Take Pics Of Fireworks With A Rebel Xti

Firework photography takes practice and patience -- and having a great camera doesn't hurt.

Photography in low light can be difficult at the best of times -- any movement on the part of the photographer or the subject can result in blurriness in the shot. This is especially problematic for point-and-shoot cameras but is made easier with a DSLR like the Canon Rebel XTi. The Rebel's interchangeable lenses and full manual controls make getting great night photos a reality. For shots of fireworks, a mixture of darkness and momentary brightness, a bit of practice and experimentation will be required.

Instructions

Low-light Shooting

1. Turn on the camera and rotate the the Mode Dial to "Av" to select aperture priority mode. Depending on the lens, you can set your camera to the lowest aperture number (to allow the most light to enter the lens), and the Rebel will adjust the shutter speed automatically. Turn the main dial until the lowest F number is displayed.

2. Press the ISO button on the back of the camera (the up arrow) to adjust the ISO speed. Lower numbers require longer exposure, which means the shutter is open longer and there is more chance of a blurry shot, but high ISOs (1600, 3200) can sometimes result in grainy shots, especially at night. Try ISO 400 for now.

3. Set the camera on a tripod and frame the shot. Enable manual focus and focus the lens for the maximum distance, making sure you are far enough from the fireworks to allow for infinite focus. When the fireworks begin, you might need to adjust the focus. If you have a remote control for your camera, get it ready.

4. Press the shutter button all the way down for each shot you wish to take. If your pictures are blurring, consider changing the shooting mode to "Tv" and lessening the shutter speed to take the photos more quickly. The trick here is to not move the camera -- hence the remote -- and to find a balance between timing the shot and the fireworks exploding. Experiment.

Long Exposure for "Trailing Light" Effect

5. Set up your camera as in Section One -- mount it on a tripod and distance yourself from the setting of the fireworks.

6. Rotate the Mode Dial to "Tv" (shutter priority mode). Spin the main dial to adjust the shutter speed (from 1/4000 of a second to 30 seconds). Choose a long exposure -- 2 seconds for now.

7. Time releasing the shutter with the sound of the fireworks launching using the remote control. The shutter will open and begin to let in light and will capture the entire process of the firework exploding to create a trailing-light effect.

8. Experiment with the timing, increasing or decreasing the shutter speed as necessary. If the shots are too bright because the shutter is open for too long, change from shutter priority mode to "M" (full manual) mode, and increase the aperture value. The higher the F number, the narrower the opening in the lens. Try to find the balance between F stop and shutter speed to create the perfect light effect.

Tags: shutter speed, priority mode, your camera, adjust shutter, adjust shutter speed, balance between

Boom Boxes Compatible With The Itouch

Boomboxes provide a portable way to share your music with friends.

A boom box is commonly understood to be a portable sound-system that includes an AM/FM radio, powerful speakers and the capability to play prerecorded music in some format. In the 1980s that format was cassette tape; today however, the prevailing boom box formats are CD and MP3. There are boom boxes made by various companies to work with MP3 players in general and a few advertised as specifically compatible with Apple's iPod touch.

iTouch-Related Features

Most boom boxes compatible with the iPod touch feature a dock that charges the iTouch, even while it's being played. Most also incorporate a set of controls to access most of the iTouch's basic functions from the boom box. A few even display the title of tracks being played on the main boom box display. Some also include a remote control that features iTouch-controlling capabilities.

Another practical feature, in regards to the dock, is that most enhance the portable aspect of the boom box by configuring the dock in such a way that the iTouch locks into place to prevent it from slipping out during travel. In some cases there is even a door, reminiscent of old cassette players, that opens to accommodate the iTouch and then snaps back into place protecting it somewhat from damage and the likelihood of it falling out.

Basic Features

Most iTouch compatible boom boxes also offer an FM receiver and the ability to play CDs. Being portable, they can be powered by batteries as well as AC wall adapters and include at least one handle for easy carrying. Most also include an aux-in jack to connect computers or other devices for play through the unit's speakers.

Speakers and Dimensions

The average tweeter size of the current iTouch compatible boom box, as of late 2010, is about 1 inch. The woofers however, can range from one lone 3- to 5.25-inch speaker to two 5-inch woofers on one unit. Reviews from iLounge and other reputable sources indicate the sound of current high-end offerings to be excellent and comparable to non-portable models of similar size.

The size of the average iTouch compatible boom box varies greatly, ranging from about 13 to 22 inches wide, 9 to 11 inches high and 6 to 22 inches deep.

Tags: boom boxes, compatible boom, iTouch compatible, iTouch compatible boom, also include, being played, compatible with

Use The Kodak Easyshare C813

This camera runs on rechargeable AA batteries.

The Kodak C813 is a compact digital camera released in 2008. It is an 8.2 megapixel camera with a 5x optical zoom. The camera is designed for beginners. Digital image stabilization and a video mode are some of its other features. The camera comes with AA batteries, USB cable for downloading pictures, a wrist strap, camera guide, EasyShare software, and is compatible with Kodak's printer docks. The camera is easy to use and takes little effort to set it up.

Instructions

1. Set up your camera by inserting the strap that comes with the camera into the hole at the top right of the camera and securing it. Install the two AA batteries into the bottom of the camera as indicated.

2. Turn on the camera with the button at the bottom of the camera. When you first turn the camera on you will be prompted to set up the language and date and time. Use the up or down arrows to change the options. The left to right arrows will take you to the next settings field. Press the middle button that says "OK" when you have chosen your settings.

You can make further changes to the settings through "Menu."

3. Turn off your camera. Add memory to your camera by inserting an SD or MMC card into the memory slot behind the batteries. Your camera has internal memory and will run without an extra card, but you will be able to store more pictures with a card.

4. Select a shooting mode on the dial located on the top right of the camera. You can choose the automatic mode ("Auto") or select a shooting mode such as "Action" or "Close-up."

5. Zoom closer to the object using the buttons just below the dial that have a "W" or "T" on them. "W" is wide angle and will zoom the frame out. "T" is for telephoto and will zoom closer.

6. Press the shutter button, located in the center of the top dial, half way down to focus on an object. When you have the photo framed and focused to your preferences, press the shutter button all the way down to take the picture.

7. View the pictures you have taken by pressing the "Review" button on the lower left of the camera. Use the left or right arrows to scroll through the images. From here you can also delete images.

Tags: bottom camera, camera inserting, camera with, comes with, left right

Download A Movie On A Jvc Gzmg

You can download video files from the JVC GZ-MG series of camcorders by utilizing Windows Explorer or Everio MediaBrowser, which is a media management software program included with the camcorder. The software is not only capable of playing the files, but also can edit the video files. To install the software, insert the installation disc into the CD or DVD drive and follow the installation prompts. If you don't have the installation disc, you can purchase the software from JVC.

Instructions

Windows Explorer

1. Insert the SD card into the camera. This process is not necessary for users who have saved the media to the camera's internal hard drive.

2. Put the camera in playback mode. Press down both the "Power" switch and the "Lock" button on the JVC GZ-MG series camera.

3. Connect the JVC GZ-MG camera to the computer using the USB cable. Insert the smaller end of the USB cable into the JVC's USB port. Insert the larger end of the cable into the computer's USB port. On the camera's LCD display, the phrase "USB MASSSTORAGE" will appear.

4. Click on "Open folder to view files" in the "Removable Disk" window. If the window doesn't appear, click on the computer's desktop "Start" button and select the "Computer" folder. Double-click on the removable disk folder that represents the JVC camera.

5. Double-click on the "SD_VIDEO" folder to view the video files saved inside.

6. Drag the file from the SD_VIDEO folder and drop it into a save location on the computer.

Everio MediaBrowser

7. Install "Everio MediaBrowser." The software CD is included with the camera. If you no longer have the software disc, you can download a copy from the JVC website.

8. Connect the JVC camcorder to the computer using the USB cable.

9. Open the LCD screen on the camcorder. Select "BACK UP" on the camcorder's main menu. This process will initiate Everio MediaBrowser to open.

10. Select "All volume in camcorder." Click "Next" in the software interface.

11. Click "Start" in the software interface. All videos on the camcorder will be copied to the computer.

Tags: Everio MediaBrowser, video files, cable into, computer using, computer using cable, folder view, GZ-MG series

Clean A Dirty Cd

If CDs get dirt, debris, fingerprints or anything else on them, they need to be cleaned before they are used again. Dirty CDs cause skipping, errors and damage to the CD player. Cleaning CDs keeps the CD and CD player working longer.

Instructions

1. Hold the CD with one finger through the hole in the center of the CD. The bottom or playable side of the CD needs to face up.

2. Pour a small amount of rubbing alcohol onto a soft cloth. Satin, silk or glass-cleaning cloths are the best cloths to use.

3. Place the rag as close as possible to the hole on the CD. Rub the CD with the rag in a outward, arching motion. This motion starts at the center and moves to the edge of the CD. Turn the CD as you move out to the edges. Continue around the CD until all of the debris and dirt is removed.

4. Fill a small bowl with water. The CD needs to fit into the bowl. Submerge the CD in the water. Soak the CD for 3 to 5 minutes. This removes excess alcohol and any debris on the front of the CD.

5. Remove the CD and dry it with a towel. Use the same arching movement as in Step 3.

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Use A Nikon Dslr

Nikon DSLRs have great image quality and the latest features.

Are you looking to take your photography to the next level? Do you feel you've outgrown your point-and-shoot digital camera? If so, a digital single-lens reflex camera, or DSLR, may be for you. DSLRs are the "big cameras" that professional photographers use, but don't be intimidated. Nikon has several entry-level DSLR models that are easy to set up and use. In fact, the biggest adjustment may be learning to look through an eyepiece again.

Instructions

1. Set up your Nikon DSLR by attaching the strap, connecting the lens and charging the battery. The instructions that come with your camera will walk you through step by step with both text and illustrations.

2. Turn on the Nikon DSLR, and turn the Mode Dial, located on the top right of your camera, until the Auto setting is aligned with the mark. The Auto setting is designated by a camera symbol.

3. Raise the Nikon DSLR to your eye, supporting it with your right hand on the right side of the camera and your left hand underneath the lens.

4. Look through the eyepiece and locate the subject. Twist the textured dial around the lens to zoom in or out until the shot is properly framed.

5. Press the shutter button--it is the round, silver button on the right front of the camera. Holding it halfway down will activate the autofocus feature; you may then press the button down further until the camera takes the shot.

6. Look at your shot on the screen. If you want to delete the photograph, press the Delete button. It's the small round button to the right of the screen with the trash can icon.

Tags: Nikon DSLR, Auto setting, button right, through eyepiece, with your

Restore Pictures From Memory

Sometimes you accidentally delete files from the memory card of your phone or camera, and want to find a way to recover them. There are many software programs designed for restoring deleted pictures and other files from cards used in digital cameras including SD, CF, xD cards, memory stick, microDrive, SmartMedi Card, MMC, MicroSD, MiniSD and SDHC. These programs can recover lost, deleted, formatted or corrupted photos.

Instructions

1. Use the program "CardRecovery," a photo recovery software for memory cards. You can download its free trial from its website. After downloading, double-click and run the installer, click "Next" on the welcome page and specify a drive letter for your camera or card reader (through whichever medium the computer is reading the card). Click "Next" and the program will start scanning. It should take a few minutes for the scanning to complete, after which it will show you the thumbnails of the deleted pictures. Select the pictures and click "Next." Your deleted pictures should now be restored.

2. Install the program "Memory Card Recovery." After installing the program, run it and connect the camera or the card reader with the card inside it to the computer. Then select the camera/card reader drive from the left panel on the application window and click the "Recover" button with the memory card icon on it. The program will then scan the images it can detect. When it finds them, select the ones that are to be restored and click "Restore."

3. Recover photos with the program "Recover My Photos." Download and install its trial version and launch the program. Connect the camera or the card reader to the computer. Now the program will automatically scan the memory card and will show you the thumbnails of deleted photos. To recover them, you will have to purchase the program's license key for $39.95 as of 2011. After activating the purchased software, your pictures will be restored on the memory card.

Tags: camera card, camera card reader, card reader, deleted pictures, memory card, program will, click Next

Pentax K10d Vs Olympus

The Pentax K10D is an excellent older model digital SLR camera that is available at a discount since it was replaced by the K20D. Its closest equivalent offered by Olympus is the EVOLT E-510, which itself was replaced by the E-520.

Similarities

Both the K10D and the E-510 have in-camera image stabilization, so any lense will be able to take advantage of this feature. Both have dust removal systems, which is important if you swap lenses often. A piece of dust on the sensor can actually ruin a camera.

K10D Advantages

Pentax offers weather sealing on the K10D, and when coupled with certain lenses, strong protection against the elements. The K10D also has 11-point auto focus (on the high end for DSLRs), while the E-510 has an older 3-point system.

E-510 Advantages

The E-510 allows for live viewing of photos while you are taking them, a rare feature for DSLRs at the time of its release. Also, the E-510 has one of the longest-lasting batteries you can buy for a DSLR, although the E-510 does not support a battery grip (a secondary battery that attaches to the bottom of the camera) like the K10D.

Your Decision

The K10D is a bit bigger and heaver. This can be either an advantage or disadvantage depending on the size of your hands. Tangentially, the Pentax saves to two kinds of RAW formats, while the Olympus accepts two kinds of SD cards.

Lenses

With digital SLRs, keep in mind that you will spend a lot more on lenses than on the camera body. Both brands have a lot of lenses to choose from, but Pentax has a slight edge as they support their older lenses from the film-era in manual focus mode. These high-quality lenses abound on the aftermarket and offer an inexpensive way to experiment with different focal lengths.

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Troubleshoot A Portable Daewoo Dvd

Troubleshoot your DVD player.

The Daewoo DVD player allows you to easily watch your DVD movies wherever you go. The portable DVD player is smaller than a laptop computer and its only function is to play DVD movies. However, if you find the Daewoo device is not performing up to par and the DVD movies are not running smoothly (such as video skipping or not loading at all) you need to troubleshoot device to correct the problems.

Instructions

1. Replace the batteries in your portable Daewoo DVD player. As the batteries begin to die, the playback is going to fail. Remove the batteries and insert new batteries to power on the device.

2. Inspect the underside of the DVD you are using in the DVD player. If the DVD is scratched or dirty, the playback issues are likely due to the disk and not the Daewoo DVD player.

3. Spray compressed air into the open DVD compartment (where you insert the DVD). Dust and other debris can build up on the lens of the DVD reader. The compressed air removes the debris from the lens and allows it to run smoothly again.

4. Check your DVD to see if is a DVD you burned at home or if the disk is an actual DVD movie you purchased from the store. Daewoo DVD players often have difficulty reading certain DVD formats or DVD brands. If the DVD movie is not playing, it is typically due to this reason.

Tags: Daewoo player

Convert Wav To Mp3

You may have a collection of wav files that you have on CD that you now would like to convert to MP3s. Now that MP3 players are so much cheaper, you may have bought one or you may have been given one. Whatever reason you have for needing to convert your wav files to MP3, the following will explain do it.

Instructions

1. Find a program to convert your wav files to MP3. The Internet provides a lot of free programs for this purpose. Some of them go both ways such as "ABC Amber Audio Converter" which is found in the Resource section.

2. Download the program of your choice. Enable your anti virus program. You don't want to get a virus if you can prevent it.

3. Read the help section of your program. You may find additional features such as doing batches at a time. This means you can select a group of wav files and convert them all at the same time.

4. Check you hard disk space. You need to be sure that you have enough hard disk space to save the files. Although MP3 files don't take the space that wav files do, depending on the amount you are converting you could run out of hard disk.

5. Set up a directory. Before you convert any files you need a place to save them.

6. Start converting your files. This may be as easy as right clicking on a file and selecting convert to MP3, or very complicated. If you have followed "Step 3" you shouldn't have any problems converting the files.

Tags: hard disk, your files, convert your, convert your files, disk space

Lighten Disposable Camera Pictures

If you've ever used a disposable camera, you know that the picture quality isn't always the best. Photos can come back dark and with uneven lighting. Especially if the photos are from an important event, you will want to improve the quality. One of the most effective ways to lighten and store disposable camera photos is to scan them into your computer and adjust the lighting, and then save them as a file on your computer. You can also manipulate the scanned pictures in other ways to greatly improve the overall quality.

Instructions

Lighten Your Photos

1. Take your disposable camera to a photo-developing lab. Once you have the prints from your camera, place the negatives in a safe place, away from dust and light. Assess the photos. Separate the pictures into two piles--one pile for photos that don't need any lightening and the other for those that do.

2. Turn on your computer and scanner. The scanner should be set to scan color photos at a minimum of 300 dots per inch. Anything less than 300 dpi will give you low-quality pictures. If the scanner isn't set to scan color photos, it will also reduce the quality of the photo.

3. Place the photos on the scanning glass one at a time and press the scan button. The image should appear on your computer screen. Once all the photos are uploaded to your computer, put the originals somewhere for safe keeping.

4. Review each photo on your computer to confirm you want to lighten it. Find the light tone button on your scanning software. Many scanning programs have an auto-fix button that will automatically assess the photo and make lighting adjustments. Attempt to use this feature first if the software has one. If it doesn't offer this feature, or you don't like the way the auto-adjust worked, adjust the lighting yourself by moving the lighting bar toward "lighter."

5. Save your changes and store the photos on your computer or with an online photo storage space. Send your now-digital photos to an online photo lab or a store for printing.

Tags: your computer, disposable camera, adjust lighting, color photos, online photo, scan color, scan color photos

Measure The Brightness Of Light

Light meters come in all shapes and sizes.

When you are taking pictures or deciding on the amount of lights to install in a room, you must know the amount of lighting. While many homeowners may be satisfied with a visual confirmation of the amount of light available, there is a more scientific way of calculating light brightness. Using a special device that measures the brightness of the light can give you an accurate numerical representation of the amount of lighting in a room. Fortunately, it is a simple process with the right directions, and it is relatively inexpensive.

Instructions

1. Install the batteries into the light meter. Read the manufacturer's directions for battery type and amount of batteries required.

2. Turn on the light sources you wish to measure.

3. Point the light meter at the light source you wish to measure and turn it on. The meter will give you a number to indicate the level of brightness in either "Foot-Candles" or "LUX".

Tags: amount lighting, light meter, wish measure

Set Up A Bluetooth Gps Car Navigation System

Set Up a Bluetooth GPS Car Navigation System

One of the conveniences of modern GPS systems is that they often carry Bluetooth capability. This is very convenient if you use a lot of Bluetooth devices on the road, such as a headset or Bluetooth-enabled phone. Syncing your devices with your GPS is a fairly easy process, and once you are done, you'll be able to use your GPS as well as your Bluetooth-enabled devices together.

Instructions

1. Go to the Bluetooth options area of your GPS navigation system. This is normally in the Settings or Options menu. Then select the "Find Bluetooth devices" option. Depending on your GPS device, there may be an additional option to select the type of device you want to sync. Once you are finished with these options, your GPS should be in "sync" or "discovery" mode.

2. Sync your devices with the GPS. Simply follow the normal procedure for your headset or telephone for broadcasting the signal to the GPS system. If you have been successful, a notification will pop up on your GPS system that the device has been found. Simply confirm that you would like to sync the two devices to continue.

3. Test your device with the GPS. If you are using a headset, you should be able to hear the turn-by-turn directions in your earpiece. If you have synced your phone, try making and receiving calls through the Bluetooth GPS system. If you have synced a PDA with it, see if you can get the directions beamed to your PDA.

Tags: Bluetooth devices, Bluetooth Navigation, Bluetooth Navigation System, devices with, have synced, Navigation System

Sync Windows Mobile To Google Contacts

Windows Mobile handsets, often called Pocket PCs, run on a mobile operating system similar to Microsoft Windows. These devices achieve synchronization through two methods. The first is connecting your phone to your computer and using Windows Device Center to synchronize documents, pictures and other files. The other is for continuous synchronization with a server through Microsoft Exchange. Google services such as calendar, email and contacts synchronize through the second method.

Instructions

1. Open the Microsoft Exchange ActiveSync wizard on your Windows Mobile Phone. Click "Set up your device to sync with it."

2. Enter the server address as "m.google.com" on the Edit Server Settings page. Check the box to enable the SSL option. Click "Next."

3. Enter your Google account's user name and password on the next screen. Skip the domain box. Check the box to save the password so you will not have to enter it every time you synchronize your Pocket PC. Click "Next."

4. Check the box next to "Contacts." Click "Finish." Click "Sync."

Tags: Windows Mobile, Click Next, Microsoft Exchange

Turn An Mp4 Into An Mp3

There are many audio formats and many programs that can convert files from one format to another. Turning an MP4 into an MP3 is useful when you'd like to download the music file onto an MP3 player or burn it to an MP3 CD. To convert an MP4 into an MP3, you can use a free audio program such as iTunes, Switch or dBpoweramp.

Instructions

Using iTunes

1. Open iTunes and then open iTunes preferences.

2. Select the "General" tab from within the preferences menu.

3. Click the "Import Settings" button.

4. Choose the "MP3 Encoder" from the "Import Using" menu.

5. Click "OK."

6. Drag the MP4 you would like to turn into an MP3 into iTunes.

7. Highlight the MP4 and click "Advanced."

8. Choose "Create MP3 Version" and the MP4 will be turned into an MP3.

Using Switch

9. Open Switch and click "Add Files."

10. Choose the MP4 you would like to turn into an MP3.

11. Click "Select" to import this MP4.

12. Choose "MP3" from the "Output Format" menu.

13. Click "Browse" and select the folder in which you'd like the converted file to be saved.

14. Click "Convert" and the MP4 will be turned into an MP3.

Using dBpoweramp

15. Open dBpoweramp and click "Browse."

16. Choose the MP4 you would like to turn into an MP3.

17.Click "Open" to import this MP4.

18. Choose "MP3" from the "Converting To" menu.

19. Click "Folder" next to Output Location and select the folder in which you'd like the converted file to be saved.

20. Click "Convert" and the MP4 will be turned into an MP3.

Tags: menu Click, would like turn, like turn, like turn into, turn into

Buy Noise Cancelling Headphones

Noise-canceling headphones block out ambient sound. This is useful in noisy environments like trains. They work by monitoring sound outside of the headphone through a microphone and then canceling that sound out. Technically, they do this by copying the sound wave outside, and then they make that sound wave go out of phase. It's a bit like swimming upstream. If a river's downstream current equals your upstream strength, you stay still. In this case you create quiet.

Instructions

1. Decide what design you want and the trade-off you want to make among size, portability and cost. Designs fall in two camps: over-the-head and earbud. Over-the-head headphones tend to be larger and less compact. Earbud headphones can be transported in your pocket.

2. Consider digital noise-canceling over-the-ear headphones, which reduce ambient noise by 99 percent. They have settings for different environments like an airplane, train and office. Some have built-in equalizers so you can balance bass, mid- and high- range frequencies. As of July 2009, some cost hundreds of dollars. Noise-canceling earbuds can reduce noise by about 75 percent and are smaller and cheaper.

3. Decide whether you will be using the headphones for long periods. If so, consider a lithium-ion rechargeable battery. Also, traveling around a lot can cause the cord to get tangled. Look for headphones with a travel case. And check if the headphones have a monitor function. The monitor function allows you to temporarily hear surrounding sound, for example, a train conductor announcement.

4. If possible, listen to the headphones before buying them.

Tags: environments like, monitor function, sound wave, that sound

Television Analog To Digital Conversion

Television Analog to Digital Conversion

The Transition from Analog to Digital

For the last 80 years or so, television signals have been broadcast over the airwaves in analog format. This means televisions with antennas, rabbit ears or well-sculpted pieces of foil could pick up the basic channels--where the term "basic cable" originated--like major network feeds. Yet, since 2007, the U.S. government now requires all televisions manufactured in the United States or being shipped into the United States to have a digital tuner and, before that, most televisions were already outfitted to broadcast digital via a "set-top-box." In June 2009, everything converted to digital, though people receiving analog cable service with no "set-top-box" can still receive signals over the next 3 years before it is permanently shut off.

Reasons Behind the Switch

The Government decided to make this switch for several reasons. Most importantly, it frees up a good part of the airways for emergency services like police, fire and rescue so there is absolutely no interference in their communications. Analog will still exist but it will be primarily for emergency services. Analog will also be auctioned off to communications companies that can offer consumers more wireless broadband service. This is the beginning of a transition that will probably lead to free (or cheap) wireless Internet just about anywhere for computers, much like analog allowed free television to people with a TV and an antenna. Broadcasters being able to focus on digital as opposed to analog and digital will also generally enhance the television spectrum--programming, picture and sound quality.

Television to the Internet

When this switch from analog to digital occurred, another movement within the television medium had already been happening. More people began to watch their television shows online. For the average viewer, it doubled from 6 to 12 hours per week. While there has been no decline in the amount of time people watch television, these are the first signs in a coming change--or convergence, perhaps--between television and Internet broadcasting. More original programming is appearing online and most television episodes are offered online to view after they have premiered on television. Certain televisions already have Internet capabilities on them and major communications companies are already planning for the convergence for TV on the internet.

Tags: analog digital, Analog Digital, Analog Digital Conversion, Analog will, communications companies, Digital Conversion, emergency services

Convert Hi 8 Video To Dvd

The Hi 8 format was a further refinement of 8 mm videotape formats introduced in the late 1980s. As an analog format that used magnetic tape to record the video signal, these tapes become worn with age and use. Archiving the tapes to a DVD format will insure family memories will be preserved for years to come. You can use a computer TV tuner to convert your Hi 8 video tapes to digital files that can be recorded as DVDs.

Instructions

1. Connect the TV tuner to your computer's USB port. If needed, install the software provided with the TV tuner that allows you to record video from your Hi 8 camcorder.

2. Plug the Hi 8 camcorder into the TV tuner's video inputs. If your camcorder is equipped with an S-Video video output, use an S-Video cable to connect the video output of the camcorder to the S-Video input of the TV tuner. If only RCA jacks are present on the camcorder, use an RCA audio-video cable to connect both the video and audio outputs from the camcorder to the RCA inputs of the TV tuner.

3. Open the video recording software supplied with the TV tuner and configure the software to designate which folder you want the digitized video files to be stored in. If your TV tuner software allows you to select the recording format, make sure to select MPEG-2 as the file format.

4. Begin play back of your Hi 8 video tape in the camcorder and enter the record mode in the TV tuner software. When the tape is finished, stop the recording. Name and save the file to the folder specified in the previous step. Repeat as necessary until you have converted all your Hi 8 video tapes.

5. Import the digitized files into a DVD creation program. If you do not have DVD creation software, use the resource link provided to download free DVD burning software. Arrange the digitized video files according to the capacity of your DVD. You can fit approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes of converted Hi 8 video onto a single-layer DVD. Almost twice as much video will fit onto a dual-layer DVD.

6. When you have finished adding video clips to your DVD project, insert a recordable DVD and burn the project.

Tags: your video, your video tapes, cable connect, digitized video, digitized video files, record video, tuner software

History Of Tokina Lenses

Tokina is a Japanese manufacturer of lenses for different camera brands. The company makes a wide variety of lenses that use high-quality glass and offer an alternative to more expensive name brands like Canon and Nikon. The company has evolved over its history, and now offers lenses for almost every camera on the market.

Origins

Tokina was started as an original equipment manufacturer of lenses in the 1950s. In the early 1970s, a group of former Nikon engineers established Tokina Lenses as its own separate entity.

Goals

The origins of Tokina reflect the schism in the photographic community over the importance of zoom lenses. While most amateur and even professional photographers currently prefer zoom lenses, at the time, the quality of zoom lenses was suspect, and prime lenses---fixed focal lengths---ruled. The Nikon engineers who created Tokina did so with the goal of focusing on developing high-quality zoom lenses.

Sourcing

When Tokina started building lenses, one problem it faced was glass quality. The company turned to Hoya, one of the world's largest manufacturers of high-quality optics, to source its glass. Hoya made the glass according to Tokina specifications. Hoya still provides the glass for Tokina lenses, and Tokina is owned by THK corporation, which also includes Hoya, Kenko and Slik.

AT-X

Tokina launched its Advanced Technology-Extra (AT-X) in 1981, and it has continually advanced since then. The AT-X is Tokina's highest grade lens. It refers to the company's top design and top technologies. Tokina's goal with AT-X is "advanced features, high performance, lightweight and compact designs." The current top level Tokina lens is the AT-X Pro line, which includes six different lenses: an 11-16, a 12-24, a 16-50, a 50-135, and a 35mm and 100mm macro. All of the AT-X Pro lenses except the 12-24 are fast f2.8 aperture lenses.

Location

Tokina is still headquartered in Japan. The company partnered with Pentax in 2006, and has released a variety of lenses for Pentax digital single-lens reflex cameras (SLRs). Some of these lenses have the same focal lengths as Pentax lenses with slightly differing technology. These lenses also are made with mounts for Nikon and Canon. For instance, the 16-50 requires manual focus when used on a Nikon D40 or D60, while it has screwdrive autofocus on Pentax cameras. Several of the current AT-X Pro lenses, including the 16-50 and 50-135, are re-branded by Pentax as Pentax lenses.

Technology

Tokina uses a lot of popular technology in its lenses. The lenses are multicoated to reduce reflections, and use super low-dispersion glass to reduce or eliminate chromatic aberration (rainbow effect). Other technologies include an internal focusing mechanism and focus clutch mechanism to switch between auto and manual focus.

Tags: zoom lenses, 16-50 50-135, AT-X lenses, AT-X Tokina, manual focus, manufacturer lenses, Nikon engineers

Canon Camcorder Instructions

Before digital video camcorders recorded video to memory cards, hand-held camcorders recorded video to Mini DV cassette tapes. Canon released several models of camcorders for consumer purchase, all of which have similar operating instructions. The camcorders have many of the same features as digital video camcorders, and are easy to set up and use.

Battery and Cassette Setup

Prior to using a Canon camcorder, you need to attach the battery and insert a cassette. The battery is attached to the back of the camcorder under the viewfinder. To attach the battery, push the viewfinder up. Take the plastic terminal cover off of the battery and face the battery terminals toward the camera with the arrow facing down. Slide the battery into the battery holder until it clicks. Plug the battery pack into the "DC In" jack on the right side of the camera. Connect the other end of the power adapter into a working power outlet. You will see the charge indicator on the left of the battery pack blinking. Keep the power adapter plugged into the camera until the charge indicator light stops blinking. Unplug the power adapter when the charge is complete.

Canon camcorders record onto Mini DV cassette tapes inserted in the right side of the camcorder. To insert a cassette tape, press the "Open/Eject" switch to open the cassette compartment. Place the cassette in the compartment with the cassette window facing outward. Close the compartment by pressing on the area marked "Push" on the outside of the compartment door.

Recording

Canon camcorders have several settings that need to be adjusted properly before recording onto the cassette tape. First, remove the lens cap from the camera and turn the power switch to "Camera." Next, position the media recording switch to "Tape." Push the "Open" button next to the LCD screen to open the screen. Frame the subject of the shot with either the viewfinder or the LCD screen and press the "Start/Stop" button to begin recording. When you are finished recording, press the "Start/Stop" button again.

Playback

Canon camcorders allow you to play back your recordings. By reviewing your recordings you can see if the camera's settings are appropriate for the shot you are trying to take, or you can make a decision on rerecording a video if your first shots did not achieve the desired results. To play back your video, turn the power switch to "Play (VCR)." Open the LCD screen and press the "Rewind" button to rewind the tape. Press the "Play/Pause" button to start reviewing the video you shot. When you are finished reviewing your video, press the "Stop" button.

Tags: Canon camcorders, power adapter, Stop button, attach battery, back your, battery pack

Import Pictures Into A Computer From A Digital Card

A digital card reader will import your digital photos into your computer.

You have digital photos that you want to import to your computer from a digital card. The photos aren't of much use until you are able to transfer them onto your computer for editing, printing or emailing. Your photos will be imported onto your computer with just a few clicks and you'll be free to share your memories with friends and family.

Instructions

1. Attach the digital card reader to your computer via the USB cable on your reader. Your computer will open a tool that will allow you to import your photos.

2. Insert your digital card into the slot in the digital card reader. Your computer will begin the process of importing your photos onto your computer.

3. Click your Start menu and choose the "Computer" option. A pop-up window will appear.

4. Choose the card reader under "Devices with Removable Storage." The photo files will appear.

5. Open the photos file folder in the computer menu.

6. Right-click the photos you want to import into your computer. Press the "Ctrl" key while clicking photos to import several photos at the same time.

7. Drag your photos to the photos file. Your photos are now available on your computer.

Tags: card reader, digital card, your computer, your computer, digital card reader

Troubleshoot A Nikon Sb600 Speedlight

Troubleshoot a Nikon SB-600 Speedlight

The Nikon SB-600 Speedlight is the mid-range flash in the Nikon line. It offers wireless command modes with a slightly reduced range, compared to the flagship SB-900. For many photographers, the SB-600 is all the flash they need, while professionals sometimes use it as a second flash, or operate multiple ones in series for studio lighting. If something goes wrong with the SB-600 Speedlight, troubleshooting is a good idea to avoid sending it off to Nikon for repairs.

Instructions

1. Replace the batteries with fresh batteries if the flash seems to be powering down quickly; or the ready-light does not come on; or if the flash won't power on at all.

2. Reset your camera's shooting mode or aperture/shutter settings if the TTL indicator won't appear on the flash when it is set to the TTL mode.

3. Remove the flash and reattach it if the ready light blinks when you depress the shutter, or if two dashes appear in the zoom head indicator. This often means the flash is not correctly attached.

4. Reset the exposure settings if the ready-light blinks three times after taking a picture, or if you hear three beeps after taking a picture when using the flash in wireless mode. The image is likely under-exposed and you may need to recompose the shot by adjusting exposure settings or changing the position of the camera relative to the subject.

Tags: SB-600 Speedlight, after taking, after taking picture, exposure settings, Nikon SB-600

Homemade Thermal Imaging Cameras

Thermal images contrast the heat absorbed by the trees with the cool of the air.

High-end thermal cameras can cost thousands of dollars. Part of the additional cost is the internal computer that calculates the various degrees of heat and puts that information into a colored code. But all they do is take pictures of everyday objects using the infrared portion of the spectrum. It isn't difficult or expensive to make your own thermal camera. While it won't represent the world in crazy colors, it will take pictures in very low light and show the heat emanating from objects in your environment.

Instructions

1. Unscrew the digital camera. Open the camera to expose the inner workings. Carefully lay both sides flat on the work surface.

2. Find the lens assembly. It is located under the lens opening in the case. So when you open the case it will be opposite the lens opening.

3. Gently pry the lens assembly from its spot. Use a screw driver or the rounded edge of a butter knife.

4. Find the CCD chip. CCD, short for Charge Coupled Device, is responsible for moving a charge to a device that can use it. In the case of the camera, the CCD converts the light energy into a digital value. Sitting on top of the CCD, is a red piece of plastic. Gently remove this plastic piece without damaging the chip.

5. Cut two pieces of the opaque plastic the same size as the red piece. Be careful to handle these by their edges so that your pictures won't have fingerprints.

6. Glue these pieces to the top of the CCD chip.

7. Replace the lens assembly and close the camera.

8. Test your new thermal imaging camera.

Tags: lens assembly, lens opening, take pictures, your thermal

What Is A Mini Dvd Camcorder

While shopping for a camcorder you may come across the issue of choosing a format. Among the most popular formats you will find hard drive, Mini DV, flash memory, SD cards, DVD and Mini-DVD. Mini-DVD camcorders are popular because of their size, features and benefits, but the Mini-DVD camcorder also has a few disadvantages as well.

Features

A Mini-DVD camcorder is a video recording device that utilizes mini-DVD discs in order to capture the video. Users can either use a standard DVD-R disc that can be recorded once, or a DVD-RW disc that can be reused multiple times. Recording is always in sequential order, so you cannot record different sections to different parts of the Mini-DVD.

Size

The Mini-DVD is also known as an 8-cm DVD. This is a little more than half the size of a standard DVD that measures 12 cm. Mini-DVD discs play in most DVD players and computers except for players that feed the disc in instead of being placed on a loading tray.

Considerations

A standard Mini-DVD disc can only hold around 30 minutes of recording footage. This means you need to carry a lot of blank DVDs in order to record more footage, while a standard camcorder tape could hold triple the amount of footage. With the development of Blu-Ray DVD discs, Mini-DVD camcorders could quickly become replaced with a high-definition Blu-Ray model that can hold more video footage.

Export

Mini-DVD camcorders make watching the footage simple. Once you have recorded all of the material you want, you just need to finalize the disc in order to make it playable in a DVD player. Most Mini-DVD camcorders do not come with computer connections, but the disc can be placed in a computer drive in order to retrieve editable material.

Types

Sony is one of the leading manufactures of Mini-DVD camcorders. The Sony DCR-DVD810 allows users to record on DVD as well as on an internal hard drive. The DCR-DVD650 is the next model down and does not feature a hard drive, but it can record media on a Memory Stick as well as a DVD disc. Other popular Mini-DVD camcorder companies are Samsung, Panasonic and Canon.

Tags: Mini-DVD camcorders, hard drive, Mini-DVD camcorder, disc that

Buy A Sony Digital Camera

Sony Cybershot and alpha DSLR digital cameras boast features such as High Definition photos, face detection, SteadyShot technology to eliminate blurriness and in-camera retouching. With models varying in price and features, you are sure to find a camera perfect for your needs.

Instructions

1. Find an electronics store or website to compare Sony digital cameras. Browse Sony's official website, www.sonystyle.com, and search for stores such as Best Buy and Target which also have websites with product information and comparison grids.

2. Consider the style of digital camera you wish to buy: ultra compact, point and shoot, fully featured or DSLR. Keep in mind that each camera is made for a different reason. DSLRs-such as the alpha-are higher quality and performance but also higher priced; ultra compact cameras-such as the DSC-T100-fit easily in a purse or pocket; point and shoot models-such as the DSC-W200-are average sized and priced; and fully featured cameras-such as the DSC-H-9-offer many of the features of an SLR without the bulkiness of interchangeable lenses and flashes.

3. Compare internal memory within the style and size you want. The DSC-T-100 and T-20 ultra compact models have 31mb of internal flash memory; the DSC-W35 and W55 point and shoot models have 56mb; and the H-9 fully featured model has 31mb. All Sony digital cameras support external memory sticks to add almost unlimited storage ability.

4. Check and try out the resolution and optical zoom of the camera before you purchase it. For a digital camera, look for at least 5 megapixels-most Sony digital cameras are equipped with 7.2 mp or higher-if you plan to print photos to 11 by 14 or larger. Look for an optical zoom of at least 3x-most Sony cameras have this. The alpha and DSC-N2 are equipped with a 10.1 megapixel resolution.

5. Decide whether you want an upgradeable camera. If you buy an alpha DSLR camera, you can easily buy better lenses, flashes and other equipment to continue to make your photography more professional-looking. If you aren't sure, go with a moderately priced fully featured DSC-H7 or H9 models or lower priced ultra compact and point and shoot models.

6. Know what else you might want to focus on, such as LCD size, anti-shake, semi-automatic modes, rechargeable batteries, built-in or add-on flash. Most digital models have a 2.5 inch LCD screen, with the DSC-G1 point and shoot model having an impressive 3.5 inch LCD. Many Sony cameras are also equipped with slots for USB, HD and AV cables.

7. Stick to your budget. Be sure to think about extra expenses such as a camera bag, lenses, filters, batteries, digital image software, memory cards and extended warranties.

Tags: point shoot, digital cameras, fully featured, ultra compact, equipped with

Fix A Red Screen On A 1996 Rca Tv

Picture distortion and discoloration are among the most common issues experienced by home television viewers. The issue can sometimes be difficult to troubleshoot as it can be caused by many different things, including a loose coaxial connection inside or outside the home, malfunctioning digital cable equipment, broadcast problems with an individual station or stations, broken audio/video connection cables or some combination thereof. You can contact your cable provider's tech support line to resolve problems like this, but it is useful to learn the same troubleshooting techniques that they would have you do and perform them on your own.

Instructions

1. Reset your cable equipment by unplugging the power cord of your digital cable box or DVR for 30 seconds and plugging it back in. Allow the cable box enough time to reboot and check the picture for any improvements.

2. Unplug the audio/video connection cables that attach your cable equipment to your TV and check them for any dirt or damage. This step is particularly important if you use component cables, as they divide the picture into red, green and blue, represented by cables of the same color. Therefore if the red picture cable is malfunctioning or not plugged in correctly, the chances are good that you will see a noticeably red picture. After plugging all cables back in, check the picture again for any improvement.

3. Scan through multiple TV functions to help determine the scope of the problem. If the red discoloration appears on the guide as well as the main programming, the audio/video connection cables or the cable box are likely at fault and will need to be serviced or replaced. If the guide is colored normal but the programming itself is discolored, the problem is much more likely with the channel broadcast itself and you would need to report the issue to your cable provider. If all of the video inputs on the TV have the same discoloration, the picture components on the TV will most likely need to be serviced.

Tags: your cable, audio video, audio video connection, cable equipment, connection cables, video connection, video connection cables

Build A Camera Tripod

A homemade tripod can be just as effective as a professional model

Tripods help keep a camera steady and properly positioned while taking pictures. Most professional tripods can be expensive and difficult to carry around due to their size and weight. It is possible to build your own tripod for much less money that will be much easier to transport. A small butt compact and lightweight tripod can be constructed out of stiff wires such as coat hangers, giving you something you can easily place on any surface to aim and position your camera.

Instructions

1. Wrap 10 layers of electrical tape around each of the stiff wires, leaving two inches uncovered at one end of each wire.

2. Bend the uncovered ends of the wires into U-shaped hooks using pliers.

3. Wrap the electrical tape tightly around the top end of a bolt just below the bolt head, making sure the threaded end of the bolt remains uncovered. Do not cut the tape away from the roll yet.

4. Place one of the wires at the end of the bolt so the wire's "hook" touches the bolt tape but the hook is not touching the bolt head. Wrap the tape tightly around the bolt and the wire hook; thee layers around should be enough.

5. Repeat the above step for the other two wires, making sure the ends of all three wires form a triangle around the bolt.

6. Add 10 to 20 more layers of the electrical tape around the point where the three wires meet, making sure the tape is wound extremely tight, and then cut off the tape from the roll with the scissors.

7. Position the tripod on the ends of the wires with the bolt end pointing up. Bend the "legs" at the point where they meet at the bolt to to position the tripod and adjust the height. The tripod should have a maximum height of about nine inches when bent.

Tags: around bolt, electrical tape, making sure, bolt head, bolt wire, bolt wire hook

High Humidity & Asthma

Does high humidity affect asthma?

Rick Frea, registered respiratory therapist, cites the Asthma Educator's Handbook when he writes that high humidity by itself cannot trigger an asthma attack. However, high levels of humidity do make air harder to breathe and are related to other problems that can cause asthma attacks.

Scientific Findings

According to Health Guidance, negative ions exist in the air that aid in the process of breathing. However, as the levels of humidity increase, the level of negative ions decrease. Furthermore, if asthma patients choose to purchase a humidifier to soothe their symptoms, they should look for ones that do not generate negative ions, because they attach to the water molecules from the machine and create positive ions that stifle breathing.

Changes in the Environment

Higher levels of humidity cause higher levels of asthma-inducing agents. For example, when humidity levels go above 50%, the number of dust mites in the air increases. Furthermore, the American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology found that high levels of humidity also tend to promote the growth of fungus and molds. Asthmatics' symptoms are bothered and heightened by the presence of these two agents.

Oxygen Levels

In addition to pollutants in the air, Dr. Andrej Petrov, assistant professor of medicine in the Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care Medicine at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, says that heat increases the body's need for energy due to elevated metabolism and body temperature. Since the body needs more oxygen for energy, people who already have respiratory problems are more likely to experience labored breathing. Furthermore, the presence of humidity makes it harder for peoples' body temperatures to lower, again increasing the need for more oxygen.

Solutions

Air conditioners relieve some symptoms.

In past decades, doctors would often recommend that asthma patients move to dryer climates. However, nowadays, such dramatic changes are not necessary. Air-conditioning is an effective solution, as the American Lung Association notes that air conditioning keeps outdoor humidity at bay because the doors and windows are closed. Furthermore, irritants like pollen and mold spores stay outside. Another option is to purchase a dehumidifier.

Cautions

Making the air too dry is dangerous for asthmatics as well. Frea also notes that The American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology reports that humidity levels under 15% can dry out the system and cause severe coughing in asthma sufferers. In addition to coughing, dry mucous membranes also cause people to become more likely to catch a cold or flu, other conditions which aggravate asthma symptoms.

Tags: levels humidity, negative ions, Academy Allergy, Academy Allergy Asthma, Allergy Asthma, Allergy Asthma Immunology, American Academy

Buy A Satellite Dvr

Your option to buy a satellite digital video recorder (DVR) over leasing one will depend on your satellite provider. Some companies require the purchase of both a DVR and an HD box, while others provide a lease option. Take control of when you watch your favorite television programs with the latest technology in satellite digital video recorders.

Instructions

1. Choose a satellite digital video recorder (DVR) to match your lifestyle. If you watch a lot of television, and two of your favorite programs are on at the same time, you need a DVR with the option for recording two programs at the same time while watching a third program that has already been recorded. The ability to skip through the commercials on a recorded program cuts the viewing time down considerably which allows you to watch more programs than when viewed in real time.

2. Pick a satellite cable provider that supports your chosen DVR machine and provides you with a compatible cable receiver. Make sure you will not be charged a fee to use a third-party device.

3. Consider the need for standard definition versus high definition DVR. Satellite DVRs are available for both levels of definition, and your choice will be determined by your television and programming from your satellite provider.

4. Use a set-top DVR to act as a receiver and to provide digital recording of your favorite programs. You can control live television by pausing or replaying any portion of the show.

5. Buy a satellite DVR for the advantage of the Electronic Programming Guide (EPG) to schedule special events. For live programs such as sporting events, always set the program following the event to record in case the game runs into overtime. The EPG only sets the record for the programmed allotted time.

6. Buy optional components, such as a wireless adapter, for your DVR. Some DVR machines require either a phone line connection or a wireless adapter to download program guide updates. Using a wireless adapter over your home network will save phone time and the clutter of unnecessary cables.

Tags: digital video, satellite digital, satellite digital video, wireless adapter, your favorite, digital video recorder

Buy A Professional Digital Camera

There are so many professional-quality digital cameras on the market that choosing between them can be daunting. But the only barrier between you and the beautiful photos that you want is a little bit of knowledge. Follow these steps to find your way around the camera shop so that you can select and buy just the right professional camera for your needs.

Instructions

1. Ask yourself why you need this camera; if you truly want to become a professional photographer by trade, then remember that overhead costs are important in terms of running a business. Professional photographers take pictures in order to make money. If you shell out many thousands of dollars purchasing more camera than you really need, then it will take you longer to become profitable. So plan to buy the lowest-priced camera that still meets your needs.

2. Look for durability. A professional camera should not have plastic parts in places that are likely to wear quickly. For instance, plastic filter threads and lens mounts are not acceptable for professional use.

3. Find a camera that provides you instant access to all basic adjustments like exposure mode, shutter speed, aperture, ISO, white balance and quality settings. "Instant access" means that you can alter each of these functions with the touch of a single button. If you have to go through the menu to change these functions, then the camera is not professional quality.

4. Scope out a camera with a native flash sync speed of at least 1/250. A speed of 1/500 or 1/1,000 is even better. If the sync speed is too slow, then you won't be able to get sufficient flash range.

5. Consider how easy it will be to incorporate future upgrades like additional lenses. This camera needs to be with you for the long haul and this means that it should be easy to add-on as the years go by.

Tags: camera that, means that, professional camera, sync speed, these functions, your needs

Buy A Portable Dvd Burner

You'd like to burn DVDs on the road and you're considering the purchase of a portable DVD burner. DVD burners have come a long way in the last few years and you can now burn your video clips for that big presentation onto DVD quickly and easily. Here are the things to keep in mind when buying a portable DVD burner so you can create that presentation on the run.

Instructions

1. Determine your portable DVD burning needs. If you're going to be using your laptop to make presentations, then it's going to be easier to burn DVDs with an internal or even an external portable DVD burner that works directly with your laptop.

2. Set a budget for your new portable DVD burner. Expect an external DVD burner for your laptop to range in price anywhere from 50 to 200 dollars and expect a portable DVD burner and player, which will most likely include a notebook or laptop computer, to start at around 1,200 dollars.

3. Look for a good name brand with a high consumer rating. Try shopping sites such as epinions.com to see which brands have the highest ratings. Sony's DRX-S50U Burner is fairly well rated and has a brand name you can trust.

4. Check compatibility with your system. Most of the external DVD burners have a USB connector so they're compatible with most systems that have a USB port. Keep in mind that if you're getting an integral DVD burner for your laptop, you need to get one that will plug into one of your drive ports. Check with the manufacturer for the specifics of what DVD burner will work with your system.

5. Shop around. Try searching for portable DVD burners on sites like eBay, Amazon and Shopbot to get the best price.

Tags: portable burner, your laptop, with your, burn DVDs, burner your, burner your laptop

Record Streaming Video

Video capturing software allows you to record streaming video.

You can use a third-party software tool to record streaming video from the Internet. Look for shareware and freeware that's capable of recording all kinds of streaming video. For example, if you want to record a video from YouTube, use free video capturing software tools like Freerecorder 5, Debut Video and CamStudio. You'll be able to save your recorded video in various file formats and play it on a smartphone, MP3 player or tablet PC.

Instructions

1. Download and install a video capturing software tool from the Internet. Free video capturing tools are available at: Applian.com, Nchsoftware.com and Camstudio.org that you can use to record a streaming video on your computer. Double-click on the executable icon and follow the installation wizard instructions. Double-click on the video capturing software tool to launch the program.

2. Go to a streaming video website that you want to use to record a video file. For example, if you want to record a video file from YouTube or a similar website, use the search field on the Web page to locate the video file that you want to record. Type in a keyword or a video file name and then press the "Search" button. When the Web page loads on your browser, click the "Pause" button if the video automatically starts playing.

3. Return to the video capturing software tool and look for the "Open Recording Wizard" on the interface window. Click on the option "Record Something Right Now" from the menu. Select the option "Capture a Video Clip or Audio Archive from the Internet." Keep in mind that various types of video capturing tools have varying instructions.

4. Go back to the streaming video website and press the "Play" button to playback the video. In a few moments the URL address for the streaming video will appear in the video capturing software tool's interface window. Move your mouse cursor over the URL address and left-click on it to highlight the address. Click the "Add Selection As New Recording" button. Click the "Done" button.

5. Select a video option from the "After Recording, Convert To:" menu list. For example, if you want to convert the video file format, so that you can play it on your iPod, choose "Video-iPod" from the menu list. Press the "Output" tab. Click on the check box that's located next to the option, "Add To iTunes Library" and then press the "OK" button. Wait until the video capturing software tool finishes converting and importing the video file on your computer.

Tags: capturing software, software tool, video capturing, video capturing software, video file

Highfidelity Turntables

Whether it's a DJ spinning in a nightclub, a baby boomer attempting to recapture a little of his youth, or a youngster trying to discover what the fuss about records was all about, turntables have refused to go away. There's an undeniable quaintness about their appearance; something almost stately about their operation; and of course, the fact that they sound bloody good, that suggests that regardless of any new and ultra-convenient format that may come along, turntables will be alive and kicking for the foreseeable future.

History

In the 1940s vinyl began to be used to manufacture records, and in the post-World War II boom, the long-popular 78 rpm records gave way to long player albums (LPs) and 45 rpm singles. By the time the 1960s arrived, portable record players were all the rage, as were large all-in-one consoles, but it wasn't until the 1970s that hi-fi turntables made their appearance, as separate components became popular.

Turntables remained a fixture in home audio systems even after the introduction of cassette tape decks and even CDs, due primarily to the fact that the price of CDs and the CD players that played them remained higher in price for several years after their introduction. When these prices fell during the early '90s, turntables and the reign of the vinyl record suffered a rapid decline. After the turn of the century, turntables were such a niche product that very few new receivers were built with the phono input necessary for a turntable to be used.

Features

Turntable drive systems, whether belt or direct drive, turn a steel platter that is usually topped with a rubber mat to give traction to the record being played. Often the platter will have strobe markings around its edge to give a visual representation of the speed. The stroboscopic effect helps determine if the rotational speed is correct. If not, adjustments may be made via a manual pitch control.

The balanced and pivoting tone arm holds either a moving magnet or moving coil magnetic cartridge that houses the stylus. Usually diamond-tipped, the stylus tracks the record's grooves, causing a fluctuating magnetic field, which causes an electric current to be induced. The current, which follows the waveform cut into the grooves of the record, is transmitted to the system's amplifier and is then broadcast as sound through the speaker system.

Cost

Prices for audiophile-quality turntables vary greatly. Lower-end models can be had for around $200, with the most expensive models running as high as $100,000 (see linked article below in Resources). It should be pointed out that even at the low end of this scale, turntables can deliver excellent high-fidelity results. The general consensus appears to be that the results from ultra expensive turntables is not really directly proportionate to the increase in price. In other words, a turntable retailing for $1,500 is not necessarily twice as good as a $750 model, although there are no doubt a number of discerning hi-fi enthusiasts who wouldn't blink at spending twice that amount just for a tone arm alone, who would beg to differ.

Comparison

For the iPod generation with its programmable playlists that can run unattended for hours on end, it's difficult to fathom, but playing records on a turntable can be quite demanding of your attention. Playing a 45 rpm single means getting up to change the record after each play, and with singles generally running for two, three or four minutes, playing a selection of your favorites can be more akin to an exercise routine than a listening experience. Even if you're playing an album, it means getting up to turn over the record after five or six songs in order to listen to the other side.

It should be pointed out, however, that although MP3 players offer the capability of storing a vast number of songs that can be played continuously if desired, these songs are stored digitally in a compressed form. What this means is that the digital information that makes up the sound is compressed, and the resulting sound quality is somewhat compromised. This would seem to give a little weight to the opinion held by many record-loving audiophiles; namely that analog recordings pressed on vinyl are ultimately superior, and more pleasing to the ear than their digital counterparts on CD and hard disk.

Developments

Although commercially their heyday has undoubtedly passed, turntables continue to hold their own as a niche product. In fact, after an initial rapid decline in their numbers after the digital revolution of CDs and hard disk players, there has been an upswing in their popularity.

According to Nielsen Soundscan, 1.8 million vinyl records were sold in the U.S. in 2008, which is a significant increase from the reported 900,000 in the previous year. Certainly the baby boomer nostalgia angle is difficult to ignore, but there has also been significant interest in a growing segment of a younger demographic. Many young bands have begun to release limited-edition vinyl pressings along with CDs, and a new generation of listeners disenchanted with the digital listening experience have sought out turntables in order to sample the analog experience themselves.

A particularly interesting development is the marriage of old and new technology in the form of USB turntables. These turntables have all the trappings of the traditional turntable, but come with software and USB connectivity to enable an easy transfer of vinyl record collections to a computer's hard disk. This offers both a way to preserve collections of music and flexibility in the way that it's played back.

Tags: hard disk, that played, about their, baby boomer, fact that, listening experience

What Does "Mm" Mean In Accounting

"

MM" is the Roman numeral representation of one million.

Roman numerals are letters of the Latin alphabet used to represent numbers. The Roman numeral system has been used since classical antiquity and is still widely used in the early 21st century. Some examples of the usage of Roman numerals are: for naming generations in families, the scale degree in music theory, sections in legal and technical documents, the production year of films, television shows and literature, and as a monetary suffix in accounting.

Meaning

In accounting, the abbreviation "MM" is actually the Roman numeral representation of one million. "M" represents one thousand. Thus, "MM" means one thousand thousands, or one million, writes Math Forum.

Use

"MM" is placed after a number to designate that figure as being in the millions. Zeros representing millions are omitted from the number. For example, $100,000,000 is depicted as $100MM.

Confusion

The suffix "MM" often causes a lot of confusion. The lowercase "mm" represents millimeters, a measurement of length. In common use, a single "M" is often used to represent one million---not one thousand. Rather, this is an informal abbreviation that means "mega." In this case, "K," meaning "kilo," is used to represent one thousand.

Tags: Roman numeral, used represent, numeral representation, numeral representation million, representation million, Roman numeral representation

Buy A Phone And Answering Machine Combo Unit

Many people use their cell phone and voice mail as their main means of telephone communication. For those folks who choose not to use a cell phone and prefer to use a land telephone line along with a physical answering machine, here are a few tips on buy a phone and answering machine combo unit.

Instructions

1. Decide if you will need remote access. A feature that is common for cell phones but not common for all phone and answering machine combo units is remote access. If you are away from your home phone and would like to access your messages, you will need to purchase a unit that has remote access capability.

2. Figure out the style you need. Your choices include wall mounted or desktop phones. Some phones can easily convert from one style to another.

3. Know if you need lots of bells and whistles. Depending on how much you are willing to spend, you can get a variety of options on your phone and answering machine combo unit. Some come with speakerphone options, while others have four-way conferencing ability.

4. Recognize your physical needs. If you have difficulty reading small numbers and letters, look for a phone and answering machine unit with large numbers and letters. Ensure that both the keypad and answering machine indicator use large digits.

5. Match your phone with your decor.

Tags: answering machine, answering machine combo, phone answering machine, remote access, cell phone, machine combo, numbers letters

Turn The Flash On For A Fuji Camera

Fuji digital cameras are designed with many adjustable settings that give photographers more control over how their photographs are shot. One of the settings you can adjust is the flash. By default the flash is set to automatically detect whether the subject is lit well enough for a good photograph. The flash fires if there is not enough light and remains off if the lighting is sufficient. You can change the flash settings so that the camera flash always goes off, ensuring enough light for all of your photographs.

Instructions

Cameras with Control Buttons

1. Press the right navigation button, which has a symbol of a lightning bolt on it, to access the flash options on the LCD screen. Your current flash setting is highlighted.

2. Push the right or left navigation buttons until the single lightning bolt symbol on the LCD screen is highlighted. The words "Forced Flash" will appear on the screen.

3. Press the "Menu/OK" button, which is located in the middle of the navigation buttons, to save the setting.

Cameras with Touch-screen Operation

4. Locate the flash mode button on the left side of the screen. The button is the second from the top and displays the currently selected flash option.

5. Touch the flash mode button to access the list of flash mode options. The options will display in a horizontal bar across the screen.

6. Tap the icon with the single lightning bolt to turn on the forced flash option. The screen will return to normal and you will see the forced flash icon in place of the previous flash mode icon on the left side of the screen.

Tags: flash mode, lightning bolt, button which, Cameras with, enough light, flash mode button

Construct A Charger For Liion Phone Batteries

The Lithium-Ion battery in your cellular phone is a sensitive piece of equipment that requires a charger to use. You can purchase these chargers at any cellular store. But like any other electronic device, they can break or fail over time. If you are interested in a home project, you can build a new charger rather than buy one.

Instructions

1. Strip an inch of the wire covering off of the USB adapter to expose the red and black wires.

2. Solder the red and black wires to the first and second pins on the 5-volt integrated regulator.

3. Take your alligator clips and strip the end off of the cable, leaving the clip end intact.

4. Solder the clip wires to the last pin on the regulator.

5. Connect the red alligator clip to the positive terminal on your battery and the black clip to the negative terminal on the battery. Any standard battery, such as a AA or 9- volt battery will charge the phone.

6. Connect one end of the USB cable to the USB adapter and the other end to the port on your phone. Make sure the USB cable you purchase from your retailer is compatible with your phone.

Tags: black wires, your phone

Download Music From Your Computer To The Iriver Ifp 700 Series Audio Player/Recorder/Fm Tuner

The iRiver's flagship iFP 700 series contains many of the innovations developed by the renowned research and development team at iRiver. Combining the height of product technology with a focus on ease of use for the consumer, the iRiver brand has developed a strong following of loyal customers in recent years, and with ground breaking models like the iFP 700 series, it's easy to see why. From the most complex functionality down through the basics, like downloading music from your computer, the iRiver has everything that appeals to a consumer.

Instructions

1. Buy music online and download. Alternatively, download music with a free copyright and distribution license directly to your hard disk.

2. Convert from .wav or other formats to mp3 to ensure greatest memory efficiency on your iRiver iFP 700 where necessary.

3. Connect your iRiver to your computer with a USB cable.

4. Select the appropriate files from your computer and download to the iRiver model.

5. Sort music into folders on your iRiver to allow easy access to the files you have downloaded.

Tags: your computer, your iRiver, from your, from your computer

Buy A Portable Cassette Player

The suggestions here best apply to portable cassette players to be used for listening to music, rather than for taping.

Instructions

1. Expect to spend between $10 and $100.

2. Decide which sound-improvement features you want, such as Dolby noise reduction, metal tape capability (Type II/IV switch), and anti-rolling mechanism for consistent tape speed.

3. Decide which performance features you want, such as built-in AM/FM tuner, LCD display, recording capability, and bass-boost switch.

4. Decide which convenience features you want, such as auto-reverse playback, automatic shut-off, remote control, longer battery life, battery-life indicator, light weight with batteries, and water-resistance ("sports" models in harder cases).

5. Decide which accessories you want, such as AC adapter, headphones, carrying case, standard or rechargeable batteries, and belt clip.

6. Understand that extra hardware and extra features add to the price.

7. Consider a "designer look" unit if buying for a child or young adult.

8. Buy a model made by a major Japanese manufacturer for best reliability.

Tags: Decide which, want such, features want, features want such

Find Spy Cameras

Spy cameras are used by corporations and individuals to invade our privacy every day. We don't see them because they are so small, and they're hard to find even if you know that one is there. The best solution is to use a spy finder device that has been made specifically to detect spy cameras by causing the spy camera's lens to betray itself. The spy finder device does not require any special skills on the part of the user but it does require patience to be used properly.

Instructions

1. Hold the spy finder device up to your eye and look through the viewing port. Press and hold the button down to light up the LEDs.

2. Slowly scan one wall of the room from left to right while looking through the viewing port of the spy finder device. Continue until you have scanned the entire wall.

Scan the other walls in a similar fashion.

3. Slowly scan the floor of the room from left to right until you have scanned the entire floor.

Slowly scan the ceiling of the room from left to right until you have scanned the entire ceiling.

4. Stop scanning when you see a reflection of light from the area that is being scanned. Release the button on the spy finder device to turn off the LEDs.

Slightly shift your position relative to where the reflection was seen. Aim the spy finder device at the area where the reflection was seen and depress the button to light up the LEDs.

5. Move the spy finder device slowly back and forth until the reflection is seen again. Move in closer until you come to the point on the wall or surface from where the reflection is coming.

6. Remove the spy finder device from your eye and release the button. Examine the point of the wall or surface where the reflection is.

Jab a hole in the wall or surface with a Philips screwdriver to reveal the spy camera.

Tags: finder device, where reflection, from left, from left right, have scanned

How Watch 8mm Tapes On Tv

RCA AV cable with plug connectors.

Camcorders using 8 mm analog video cassettes were first introduced in the 1980's as a compact alternative to the larger, heavier VHS camcorders. The 8 mm tape is housed in a case approximately the same size as an audio cassette, although mechanically it resembles a smaller version of a VHS cassette. Any 8 mm camcorder can be connected with RCA-type composite cables to a TV with matching composite jacks for playback of the tapes. The set up takes less than five minutes.

Instructions

1. Connect the plugs on one end of the RCA cable to the jacks on the side of the camcorder, matching the plug colors to the jacks. If you have only one audio jack, the camcorder is a mono model, so use only the red plug to connect.

2. Hook up the plugs on the other end of your cable to the inputs on the TV.

3. Connect the DC power cable to the jack on the camcorder or attach its battery pack.

4. Press the "Eject" button, which is typically on the top edge on the camcorder. Slide the 8 mm video cassette into the compartment and push the cover closed.

5. Slide the mode switch on the camcorder to the "Playback" position and push the rewind and fast-forward buttons to cue the tape to the desired location. Press "Play" to watch the 8 mm tape.

Tags: jack camcorder