The Yamaha Outboard 50TLR motor is a mid-range motor designed to propel small to medium-sized boats. The engine features corrosion protection in the form of the Enhanced Ultimate Corrosion Protection System. It also has three gears: forward, neutral and reverse. It can be controlled remotely and has a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $4,990 as of December, 2010.
Configuration and Size
The 50TLR is a three-cylinder, two-stroke motor that displaces 698 cc. The bore is 2.6 inches and the stroke is 2.6 inches. The outboard motor weighs 189 lbs. The shaft is 20 inches long and features power trim and tilt, as well as a right-hand gearcase rotation. The motor is cooled with water using a thermostatic control.
Fuel System
The Yamaha Outboard motor runs on gasoline with a minimum octane content of 87. The induction system is a charged carbureted loop with exhaust through the prop. The ignition system is a capacitor discharged ignition system that is electric.
Lubrication
The transmission in the Yamaha 50TLR has a gear ratio of 1.85. It is lubricated with a precision blend oil injection system. The recommended oil type is Yamalube 2M and the motor can hold 1.6 quarts of oil.
Performance
The Yamaha Outboard 50TLR can produce 50 horsepower at 5,000 rpm. The optimum rpm range is 4,500 to 5,500. The compression ratio is 6.0-to-1.
Preserve aging 8mm films by transferring them to DVD.
Before video technology dominated the home movie market, an 8mm film camera was the only way for the average person to create home movies. 30 years after the decline of 8mm film technology, people still stumble on reels of old 8mm films. Many of these film reels contain priceless images of family events. Converting the film to modern DVD formats will insure the memories are preserved for years to come. The quality of the transfer depends on how much you are willing to invest in film transfer equipment.
Instructions
1. Attach a white foam core board to your wall. Make sure the edges of the board are level. This board will serve as your projection screen.
2. Position your 8mm film projector directly in front of the screen. Avoid placing the projector off center from the screen. Doing so will cause distortion of the projected image known as "keystoning."
3. Mount your camcorder on a tripod as close to the projector lens as possible with the camera lens facing the screen. Placing the camcorder off-center from the screen will likewise distort the recorded image by skewing the edges.
4. Insert a videotape into the camcorder. Turn off the lights in the room so the room is as dark as possible.
5. Thread the 8mm projector with the film you want to transfer. Project a portion of the film onto the poster board and confirm the image is level, focused and fills the screen.
6. Turn on the camcorder, adjust the camera position and focus the lens so the film image from the screen is sharp and fills the viewfinder of the camcorder.
7. Rewind the film to the beginning, press record on the camcorder and begin projecting the film reel. When finished, stop recording on the camcorder.
8. Plug the video output from the camcorder into the video input of a DVD recorder using an RCA audio-video cable.
9. Insert a recordable DVD into the DVD recorder. Wait for the unit to format the recordable DVD.
10. Rewind the videotape in the camcorder and set the camcorder to tape playback (VCR) mode.
11. Press the record button on the DVD recorder as you push the play button on the camcorder.
Picasa is a photo organization and editing application developed by Google and available to Windows, Mac and Linux users. The program does not provide explicit iPhone sync capabilities, but through a combination of the Picasa Web interface and the Picasa iPhone app, you can ensure that your Picasa albums are always available on your iPhone.
Instructions
Sync Picasa
1. Launch Picasa.
2. Select the album you wish to sync to your iPhone.
3. Click "Sync to Web" on the right end of the folder label in the primary display area of Picasa to store your images online. Enter your Google account username and password if required.
Picasa iPhone App
4. Tap "App Store" on your iPhone home screen.
5. Tap "Search."
6. Type "Google" and then tap "Search."
7. Tap "Google Mobile" from the search results.
8. Tap "Free" and then "Install." Enter your iPhone password to install the app.
9. Tap the "Google Mobile" icon on your home screen.
10. Tap "More" and then tap "Picasa Web."
11. Type your Google account username and password. The Picasa albums that are synced to the Web as per the "Sync Picasa Online" section will be displayed and available for photo browsing.
Tags: your iPhone, Sync Picasa, account username, account username password, Enter your
The convenience of watching video on a VHS tape is due to most households having a VCR. An 8mm video is not compatible with VHS and so there is no adapter that will let it be used in a VCR. To watch an 8mm video that you have recorded, copy the video from the camcorder to the VCR. The procedure is straightforward and only requires a single cable that, if not supplied with the camcorder, can be purchased at very little cost from an electronics store or computer supply shop.
Instructions
1. Place the camcorder next to the VCR. Insert the 8mm videotape into the camcorder. Insert a blank VHS tape into the front-loading slot of the VCR.
2. Plug the 8mm camcorder cable into the output socket on the camcorder. Plug the composite cable at the end of the 8mm camcorder cable into the composite input on the VCR. Plug the red and white RCA audio plugs at the end of the 8mm camcorder cable into the red and white RCA audio inputs on the VCR.
3. Turn the VCR on with its remote. Press the "Menu" button. Select "Video," then "Video input," then "Line input." Choose "Composite" from the choices presented beneath "Line input." Press the "Menu" button.
4. Turn the camcorder on. Press the "Menu" button. Select "Video output mode" from the list of choices presented. Press the "Menu" button.
5. Press "Play" on the camcorder. Press "Record" on the VCR's remote. Press "Stop" on the VCR's remote when the 8mm tape has finished playing. Disconnect the cables connecting the VCR to the camcorder.
6. Press "Rewind" on the VCR's remote. Wait for the VHS tape to rewind all the way. Press "Play" to watch the recording made of the 8mm videotape.
Tags: Menu button, Press Menu, Press Menu button, cable into, camcorder cable, camcorder cable into, camcorder Press
Digital picture frames serve as more than picture viewers. Many digital frames display videos, weather forecasts, and news and sports headlines, and play videos and music through the MP3 format. Files with this format compress so that a memory card or USB storage device can hold many times more music than a standard compact disc. As a result, a digital frame with an MP3 player can fill a room with hours of music and run musical slide shows for holiday celebrations and other occasions.
Instructions
1. Download MP3 files from an authorized provider or rip them from your own CD. To convert CD songs to MP3, insert the CD into your computer. In Windows Media Player, go to "Tools" and select "Options." Choose a folder, such as "My Music," to save converted files. Click the tab for "Rip Music." Verify that you have chosen MP3 as the format under "Rip Settings." Close the "Options" window by clicking "OK." Select "Rip" on the top tool bar.
2. Slots on a computer for inserting USB storage devices.
Place a memory card or USB drive into your computer. Go to "My Computer" and select the icon for the card or USB drive. Minimize the window for your storage device. Open the folder where you saved your ripped MP3 files. Hold the "Ctrl" key and click on the MP3 files you wish to transfer. Drag the files to the folder bar for your card or USB drive.
3. Insert a memory card or USB jump drive into a digital frame.
Insert your card or USB drive into the digital picture frame. Turn on the frame. Select the music or play music function. Press play or highlight "play" and press "OK" using the remote. To display a musical slide show, include MP3s and picture (JPEG) files on the same memory card or USB drive. Go to the options for slide shows and make sure you have activated "music on" or the music-playing feature. Press the slide show button on your remote.
Tags: card drive, memory card, drive into, card drive into, digital frame, Digital picture, Digital picture frames
Before a new telephone line can be installed and activated, an order should be placed with the local telephone company. The local phone company, or telco as it is known in telecommunications circles, must receive the order, provision the new line in their network equipment, devote facilities in their central office, and ensure cable pairs -- the two copper wires that physically carry a voice conversation -- are in place. In some instances, this process may take as long as a couple of weeks; if all of the facilities are already in place, though, the line may be prepared in as little as a few hours.
Run Telephone Wires Inside
When the local telco installs a new telephone line, the installation technicians only carry the service as far as the Network Interface Device (known to telecommunications enthusiasts as the NID) on the outside of a home or office. Connecting service from the NID to the inside -- and, ultimately, to the telephone itself -- is the responsibility of the telephone subscriber. Running telephone wires is a relatively easy task, as the wire itself is widely available from electronics and discount retail stores. A separate wire should be run from the NID to each individual telephone on the line, though telephone sets close to each other may be fed through a splitter (a small plastic adapter available from most retail stores that allows two telephones to share a single jack) to minimize wiring work. Running the wire from the outside NID to the inside of a home does require drilling through walls and flooring to pass the wire through the most efficient path, so individuals uncomfortable working with power tools or who are not familiar with drilling through walls should consult a qualified technician to professionally install telephone wiring. The local telco may also offer an optional installation service for a nominal fee.
Connect Telephone Wire to a Jack
When the telephone wire has been successfully run from the NID to the inside of the home, it may be connected to a jack to serve a desktop telephone. Like wire and splitters, jacks are readily available from most electronics and discount chain stores, and are generally priced under $10 each. The inside of the jack features four wires, color coded as red, green, yellow, and black; these wires are secured in place by screw terminals. The telephone wire also contains four wires of corresponding colors, all of which are bundled together by installation. To connect the telephone wires to the jack, strip away the insulation, loosen the screw terminals and connect a bare portion of the corresponding colored wire to the screw. Tighten the screw to hold the wires in place. For some installations requiring only one telephone line with no future expansion plans, the yellow and black wires may be left unconnected. With all two or four wires secured in place, mount the jack to the wall using either screws or double-sided tape.
Plug Telephone Into the New Jack
When the jack is connected and ready to accept a telephone, place a working telephone on a desk, table or nightstand near the telephone jack. The telephone should come with a short span of telephone wire with plastic modular plugs on each end; if the wire was not included with the phone, replacement wires are readily and inexpensively available from most electronics and discount stores. Plug one of the modular plastic plugs into the port labeled "Line" or "Wall" on the telephone, then plug the other end into the wall jack. Press gently but firmly on the plugs until they snap into place. With the telephone set connected to the jack, and service activated by the local telco, the new telephone line should be ready for use.
Tags: available from, telephone line, available from most, electronics discount, four wires, from most, local telco
Use SlingPlayer to watch television programming on your computer monitor.
Slingbox is a device that allows you to watch your television's content from a wide array of devices including cell phones, computers and even other television sets. Slingbox is ideal for watching your home television content while you are away. However, Slingbox can allow you to view your television's content within your own home from a personal computer. Log into your SlingPlayer account from a computer to access the television's content so that you may watch your favorite content without disrupting others in the home.
Instructions
1. Insert the SlingPlayer software CD that came with your Slingbox into your home personal computer's CD writer drive. Alternatively, you may download SlingPlayer software from the Sling Media website (see Resources).
2. Install the SlingPlayer software on your computer. Select the video cable connection type and device to which your Slingbox is connected. The installer will recognize all Slingboxes linked to your home network.
3. Launch SlingPlayer from your computer's file manager or desktop. Enter your Slingbox account handle and password in the login dialog.
4. Select your Slingbox from the ensuing menu if prompted, as you may choose from multiple Slingboxes on your network. The SlingPlayer will load the DVR, cable or satellite box connected to the selected Slingbox onto your computer's screen. You can watch the television programming and control it using SlingPlayer's controls as you would your physical remote control.
Tags: television content, your computer, your home, your Slingbox, SlingPlayer software, your television content
Radio frequency ID technology, or RFID, promises to revolutionize everything from manufacturing to retail, much the way bar codes did a few decades ago. Like bar codes, RFID tags are used to track merchandise, but unlike bar codes, RFID technology can broadcast that information across short distances. That technology makes it possible for companies to manage their inventory with much less human intervention, reducing the amount of time it takes to track products from factory to store shelves. With so much promise, many investors are looking for a way to make money on this emerging technology.
Instructions
1. Investigate the RFID industry and get to know the companies that are players in this emerging industry. There are many different investment opportunities in the RFID field, from the companies that manufacture the chips to companies that use those chips to streamline their processes and increase their profits.
2. Consider investing in a mutual fund that concentrates on emerging technologies like RFID. Investing in a mutual fund instead of an individual stock is generally less risky and you may be exposed to some other emerging technologies that will prove to be just as important as RFID.
3. Contact your broker if you already have an account set up. Many stock brokers have stock screening tools that allow investors to screen the entire stock market for all kinds of criteria, including the firm's exposure to emerging technologies like RFID.
4. Track your investments carefully. When investing in the stock market it is important to keep track of how your funds are doing. Since RFID is still an emerging technology, you can expect the stocks doing business in this arena to be quite volatile. It is important to keep this potential volatility in mind when investing in RFID technology.
Tongue cancer is a serious form of cancer that can develop on any area of the tongue. It is referred to as "mouth" cancer when the cancer spot develops on the front part of your tongue (the part that you can move around). When the cancer spot is located at the base of your tongue near the back of your throat, it is considered "oropharyngeal" cancer. Both types will create similar symptoms early on.
White or Red Spot
Whether it is oropharyngeal tongue cancer or mouth tongue cancer, you may notice a small- to medium-sized red or white spot on your tongue. The back of your tongue is difficult to see, so if you feel discomfort or feel a growth, use a flashlight and mirror to get a better look. You may also have a sore in your mouth that will not heal, a sore spot on the tongue or a sore throat.
Pain
Slight to severe pain while chewing or swallowing food is a common symptom found early in the development of tongue cancer. While this pain is common for other ailments such as strep throat or a cold, it can be indicative of tongue cancer.
Unexplained Bleeding
Some people experience unexplained bleeding from the mouth when they have tongue cancer.
Bad Breath
Tongue cancer can create bad breath and bad tastes in your mouth. As a result, it produces an infection-like smell and taste. The smell is different from typical bad breath, so do not confuse the two.
Complications from Treatment of Tongue Cancer
Treatment for tongue cancer may compromise your ability to swallow, talk or eat solid foods. Therapies are available to help redevelop those skils. Discuss any potential side effects from treatments with your health care provider.
Tags: tongue cancer, your tongue, back your, cancer spot, Tongue Cancer, tongue cancer, your mouth
Clean optics are essential for high-quality viewing. However, cleaning should only be done when necessary and must be properly performed in order to avoid damaging the telescope. The Celestron website has some guidelines for cleaning and maintaining its line of telescopes.
When to Clean
Celestron does not recommend routine cleaning, which can damage the coating of the mirrors and other optics in the telescope. If the coatings are damaged, the quality of the images viewed through the telescope will deteriorate. Celestron suggests that even visible specks of dust (in small amounts) do not warrant a full cleaning effort. Save cleaning for problems that affect the performance of the telescope.
Clean
Start with the simplest and least invasive cleaning and progress to more stringent measures. Celestron suggests using compressed air first. Canned compressed air can be used, but the first burst of air should be vented away from the optics, as it may contain foreign materials. Air compressed by an air compressor should be filtered before it is applied to lenses or mirrors.
Smudges or dirt remaining after the application of compressed air can be cleaned with a cleaning solution. Celestron recommends a solution of 50 to 70 percent alcohol and distilled water. Higher percentages of alcohol may dissolve the glues used within the telescope and damage its operation. Lower percentages of alcohol will not evaporate quickly and may also cause problems. Soap can be added to the alcohol water mixture in small quantities. Add one or two drops of clear dish soap per quart to increase the mixtures ability to remove dirt and oils. However, if you use too much soap, or if you use soaps that contain additives for coloring, may leave deposits on the lenses or mirrors.
Apply the alcohol mixture to larger optical pieces with soft tissue or cloth or a cotton ball. Smaller parts can be cleaned with cotton swabs. Repeat the cleaning as necessary.
Cleaning Limitations
Celestron recommends that telescope owners only attempt minor cleaning tasks, such as removing smudges from eyelashes or fingerprints. Serious cleaning tasks, such as removing oil, grease or lens fungus from the lenses or mirrors, should only be done by Celestron service personnel.
Removal of the optics or disassembly of the telescope can void the warranty.
The iPhone 4G retrieves contacts from the iTunes program, which connects to the Address Book application on a Macintosh computer or from Microsoft Outlook on PCs. Whenever new contacts are added to the computer program, the iPhone is automatically updated with the new information through the iTunes synchronization process. Alternate third-party programs including Yahoo! and Google are included in the list of supported programs that allow contact transferring, and their information is stored in iTunes as well.
Instructions
1. Click the "+" icon beneath the "Name" column to add a new contact in the Address Book application, or click "File," "New" and "Contact" on the Microsoft Outlook menu. For Google Gmail, click "Contacts" on the side menu of the browser and click "New Contact." For Yahoo, click "Add Contacts" in the "Contacts" menu located in the browser.
2. Plug the phone's cable into the bottom of the iPhone and into the computer's serial port.
3. Run iTunes on your Macintosh or PC.
4. Open the iPhone's preferences by clicking the "iPhone" tab in the side window of iTunes.
5. Click the "Info" tab, and click "Sync Contacts."
6. Select the contact program from the iTunes' pull-down menu, and click "All Contacts."
7. Click "Sync" in the iTunes window and remove the device cable from the iPhone.
Tags: click Contacts, Address Book, Address Book application, Book application, from iTunes, Microsoft Outlook
The Fujifilm released the Finepix A345 in 2005 as an economical; all-purpose "point-and-shoot" digital camera, featuring 4.1 mega-pixel image quality and an easy-to-use interface. Resetting the A345 restores the camera's default settings programmed when the camera left the factory. This function helps correct accidental changes to the camera's set-up that could cause problems taking pictures. Activating the camera's rest function involves using the "set-up" menu.
Instructions
1. Press the "Menu/OK" button on the back of the camera.
2. Highlight "Set" on the LCD display by tapping the "Right" arrow button.
3. Select "Set-Up" using the "Down" arrow button. Press "Menu/OK."
4. Select option "5" by tapping the "Right" arrow button. Press the "Down" arrow button.
5. Select "Reset" by tapping the "Down" button. Press the "Right" arrow button. A confirmation message appears.
6. Press "Menu/OK." The camera resets itself to factory defaults.
Tags: arrow button, button Press, Press Menu, Right arrow, Right arrow button, arrow button Press
The development of the binocular microscope has changed the way scientists and researchers go about observing cells, tissues and samples of other matter.
What is a Binocular Microscope?
A binocular microscope is simply a microscope that lets the viewer use both eyes. The microscope has two eye lenses. The development of the double eye piece microscope was adapted to reduce the eyestrain and muscular strain that typically results from monocular microscopes.
History of the Microscope
The first light microscope was invented during the exciting time of the Renaissance. The first microscopes were simple constructions.
Zaccharias Janssen and his son are responsible for the first compound microscope in 1509.
Microscopy
Both Anton van Leeuwenhoek and Robert Hooke made significant contributions to the advancement of the microscope. Leeuwenhoek was the first to observe bacteria, yeast plants, and blood capillaries using the microscope. Hooke borrowed from Leeuwenhoek's design and improved upon it.
Parts of the Microscope
The primary parts of the microscope are:
Eye piece lens--part of the microscope that you look through
Base--the bottom of the microscope
Arm--part that supports the microscope and connects it to the base
Stage--area where specimen is placed and slides are held
Stage clips--hold the slide in place
Objective Lenses--4x, 10x and 40x magnification
Focus knobs--coarse and fine adjustment to bring image into focus
How Does it Work?
A light microscope can magnify objects up to 1000x, but how does it do this? A microscope works largely by refraction. A light source shines light through a specimen and sends an image to the objective lens which then translates into a viewable image through the ocular lens. The image can then be brought into focus in order to see it more clearly.
What is it Used For?
The microscope is used in several fields of science and medicine. It is also used in science classes in elementary schools, high schools and college level courses. The most common fields that often require the use of the microscope are botany, microbiology, genetics and geology. Of course, there are many more uses for the microscope.
Tags: Binocular Microscope, binocular microscope, into focus, light microscope, microscope that
A 35mm camera offers more control than a point-and-shoot camera.
A point-and-shoot camera may be simple, but it doesn't offer you the control that a manual 35mm camera does. Learning use one may seem daunting at first, but after getting to know your camera's light meter, you will be glad you made the effort. An understanding of aperture and shutter speed will help you learn exposure basics, which makes learning the 35mm camera a worthwhile experience.
Instructions
1. Set your camera's ISO (film speed) if necessary. Newer cameras automatically detect the ISO. Older cameras have a dial usually located within the shutter speed dial. Make sure this number matches the speed of the film you have purchased.
2. Identify your camera's light meter display. This may be as simple as a needle inside the viewfinder that moves between a plus and a minus sign. Cameras with digital display panels may show a series of bars that travel towards the plus or minus signs.
3. Take note of whether the bars or needle are leaning towards the plus sign or the minus sign. If they lean towards the plus sign, this means that too much light is entering the camera to make a proper exposure. If they lean towards the minus, too little light is entering the camera.
4. Decide whether you want to let in a different amount of light through either the shutter speed or through the aperture. Changing the shutter speed affects whether objects in motion appear blurry or sharp. Adjusting the aperture effects how much of your photo, from foreground to background, will be in focus.
5. Select a faster shutter speed if your light meter indicates that you have too much light entering the camera. Shutter speeds are measured as fractions of a second. For example, choosing 500 (1/500 of a second) lets in half as much light as 250 does, and freezes motion more than 250. Alternatively, choose a slower shutter speed if the light meter says there is not enough light entering the camera. Once the needle rests in the middle of the plus and minus signs, or only a single bar appears under the dot between the plus and minus signs, you have found the proper exposure for your scene.
6. Choose a different aperture setting if you prefer to use this method over shutter speed. Lower aperture numbers, such as f/2, let in more light than higher numbers like f/22. Higher numbers make more of the composition in focus, while lower ones create what is called a shallow depth of field. Adjust the aperture until your light meter indicates you have reached the proper exposure.
7. Focus the image by using the focus ring located at the end of the camera lens. Newer 35mm camera models may have an auto-focus feature. To use this, tap the shutter release button halfway to focus on an object in the center of the viewfinder.
8. Press the shutter release button the entire way to take a photo once you have achieved the proper exposure and focus. If you have an older camera model, push the film advance lever all the way forward to make the camera ready for the next exposure.
Headphone speakers stop functioning properly when the wire connections to the speaker are broken. This problem often develops when the headphone cord gets jerked while being worn. The solder connection might also detach over time if it was not properly manufactured. The wire can be reconnected to the speaker with a soldering iron to repair the headphone. Be aware, though, that headphones are not designed to be user maintained in this fashion. In some cases, it is difficult to get to the speaker due to the casing design.
Instructions
1. Plug in the soldering iron. It takes a few minutes for it to get warm enough to be used.
2. Unscrew the screws holding the headphone casing over the speakers. This step applies only to models that use screws in the casing.
3. Insert the end of the butter knife into the seam on the headphone ear pieces. Pry the two halves of the casing apart. This step is performed only on headphone models that do not use screws in the casing.
4. Touch the tip of the soldering iron to the electrical solder. A small drop should melt onto the tip of the iron.
5. Touch the tip of the soldering iron to the end of the detached speaker wire inside the headphone speaker cavity. Try to get an even coating of solder around the exposed metal end of the wire. The solder solidifies on the wire once the soldering iron is removed.
6. Touch the end of the wire to the solder on the metal tab attached to the speaker.
7. Touch the tip of the soldering iron to where the wire and tab connect. The heat of the soldering iron melts the solder on the wire and tab together. This repairs the broken connection between the wire and speaker.
8. Replace the speaker casing onto the headphone. It should snap back into place for models without screws.
The Zune, Microsoft's answer to Apple's iPod, is more than just an MP3 player. It can also play audiobooks, so you can enjoy your favorite book while on the go. Microsoft has partnered with the Audible and OverDrive audiobook companies to offer each company's library to the Zune user. Use their respective software to automatically add an audiobook to your Zune with just a few clicks.
Instructions
1. Launch the Audible Manager or the OverDrive Media Console, available in your Windows "Start" menu. If you don't have the Audible or Overdrive software installed, download it for free through the Zune website.
2. Download an audiobook through the appropriate software. If you're unsure of use Audible or Overdrive, consult the software's specific user guide.
3. Connect your Zune to your computer using its included USB syncing cable. The Zune software will automatically launch. Quit the Zune software to avoid system conflicts with Audible or OverDrive.
4. Transfer an audiobook from Audible to your Zune. Click the desired audiobook title in the Audible Manager program. Press "Add to Device" in the top right corner of the software. The software will automatically add the audiobook to the Zune.
5. Transfer an audiobook from OverDrive to the Zune device. Press "Transfer Wizard" at the top of the OverDrive Media Console screen. Follow the on-screen prompts to transfer the audiobook to your Zune.
6. Listen to the audiobook on your Zune. Click the "Menu" button on the front of the Zune. Scroll down and select "audiobooks" to view the files you just transferred and begin listening to them.
Tags: your Zune, audiobook your, audiobook your Zune, Audible Manager, Audible Overdrive, audiobook from, automatically audiobook
Photo editors are essential for digital photographers. They allow photographers to edit, alter and enhance the final look of their digital photos. Adobe Photoshop is the most popular photo editing software on the market, but it's not the only tool that both amateur and professionals have at their disposal.
Adobe Photoshop
Adobe Photoshop is the industry standard for editing digital photographs. It allows its users to retouch images, add special artistic effects to the images, and much more. For professional photographers and designers, no other photo editor can beat Adobe Photoshop. The only downside to this software is its price. Photoshop is available for $699, as of February 2011, from the Adobe website.
Picnik
For amateur digital photographers, Picnik is a popular online photo editor. The interface is easy to navigate and it is simple to add text, elements, borders and other effects. Picnik is a property of Google, so users can save the images to their Picasa web albums, in addition to their own computers. Picnik is free to use.
Pixl
Digital photographers who are familiar with Photoshop's interface will appreciate the web-based photo editor Pixl. Pixl is free, and some describe it as Photoshop in a browser. It has many of the basic features of Photoshop, including drawing, shapes, free transform and more.
Slashup
Another photo editor for amateur digital photographers, Slashup is a web-based photo editor that has the look of a desktop application. Slashup is similar to Photoshop in that it supports layers. Users can crop, use shapes, draw, and more. You can also import images from your computer or from popular photo sharing websites, such as Flickr, Photobucket and Picasa Web Albums.
Gimp
If you are looking for a Photoshop-like application, try Gimp. Gimp is a user-friendly and free photo editor application with features that are comparable to Photoshop. Gimp users have access to layers and masks, tabbed palettes, the clone tool, dynamic brushes and more.
Corel PaintShop Photo Pro
Corel PaintShop Photo Pro is a premium photo editing software. It is less expensive than Photoshop, available for under $100 as of February 2011, and it features photo effect filters, sketch, paint and photo-paint options. This photo editor makes it easy for digital photographers to import, edit and create professional-looking images.
Pixenate
The features on Pixenate are easy to navigate, which makes it good for novice photographers who are not familiar with advanced photo editors. Users can edit images stored on their computer or on a website. Features of this photo editor include teeth whitening, red eye, rotate, normalize and other basic tools.
FotoFlexer
Similar to Picnik, FotoFlexer is an online photo editor with basic features, such as rotate, crop, resize, red eye removal, blurred edges, grayscale and sepia conversion. FotoFlexer gives its users the option to import and edit photographs stored on social media websites, like Facebook and MySpace, as well as online photo sharing websites, like Photobucket, Flickr and Picasa Web Albums.
Phoenix Image Editor
Phoenix image editor is a web-based application that has basic photo-editing options, including undo and redo, fill color, add text, blend and tool brush. You can import from popular photo sharing websites, including Picasa Web Albums, Facebook and Flickr.
Picture2Life
Picture2Life is a free and easy-to-use online photo editor. It's useful for beginners, and it offers basic features like brightness, border, crop, contrast, oil paint, overlay and other tools. Users can upload images from blogging websites, such as Blogger and Wordpress; social networking websites, like Facebook, Twitter and MySpace; and photo sharing websites, such as ImageShack and Photobucket.
Google's Android mobile operating system is on the HTC EVO.
The HTC EVO's camera is capable of taking high-definition video and images, but over time, dirt and grime can build up underneath the plastic lens. This can cause the quality of your camera's files to diminish. However, it's possible to gain access to the space between the plastic lens and the actual camera on your phone. With careful hand-eye coordination, you can remove the plastic lens on the back of your HTC EVO's camera.
Instructions
1. Turn off your HTC EVO.
2. Insert your finger into the small notch on the top of the phone. Press against this notch to remove the phone's back cover. Place aside.
3. Work your fingernail or a small plastic wedge into the space between the phone's backside and the red portion of the camera lens. The EVO's camera is comprised of two separate components --- the actual camera chip and the red enclosure which holds the camera's plastic lens in place. The enclosure is attached to the phone's body with several pieces of glue.
4. Continue working your wedge around the red camera piece until it can be safely released. Pull the enclosure away to finish the removal process.
Tags: plastic lens, actual camera, space between, your camera
No one knows for sure who invented the first telescope but usually Hans Lippershay gets the credit. He was an optician who live in Holland in the early seventeenth century. Gallileo, Lippershay's Italian contemporary, made a telescope about a year later and by the end of the same century, Isaac Newton made a much more powerful one. There are three types of telescope: refractors, reflectors, and refracting-reflecting telescopes. Most beginners use refracting telescopes. It has an optical tube, lenses, an eyepiece, and a telescope mount.
Instructions
1. Start by finding the long optical tube. The optical tube is the main body of the telescope which protects the lenses inside. It also does not allow any air currents to interfere with the lenses which could hurt the quality of the image you see.
2. Touch the front opening on the end of the optical tube. This is called the front and its job is to allow light to enter the optical tube so that you can see the far away image.
3. Peek inside the front. Mounted inside the optical tube you will be able to see an achromatic objective lens. It is permanently set in place where it is correctly aligned for viewing. It bends the light so that it can reach the eye piece.
4. Notice the rear-mounted eyepiece. Eyepieces come in barrel sizes. These are also called formats. Barrel sizes and formats both equal the measurement of the diameter of the eyepiece. A standard size for a rear-mounted telescope eyepiece is one and one-fourth inches.
5. Identify the stand that holds your telescope. It is called the telescope mount. Probably your mount can move in two different directions, up and down, as well as side to side. If it can do this it is called an altazimuth telescope mount.
Combine carinval activities with harvest themes, such as scarecrows, for games.
Harvest-themed game booths for preschool students need to offer simple and easy games that a young child can win. Games that focus on simple actions, such as tossing and throwing, help preschoolers practice basic skills. Instant-prize games, such as a fishing booth, ensure that every child "wins" at least one game.
Apple Dart Throw
Combine felt and Velcro to provide a game that almost guarantees every preschooler a prize. The game consists of a large plywood square covered with a painted felt bullseye. The bullseye consists of an outer ring of large red apples, a middle ring of green apples and a center ring of yellow apples. Each player has one chance to throw a Velcro-tipped dart at the bullseye and win a prize that corresponds to the apple color hit. Prizes can include a caramel apple lollipop, plastic friendship bracelet and plastic toy bug.
Haystack Hunt
Make sure every preschooler gets a prize with an easy haystack hunt game. The game booth consists of a large kiddy pool filled with a pile of hay. Each player takes a turn searching the haystack for one of the small colored tokens hidden inside. Once the player finds a token, he takes it to the game table and exchanges it for the prize designated to the particular token color. Prizes can include a pumpkin lollipop, scarecrow sticker or a leaf-patterned bouncy ball.
Pin the Face on the Pumpkin
Turn a simple game of "Pin the Tail on the Donkey" into a harvest game by changing the tail to a face and the donkey to a pumpkin. The game booth consists of a wall area covered with a large pumpkin poster. Each blindfolded player takes a turn trying to "pin" the round, tape-backed, jack-o'-lantern paper face on the pumpkin poster. Prizes, as determined by how close the player got to the pumpkin, can include a pumpkin-patterned bouncy ball and chocolate pumpkin candy.
Pumpkin Ring Toss
Use small pumpkins and plastic rings for a harvest-themed game for preschoolers. The game booth consists of thin pumpkins spaced evenly on the floor. Each player has three chances to toss a plastic ring around a pumpkin to win a prize. Prizes can include a small stuffed scarecrow doll, a pumpkin bracelet and small bag of candy corn.
Scarecrow Beanbag Toss
Add a harvest touch to a basic beanbag toss for an easy preschooler game where players "stuff" the scarecrow with "leaves." The booth consists of a scarecrow face painted on a large plywood square. Holes in the scarecrow's eyes, nose and mouth provide four target areas for the toss. Each player has three chances to toss a leaf-shaped beanbag into the holes. Prizes for one-, two- or three-point games can include a pumpkin candy, a scarecrow hand puppet and a baggy of leaf-shaped gummy candy.
Tags: booth consists, Each player, game booth, game booth consists, Prizes include, bouncy ball
Protect your pictures by preventing the memory card form being formatted.
Most digital cameras record information onto some sort of flash card. SD memory cards are the universal standard, but before this, both Fujifilm and Olympus designed cameras to function with XD cards. These cards function the same but have a slightly different shape. To prevent picture loss, it is important to avoid formatting the XD card. Formatting the card removes any saved images from the devices.
Instructions
1. Eject the XD memory card from your digital camera. Typically, this is done by flipping open the memory card compartment and pushing in on the memory card. This unlocks the card from the camera, allowing you to slide the XD card free.
2. Look on the side of the XD card. There is a small indentation here. Along the indentation is a small switch. This is the write protect switch.
3. Flip the switch up. This places the XD card into write protect mode. Doing so prevents any information from being removed from the card. It also protects the card from formatting.
Whether you are loyal Fuji camera owner or are just intrigued by the brand, you will want to make sure you get the right model of Fuji digital camera. One nice thing about Fuji digital cameras is they come in a wide range of types, from inexpensive to compact to professional quality. After deciding which type to buy, you'll need to pick a model and get a good price.
Instructions
1. Decide what you will use your camera for. Think about if you need an ultra-compact camera for easy transportation or a larger camera for more professional quality prints. In between these two extremes lies the cheapest cameras Fuji has to offer, the sub-compacts.
2. Choose a three megapixel Fuji camera to save some money if you only want 4 by 6 inch prints. However, if you want some 8 by 10 inch prints, choose at least a six megapixel model. Also consider the zoom. With Fuji cameras, you can choose a basic three times zoom or a much longer zoom, great for capturing sports and other outdoor activities.
3. Compare digital camera models at the Fuji website. From the "Consumer" menu, choose "Cameras and Accessories." Fuji provides specifications and descriptions for each camera. Narrow your choice down to one camera that best fits your needs.
4. Read reviews for your chosen camera online. Many websites give in depth reviews of Fuji digital cameras and provide sample images.
5. Look for a good deal on your digital camera. Compare prices at regular brick and mortar stores, but also see if you can get a better deal online.
Tags: digital camera, Fuji digital, digital cameras, Fuji camera, Fuji digital cameras, inch prints
Tripods are used for a variety of purposes. They can help people take better pictures, video or provide more stable viewing with a telescope. There are several parts to an effective tripod.
Legs
The tripod consists of three legs that usually are set up in a triangular pattern when extended. They collapse down into a straight line when not in use and extend to a full triangle for use.
Extensions
Tripods also have extensions to allow the user to raise or lower the tripod. Usually, these extensions are inside the primary legs of the tripod. Some tripods also allow you to adjust each individual leg to varying lengths to use on uneven surfaces.
Stand
The stand is where the object goes. Some tripods have a quick-release that allows the stage to remain attached to the camera, making reattachment to the tripod easy.
Adjustment Knob
The adjustment knob allows the tripod stage to swivel in any direction.
Head
The tripod head is where the stage sits. It usually can be extended itself, and it also uses the adjustment knob to help configure the camera.
Many people don't realize that they can actually get paid to buy certain items at Walgreens. Here is a basic step by step to get items for free and then some. There are a few more in depth ways however this is the easiest way to do this.
Instructions
1. Buy a Sunday paper. Find Walgreens' ad and circle any items that are free after rebate or free after the register coupons print out.
2. Find coupons for the items that you circled in the ad. The Sunday paper that you bought and sites online are two places you should look.
3. Go to the store and purchase all free after rebate items and all free after register reward items that you have coupons for.
4. Fill out the rebate for the items that you bought and select to receive your rebate on a Walgreens gift card. This will give you an additional 10% back than what you would have gotten if you receive a check. So these items will be free plus 10% back.
5. Do it again the next week. You will be surprised how many items you can get paid to buy.
Tags: free after, items that, after rebate, after register, free after rebate
Upload images from an Innovage mini camera onto a computer.
Innovage is a producer of inexpensive digital cameras. These cameras are lightweight and are attachable to key chains. Due to its size, the cameras are not incredibly durable, but you are guaranteed to always have a camera on hand. The digital camera does not come with many features, other than the ability to take simple pictures through the digital lens.
Instructions
1. Press the "Power" button on the back of the digital camera. A small LCD screen on the camera lights up, displaying what is seen through the camera lens.
2. Press the "Capture" button on the digital camera. This records the content onto a built in memory unit. There is no zoom or other options available on the camera.
3. Insert the driver installation CD into the computer you want to upload the images to. The driver is required for the computer to read the camera. Once inserted, a driver installation wizard appears on the screen. Follow the brief prompts to complete the installation.
4. Restart the computer, then insert the USB data cable into the USB port on the digital camera. Plug the opposite end of the cable into a USB port on the computer.
5. Click "Start," (My) "Computer" and double-click the removable device icon. A window appears with all the images stored on the Innovage mini digital camera. Click-and-drag the images to the computer (copy the files to any location, ranging from the desktop to a specific image folder.) Once the files have finished copying right-click the images and choose "Delete" to remove the pictures from the camera."
6. Close out the removable device window, right-click the icon and select "Eject." When the icon disappears from view disconnect the Innovage mini digital camera from the computer.
Tags: digital camera, digital camera, Innovage mini, cable into, cable into port
The Sony DCR-DVD92E Handycam is a video camera that uses DVD as a recording medium, which classifies it as a digital camcorder. However, it lacks the digital iLINK output found in similar cameras to send the video and audio signal to a computer or other devices. Still, it does provide ways to connect the camera to a computer, DVD recorder or VCR to transfer and copy its content to another medium, either by using the A/V output, or with the use of the recorded disc itself.
Instructions
To a Recorder
1. Connect the camcorder-to-composite RCA cable from the A/V output on the lower front side of the camera to a composite input on the front or rear of a VCR or DVD recorder, matching the yellow, red and white connectors to the proper color-coded inputs.
2. Use the VCR or DVD recorder's remote control to tune the device to the selected input (i.e. L1 or L2). Open the disc cover on the camcorder and load the disc you intend to copy into the camera. Close the disc cover and slide the power switch down to set the camera to playback mode.
3. Locate the particular file(s) on the DVD you want copied, if more than one title exists on the disc. Insert a recordable VHS tape or DVD into the intended recording device, and set any particular recording settings that may apply.
4. Press "Play" on the camcorder and "Record" on the recording device copying the video. Press "Stop" on both devices when you reach the desired end point.
To a Computer
5. Connect the camcorder-to-composite cable from the A/V output on the camera to your computer, if your computer's video capture card features a composite input. If it does not, purchase a composite-to-USB adapter and use it to attach the cable to an open USB port. Or, eject the DVD from the camcorder and insert it in your computer's CD/DVD-ROM drive, after finalizing it first (unless using a DVD+RW format disc).
6. Open the video editing/DVD burning software program of your choice, such as Windows Movie Maker, Nero or Roxio. Select the proper command to import the video, either from the camcorder or the DVD.
7. Locate the particular file(s) on the DVD you want copied, either on the camcorder's LCD display, if importing from the camera, or from the disc menu, if using the DVD. Press "Play" on the camcorder and "Begin Recording" or the similar command for that program to begin importing the video. If using the DVD, follow the on-screen commands for the software program to begin ripping the DVD.
Tags: your computer, cable from, cable from output, camcorder-to-composite cable, camcorder-to-composite cable from, composite input, Connect camcorder-to-composite
Photo lighting filters---or lighting gels---are used to color light coming from either a lamp or flash bulb. One can be used either to balance the temperature of all the lights, or to create a desired lighting effect. For instance, a photographer shooting in a room lit by yellowish tungsten bulbs may wish to use a yellow lighting filter over his white flash so that all sources of light are the same color. Additionally, photographers may use a modeling light with a colored gel pointed to a backdrop to turn a white background into any other color. A photographer may also wish to illuminate his subject with different colors of light for artistic effect. Whatever the purpose, photo lighting filters are a useful photography tool and can be made at home.
Instructions
1. Purchase several sheets of clear acetate. These are also called overhead projector transparencies.
2. Create multiple image files with swatches of color that match your desired filter colors. You can look at commercially available lighting filters to see the range of colors they use and copy them. Make each swatch as large as you would like the resultant filter to be. The easiest method is to create several 8-by-10-inch swatches of color that will fill an entire acetate sheet.
3. Use a professional printing service to print each swatch on one acetate sheet. If your swatches are small, you can print multiple on the same sheet.
4. Cut each acetate sheet to the size of your swatch so that there is no transparent film remaining.
5. Cover your flash bulb with one of your colored acetate sheets to create a photo lighting filter. The filters can be attached to a flash bulb or lamp with clear tape. The tape will adhere to the acetate but can be peeled off easily without leaving a residue. You can also use a commercially available gel holder.
Tags: acetate sheet, flash bulb, color that, commercially available, each swatch, lighting filter
Distortion in the voltage or current wave of electrical devices causes harmonics. Distortion means that the distribution of electrical energy is problematic and the quality of power is low. It can have different effects on electric equipment, damaging them in various ways. Some of the problems caused by harmonics are capacitor failure, circuit breakers tripping, flickering of fluorescent lights and motor failure. Electrical technology has improved, offering us smaller and lighter electrical components that need clean electrical power to work properly. This means that modern equipment requires undistorted voltage and is highly sensitive to power distortions. Total harmonic distortion (THD) is a difference in harmonic frequencies. The amplifier compares the output signal with the input signal and this way measures this difference.
Switch Mode Power
Switch mode power supplies (SMPS) are one of the causes of harmonics. TVs, radios, fax machines, stereos, dimmers, computers and laser printers usually use SMPS equipment. SMPS converts AC voltage to low voltage DC for electronic devices, which are also referred to as non-linear loads. These non-linear loads can cause distortion in the electrical current and voltage, which leads to harmonics.
Dedicated Circuit
A dedicated circuit consists of three conductors and is sometimes incorrectly referred to as isolated circuit. If the SMPS devices and other utilities are on the same circuit, these utilities can also suffer serious damage caused by distortion. Electrical harmonics will lead to malfunction of all devices.
Inadequate Grounding
Inadequate grounding can cause serious damage to other devices if it comes to harmonics. If SMPS devices share a ground wire with other electrics, distortion will have affect on both. A solution is to install separate ground on outlets that power non-linear loads, or in using an over-sized "neutral." This can prevent damage caused by overheating.
Treating Harmonics
Harmonics can cause irreparable damage to your facility, so to prevent this, you have to treat it. You can choose filtering or cancellation. A harmonic filter is designed to filter a predetermined harmonic frequency range, which accounts for only one harmonic frequency. The other option is harmonics cancellation, where you use harmonic canceling transformers to remove high neutral current and harmonics from the third through the 21st. You can use these transformers to treat existing harmonics and to prevent future ones from happening.
The Nikon D80 is an advanced digital camera that records images with SD cards. Although any SD card will fit in the D80's memory slot, some may not work. Sandisk, Lexar, and Toshiba make compatible cards that vary in transfer speed and range. Although you can buy higher capacity cards that may work in the D80, Nikon does not guarantee that they will operate properly.
SD Cards Without Speed Requirements
Nikon guarantees the operation of several SD brands and models regardless of their speed. Sandisk or Panosonic manufacture SD cards that are compatible with the D80, as long as their capacity is 64, 128, 256, or 512 megabytes or 1, 2, or 4 gigabytes. Toshiba SD cards of the same capacity are also compatible with the D80, with the exception of the 4 gigabyte card. Nikon makes their own 512 megabyte and 1 gigabyte cards that are also compatible regardless of speed.
SD Cards With Speed Requirements
Nikon requires Lexar Media SD cards to have a transfer speed of 60x or more. Compatible cards include Platinum II series cards with a capacity of 512 megabytes or 1 gigabyte and a transfer speed of 60x. Lexar Professional series cards with a capacity of either 1 or 2 gigabytes and a transfer speed of 133x are also compatible with the D80.
Unofficial Cards
Nikon only guarantees the operation of the D80 with the SD cards listed above, but photographers sometimes use SD cards with higher capacities in their D80 camera. Sandisk guarantees that their class 4 SDHC cards ranging from 8 to 32 gigabytes are compatible with the D80, in addition to the Nikon-designated cards.
Tags: cards that, transfer speed, also compatible, cards with, compatible with, also compatible with
I often receive the question from people as to whether lens aperture has any impact on depth of focus with an autofocus camera. This question really makes no sense--but points rather to a lack of knowledge about depth of field--and more importantly, the relationship of depth of field with focus and depth of focus. The accompanying photo has a large depth of field, meaning that everything from the foreground to the background is sharply in focus. In this article I will try to explain these terms and help you learn use depth of field.
Instructions
1. First, let's talk about focus and depth of focus. In a normal camera viewfinder, like the one pictured, there is at least one center spot. Some cameras might have a center spot and a square. Normally, the center spot is where you would focus on your object manually, or if you have autofocus it would use this area to determine and set the focus. If there is another circle or square, this is normally the center area of the light meter where light readings will be given weight in a center-weighted light meter. Depth of focus, however, is a measurement of how much distance exists behind the lens rear element and film or sensor. It is normally not controlled by the photographer and has nothing to do with depth of field or focus.
2. Depth of field is the degree of which items remain in focus throughout the image. This picture is a great example of why you need to pay attention to depth of field. The California poppy in the foreground is out of focus, yet the one in the center is in focus. This is not a good image because the out-of-focus picture in the foreground is a distraction. The APERTURE in the lens controls depth of field. The smaller the hole or aperture, the broader the depth of filed. A large number (f16) determines a small aperture and a large depth of field. A small number (f4) lets in more light through a larger aperture and produces a narrower depth of field. This has nothing to do with autofocus or focus, but rather how the image area you did not focus on will be reproduced.
3. This image has too broad a depth of field. Everything blends together and the mountain laurel gets lost in the sea of green behind it. A tighter view with a narrower depth of field would have been much better.
4. It may seem natural to always go for the broadest depth of field. Most of us start in photography by taking scenic postcard views and we want the whole scene sharp. However, selection of depth of field is really dependent on the lighting and the subject. In this case, a narrow depth of field blurred out everything but the poppy, making it jump out of the frame. Photographers need to think about depth of field with every picture they take; it is not an option. I have seen portraits ruined by using a narrow depth of field leaving the ears or tip of the nose out of focus. Automatic cameras balance aperture, ISO and shutter speed automatically. You cannot always depend on these automatic settings to give you the best depth of field for a subject.
Tags: depth field, center spot, depth field, about depth, depth field, depth field
The Garmin eTrex Legend personal navigator is a hand-held GPS device that includes a full base map of the Americas and the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. This base map can be used to navigate while performing outdoor activities, such as boating, hiking or camping. On occasion, the eTrex Legend may not function as it should. The unit may not turn on, for instance, or problems may occur with the map. Many errors and issues, however, can be fixed by following a brief troubleshooting procedure.
Instructions
1. Replace the batteries if the unit does not turn on, or turns on briefly, then turns off again. The batteries may be dead, and new ones may fix the issue. Ensure that the batteries are installed properly. If the unit still does not turn on, ensure that you are pressing and holding the "Power" button down for two seconds.
2. Move to a new location if the device cannot find a satellite signal. Make sure that you have a clear view of the sky and are standing away from tall trees, mountains, buildings or parking garages. Wait for at least five minutes for the device to find a signal. If this does not work, set the GPS mode to "Normal" and change the interface setting to something besides "RTCM."
3. Turn on the Track Log feature if you cannot view your tracks during travel. Go to the "Tracks" page, then highlight "ON." Press the thumb stick in to turn on the feature.
4. Activate the MetroGuide map data if you cannot view points of interest or roads. Go to the "Map Setup" page and select the "Map" option to activate the check box. This turns on the feature.
5. Highlight the on-screen "X" button in the upper right corner of the screen if you cannot exit the page. Press the thumb stick in to close the page.
6. Access the "Map Setup" page and change the map's scale if you cannot easily view the map page, or it seems too cluttered.
7. Contact Garmin Technical Support (see Resources) if the problem continues.
Tags: cannot view, does turn, eTrex Legend, Press thumb, Press thumb stick, Setup page
All television sets made on or after July 1, 1999 have something called a V-Chip installed. The "V" in V-Chip stands for "viewer control." Parents can use this device to control what type of television shows their children are watching. Follow these steps to find out use the V-Chip in your TV.
Instructions
1. Get the TV's user's manual. Since all models are different, you'll need to know adjust the settings on your V-Chip. It's usually found in the menu option on the TV's user interface.
2. Use your remote control to access your V-Chip. Again, press the "Menu" button and search for something that says "V-Chip" or "parental lock."
3. Set a password. You'll need a 4-digit password to be able to activate and deactivate the V-Chip. For the generic password to access the settings in your specific model, check the user's manual or go to the manufacturer's Web site. After you've entered the generic password, set your own password and save your settings.
4. Choose to block shows and/or channels according to your children's age group. Here is a brief description of what TV ratings mean:
TV-Y: Designed to be appropriate for all children.
TV-Y7: Appropriate for children age 7 and above. May contain comedic violence that can frighten smaller children.
TV-G: Most parents find this suitable for all children. These programs are not usually designed with children in mind.
TV-PG: This rating suggests having parental guidance. This rating may have capital letters underneath like V, S, L or D. In order, these stand for violence, sexual situations, language, and suggestive dialogue.
TV-14: Parents may find this unsuitable for children under the age of 14. Violence and sexual content become more extreme.
TV-MA: Mature audiences only. These programs have very strong language, explicit sexual material, and graphic violence.
5. Navigate through the V-chip menu to adjust the settings that fit the ages of the children in your home. Once the settings are saved, try to access the channels that you have blocked to make sure that the settings are in effect.
Tags: adjust settings, find this, generic password, settings your, These programs, This rating, user manual
More important than any speaker you might decide to add to a car stereo is the amplifier you use to power it. Without a clear sound being sent to the speaker it doesn't matter how loud it can play; the sound will be bad. Although it is an older model, the Alpine 3522s is a quality product that can still provide the power you need for your rear speakers. If you take the time to install it yourself using an inexpensive amplifier kit, you can have good sound for a low price.
Instructions
Initial Preparation
1. Disconnect your battery. Hooking up anything electrical while the battery is connected can ruin the battery as well as whatever you are connecting. Always disconnect the negative terminal first.
2. Find a hole through the heat shield to run your power wire. You may have to drill one if you don't find one.
3. Unscrew the paneling around the base of the doors on both sides of the car. The wiring will run under that paneling. Where the paneling meets the back seat, find a path under the seat to the trunk. You may want to use a straightened metal hanger to test for a path.
4. Connect the RCA ends to the preamp outputs on your stereo receiver. Connect by color and connect them to the rear output. The pre-amps should be labeled, otherwise check the manual.
5. Connect the small remote wire to the remote output--blue wire--on the back of your receiver. Strip a small amount of casing from the ends of both wires and twist together. Use electric tape to secure.
Running Wires
6. Keep the end of the power wire near the fuse holder by the battery. Feed the other end through the hole in the heat shield and either directly under the paneling on the same side as the battery or under the carpet towards that paneling. If you run the wire under the carpet, continue to feed it until it emerges under the paneling.
7. Continue to feed the power wire back until it has gone under the back seat and into the trunk.
8. Run the remote wire and RCA under the carpet to the paneling on the opposite side of the car from the power wire. Either cut a small hole in the carpet directly below the console to feed the wires through or run them towards the front of the car until the edge of the carpet and feed run them under there. Feed the wires towards the back of the car under the paneling until they go under the back seat and into the trunk.
9. Lift up the carpet next to the back seat in the trunk to expose the frame. Look for a bolt that you could connect the eye ring on the ground wire to. If you find one, loosen the nut and connect the ring. If not, solder the ring to the trunk frame.
10. Make sure that the ends of the power wire, ground wire and remote wire have been stripped to connect to the amplifier. Connect each to the amplifier by placing the end in the terminal and tightening the screw. Connect the RCA ends to their matching colors on the amplifier. The 3522S makes it easy by placing all connections on the same side of the amplifier.
Connecting Rear Speakers
11. The 3522S is rated at 30 watts X 2 RMS. Make sure that whatever speakers you are using can handle that power. Almost all new speakers can.
12. Connect four speaker wires to the four terminals on your amp. Two should be positive, two negative. If you purchased new speakers they may have come with their own wires; use them if possible. Tighten the screws to secure the wires.
13. Find a path to your rear speakers. For almost all vehicles you can go straight up from your amp to the roof of the trunk to find the speaker terminals. If you are replacing speakers or to disconnect the old speaker wires, simply cut the old wires where they meet the previous speakers and cover the ends with electric tape.
14. Connect one positive speaker wire to the positive terminal on one speaker. If using provided speaker wires use the connection provided. If it is a push button terminal use that. If not, solder the speaker wire to the terminal for a permanent connection or add your own connector by crimping it on the end of the speaker wire. Connect the other positive wire to the other speaker.
15. Connect the negative wires to the negative terminals on the speakers. Connect each to the same speaker as the positive wire from the same pairing on the amplifier.
Final Steps
16. Make sure the fuse is removed from the fuse holder on the power wire. Connect the power wire to the positive terminal by removing the terminal nut, sliding the eye ring over the bolt and securing the nut over the ring.
17.Connect the battery. Connect the positive terminal first, then the negative. Make sure your car's electronics are functioning properly then make sure the car is off.
18. Insert the fuse into the fuse holder. Power up the car to make sure the speakers are working.
19. Screw down the paneling so that it hides the wires.
Tags: power wire, back seat, fuse holder, positive terminal, remote wire, speaker wire, speaker wires
The Kodak Brownie 8mm movie projector is a rare, vintage and very special piece of movie projecting history. The Brownie model made low-cost film projection extremely popular, the first model being released as early as 1900, and was responsible for the conception of the "snapshot."
Instructions
Connecting the Projector
1. Remove the two screws on top of the projector and separate the halves of the projector at the top.
2. Locate the resistor showing the range of voltage tappings from 200 to 300 volts marked in 10-volt increments. Push the brass terminal at the end of the power lead onto the appropriate tag corresponding with the mains voltage in your area.
3. Close the projector. Open the compartment at the rear of the projector and remove the mains lead. Fit and wire an appropriate plug.
Setting Up
4. Place the projector on a secure support and at a desirable height. Choose the appropriate distance from the screen to achieve the desired projection size (23-inch by 30-inch at 11 feet, 30-inch by 40-inch at 14 feet, 36-inch by 48-inch at 17 feet).
5. Turn the control switch to "project." The projector motor will start.
6. Turn the "elevating knob" to vertically adjust the projection on the screen. Move the projector gently sideways to horizontally adjust the projection on the screen. Adjust the "focusing lever" until the margins of the projection on the screen are sharp.
7. Turn the control switch to "off."
Threading the Film
8. Use the "film cutter" to cut the leader square to the appropriate size. Move the upper reel arm to the upright position.
9. Place a reel of 8mm film on the upper spindle so the film draws from the top with the perforated edge toward you. Fit an empty reel to the lower spindle.
10. Turn the control switch to "project." Feed the leader into the film channel in front of the snubber just behind the lens until the perforations on the film are engaged with the claw mechanism.
Projecting and Rewinding
11. Adjust the "focusing lever" again to achieve a sharp and clear picture. Turn the "framing knob" to ensure black strips or the edges of the next pictures are not visible and the picture is properly framed.
12. Turn the control switch to "off" when finished projecting.
13. Interchange the reels on the spindles. Attach the film to the lower reel. Turn the control switch to "rewind."
Tags: control switch, Turn control, Turn control switch, projection screen, Adjust focusing, Adjust focusing lever
Taking the family to a playground, amusement park or campground and want to stay in contact? Look at Family Radio Service (FRS) or General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) two-way radios. Boasting clearer sound, better range and more channels, these tough little units are a far cry from old walkie-talkies.
Instructions
1. Look at your budget. If you want to save money and expect to use the radios over short range (less than two miles), choose FRS radios.
2. Choose GMRS radios--a newer type--if you need range up to five miles.
3. Apply for a Federal Communications Commission (FCC) license, which you'll need to use a GMRS radio. You'll need to complete FCC Forms 605 and 159 (Form 605 can be filed electronically at wireless.fcc.gov/uls/applications/).
4. Purchase multiple radios from the same manufacturer. Although all FRS and GMRS radios use the same frequencies, their other features (such as so-called privacy codes) don't always work between brands. GMRS radios share some channels with FRS radios. If you're replacing an FRS radio, buy a GMRS unit.
5. Take the range claims of two-way radios with a grain of salt. FRS purports to reach two miles and GMRS up to seven miles, but walls, hills, trees, people and almost anything else will reduce that range.
6. Look for a scanning function if you like to listen in on other people's conversations. A scanning radio will search across its channels for activity.
7. Pick units with a vibrating call feature if you need to remain quiet while you use them (during your clan's paintball war, for instance).
While most of us have switched to digital cameras in the past decade for both professional and casual use, some people also have archives -- or boxes -- of old photographs and film negatives from analog film cameras. A flatbed scanner is usually sufficient for digitizing developed prints; however, scanning film negatives in a way that they are usable to create prints requires a specialized device called a film scanner. Film scanners allow you to digitize film or slide film in resolutions comparable to developed photos. A good film scanner is extremely pricey. For small libraries, it may be a good idea to rent a scanner rather than buy.
Instructions
1. Choose a film scanner compatible with your computer's hardware and software. Some film scanners connect to computers via a USB or FireWire port, and come with software that only works with a PC or with a Mac.
2. Install required drivers and software. These are usually on an included CD or as a download from the manufacturer's website. The software may not be included; some film scanners include programs which allow you to correct and crop negatives.
3. Connect the film scanner to your computer using the included USB or Firewire cord.
4. Clean the negatives with film cleaner, following the manufacturer's directions. This removes dust, dirt and oil from your fingers from the negative's surface, which can affect the clarity of the scan.
5. Feed the negatives into the correct adapter or slot. Film scanners may have sliding attachments or specific grooves which fit different film sizes and types.
6. Start the scanner software, if appropriate. Correct color or clarity and crop as desired.
7. Begin the scan, and allow the scanner to completely scan the film negatives. High quality scanners will pass over the negatives a few times to capture fine detail.
8. Save the image file created by the scanner from the negatives to your computer's hard drive or desktop, when prompted to do so or before closing the program. Most film scanners allow you to save these digitized images as a TIFF or JPEG file, which can then be opened in photo editing software, such as Photoshop or Picasa.
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