Terrestrial Vs Streaming Radio

Traditional radios receive broadcast waves.

In recent years, radio streamed over the Internet has risen to challenge the popularity of terrestrial AM and FM broadcasts as a means of receiving news and entertainment. Like its venerable standard bearer, streaming radio presents its own advantages and drawbacks, but both its emerging digital technology and earthbound bandwidth possess their own inherent qualities.

Technology

AM and FM radio work by transmitting electromagnetic waves of differing lengths to receivers that interpret their modulations. Radio streamed over the Internet is delivered like other online content--in the form of packets of digital data decoded by a program, web browser or digital media player application

History

The technology used to broadcast and receive terrestrial radio dates back to the late 19th century and the desire to build a wireless telegraph. FM, or frequency modulation, radio was patented by Edwin H. Armstrong in 1933. Streaming radio stations and services have been utilizing the Internet for distribution since the mid-'90s.

Availability

Before the advent of streaming radio, listeners of terrestrial radio were limited to the genre-specific stations whose broadcast ranges included their location. Many terrestrial radio stations have since utilized the Internet, however, to extend their reach beyond broadcast range and join the nearly unlimited options offered to anyone with Internet service for their computer, phone or media player.

Cost

Terrestrial radio is traditionally supported by advertising and is free to anyone with a receiver, whether it's a car stereo, home component system or portable device. Many streaming radio offerings are also distributed without charge, but some require a subscription fee and all are only available to those with an Internet service provider, cell phone data plan or access to a wireless network.

Fun Fact

While a November 1994 concert by the Rolling Stones was touted as the first live digital music broadcast, a little-known band called Severe Tire Damage had actually been streaming concerts since June 1993.

Tags: streaming radio, anyone with, Internet service, media player, over Internet

Use My Nextel Sim Card In Boost Mobile

Boost Mobile offers a range of pre-paid, no-contract cell phone services. It uses the Sprint Nextel network, with most phones made by Motorola. While closely associated, the two networks aren't interchangeable.

Significance

Nextel is currently a legacy brand of Sprint, and not a company in itself. Nextel has a large user base in the United States due to its great popularity in the late 1990s and early 2000s. The main defining aspect of Nextel is the walkie-talkie feature, now known as Nextel Nationwide Direct Connect.

Boost Model

Boost is a cell phone operator that bases its services on pre-paid packages that include a phone and a SIM card. Similar to other pre-paid operators, Boost doesn't require a contract and offers unlimited usage for a flat fee. Combined with the state of the economy, this has made its products quite popular.

Shared Network

In the United States, Boost uses the Sprint network. This close association with Sprint and its Nextel service makes it easy to assume numbers and accounts can be transferred across the two networks easily, but this isn't true.

Requirements

Boost activation requires a SIM card, an activation number and one of two additional numbers--IMEI or ESN, depending on phone model purchased from Boost. Non-boost phones may work if unlocked, but users still need to purchase a Boost Starter Kit. The kit contains a SIM and the necessary activation numbers.

Limitations

Since only SIM cards issued by Boost carry the necessary activation numbers, non-Boost SIMs won't work. This also means existing Nextel and Sprint SIM cards--they won't work on the Boost network, and don't qualify for Boost pre-paid rates.

Nextel factor

In any case, Nextel Nationwide Direct Connect numbers aren't considered traditional cell phone numbers by Sprint. This limitation extends to Boost. In other words, Nextel numbers can only be used as such, and not on any other service offered by Sprint or Boost.

Other way around

The good news is that Boost SIMs can be taken to the Sprint network and be used as a regular number. Boost numbers can also have the Nextel Nationwide Direct Connect feature added to them, just like any other number from Sprint.

Tags: cell phone, Direct Connect, Nationwide Direct, Nationwide Direct Connect, Nextel Nationwide, Nextel Nationwide Direct, Sprint Nextel

How A Home Photo Scanner Works

The Basics

A home photo scanner is an evolution of the photocopier. The two work the same way, by taking a picture of whatever is on the glass plate, and reproducing it. Photocopiers, of course, originally were far more crude, and it took a while to create a usable photo scanner. Essentially, a photo scanner takes an electronic "photo" of the picture, converting the analog image into ones and zeros to make it digital.

The Works

Inside a typical flatbed scanner is a moving element that takes this "photo" by "seeing" lines of data at a time. Early scanners made three passes---one each for red, green and blue---then combined this separate files into one full-color image. The technology has improved, so most modern scanners collect the image in one pass. The scan element collects data at different speeds depending on the quality of the resolution you want. For a low-quality (about 100 dots per inch), the scan is fast. For 1,200 dpi, it takes a bit longer.

Values

The scan element projects light at the photo as it rests face-down on the glass plate that is the surface of the scanner. This part essentially is just like how traditional photography works in that film records light and dark areas of a scene at a variety of "values." Pure white becomes pure black on a negative. Colors in between black and white have different values. The scanner changes this values into digits and creates the digital image that can be seen and manipulated in the computer via software. You must adjust the scanner for varying quality photos because the scanner doesn't always "see" everything in a poor or very old photo. Most scanners come with software that allows some basic control over light and dark, contrast and color. This further can be manipulated in software such as Adobe Photoshop or Photoshop Elements.

Tags: glass plate, light dark, photo scanner, scan element

Make A Picture Frame

If you have purchased pieces of artwork, then you know how expensive custom framing can be. To save money and exercise your creativity, you can cut and fasten your own molding and make your own frames.

Instructions

1. Measure the width and height of the picture you wish to frame, and then choose your molding based on those figures. Your molding pieces must be slightly larger than the picture.

2. Cut the pieces using a miter saw. Make the cuts at a 45-degree angle. Measure from the inside angle and subtract 1/2 inch from the length and width so they molding can cover the picture.

3. Use a router to make relief cuts on the inside of the molding you have already cut. You'll want the rabbet large enough to fit the piece of glass you plan to use for the picture frame.

4. Arrange the four pieces that you cut into a frame shape. Drill a small hole on each end. Secure the pieces together with a small amount of wood glue. Hammer brad nails into each hole to join the pieces together. Fill the nail holes with wood putty.

5. Stain the picture frame with a finish. Protect the finish with a clear coat after the stain has dried. Let it sit overnight before placing the glass and picture inside of it.

6. Use glazier points to secure the picture and glass inside the rabbet within the molding. Push the points in with a flathead screwdriver tip.

Tags: pieces together

Use A Motorola V365

The Motorola V365 was a mobile phone released by the company back in 2006. The Motorola V365 is a flip phone, although stocky, and it retailed for a very low price through AT&T with a one-year service agreement. If you happen to own a Motorola V365, you may want to learn use some of the cell phone's features.

Instructions

The Steps

1. Enter the SIM card code when you turn on the phone. Hit the green power key to launch the Motorola V365. The phone has a special feature that permits you to lock the phone unless you enter a pin number for the SIM card at the prompt screen. If you enter the pin number incorrectly three times, the SIM will be locked and you will need to contact your wireless provider.

2. Click the "Menu" key which appears as an icon with several parallel lines at the top of the keypad. This will open the main menu and you can go through the different options with the navigational keys.

3. Make a call or answer a call on the Motorola V365 by pressing the green power key. The red key ends the call. When you make or receive calls, you can press the "Store" key from the call log to save the contact information for the past calls. You can also manually enter contact information by going to "Address Book" and choose "New." Once you enter the name and phone number, you can call that person directly by opening your address book.

4. Find the happy face at the top of your screen. Press the happy face button to enable the Motorola V365's Push to Talk feature. This feature allows you to talk walkie talkie style to your Push to Talk contacts.

5. Enable Bluetooth on your Motorola V365. Pair your phone with a Bluetooth-enabled device by finding the "Bluetooth Link" under "Connections" in the "Settings" menu. You can then look for devices within range and pair them up in order to talk wirelessly.

Tags: Motorola V365, contact information, enter number, green power, happy face, Push Talk

The Infocus Projector Won'T Power Up

InFocus is an electronics company that specializes in digital projectors. When using the projector you are able to produce computer and video information for a larger audience than a standard computer or television screen. However, if the projector is not powering on, you need to troubleshoot the situation to determine what exactly is causing the problem.

Instructions

1. Check the power cord connection. Make sure it is completely inserted into the local electrical outlet.

2. Disconnect the power cord and insert a different electronic device. It is possible the electrical outlet is damaged and not conducting power. If the new device does not turn on, you know this is the case.

3. Remove the lens cap from the InFocus projector. If the lens cap is left on, you are given the impression the device is not turning on.

4. Replace the projector lamp. Like other light bulbs, this lamp burns out eventually.

5. Select the correct input you are using. If the wrong input is selected, you will not receive a projected image. Press the "Menu" button on the projector, then choose "Input." Select the input you are using and the image should appear on the screen.

Tags: electrical outlet, input using, power cord

Connect A Vcr To An Rca L32hd31 Tv

With the advent of DVD and Blu-ray technology, some television instruction manuals no longer provide comprehensive instructions on connect VCRs. Connecting a VCR to RCA's 32-inch LCD L32HD31 television is a quick and simple process, similar to hooking up a DVD player with composite video output.

Instructions

1. Locate the video output jacks on your VCR. These are located on the back of the VCR and are usually labeled as "Video Out" or "Output." You'll see three jacks colored white, red and yellow.

2. Plug the RCA audio/video cable into the VCR output jacks. This cable has two audio jacks (red and white) and one video jack (yellow). Match up the white, red and yellow cable jacks to the corresponding colors on the VCR output jacks. The yellow jack will be labeled "Video," while the white and red jacks will be labeled "Audio Left" and "Audio Right," respectively.

3. Locate the group of three jacks labeled "Audio/Video Input 1 (Vid 1)" on the back of the RCA L32HD31. These look similar to the VCR output jacks, with three inputs colored red, white and yellow.

4. Plug the other end of the RCA audio/video cable into the "Audio/Video Input 1 (Vid 1)" jacks on the TV. Again, match up the corresponding colors.

5. Test the connection. Plug in and turn on both the TV and VCR. Insert a VHS tape into your VCR and press "Play." Press the "Input" button on your RCA L32HD31's remote control. Then use the right and left arrows to select "Vid 1" as your video input channel. Select "OK" on your RCA remote control to confirm, and you'll see the VCR signal playing on your TV.

Tags: output jacks, white yellow, audio video, Audio Video, audio video cable

Hook Up My Canon Camera To My Computer

Canon digital cameras can be quickly connected to your computer for ease of transferring images, direct printing and for setting the camera's functions. Once the provided software program has been installed, the camera is connected via a USB cable. If no modifications to the computer have been made or preferences in the software changed, the computer will detect the camera and open the provided software. Some Canon digital cameras will even turn on automatically when connected to a computer.

Instructions

1. Charge the camera battery using the Canon-provided charger according to the manufacturer's instructions. The camera must be turned on while viewing and transferring files and adjusting the cameras settings. A dead battery could cause loss of data.

2. Remove the battery from the charger when the light on the battery charger glows steadily. Install it in your camera according to the camera manual's instructions.

3. Install the Canon software that came with your camera according to the manufacturer's instructions. This software will automatically detect your camera when connected to the computer and open the Camera Window. This window allows you to download images from the camera to the computer, perform picture transfer and organizing, and change the settings of the camera.

4. Insert the large end of the provided USB cable into an open USB port on your computer.

5. Connect the USB cable to the USB port on your Canon camera. This port, a small rectangular cable outlet, is located on the side of the camera, protected by a rubber cover. Open the rubber cover and insert the small end of the USB cable into the port.

6. Turn the camera on, if the computer has not already done so. The camera software should open, showing the Camera Window.

7. Click on the appropriate tab in the camera window. The different tabs shown in the window allow you to select and download images from the camera to the computer, print selected images, adjust settings on the camera and take pictures with remote shooting.

8. Click the appropriate icon on the page you've selected. You have the options to download all images or select the ones you want, and choose the folder and location for your pictures. The download progress is displayed on your computer.

9. Select settings for printing your images and for adjusting the camera settings if needed.

Tags: camera computer, download images, your camera, your computer, according manufacturer, according manufacturer instructions, cable into

Save Addresses To My Locations On A Garmin Gps

Save Addresses to My Locations on a Garmin GPS

Your Garmin GPS comes with many features that you may find handy. One of these features is your ability to save your favorite or most frequented addresses for an easier later access. The number of addresses you can save varies depending on your Garmin GPS model. You can use this feature to save your current location, save a favorite address after you find it, or set your home address.

Instructions

Saving Your Current Location

1. Select the "Where To" tab from the main screen in your Garmin GPS.

2. Find the "My Locations" icon in your Garmin GPS main menu. Typically it is indicated with a red heart. Click on it.

3. Touch the "My Current Location" tab from the "My Locations" menu.

4. Hit the "Save" button on the right of the screen showing your current location coordinates. Your Garmin device may ask you confirm that you want to save your current location. Select "Yes" or "OK." You current location is now saved under your "Favorites."

5. Touch the "Back" button on your current location screen. And select the "Favorites" tab from the "My Locations" list.

6. Touch the address you just saved and click "Edit" to the right of the address screen. At this point, you can give the location a name by selecting "Change Name" or give it a symbol by selecting "Change Map Symbol." You may also delete addresses you no longer wish to have in your "Favorites."

Saving a Favorite Address

7. Select "Where To" from your Garmin GPS' main menu screen.

8. Select the "Address" icon to type a certain address, or search for a certain location under "Food," "Lodging" or any other icon that the location you are trying to save falls under.

9. Click "Save" to the right of the address screen once you have typed or found the address you are trying to save. Confirm that you want to save the location by clicking "OK" if your GPS asks you to. Your address is now saved under "Favorites" and you may go there to change the name of the location, its map symbol or delete it.

Setting Your Home Location

10. Touch "Where To" from your Garmin GPS's main menu screen.

11. Click on the "My Locations" icon, typically highlighted with a red heart.

12. Touch the "Go Home" tab on your "My Locations" list.

13. Select the "Set Home" option and type in your home address. Now every time you want to go home, you can just select "Go Home" and your Garmin GPS will guide you.

Tags: current location, Garmin main, Garmin main menu, main menu, save your

Operate A Fuji Finepix 1800s

Set the S1800 to "Landscape" mode to capture mountainous scenes in vivid color.

The Fujifilm FinePix S1800 12.2-megapixel digital camera features a pop-up flash, the option of automatic or manual operation and a large 3-inch liquid crystal display (LCD) screen. After the charged battery and memory card are installed and the camera is set up, you should run through basic operations of your S1800, such as preparation for capture, image capture, zoom control, flash mode selection, image review and image deletion.

Instructions

1. Slide the "On/Off" switch on the top-right side of the camera to the right to turn on the S1800. Twist the mode dial on top of the camera to "Auto" mode or the camera icon. Point the camera at the subject and frame her within the viewfinder, which is the little window on the back of the camera, or within the LCD screen on the back of the camera.

2. Press the shutter button halfway down. The shutter button is located on the top-right side of the S1800. When it is pressed halfway down, the camera automatically focuses on the subject and makes adjustments to properly expose the image. The camera beeps twice and an indicator light, located on the lower camera back, illuminates green once the focus is established. Fully depress the shutter button to capture the image.

3. Pull the zoom lever, which encircles the shutter button, to the right toward the "T" to zoom in on the subject. Push the zoom lever to the left toward the "W" to zoom away from the subject.

4. Press the "Flash Release" button on the left side of the flash on the top of the camera. Press the navigation button to the right toward the direction of the lightning bolt icon continuously to cycle through the flash options. The "Auto" flash mode allows the camera to determine when the flash fires according to light readings. The "Forced Flash" mode commands the flash to fire each time a picture is taken, regardless of the lighting situation. The "Slow Synchro" mode captures night time scenes and allows the background to burn in.

5. Press the "Playback" button, which is marked with a triangle inside a rectangle on the camera back, to review images. The image last captured appears on the LCD screen. Press the navigation button to the right of the monitor to the left or right to scroll backward or forward through the library.

6. Highlight the picture you wish to delete with the navigation button. Press up on the navigation button toward the trashcan icon. A confirmation message of "Erase OK?" appears on the monitor. Highlight "OK" with the navigation button and press the "Menu/OK" button in the center of the navigation button to delete the image.

Tags: navigation button, shutter button, button right, Press navigation, Press navigation button, back camera, button right toward

Sample Analog Sounds

Sampling analog sounds allows music listeners to convert their analog music collection into a digital collection. Sampling analogs sounds also allow disc jockeys and music producers to incorporate sound from analog sources. Sampling analog sounds can be done with relative ease and without the need for expensive equipment and software.

Instructions

1. Go to the official site of GoldWave, an audio-editing program. (See the link in Resources.) Download a copy of the program and install it.

2. Open GoldWave and click the icon in the top left corner labeled "New." Under the heading labeled "Initial File Length," enter--in hours, minutes and second--the desired length of your sample. Then click "OK."

3. Plug one end of the audio cable into the analog audio source and the other end into the "Line In" port on your sound card.

4. Press the red "Record" button under the floating "Control" menu. Then press "Play" on the analog source. GoldWave will begin recording the audio.

5. After you have recorded your selection, press the blue "Stop" button in the floating "Control" menu. Then click the "Save" icon in the top left corner of the program. Name and place your file, then click the "Save" button.

Tags: analog sounds, click Save, Control menu, Control menu Then, floating Control, floating Control menu

Run The Sound From A Pc To A Tv

As long as you have the proper audio cables, getting sound from a PC to a TV is not at all difficult or complicated. PCs are equipped to allow audio signal output. And TVs are equipped to allow audio signal input. It's a match made in convenience. If you prefer, you can even pass the sound coming from the PC through a recording device, such as a VCR or DVD recorder, before sending it to a TV.

Instructions

Connect to TV

1. Connect the stereo plug end of the stereo to RCA cable to the headphone jack located on the front of the PC.

2. Insert the red RCA plug -- located on the other end of the stereo to RCA cable -- into the red "AV In" jack on the TV. The red AV jack is often labeled audio "R," which stands for "right." Plug the white (or black) RCA plug into the TV's white "AV In" jack. The white AV jack is often labeled audio "L," which stands for "left."

3. Turn on the TV. Continuously press the "Input" button on the television's remote control to change the TV's video input channel to the proper AV source. Even if you performed the cable connections correctly, you will not be able to hear sound from your PC on your TV if the TV is set to the wrong input channel.

4. Open an audio file saved on the PC, load an audio CD into the computer's CD drive, or play an audio file on the Internet to generate sound on the PC. The sound from the PC should be heard coming through the TV's speakers.

Connect to TV and VCR or DVD Recorder

5. Connect the stereo plug end of the stereo to RCA cable to the headphone jack located on the front of the PC.

6. Insert the red RCA plug -- located on the other end of the stereo to RCA cable -- into the red "AV In" jack on the rear panel of the recording device. Plug the white (or black) RCA plug into the recording device's white "AV In" jack.

7. Use the set of RCA cables to connect the recording device's red and white AV output jacks to the TV set's red and white AV input jacks.

8. Turn on the TV. Continuously press the "Input" button on the television's remote control to change the TV's video input channel to the proper AV source. Turn on the recording device. Continuously press the "Input" or "Source" button on the recording device's remote control to change its input channel to the AV source.

9. Open an audio file saved on the PC, load an audio CD into the computer's CD drive, or play an audio file on the Internet to generate sound on the PC. The sound from the PC should be heard coming through the TV's speakers. With the audio signal passing through the recording device, you also can record the sound onto a VHS tape or recordable CD or DVD disc.

Tags: recording device, audio file, input channel, stereo cable, audio signal

Run The Mac Os X On An Iphone

An iPhone is one of the best cellular phones/palm devices out there. It is very powerful and can operate OS X (the Mac's current operating system). Once you have the latest smart phone, you may want to upgrade the things that you can do on it.

Instructions

1. Download iTunes to your computer if you haven't already. Sync your iPhone with your computer. Place the iPhone in the dock once the dock is connected to the computer. Choose the songs and other items you want transferred to your iPhone.

2. Turn your iPhone on. It is now operating OS X. You can browse the web and email with this program. The iPhone can't operate all programs that Macs can, especially the RAM-intensive programs. You can add widgets to the iPhone.

3. Go to "System" then "Library" then "Widget Resources" and install it onto your iPhone. This is necessary to run widgets. Just drag the file into the iPhone icon on your desktop.

4. Create a widgets folder on your iPhone.

5. Install your widgets into "var/root/Library/Widgets" on your iPhone.

Tags: your iPhone, your computer

The Dangers Of Cutting Galvanized Steel

Galvanized steel is treated with zinc.

Galvanized steel, which is treated with zinc to prevent rust, is useful for tools, equipment, structures, buildings and outdoor items. The material can also be hazardous to your health when you are cutting it, whether you are using a welding machine, drill, engraver or other cutting tools. You are most at risk of harm if you are not wearing protective gear or working in a well-ventilated area.

Explosions

Cutting galvanized steel that is part of sealed compartments in certain situations can be hazardous. These situations, which arise in mines or with farming equipment, often involve cutting through steel frames, walls or other compartments filled with metal scraps. People place the scraps inside the compartments for ballast to weigh down or stabilize equipment. The zinc in galvanized steel can react with moisture from the scrap metal, creating a highly flammable stream of hydrogen that shoots out when the outer layer of galvanized steel is cut. Prevent an explosion from such a reaction by treating such cutting as if high-pressure gas is inside the compartment when you start cutting. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also says to use equipment specifically designed for drilling through high-pressure gas lines or, if possible, working remotely, using automated equipment. Use only dry-carbon scraps, rather than other types of metal scraps, in walls or compartments that you need to fill with ballast and install vent holes so the pressure does not build up inside the compartments.

Two examples of explosion hazards are offered in the article from CDC: Ignition Hazard From Internally-Generated H2 in Sealed Mining Equipment (see Resources). One includes workers who were drilling into a plow frame filled with scrap metal. The drilling, done in 1995 in New York State, caused a high-pressure stream of hydrogen to burst from the plow frame, knocking workers back off their feet and causing several burns.

Metal Fume Fever

One danger of cutting galvanized steel is metal fume fever, a condition caused by the released zinc fumes. The condition usually only lasts a single day, according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, with workers most susceptible after several days away from the work environment. Metal fume fever comes with a number of flu-like symptoms that include fever, weakness and fatigue, aches, nausea and chills. Coughing is another common side effect, often accompanied by a dry throat.

Avoid metal fume fever by wearing protective gear that includes a mask or other protective face covering. Also, ensure your work area is well-ventilated or even outfitted with an exhaust system that sucks out detrimental fumes.

Other Zinc Side Effects

Short of causing metal fume fever, zinc chloride released while cutting galvanized steel can produce a host of other side effects. The fumes and dust irritate the skin, eyes, lungs, mucous membranes and, if large quantities are inhaled in a short period of time, can be fatal, OSHA says. OSHA has no determination on the exact quantity of fumes that are fatal. Inhaling the fumes can lead to difficulty breathing, chest pain and tightness. Zinc chloride dust on the skin often produces contact dermatitis, rashes or chemical burns. Use the same precautions to avoid other zinc side effects as you would for metal fume fever, with protective gear and a well-ventilated work area. Also, include protective gloves, long sleeves and goggles to stop the zinc dust or fumes from contacting your eyes and skin.

Tags: fume fever, metal fume, metal fume fever, protective gear, filled with, galvanized steel

Make An Xray Screen

Displaying X-rays at home is easy with a simple X-ray screen.

You may have X-rays that you want to view at home, or perhaps you would like to display X-rays in an artistic way as a decoration. In either case, and inexpensive and fun solution is to make your own X-ray screen. Making an X-ray screen is really no different from making a simple light box. Use a lighting kit or kits that can accommodate two light-emitting diodes (LEDs) or compact fluorescent light bulbs, which will reduce the heat output. These kits can be found at any home improvement store.

Instructions

1. Cut the wood to the correct dimensions for your box. The back piece should be the same size as your plastic screen. The screen should overlap the sides exactly. The sides should frame the bottom and top at the correct length and width. The depth should be deep enough to accommodate the lighting kit and bulbs with a little room to spare.

2. Assemble all of the box pieces and the plastic cover to ensure the dimensions are correct. Make corrections if needed.

3. Assemble the back and sides of the wood box with standard wood screws and a little wood glue. Leave off the plastic cover until later.

4. Drill a hole at the bottom of the box and thread the light kit cords through it.

5. Mount the light kits to the back of the box so that the bulbs are fairly evenly spaced within the box. Test that the bulbs are working before proceeding.

6. Glue the tracing paper to the inside of the plastic sheet with spray adhesive. This will help filter the light and make it more even.

7. Put the screen in place and drill two holes at the top and the bottom of the screen, going through the plastic and into the top edges of the box. Secure the screen with wood screws.

Tags: X-ray screen, plastic cover, that bulbs, wood screws

Repair A Broken Minidv Tape

The MiniDV format uses a 6-mm tape packaged in a cartridge that is inserted to a MiniDV camera's tape deck. It is one of the industry-standard tape formats that followed older tape technologies, including the Digital8, Hi8 and Video8. When repairing a broken MiniDV cassette or a jammed MiniDV tape, this typically requires opening the cartridge to fix any damaged part or transferring the magnetic tape to a brand new cartridge.

Instructions

1. Check the damage on the MiniDV tape. If the cartridge is broken, you need to replace it. If there the magnetic tape is tangled or torn, fix it by unlocking the tape guard button on one side of the cassette, then flattening the tangled magnetic tape from the top of the cartridge's tape guard with your fingers. You may actually use a Scotch tape, but this is not recommended as a long-term solution because its chemicals will eat away the magnetic tape over time. If the damage is inside the cartridge, you need to open it for repair and possible part or cartridge replacement.

2. Disassemble the catridge using a small screwdriver.

3. Remove one side of the cartridge so you can look at any internal part that encountered damage.

4. Fix the damaged part. Look for a photo of the internal parts of a fully-functional MiniDV tape on the Internet if you are not familiar with its internal parts. This way, you will be able to check what particular part has damage. If you encounter any problem beyond practical repair, transfer the two reels that hold the magnetic tape to a replacement cartridge.

If the cause of the problem is a jam on the magnetic tape and there seems to be no other part damaged, carefully flatten and untangle the crumpled using your fingers. If there is a tear on the tape, use a video splicing tape, or Scotch tape, to fix it.

5. Assemble back the original or new tape cartridge that should house the fixed magnetic tape. Be careful not to accidentally entangle the magnetic tape during the process.

6. Return the screws using a small screwdriver to close the cartridge.

Tags: magnetic tape, MiniDV tape, cartridge that, damaged part, internal parts

Transfer Videos From A Samsung Moment To My Computer

You can transfer videos recorded on the Samsung Moment to your computer.

The 3.2 megapixel digital camera installed in the Samsung Moment smartphone not only takes still pictures but videos as well. Once you record videos with the camera, you can transfer them to your computer to edit, save as a backup or to share with others. Transferring your video files requires you to connect the Samsung Moment to a computer via the supplied USB cable.

Instructions

1. Pull open the charging port cover, which is found on the right side of the Samsung Moment, and connect the smaller end of the supplied USB cable to the port.

2. Plug the standard USB size end of the supplied cable into an open port on your computer. The USB icon will appear in the status bar across the top of your Samsung Moment screen.

3. Place your finger on the status bar on the top of the screen and pull down to access the "Notifications" screen.

4. Touch "USB Connected" and then "Mount." A "Removable Disc" window will appear on your computer screen.

5. Click "Open Folder to View Files Using Windows Explorer" in the "Removable Disc" window and then click "OK." A window will appear on the screen with all of your picture, video and other multimedia files stored on the memory card in your Samsung Moment.

6. Right-click the video you want to transfer to your computer and select "Copy" from the pop-up window that appears.

7. Right-click your desktop or other location where you want to store the video on your computer and select "Paste" from the pop-up window to copy the video to your computer.

Tags: Samsung Moment, your computer, supplied cable, will appear, computer select, Disc window, from pop-up

Use A Gary Fong Lightsphere

The Gary Fong Lightsphere is a type of flash diffuser. This piece of equipment attaches to a standard flash gun and distributes the light from the flash pulse more evenly, resulting in a more smoothly lit and even-toned image. The Lightsphere may be used in both studio shoots and on location photography such as weddings. It eliminates the need for multiple lighting rigs and adds an element of maneuverability to the photographer's arsenal.

Instructions

1. Swivel the flash head 90 degrees so that the bulb end is perpendicular to the camera.

2. Hold the Lightsphere from the belled end and slip it over the top of the flash head. The Lightsphere is available in four different sizes to accommodate different makes and models of flash head, so be sure your head and Lightsphere are compatible.

3. Attach the included dome piece to the Lightsphere if necessary. Place the dome in the belled end of the Lightsphere, concave side outward, and press in to attach.

4. For shooting in areas with high ceilings or a need for more light, remove the dome. For shooting outdoors, the dome should be inserted and the flash head may be aimed at the subject directly. The Lightsphere will reduce or eliminate harsh flash shadows.

5. Shoot your images! The Lightsphere can be used to bounce flash off ceilings, walls, reflectors or any other object. By diffusing the light emitted by the flash, the resulting shadows and contrast of the image will be reduced as well.

Tags: flash head, Fong Lightsphere, Gary Fong, Gary Fong Lightsphere, head Lightsphere, Lightsphere used

Use A Flash Light Meter

A flash light meter is simply a device that allows you to measure the amount of light present from a certain angle. A flash light meter allows a photographer to find the perfect amount of exposure for a photograph. Put simply, this means that the camera's shutter speed will change depending on the amount of light available. Flash light meters are meant to find the optimum exposure, so your pictures look as clear and vivid as they possibly can.

Instructions

1. Find the film speed that your camera will be using. You will be able to find this right on the roll of film, or on the camera itself, where you load the film. If you are unable to locate the film speed in either of these locations, check the camera's owner's manual.

2. Set the film speed on your flash light meter. You will be able to do this with knob that turns on the front of the meter, or on newer flash light meters, with a button that controls a digital display.

3. Point the light meter in the direction you would point the camera, as though you are going to take a picture with the flash light meter. The flash light meter will measure the light and provide a number. Take note of this number.

4. Secure your cameras shutter speed, so it corresponds with the flash light meter number. Some cameras will have a knob on the top that you can turn, while digital cameras are likely to have a menu option that allows you to set the shutter speed.

5. Set the shutter speed on your camera, so it coordinates with the number given by your flash light reader. When you are ready, take a picture. The coordination of the light and your shutter speed will ensure the picture turns out perfect.

Tags: light meter, flash light, shutter speed, film speed, flash light meter

Develop Kodak Black And White Film

Black and white film canister

Developing Kodak black-and-white film on your own can be a tricky process, but with the required knowledge, skill and some practice, anyone can process their own film to create stunning black-and-white photographs.

Instructions

Developing Black and White Film

1. Inside your pitch-black darkroom, use the can opener to pry open the lid of your Kodak film canister. Holding the film by the edges, carefully unwind the entire roll of film.

2. Load the film onto the reel, careful to not let the film surface touch your fingers, another part of the film or your clothes. This is usually the most difficult step, as successfully protecting the surface of the entire film in the dark takes practice.

3. Place the loaded film reel into the film tank and close the lid tightly to ensure that no light can reach the film. You may now turn on the light for the remaining steps.

4. Pour developer into the pour spout of the film tank until nearly full, then cover the spout. Agitate the film tank once every minute by flipping the tank upside down and then right side back up, tapping the tank a few times to make sure air bubbles don't rest on the film. Continue this process for six minutes, or the specific time noted on the film packaging. Six minutes is the suggested time for 400 ISO film. Please check the instructions on the film's packaging for different developing times.

5. Pour out the developer, and then run water through the tank spout for one full minute. This will halt the film developer's effects.

6. Empty the water from the tank and fill it with fixer. Repeat the same agitation process as with the developer, flipping the tank around and tapping it to remove bubbles once every minute. Continue this process for five to 10 minutes, depending on the instructions for your brand of fixer.

7. Empty the fixer from the tank. Your film will no longer be sensitive to light, so you may remove the tank lid and fill the entire tank with cold water to rinse lingering chemicals. Run water over the exposed film for five minutes.

8. Empty water from the tank, and then pour in hypo eliminator chemical, replace the lid, repeating the agitation process for two minutes. This will ensure that your film will not contain white traces from the fixer chemical.

9. For a final wash, remove the tank lid and run water over the exposed film for five full minutes.

10. Empty the water out of the tank and remove the film reel. Unroll the film from the reel, careful to only touch the edges of the film. Place clips or clothespins on the edges and hang in a safe and dry place for one to two hours.

11. Cut the dry, processed film into strips. A common length to use is six negatives long for placement in clear plastic negative pages.

Tags: Empty water, film tank, from tank, agitation process, Continue this, Continue this process

Transfer Photo Negatives To Digital

Photo negatives are the finalized film from a film camera, and are used to recreate the captured image.

Scanning a picture onto a computer is a good way to preserve the image. Printed photographs that are scanned tend to lose picture quality, though. Scanning negatives into a computer is a good way to increase the final quality of the digital file while preserving the picture. It is possible to scan a negative into a computer with a standard scanner, but a negative scanner will make the process easier.

Instructions

1. Use a soft cloth to clean the scanner's glass surface. To reproduce the negative's image with the highest quality, the scanner's glass must be free of any dirt and debris.

2. Remove the Transparent Material Adapter (TMA) from the scanner. The TMA is the white board, usually located on the bottom of the scanner lid. The TMA is held in place by small clips that should pop out.

3. Place the negatives onto the scanner's glass. Cover any open glass so that no excess light is captured. You can use dark colored paper or cloth to cover the glass, anything that will prevent light from getting through will work.

4. Follow your scanner's instructions on scanning and saving an image. Once the TMA is removed and the glass covered, scanning a negative is virtually the same as scanning any other image.

Tags: scanner glass, computer good, into computer

Reset A Home Alarm System

Typical Burglar/Fire Alarm keypad

One in every four U.S. homes has a security alarm. Alarm distributors often provide free installation to homeowners with a monitoring and service commitment. When that commitment ends, however, many homeowners resort to using their alarm system locally--not tied to a central monitoring or police/fire alert service.

Homeowners occasionally find it necessary to reset their home alarm system. This can occur for any number of reasons, including a power outage or brownout; the need to change the alarm unit backup battery; or purchase of a new home with no knowledge of the password. When they contact an alarm company for help, they are often told that the company will not reset their system unless they purchase a service or monitoring contract, an often costly proposition.

Instructions

Search for Resources

1. Alarm companies make their money by providing monthly monitoring services for homeowners. As a result, they are not usually interested in helping out a homeowner who has no intention of buying their services. There are companies that will help homeowners and there are resources available via the Internet. The first step is to gather basic information regarding the system make, model number and serial number. These are most often found on the master control panel, which is a central processing unit for a home alarm system. This panel is usually located in the basement, garage or closet, and often is locked. This panel should contain detailed information about your alarm system on the inside cover.

2. Check the manufacturer's website for installer instructions. It is usually easy to locate basic system operation manuals written for the homeowner. Homeowner alarm system manuals, however, do not typically include reset instructions. Installation manuals can sometimes be found online for a given system. Use a search engine for the specific system model number to find any web resources that may be helpful for a given system.

3. Check out do-it-yourself alarm support sites (see References below). Other homeowners may post information helpful in resetting a particular type of alarm system.

Generic Alarm Reset Instructions

4. Locate the power source to the Main Control Panel. Disconnect the power. If the panel is hard-wired, this will require cutting off the circuit breaker at the house electrical panel board.

5. Disconnect the backup battery in the Main Control Panel. Pull both leads from the battery. Take care: Battery leads are easily broken.

6. Leave power off for a minimum of five minutes.

7. Reconnect the battery leads. With the help of a friend, power up the system. While one person activates the power, the second should be at the alarm system control panel.

8. At the alarm system control panel, press the * (star) and # (pound) keys at the same time. Hold them for approximately five seconds while the system is powering up.

9. Key in the installer code. This varies by manufacturer. Ademco common installer codes are (4+1+1+2), followed by 8+0+0. This sequence will put the user in the data fields, where password information can be reset. For Ademco model alarms, *97 resets all alarm features to factory defaults. Other systems should enable the user to scroll through a series of screens to reset alarm system features.

Tags: alarm system, alarm system, alarm system control, alarm system This, backup battery

How Do The Rods & Cones In The Eye Work

An ophthalmoscope is used for viewing the retina.

The picture that human beings see when they look at an object requires a complex network: the manipulation of light with contact lenses or glasses, structural clarity of the eyeball, neurological integrity of the eyeball, and neurological integrity of the visual system in the brain. The rod and cone cells in the eyeball form the basis for the neurological integrity of the eyeball.

Retina

The retina is the neurological tissue that lines the inner surface of the eyeball at the back of the eyeball. There are 10 retinal layers; the two layers that pertain to the rods and cones are the outer nuclear layer, containing the rod and cone inner segments, and the photoreceptor layer, where the outer segments of the rods and cones are located.

Rod and Cone Inner Segments

The inner segment of the rods and cones contain the cell's nucleus, mitochondria, golgi apparatus, and all of the other elements of the cell that allow it to function properly. The processes that occur in the inner segment of the rods and cones make the processes that occur in the rod and cone outer segments possible.

Rod and Cone Outer Segments

The outer segments of the rods and cones contain a protein known as opsin. Retinal is a specific portion of the opsin protein that is affected by light. When a particle of light comes into contact with the retinal portion of the opsin, the retinal undergoes a chemical change. This chemical change is temporary. When the change happens, it causes the rod and cone outer segments to send an electrical impulse through the rod or cone cell. This is where the visual signal actually begins in the eyeball.

Path of the Eyeball's Electrical Impulse

The electrical impulse generated from the rod and cone outer segments is conducted through seven of the remaining eight layers of the retina. When the electrical impulse reaches the optic nerve, it is transmitted through that nerve into the brains' visual system. The visual portion of the brain is located in the occipital lobe at the back of the brain; this is where the picture that a human sees is formed.

Functional Difference Between Rods and Cones

Rods are designed to be stimulated more easily by smaller amounts of light. However, they lack the ability to detect color differences or to see in fine detail. They function better in the dark for detecting movement. The cone cells are much smaller and are responsible for providing fine detail and color vision.

Tags: outer segments, rods cones, neurological integrity, chemical change, cone cells, cone outer

What Sd Cards Work In A Pentax M20

Released in 2006, the Pentax Optio M20 digital camera comes with 22MB of built-in memory, but also features a built-in Secure Digital, or SD, card slot for expanded memory. The camera supports standard SD and high-capacity SD, or SDHC, memory cards, which offer different amounts of memory.

Types

Before identifying the amounts of memory afforded by SD and SDHC memory cards, it's best to first understand the different card categories that are available. As of June 2011 the SD and SDHC card categories include standard-, mini- and micro-sized versions. A third category, known as extra-capacity SD, or SDXC, is available only in standard-sized SDXC and microSDXC versions. Identifying the correct size of SD or SDHC card to use in the Optio M20 shouldn't be a problem, as long as you keep in mind that these cards are the largest SD cards available.

Dimensions

To further clarify the differences between the different sizes of SD cards available, it's helpful to familiarize yourself with the different card dimensions. SD, SDHC---the ones used in the Pentax Optio M20---and SDXC cards are about the size of a postage stamp, measuring .9 inches wide, 1.3 inches long and .08 inches deep, and weighing .07 ounces. MiniSD and miniSDHC cards are about 37 percent of the size of the standard-sized SD cards, measuring .8 inches wide, .8 inches long and .06 inches deep, and weighing .03 ounces. At .02 ounces, microSD, microSDHC and microSDXC cards are about the size of a fingernail, measuring .4 inches wide, .6 inches long and .04 inches deep.

Capacities

Deciding which SD card capacity is right for you depends on your needs. An SD card will provide you with up to 2GB of added memory, while an SDHC offers between 2GB and 32GB of memory. The Pentax Optio M20 is a seven-megapixel camera that also records video at 30 frames per second at up to 640 by 480 pixels of resolution. If you plan to use the camera for still photography only, an SD card will likely suffice. However, if you intend to use the Optio M20 to record video or store a large number of still photographs, you will probably find an SDHC card more appropriate. As a side note, SDXC and microSDXC provide between 32GB and 2TB of memory and are designed mainly for large-format, high-density video recording.

Speeds

With regard to video recording, which is offered by the Pentax Optio M20, all SD cards, including SD and SDHC, fall into two categories: Speed Class and Ultra-High Speed Class. The SC class is subdivided into four speed classes---Classes 2, 4, 6 and 10---that are compatible with normal or high-speed bus interfaces. Normal-speed interfacing, as provided by the Optio M20, is compatible with the SC's Classes 2, 4 and 6. Class 10 is intended to facilitate high-definition video recording, which is offered by newer and high-end digital cameras.

Tags: Pentax Optio, cards about, inches deep, inches long, inches long inches, inches wide

Sony Walkman Series X Vs Ipod Touch

The iPod touch's battery provides up to 40 hours of listening time vs. 33 for the Walkman.

The iPod touch and X-Series Walkman are multimedia-consumption devices developed by Apple and Sony respectively. Both devices feature touchscreen LCD screens, integrated rechargeable batteries and on-board flash storage. Though the devices are similar in design and application, they differ in terms of size, screen quality and integrated multimedia features. Apple released the original iPod touch in 2007. Sony released the X-Series Walkman in 2009 but has since discontinued the product.

Size, Battery, Wi-Fi

The iPod Touch measures 4.4 inches tall, 2.3 inches wide and 0.28 inches thick at its thickest point. It weighs 3.56 oz. before optional upgrades and accessories. The X-Series Walkman is slightly smaller and lighter, measuring 3.9 inches tall, 2.1 inches wide and 0.4 inches thick at its thickest point. It weighs 3.50 oz. before optional upgrades and accessories. Both devices are powered by integrated rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. Both devices have Wi-Fi functionality.

Display And Controls

Apple outfits the iPod Touch with a 3.5-inch widescreen multi-touch display with a native resolution of 960 by 640 pixels. The screen in the X-Series Walkman is smaller and less detailed, measuring 3.0 inches with a resolution of 432 by 240 pixels. Both devices are controlled by on-screen touch-responsive interfaces paired with a single central control button situated below their screens. Physical volume buttons are found on the left side of both devices. Additional pause, play, forward and reverse buttons are found on the top of the X-Series Walkman.

Multimedia

Both devices have audio frequency response ranges of 20Hz to 20,000Hz. The iPod touch supports AAC, Protected AAC, HE-AAC, MP4, MP3 VBR, Audible, Apple Lossless, AIFF and WAV audio file formats. The X-Series Walkman supports only four audio formats: LPCM, MP3, WMA and AAC. The iPod touch supports H.264, MPEG-4 and M-JPEG video file formats. The X-Series Walkman supports H.264, MPEG-4 and WMV video file formats. The X-Series Walkman has a built-in FM radio tuner while the iPod touch doesn't.

Additional Information

Apple sells the iPod touch configured with 16GB, 32GB and 64GB hard drives. Sony sold the X-Series Walkman with a 16GB or 32GB hard drive. The iPod touch has a pair of integrated digital cameras. The primary camera is rear-facing and records high-definition 720p video at up to 30 frames per second. The secondary camera is front-facing and intended for VGA-quality photos and videos. The X-Series Walkman doesn't have any integrated cameras. Apple sells the iPod touch bundled with a set of Apple earbud headphones and a combination dock connector and USB cable. Sony sold the X-Series Walkman bundled with a pair of headphones and a USB cable.

Tags: X-Series Walkman, iPod touch, Both devices, file formats, file formats X-Series

Disadvantages Of Macro Lenses

A macro lens captures tiny subjects.

A macro camera lens is designed to be used for photographing subjects at extremely close range. This requires a great attention to detail, sharpness and technical accuracy. Macro lenses can be used for other purposes to some extent but their main use is high-quality close-ups. While there are several advantages to macro lenses, there are also a few possible disadvantages to be aware of and consider when purchasing a new camera lens.

Versatility

One disadvantage of purchasing a macro lens over another type of photography lens is that it is just one lens, designed for a very specific purpose. In other words, it only does one thing. According to professional photographer Rob Sheppard (see ref. 1), you can get great shots down to macro distances with other types of lenses. You don't necessarily have to buy a whole new lens just to do close-ups with. He suggests using extension tubes or an achromatic close-up lens.

Expense

Another disadvantage of macro lenses is the cost. In general, the longer and heavier the lens, the more expensive it's going to be. If you aren't doing enough extreme close-up shots to warrant buying a dedicated lens at significant cost, it may not be worth purchasing a macro lens; try more cost-effective methods like extension tubes.

Handling

One more disadvantage of macro lenses is ease of handling. A longer and heavier lens like a macro can be unwieldy in some situations, particularly if you want to hand-hold. A macro lens can also be slow because of a smaller depth of field and aperture. Imagine using your setup in the field and consider your need for speed and convenience before deciding on a lens and accessories.

Tags: macro lens, camera lens, disadvantage macro, disadvantage macro lenses, extension tubes, heavier lens, lens designed

Connect A Bluetooth Headset To A Pocket Pc

Pocket PCs are miniature computers that travel easily, as some are no bigger than a pack of playing cards. Many people rely on their Pocket PCs completely and would never leave home without it. A Bluetooth headset is a handy accessory for a Pocket PC that is Bluetooth enabled. Basic Pocket PCs can use audio-only headsets to listen to music and other audio recordings. Pocket PCs that have built in mobile phones, on the other hand, can use Bluetooth headsets with microphones just as you would with a cellular phone.

Instructions

Pair a Bluetooth Headset with a Pocket PC

1. Determine whether your Pocket PC is Bluetooth enabled. Most of the newer models come equipped with this feature.

2. Turn on the Bluetooth device on your Pocket PC by going into the connections settings and checking or unchecking the appropriate box.

3. Make sure your Bluetooth headset is turned on and within 30 feet of the Pocket PC. This is the limit of the Bluetooth range, but it's advisable to have them as close as possible when trying to connect for pairing.

4. Search for your headset with your Pocket PC by going into the devices menu and selecting "New Partnership" or "Find Devices" or a related phrase. Different Pocket PCs use different language to configure Bluetooth devices.

5. Locate your headset among the devices listed and select it.

6. Enter the passkey or passcode that came with your Bluetooth headset when prompted to do so. Your headset should now connect to the Pocket PC.

Tags: your Pocket, your Pocket going, Bluetooth enabled, Bluetooth headset, going into, Pocket going, Pocket going into

Restore Deleted Digital Camera Files

Restore Deleted Digital Camera Files

When dealing with the vast amounts of pictures you can now take with a digital camera, chances are good that the ratio of bad pictures to ones you want to keep is pretty high. So when deleting the unwanted pictures from your memory card, what happens when you delete one of the good ones? Fret not. Luckily, you can easily get them back with a few simple steps.

Instructions

Setting Up

1. Determine if you are taking pictures directly to your camera or to a SD memory card, of it the photo was saved on your computer's hard drive. If you have inserted a SD memory card into the camera, it is likely that you are saving pictures to it. If you have not, you are saving pictures directly onto the camera's hard drive. If you were viewing the photo on your computer, it's possible it was on your computer's hard drive.

2. Do not take any more pictures, either on the memory card or the camera. Once it's been decided that a digital image was deleted erroneously from your memory card or camera, and you want to get it back, this is the most important thing.

3. Eject the memory card from the camera and set it aside (if it is indeed being used). If you happen to take more pictures on the card or the hard drive of the camera after you've deleted the wanted image, chances are the file has been overwritten and is unrecoverable. Make sure the card is in a safe place until it is needed in further steps.

4. Download onto your computer any of a number of free software recovery programs. This includes PC Inspector Smart Recovery.

5. Connect your camera to your computer through a direct cable connection (USB port), if you want to recover the images from your memory card, insert the card into the camera or use a card reader (often built in to newer computers). Make sure that the memory card/camera shows up as a new drive letter under your "my computer" settings. If it doesn't, chances are you will have to use the computer's memory card reader.

Running PC Inspector Smart Recovery

6. Double-click on the PC Inspector icon on your desktop to start it running.

7. Use the drop-down menu in the left-hand box, titled "Select Device," to choose the new drive that your camera is located in. If you are simply connecting the camera, the files will still be located there, if you are restoring files from a memory card, they will be read either through your camera automatically, or through the card reader.

8. Choose JPG from the drop-down menu in the second, middle box, titled "Select Format Type," as most cameras take pictures in this format. If, by chance, after the following scan, the deleted file didn't show up, it is possible the camera saves the images in a different format; research your camera and redo this step accordingly.

9. Select the destination where you'd like to save your recovered images to in the right-hand box, titled "Select Destination."

10. Click the start button in the lower right hand side of the program window. The resulting action may take a while depending on how much information and digital images where saved on the card or camera, but after the program has finished, the original deleted image should be recovered and saved in your chosen destination drive.

Tags: memory card, your computer, your camera, card camera, hard drive, card reader

Take Great Digital Photos

Digital cameras are fast becoming the camera of choice. If you don’t know the various settings and take advantage of the buttons and tricks on your digital camera, you might just miss out on that great shot.

Instructions

Take Great Digital Photos

1. If you find the exact right moment to take a picture, you don’t want to be disappointed. But sometimes, no matter how great the moment and what you capture on your screen, the picture can turn out different than you expected. Make sure that you take the time to learn what all of the buttons mean by reading your manual. If your camera didn’t come with a manual, stop by the maker’s website and review it online.Now that you are familiar with your particular model, take the time to calibrate the monitor. This is a simple procedure, but it requires that you have the paper you plan on printing out your pictures on. Match the white on your monitor as close as possible to the white on the paper.

2. Make sure you are gripping the camera correctly. Shaking will blur the photo. For the most part, the smaller the camera, the more difficult it will be to hold steady. Pull your elbows slightly against your sides and hold the camera in your right hand. If you have a camera that has an SLR or single Lens Reflex, support the lens with your left hand. Don’t cover the flash or the sensors on the front of the camera.

3. Try moving your position rather than zooming when possible. In many cases, you can crop out unwanted background and frame pictures better by moving yourself rather than the lens.Check the lighting before snapping off the shot, try for natural lighting, even if you are inside. Open a blind depending on the time of day. Play around with different variances of lighting. This is a good time to take advantage of the large memory card you bought for storing multiple pictures. Be sure to note the changes you make to the lighting so you know what works best in future shots.

4. Move the position of your camera. Lower it when taking a picture of a child, for instance. Many times, the photo will come out distorted if you shoot it from the wrong angle. Play around with it and find what works best. Your display screen is great for this purpose.Wide angle lens shots distort the subject. If you are looking for a standard picture don’t bother with this technique. If, however, you want to play with perspective and unique characteristics, then give it a try. Get closer to your subject, otherwise they will seem smaller. With the subject close in a wide angle lens shot, the background will move further away. To give you an idea of the effect, taking a shot from the step below of a person sitting down will make their leg seem twice as long and their head very small.

5. Whatever shot you take, enjoy the subject and it will reflect in the picture you take with your digital camera. The advantage over regular film cameras is you can snap away and not have to worry about getting carried away.

Tags: with your, angle lens, around with, digital camera, Digital Photos

Cdr 500 Instructions

The Marantz CDR500 was made to play, record and burn audio CDs with clear sound reproduction, a decreasingly necessary but still integral part of navigating your music library in 2010. Despite numerous features like text file copying combined with two speeds of audio copying, using your CDR500 for basic operations is as easy as plugging it in, programming it correctly and following a few simple steps to start spinning and grinning.

Instructions

1. Place your Marantz CDR500 on a level surface with at least 1 inch of clearance on all sides.

2. Plug your device into outlet power and attach your speaker wires to the corresponding red and white audio ports on the back of your CD recorder/player. Attach any corresponding CD players in your system at this time into the extra port sets. Press your CDR500's power button at the bottom-left of its face.

3. Press the button with the "Up" symbol by the first deck, and it should open. (Most of these operations can be commanded from the device's accompanying remote control.) Insert a disc and press the "Up" button again. Press "Play (arrow symbol)" and the CD should play. Press the other left-deck CD control buttons to stop or pause.

4. Erase a disc's contents by pressing the "Erase" button after inserting the disc. You can access an external audio device by pressing the "Input" button and selecting the device (if necessary). Pressing "Rec Mode" will allow you to access the device's various recording modes.

5. If recording, insert a blank disc in the right tray with the same "Up" button you used on the left deck. The display should inform you to do this after entering into Rec Mode. Close the tray and the display should inform you of your menu options: "Record Fast," "Record CD," "Disc at Once," etc. Press "Record" to confirm your desired type of recording. The CDR500 will tell you how much time remains until the transfer is complete.

Tags: display should, display should inform, Marantz CDR500, should inform, your CDR500

Reset Tomtom Back To Factory Settings

The TomTom is a portable GPS for automobiles that assists the driver with navigational maps and driving instructions. If the TomTom freezes up or glitches, you can reset the system back to the factory settings. Users that have the 22 Range TomTom models such as the TomTom ONE and TomTom XL can hold down the power button to reset their system. However, the TomTom GO has a manual reset button on the device.

Instructions

1. Remove the TomTom GO from its cradle.

2. Turn the unit upside down.

3. Look for a small hole in the bottom of the unit. It will be located just behind the release button. The reset button is recessed inside this hole.

4. Straighten out one end of the paperclip.

5. Press the recessed button by inserting the straightened end of the paperclip into the reset hole.

6. Hold the button down for ten seconds, then pull the paperclip out of the hole. Your TomTom GO should now be reset back to the factory settings.

Tags: back factory, button reset, reset button

Reset The Voltage Regulator In The Treo 700

The voltage regulator on your Palm Treo smartphone is a small electronic component that is attached to the main circuit board of the unit. If you have been having problems charging your Treo, a glitch in the regulator likely is the cause. This can be fixed by performing a factory reset on your Treo, which will reset the regulator.

Instructions

1. Turn off your Palm Treo and slide the battery door off the rear of the unit.

2. Press the "Power/End" key on the Treo's keypad and hold it down.

3. Remove the battery while holding down the "Power/End" key and immediately reinsert it.

4. Continue to hold the "Power/End" button until the "Palm Powered" logo screen appears. Release the button when you see this screen.

5. Press the "Up" key when prompted to confirm the factory reset. Once you do, this the screen will go blank.

6. Remove the battery, put it back in and press the "Power/End" button to restart the phone. The phone, as well as the voltage regulator, will now be reset.

Tags: factory reset, Palm Treo, Power button, Remove battery, this screen

Instructions For A Canon S3 Is

Canon's 2008 entry into the consumer digital camera market was the PowerShot S3 IS, a 6 megapixel point-and-shoot camera with a substantial lens and 48x combined optical (12X) and digital zoom (4X). The massive zoom is equivalent to a 36-432mm wide angle to telephoto zoom lens. The aperture range on this camera makes it good for low-light photography. All Canon cameras come with a user guide, but if you've bought the camera used or misplaced the guide you can download a copy from Canon.

Instructions

Setting Up the Camera

1. Attach the neck strap to the camera. Loop one end of the strap through the metal brackets on each side of the camera, and then pass the end of the strap through the plastic holder to secure it in place. It's a good idea to always have the strap around your neck or wrapped around one wrist while taking pictures.

2. Turn the camera over and slide the latch on the battery cover outward to release. Insert four AA batteries into the battery bay. Open the memory card slot cover on the right side of the camera and insert the included memory card. It will click into place.

3. Flip the power switch to the camera icon to turn on the camera. Open the LCD viewer screen and rotate it to flip around 180 degrees, then swing it back into place on the back of the camera. If this is the first time the camera has been powered on, you'll be asked to enter the time and date.

Shooting Photos

4. Set the mode dial to "Auto." Using the camera in automatic mode when you first get it is a great way to get started. The Canon S3 IS also has full manual modes, which are helpful for adjusting to different light levels and for creative shots.

5. Frame your shot by looking at the LCD screen. If you would prefer to use the viewfinder, press the "Disp" button to toggle between the LCD and viewfinder. Use the zoom lever on the front of the camera (around the shutter button) to engage the optical zoom. A meter will appear on the LCD (or in the viewfinder) to tell you how far you are zooming. Once the bar is full, zooming in again will activate digital magnification for greater zoom.

6. Press the shutter button lightly to focus the shot. The camera will beep once the shot is in focus. Press the shutter button fully to take the picture. A preview of your shot will appear on the LCD for about two seconds allowing you to review it.

7. Press the "Review" button to enter "Playback" mode. Scroll through your images with the control pad, and zoom in using the photographic zoom controls. Press the "Trash Can" button to erase an image, and press the "Set" button to confirm deletion.

8. Connect the camera to a computer using the provided USB cable. Turn the camera on, and the computer will automatically prompt you to choose what to do with the photos. If you installed the included Canon software, you can use it to access photos each time the camera is connected.

Tags: shutter button, camera computer, into place, memory card, Press shutter, Press shutter button

Reset A Sirius Mobile Radio After A Battery Change

When you have a Sirius radio installed as part of a mobile device or in a mobile system, you can receive satellite radio almost anywhere. After changing the battery in your device, you may find that the radio does not work as reliably as it did before the battery change. Resetting the device will put it back in factory condition and will wipe out saved information like songs or set stations, but it may improve the device performance as well.

Instructions

1. Install the Sirius Device Recovery software onto a computer. There are two options for installation: downloading from the Sirius website (see the link in Resources below) or obtaining the setup disk and installing the Device Recovery program. Once you've downloaded the package or the disk is loaded into the computer, double click "DeviceRecoverySetup.exe." Follow the prompts until finished installing.

2. Connect the device to the computer. The exact connection process will differ for each mobile device, though most will connect to the computer through a USB cable.

3. Start the Sirius reset. Open the Device Recovery software and then select "Settings." Click "Device" and then "Reset and Erase." This will reset Sirius radio on the mobile device and erase data that might have been corrupted during the battery change.

Tags: Device Recovery, mobile device, battery change, Device Recovery software, Recovery software, Sirius radio

Connect A Dell Axim To A Wifi Network

One of the convenient things about owning a Dell Axim is it allows you to connect to the Internet wirelessly. This enables you to check your email or surf the web from just about anywhere. Follow these steps to connect your Dell Axim to a Wi-Fi network.

Instructions

1. From your "Start" menu, go to "Settings." This will take you to your Axim's control panel. From there, you can configure many things having to do with the operations of your Axim.

2. Click "Connections." You'll be taken to a screen that will give you options on connect your Axim to the Internet.

3. Click the Dell icon for the wireless local-area network (WLAN) This will help you configure wireless Internet access.

4. Click the "Wireless Internet" icon to enable it.

5. Search for a wireless Internet connection. This can be done by clicking the icon that looks like two computers.

6. When you find one in your area, click "Connect." If it's an "open" network, you can jump right onto the Internet. However, private networks may require a password.

Tags: Dell Axim, your Axim, connect your, This will, wireless Internet

Mount A Dash Pad

Sunlight and constant temperature changes cause dashboards to become brittle and crack. The cracks ruin the interior of your vehicle and allow the underlayment to become brittle. This leads to a fine dust covering the contents of the vehicle. Replacing a dashboard requires disassembling the dash, and a replacement dash can cost hundreds of dollars. Installing a dash pad requires less labor and costs less than a replacement dashboard.

Instructions

1. Wipe the dash pad with a clean rag. Shake the paint can thoroughly for 30 to 60 seconds. Spray multiple light coats of plastic spray paint onto the surface of the dash pad. Allow the paint to cure for 24 hours before proceeding with the installation.

2. Set a tube of silicone adhesive into a bowl of hot water. Allow the silicone to soften while you prepare the dashboard for the dash pad.

3. Cut protruding material from the cracked dashboard with a razor knife. Even out rough spots by sanding the dashboard with 100-grit sandpaper. Spray an ammonia-based window cleaner onto the sanded dashboard. Wipe the cleaner from the dash with a clean rag.

4. Set the dash pad on top of the prepped dashboard. Trim the dash pad to fit the contours of the dashboard. Remove the dash pad from your vehicle.

5. Remove the silicone adhesive from the hot water. Apply a bead of silicone remover to the underside edges of the dash pad. Apply additional adhesive to the surface of the dashboard.

6. Press the dash pad onto the surface of the dashboard. Work from the center to the edges of the dash pad with a clean rag to spread the adhesive and remove wrinkles.

7. Allow the adhesive to cure for 24 hours to ensure proper adhesion between the dash pad and the dashboard.

Tags: dash with, dash with clean, with clean, become brittle, cure hours, dashboard with, edges dash

Make A Movie At Home

You may never be the next Spielberg, but if you've got a movie idea there is no reason why you can't try to make it happen right in your own home. You may not be able to afford explosions and car chases, but you can make a movie with a little time and effort and very little money if you are willing to work with what you have on hand.

Instructions

1. Write a script. In your mind, your movie might take place in Egypt. But you don't have Egypt. To make a movie at home, you must use the locations you do have. If you have a cement basement, it may be possible to make it look Egyptian with just a few well-placed props. Keep your locations limited and your cast small, and it will be a lot simpler to shoot the movie when the time comes.

2. Cast your friends and family. Obviously, you're not going to score Tom Hanks for your home movie. But you likely have a friend or two who can act well enough. The best part is that you'll only have to pay them in food. And you should. Keeping your cast well fed will keep them happy.

3. Shoot your movie. Before you dive right in, make a schedule. Make sure everyone in your cast and crew knows when they are supposed to be on set. This will spare a lot of aggravation. As you are shooting, clearly label your tapes with the scenes that are on them. Review your scenes each night so that you can take care of reshoots right away.

4. Edit your movie. Your movie can be edited with the standard video-editing software on your computer, such as iMovie or Windows Movie Maker, but more advanced video editing systems such as Adobe Premiere and Final Cut have far more options. They are also more difficult to master. If you will only show this movie to family and friends, you may just want to stick with your standard software, which usually comes free with the computer system.

Tags: your cast, make movie, your home, your movie