cell phone on his service plan, he can dial his own AT&T Wireless number and press the appropriate key to reach the voice mail service. The voice mail service requires the user to enter the account password in order to retrieve messages.
Instructions
1. Press the "1" key on your Cingular/AT&T wireless cell phone and hold it until you hear the voice mail service message begin to play. Enter your password when prompted to do so. If you want to access your voice mail from a different phone, dial your cell phone number. Press the "*" (asterisk) key when you hear the voice mail service message play and enter your password.
2. Press the "1" key to retrieve the first voice mail message.
3. Press the "0" key to access the voice mail help. To pause a message, press "2." Press "3" to fast forward the message. If you want to slow the playback speed, press "4." Retrieve the date and time by pressing "5." Press "6" to increase the playback speed. Press "7" to delete a message and "9" to save it. Press the "#" (hash) key to skip a message and press the "*" key to cancel or exit.
Tags: mail service, voice mail, voice mail, voice mail service, cell phone, wireless cell
Black-and-white film can yield incredible visual results when processed properly.
In the digital age, black-and-white photography has fallen by the wayside. Popularity doesn't make good art, though. There is nothing so striking as a well-taken and properly processed black-and-white photograph.
Developing black-and-white film is a simple procedure. With a little bit of special equipment, a very dark room and lots of patience, you can develop high-quality black-and-white film at home.
Instructions
1. Turn off the lights and let your eyes adjust to the dark. If you see any light sneaking through doors or cracks in the wall, tape them with dark masking tape or stuff a towel under doors. Too much light can cause the film to scorch; however, a red light is safe to use near black-and-white film if you need lighting.
2. Pry the lid off the film canister with the poptop opener, being careful not to cut yourself. The film will be wrapped around a plastic spool. Lift the spool out of the center of the canister and gently pull the film off. If the end doesn't want to come out, cut it close to the spool.
3. Wind the film around the developing reel that goes into the developing tank. A plastic reel is easiest for beginners. Load the reel by inserting the tab at the end of the film into the corresponding slot on the spool and work the film to the center by twisting the sides of the reel back and forth (make sure your hands go in opposite directions) until the film is all taken up.
4. Place the reel into the developing tank. If you have other film to process, repeat steps 2 and 3 for each roll. Fill any extra room on the tank spindle with empty reels to prevent reel movement. Ensure that the lid is on correctly before turning the light on. Most developing tanks have a small lid on the main lid that will come off so the tank can be filled with chemicals while the light is on. Be sure the small lid is closed and secure before you start to agitate.
5. Mix the C-41 developer, stop bath and fixer according to package directions (these will vary, so read them carefully) and store in bottles specially designed for photography chemicals. The developer instructions will specify the time required for processing (again, this varies).
6. Set your timer and fill the development tank through the small opening in the top until the tank feels full and the liquid can be seen through the opening. Start the timer, close the opening and agitate the tank slowly by turning it upside down and righting it, approximately once every 30 seconds. Some older tanks leak, so agitate over the sink, if possible.
7. Remove the lid from the small opening after the timer goes off. Empty the tank. Single-use developer can be poured down the sink (or disposed per package directions). Standard reusable developer can be poured back into the bottle of developer mixed earlier. Flush the tank with water for about two minutes.
8. Fill the tank with stop bath and proceed according to package directions. It is difficult to injure film with stop bath, so just be sure to agitate properly for at least the time specified. Most stop baths will turn blue when they've lost strength, so check the color before returning it to the bottle of prepared stop bath. Dispose of blue stop bath.
9. Fill the tank with fixer solution. Fixer times vary, so read the package instructions. Agitate as above for the time specified on the package. Pour the fixer back into the bottle of prepared fixer, or dispose of it.
10. Remove the lid of the developing tank and rinse the film while it's in the tank with cold running water for about three minutes to remove any chemicals that might remain. Take the reels out of the tank. Remove the film by grasping the end and pulling gently. Hang the wet film on a line or wire until it dries completely.
Tags: stop bath, tank with, black-and-white film, developing tank, package directions, according package, according package directions
The Nikon D200 camera is a full-body style DSLR. The D200 is considered a "prosumer" level camera. "Prosumer" cameras are considered to be somewhere between professional and amateur consumer level in terms of quality and features. One feature the D200 has is a manual focus over-ride, allowing you to focus the lens without the computer chip's assistance. Using this manual focus requires turning off the automatic focus feature and manually adjusting the dials on the lens.
Instructions
1. Grab the D200 and hold in front of you, like you are preparing to bring the camera to your eye for a shot. Look to the bottom left hand side of the lens, on the main camera body, to find the black Manual/Auto focus switch.
2. Press the switch to the "Man" setting. This over-rides the automatic focus on the camera.
3. Turn the camera on and wait for the LCD screen on the back to come up.
4. Look through the eye/viewfinder and zero in on your target for the photo.
5. Turn the lens dials on the barrel to bring your picture into focus. Look through the view finder for a green light that will appear in the lower right corner indicating the picture is in focus.
If you need a cell phone, but you don't need to surf the Internet or take photographs, and you don't want to commit to a long-term contract, you are in luck. A disposable phone may suit your simple calling needs.
TracPhone
TracFone Wireless sells a variety of prepaid phones that can be activated without service contracts. The company offers many phone models that come with various amounts of prepaid minutes. TracFone service can be purchased with brand-name cell phones, including Samsung, Nokia and Motorola. Minutes can be added with phone cards or through the TracFone website. TracFone cell phones can be purchased at TracFone.com or at major retailers, including K-Mart and Target.
Hop-on ChitterChatter Phone
Hop-on's lightweight and splashy ChitterChatter is a fun disposable phone designed with kids in mind. Besides making calls, it has a locator feature that gives a child, senior citizen or person with special needs the ability to communicate his location with the touch of one button. MarketWire reports that the ChitterChatter can be used with Verizon and AT&T networks. The phone comes with up to 2 hours of call time and does not require a contract to activate. It can currently be purchased through online retailers, and AT&T is planning to make it available in its stores.
AT&T Go Phone
AT&T's Go Phone is available without an annual contract. The company offers different "Pay as You Go" options, some of which include unlimited night and weekend minutes and unlimited texting. Go Phone service can be refreshed, or it can be canceled at any time without penalty. Service can be allowed to expire, which makes the phone disposable. A Go Phone can be purchased at AT&T stores and other retail cell phone outlets or through the AT&T website.
Cyclone Phone
Produced by New Horizons Technologies of Orlando, Florida, the Cyclone phone uses three AAA batteries and comes loaded with all-purpose 30 talk minutes. Additional time can be purchased on a voucher basis. The Cyclone is a "no-frills" unit-it simply makes and receives telephone calls. With a retail price of $40.00, the Cyclone can be purchased from online retailers, including Pharos International.
T-Mobile
T-Mobile offers prepaid plans that do not require contracts. The company offers the "Pay as You Go" plan, in which the user pays for the minutes he uses, and the "Pay By the Day" plan, in which the user pays for the days he uses the service. Although these plans are contract-free, T-Mobile does require the user to purchase a mid- to high-end phone unit to receive the service. The service can expire, but the phone itself is valuable and would be best saved in case the user wants to activate it again in the future.
Tags: company offers, cell phones, contracts company, contracts company offers, Disposable Cell, Disposable Cell Phone
Trail or scouting cameras are used to track wildlife, whether for hunting or study. They have motion sensors and can shoot in day or night. They usually have an infrared flash to capture nighttime images without startling wildlife. To get the most use out of your trail camera, here are some starting hints.
Basics
Look for a game trail, usually near a water supply such as a stream or pond. Attach the trail camera to a tree using the accompanying straps with the lens facing the trail. Because image quality isn't the most important thing here---tracking wildlife is---set the camera to the second-lowest quality setting. That will give you more images on your memory card. Set the camera to about a 45-degree angle to the trail to give it time to capture the image. Don't set it facing directly at the trail. Motion sensors may not sense motion coming directly at them.
Sensitivity
Set the camera to take images at about three-minute intervals while shooting. That will give you a range of time when animals are in range of the camera. You also can set it for multiple shots once the motion sensor is tripped. Especially if the camera does not have video capability, that will give you a sense of motion and the direction animals are traveling. If the camera has multiple sensitivity settings, you probably don't want to set it to the most sensitive range because it might pick up unwanted motion by things such as birds, blowing leaves and even some large flying insects (such as moths).
Timing
Use the time-stamp feature. That will tell you what time, day or night, animals are coming along the trail. Some more sophisticated cameras also provide other information, including the date, what the temperature was when the animals were moving, and what phase the moon was in at the time. All of that information over a period of time can give you a good sense of how many animals are using the trail and when they are using it.
Also, check the camera at regular intervals. That will give you a better sense of how often animals pass by. The batteries in most models will last several weeks per charge, so check the cameras at least once a week.
Tags: will give, That will, sense motion, That will give, trail camera, when animals
Many camcorders use memory cards or SD cards to store the video files recorded on the device. If the memory card stops functioning the way it should, it may be because the data on the card is corrupted. These files can be repaired either by using free software or by formatting the card in order to fix the problems.
Instructions
Corruption Repair Programs
1. Turn on your computer and insert the memory card into the memory card/SD card slot on your computer.
2. Download a corruption repair program for free online; such programs include ICE ECC, FileRestore Professional and Unstoppable Copier. Save the program file to your computer's desktop and double-click on it to open the program.
3. Choose the memory card as the drive to be scanned from the drive selection drop-down menu. The program will search the memory card for corrupted video and picture files and piece the corrupted data back together.
Format the Memory Card
4. Turn on your computer and insert the memory card into the memory card slot on your computer.
5. Go to the "Start" menu and select "Control Panel." Click on "Administrative Tools," then click on "Computer Management." Select "Disk Management."
6. Right-click on the memory card and choose "Format" to format the memory card.
7. Insert the memory card back into the camcorder and you will be able to store and save files on the memory card again.
Tags: memory card, your computer, memory card, card corrupted, card into, card into memory, card slot
Digital cameras make taking pictures, deleting the bad ones and saving memories to a computer easy. The popular brand SanDisk (SD) builds memory cards that can store thousands of photos. But SD memory cards aren't as stable as computer hard drives because their internal storage is protected by a flimsy piece of plastic. The constant deleting and recording of pictures, switching cameras and connecting to computers can cause the card to malfunction.
Instructions
Reformat SD Card
1. If you wish to retrieve pictures before formatting, go to "Section 2." Otherwise, try and use the camera first to format the SD card. Read the camera manual for guidance on where to find the format option, usually located under a settings menu. If this step isn't successful, continue with the options below.
2. Remove SD card from camera and connect to computer using either a built-in memory card reader or an external USB adapter.
3. Download a software program designed to format memory cards. SD (SanDisk) offers a formatting program on their Web site with thorough instructions for all versions of Windows: http://www.sdcard.org/consumers/formatter/.
4. When you choose to download the installer, select "save file" and run the program. Follow the instructions listed on the SD Web site, depending on which version of Windows you run.
5. There are times when the computer simply won't recognize the SD card and you aren't given the option to format. Usually this means the problem lies within a damaged controller on the SD card. A controller doesn't store the data, but is a necessary component to be able to read the card. You cannot format a SD card with a damaged controller, but you might be able to retrieve the data. Continue to Step 4 under ''Section 2" for retrieval steps.
Retrieve Lost Pictures
6. Download a photo recovery program such as PhotoRescue: http://www.datarescue.com/photorescue/download.htm. Follow the link and save the program to your computer. Double-click on the file and follow install instructions.
7. Connect the SD memory card using to your computer and run the software. You will be asked to select the drive you wish to recover -- choose the SD memory card and run a scan.
8. You will have to purchase the program to recover lost pictures, but the demo will allow you to see what can and cannot be recovered.
9. If there is physical damage, the only option is to send the damaged SD memory card to a photo recovery company and see what they can recover. Regardless, the SD memory card will remain unusable and you will need to purchase a new one. The following company provides recovery service both inside the U.S. and internationally: http://www.lc-tech.com/services/recoveryservices.html
The Palm Tungsten E2 is an excellent device for reading electronic texts and eBooks. It is equipped with a luminous true-color display that enhances the user's viewing experience, as well as great screen resolution. This guide will show you download eBooks from the Palm Web site, but it also can be applied, with minor changes, to other Web sites. Here is download eBooks to read on a Palm Tungsten E2.
Instructions
1. Using your Internet browser, go to the Palm eBook Store (see link below). Sign in as an existing user or create an account. A valid email address and credit card number are required to create an account.
2. Find eBooks using the search function or browse titles by author or subject. Click on an eBook's title link to view its description.
3. Click on "Add to Cart" to buy the eBook. Then click on "Go to Checkout" and complete the shopping process. On finishing checkout, click "OK" to download. The eBook will download in a Zip file.
4. Use an archive program like WinZip (Windows) or StuffIt Expander (Mac) to uncompress the downloaded Zip file to a folder on your computer.
5. Run Palm Desktop on the computer, then drag and drop the uncompressed eBook file to Quick Install (Windows) or the Send to Handheld droplet (Mac).
6. Perform a synchronization of the Palm Tungsten E2 and the computer to send the eBook to your handheld.
7. Open the eReader program on your handheld and select the title of the new eBook from the file list
8. Activate the eBook on your Palm Tungsten E2 by inputting your name and your unlock code, which is the credit card number associated with your account.