The DIRECTV access card is a key part in viewing programming on your DIRECTV system. The access card is full of stored information, including your account information and the programming that you receive. Sometimes the DIRECTV access card can cause technical problems and require reprogramming. Here is reprogram a DIRECTV access card.
Instructions
Self-Reprogramming
1. Turn off the DIRECTV receiver and open the access card panel by pulling down on the opening notch. The access card panel is usually in the lower right corner, depending on the receiver model
2. Remove the DIRECTV card by pulling it out of its slot toward you. The access card should come out easily. Do not force it out or you might damage or break the card.
3. Once the card is removed, unplug the receiver and leave unplugged for at least 30 seconds. Reinsert the access card, plug the receiver back into the electrical outlet and turn the unit back on.
4. The receiver will go through the installation process and acquire satellite signal. Allow the unit to complete the process and fully acquire the signal. Once completed verify the receiver is properly working and all channels can be viewed. The reprogramming process is complete.
5. Some models have a red reset button near the access card slot. In lieu of the above process, the DIRECTV card can be reprogrammed by holding the button in for 15 seconds with the card in its slot.
Reprogramming With Technical Support
6. Sometimes the reprogramming process does not fully work and the access card needs to communicate with DIRECTV to be correctly reprogrammed. To begin this process contact DIRECTV's technical support at (800) 494-4388.
7. Ask to speak to a technical support representative and ask him or her to remotely reprogram your DIRECTV access card.
8. Once the service representative completes the process, verify that the receiver is working correctly and that channels can be viewed. If so, the reprogramming has been successful.
The Sigma SA-7 35mm SLR camera was designed with both manual and automatic focus functionality. When you attach a lens with automatic focus capabilities, you can switch from the standard manual focus to allow the camera to focus on the subject of the photograph. This feature is especially useful for photographers new to 35mm SLR cameras, especially if their previous experience taking photographs is with point-and-click digital cameras.
Instructions
1. Line up the red dot on a lens with automatic focus with the red dot on the Sigma SA-7 lens mount and insert the lens. Twist the lens to the right until it clicks into place. The camera's automatic focus function is only compatible with automatic focus lenses.
2. Move the focus switch on the lens from "M" to "AF."
3. Press the "AF" button on the top of the Sigma SA-7 and turn the "C" dial, which is located around the shutter button, to choose "S" for single AF mode or "C" for continuous AF mode. In single AF mode, the subject of the photograph must be in focus in order to take the shot. Continuous AF mode does not require a focused subject, which is useful for motion shots.
4. Frame the subject of the photograph using the viewfinder and press the shutter button halfway. The automatic focus lens will focus on the subject. In single AF mode, release the shutter button and press it halfway again if the camera does not focus on the subject, as indicated by a blinking focus indicator in the viewfinder. The focus indicator will stop blinking when the subject is in focus.
5. Press the shutter button fully to take the picture.
Constructing your own frame for your projection screen enables you to define the dimensions of the screen and, in essence, to create a home movie theater. Make the projected image as large or as small as you wish. The wooden frame that supports the screen is commonly dressed in black felt. Otherwise, the frame could cause reflection and distort the projected image.The project requires minimum time and resources, and is cost-efficient.
Instructions
1. Measure the dimensions of the projection screen using the tape measure.
2. Take the one-by-four lumber and lay it on a flat surface. Mark the dimensions of the two longer sides of the frame on the lumber. Use a handsaw to cut the two frame sides. Mark the length of the shorter sides on the lumber and cut two pieces of the same length.
3. Use a pencil and a protractor to mark 45-degree angles on each corner of the longer and shorter frame sides.
4. Lay the frame sides on a flat surface and cut along the line that marks the 45-degree angle, using a handsaw. Cut to form this angle on every corner of each frame side.
5. Spread black felt over a flat surface and place a short and a long frame side on it. Cut out two pieces of the material, slightly larger than the longer frame piece. Cut out two pieces of the same material that are slightly larger than the shorter frame side.
6. Spread the material that was cut to fit the smaller frame piece. Put the small frame piece on top of it and fold the material over the edge of the frame piece and staple it with a staple gun. Fold the material over each side of the frame piece, securing it with staples. One side will remain uncovered; this will be the back of the frame.
7. Tailor the ends of the material to fit the 45-degree angle using scissors. Apply a few drops of glue on the angled edges of the frame piece and fold the material over the edge, pressing down on it with your hand. Wait for the adhesive to dry. Repeat steps 5 and 6 for the three remaining frame pieces, and tailor the edges.
8. Position the dressed frame pieces on the floor to form a frame. The longer pieces go on the sides, and the shorter ones on the top and on the bottom. Place the pieces so that their uncovered sides face up.
9. Take four L brackets and mount them on all four corners of the frame. The L brackets will hold the frame pieces together on each corner of the frame. Get someone to help you hold the sides firmly and under the right angle. Determine that the sides are leveled using a straight edge and use a screwdriver to fix the brackets to the corners.
10. Take the fabric for the projector screen and unroll it along the back side of the frame. Start from the upper frame and staple the material to the frame using a staple gun. Stretch the material tight and staple it onto the remaining three frame sides.
Kodak is known for producing cameras and photographic accessories, but their Secure Digital (SD) memory cards can also be used in computers, cell phones, or nearly anything with an SD card reader. The flexibility makes it a breeze to exchange pictures and data between your devices, but using it in multiple devices increases the chances of corruption or otherwise damaging the card. Fortunately, there are some simple ways to troubleshoot the card and get it working again.
Instructions
1. Eject the Kodak memory card from your camera or card reader and examine the metal connectors underneath. If you see significant damage, the card is likely beyond repair. If you see light debris, wipe it away with a lint-free soft cloth.
2. Consult the user manual of your digital camera or electronic device and check to see if it's Secure Digital High Capacity (SDHC) compatible. Memory cards 4 gigabytes and higher are SDHC cards that may be incompatible with older devices. If your device can't read SDHC cards, visit the support page for your device's manufacturer and download the latest drivers and/or firmware (or software). This often corrects SDHC incompatibility issues.
3. Click the Windows "Start" button with the Kodak memory card still inserted in your computer, then click "Computer." Double-click the memory card under "Devices With Removable Storage." Examine the extensions of the files that are saved to the card and check them against what your device is able to read. This information should be in the user manual. If the files are incompatible with your device, try to save them in a different format.
4. Format the Kodak memory card if you are still having issues with it. This will erase everything that you have stored to it, but it's necessary if the card is corrupted. If you're using a computer, click the Windows "Start" button and click "Computer." Right-click your memory card and choose "Format" from the drop-down menu. Select "FAT16" if your card is 2GB or lower or choose "FAT32" if it's 4GB or higher, then click "Start Format."
If you're using a digital camera or another electronic device, press the "Menu" button and look for the "Memory" option. If you don't see it, it may be listed under "Settings" or "Tools." Select "Format" and follow the on-screen instructions.
Creating a robot from scratch isn't as difficult as it may seem, but it will take a number of electronic components such as servos, a receiver and a battery. However, the designer can employ here creative latitude outside of these basic steps to add his own design flair.
Instructions
1. Locate an old RC (radio-controlled) car wheel base, or one of no personal value to you. Alternatively, find a set of wheels of suitable size from any device, and start directly from there.
2. Remove the unnecessary plastic parts/car frame from the car base, leaving primarily only the wheel base--unless you wish to leave some of these pieces for stylistic purposes on your eventual robot. Either way, remove and dispose of all unwanted pieces of the car.
3. Find a two or four degree remote control. This option is completely up to you, as the degrees purely correspond to the level of movement that can be achieved. Depending on how you want your robot to move and react, you may have a need for a four degree or higher remote.
4. Acquire a receiver for the remote and two servos, or motors. A nickel cadmium battery should also be on hand, or alternatively, nickel metal hydride. Then, wire the receiver. To perform this step, find the receiver prongs, which will be on the end of the receiver. Then, make snug and sturdy attachments to the battery and servos through these prongs.
5. Combine a piece of plastic to the wheel base with professional glue or screws, if possible. Attach a piece of velcro to this base, as well. Also, flip over the base and attach an additional piece of velcro.
6. Drill four small holes into the plastic, on and around the perimeter. Attach the servos to these holes using a screw and screwdriver. Ensure they are tight. Then, on the top of the base, attach the battery by utilizing your velcro piece. Flip over the base and stick the receiver to the velcro on the underside.
7. Take the receiver and wire the two servos and the battery to it. Hook the two servos separately to the receiver on one side. Then, hook the battery to the receiver on the opposite side of the servos.
8. Use a professional strength glue to add on any stylistic frame parts. Scout old toys to see if a suitable head for your tastes may be attached to the body of the wheel base, to give your robot personality. Allow ample time for the glue to dry.
9. Add weapons to give your robot a mean streak or to prepare it optionally for competition. The easiest such fix is any metal or wood battering ram construct.
10. Remove the danger of loose wires by using a twisty tie to tie up the wires and pack them snugly into the base, out of harm's way.
Tags: wheel base, your robot, base attach, four degree, give your, give your robot, over base
A video camcorder must shoot video in a steady manner for the viewer to properly see the recording. You can make an inexpensive video stabilizer that will help control unwanted motions as you use the camcorder. You will need a few items commonly found around the house and less than a half hour of your time. Your video stabilizer will fit in your pocket until needed and will help stabilize the camcorder against shaking and off-putting movements that can ruin the video.
Instructions
1. Pull a length of string off the roll that is about the same length as your height. Cut the string from the roll with scissors.
2. Slip one end of the string twice through the hole in the metal washer. Tie a knot in the end of the string to secure it to the metal washer.
3. Wrap the other end of the string around the head of the metal bolt. Apply a drop of bonding glue to the string where it meets the head of the metal bolt. Let the bonding glue set for an hour.
4. Apply a drop of bonding glue to the string where it touches the metal washer. Let the bonding glue set for an hour.
5. Screw the metal bolt into the tripod socket at the bottom of the camcorder.
6. Place the metal washer on the floor. Step on the metal washer with the heel of one shoe. Pull the camcorder up until the string is taut.
7. Turn on the camcorder. Shoot videos using your video camera stabilizer. Remove your shoe from the metal washer and unscrew the bolt from the camcorder when done shooting.
Tags: metal washer, bonding glue, metal bolt, Apply drop, Apply drop bonding
USB memory sticks, widely known as flash drives, pen drives, jump drives and USB drives, are small and compact devices used to transport files. Because of its size, a USB drive can be misplaced easily, lost or stolen, making sensitive files available to anyone who finds the device. Avoid a disaster by securing your USB memory stick with a level of security appropriate for your files. Your portable files can be as secure as those that reside on your hard drive.
Instructions
Secure USB Memory Sticks
1. A lanyard or key chain keeps a USB drive handy.
Keep your USB memory stick on a keychain or lanyard as a first line of defense. Unattached and unattended memory sticks can disappear easily.
2. Purchase a flash drive with a write-protect tab. The write-protect tab is a small lever on the side of the USB memory stick that can slide open or closed to keep files in a write-protect mode. This will protect your memory stick from picking up viruses in unknown computers and preventing accidental deletion of files.
3. Purchase a USB memory stick with encryption pre-installed for stronger protection. Stick with reputable manufacturers like ScanDisk Cruzer, Kingston, Lexar and Corsair. Should your files fall into the wrong hands, the files will be inaccessible.
4. Install and use encryption software for drives you already own. USB encryption software creates a folder on your computer, into which files can easily be dragged.The encrypted folder is then copied to the flash drive. The files will not be able to be accessed without the password.
5. Find and download USB memory stick encryption software at trusted sites like download.cnet.com, tucows.com and pcworld.com/downloads/downloads.html.
Many programs on these sites are free, or free to try. Select programs that have been highly rated by editors and users for best results.
Tags: memory stick, encryption software, your memory, your memory stick, drives drives, files will
Magellan's RoadMate 1470 dash-mounted GPS navigation device is thin at 0.7-inch wide with a sizable 4.7-inch touch-screen display for easily viewable direction planning. Hacking, or unlocking features, on the device was difficult to perform until the summer of 2010, when the company released a new software upgrade for the 1470. Now, just download a desktop program called Content Manager and the upgraded software to unleash all your new maps and points of interest.
Instructions
1. Turn on your Magellan RoadMate 1470 and your Web-ready computer, then connect the two with your USB cable.
2. Navigate to the first link in the References section for Content Manager. Click on "Download" and choose "Save File." Place the file on your desktop.
3. Double-click on the icon after it's downloaded, then "Run." Follow the on-screen prompts to fully install the Content Manager. This facilitates the software upgrade and informs you of any future upgrades.
4. Navigate to the link in the Resources section link and click "Download" for your software upgrade. Choose to "Save File" and place it in a convenient location.
5. Double-click on the upgrade icon after it has fully downloaded, then "Run." Follow the prompts to install the upgrade on your device.
Tags: Content Manager, software upgrade, downloaded then, downloaded then Follow, icon after
Knowing properly operate your Canon Powershot S51S can be the difference between getting decent pictures and superb pictures. The S51S is an 8 megapixel consumer camera that features a swiveling LCD screen, as well as several creative modes. Some of the controls on the S51S may seem intimidating at first, but operating the camera is simple with practice.
Instructions
1. Open the cover to the battery compartment by sliding the panel on the bottom of the camera outward. Inserts four AA batteries, according to the diagram, inside the compartment. Insert the SD card into the corresponding slot beside the battery compartment until it clicks into place.
2. Turn the mode lever to shooting mode (camera icon) or playback mode (boxed triangle icon) while simultaneously pressing the shutter release to power on the S51S. Press the "Off" button to turn off the camera.
3. Set the date and time on the camera the first time you power it on. Scroll through the different time values using the left and right buttons on the scroll dial beside the LCD screen. Raise or lower values with the up and down buttons. Set daylight savings time by selecting the sun icon, and turning it on or off with the up or down buttons. Confirm the time by pressing the "Set" button.
4. Take basic pictures by setting the camera to "Auto" mode. Point the camera toward your subject and press the shutter button halfway to focus. Press the shutter button completely to take the picture. Take more creative control over your pictures by using other shooting modes. Use AV (aperture-priority) mode to have the S51S create exposures around the f-stop setting of your choice. Use TV (shutter speed-priority) mode to base exposures around your preferred shutter speed. Use manual mode to have full control over the exposure. Use the creative modes, such as the landscape mode, to have an optimal exposure for the different photographic situations that the modes are named after.
5. Set the mode dial to the motion-camera icon to record movies. Press the shutter button to start and stop recording. Press the "Func" button to access options for movie mode. The modes include color accent mode, color swap mode and resolution settings.
6. Take advantage of the accessory features on the camera. Activate the flash in creative shooting modes by pressing the button symbolized with a lightning bolt. Use the zoom lever that surrounds the shutter release button to zoom in and out. Adjust the swiveling LCD to view your picture compositions in restricting environments.
7. View pictures by setting the camera to playback mode. Scroll through the pictures with the directional buttons. Erase pictures by pressing the button symbolized with a garbage can. Confirm that you want to erase the picture by selecting "Erase" with the "Set" button.
The right mic will help you capture all the nuance of a shot's audio.
Getting the right mic for your camcorder will allow you to capture quality sound up close or from a distance, to go with your video recording. High quality sound will, of course, enhance a video production's commercial application or just enhance the value of the recording. Thanks to technological advances, there are many quality choices for external camcorder mics.
Azden ECZ990
The ECZ990 is a camcorder mic with a super cardioid pickup pattern. This means that the mic allows you to pick up your subject's audio clearly while reducing noise coming in from the sides. The ECZ990 is an electret condenser mic with a 35-foot pickup range. The mic has a frequency response of 150hz-18Khz and is powered by a single AA battery. It includes a wind screen and shoe mount for easy mounting to your camcorder's body.
Sennheiser MKE400
The MKE400 is a camcorder light mount shotgun mic with a super cardioid lobar pickup pattern. It comes with a suspension lighting shoe mount assembly. The mic is designed for consumer or professional use and is built with a rugged all-metal housing. It has a frequency response from 40Hz to 20,000 Hz to capture the nuance and detail of any sound source. It also has a switchable sensitivity for capturing near or far audio sources and switchable filter for reducing wind noise. The mic will run for 300 hours from a single AAA battery.
Azden SGMX
The SGMX is a shotgun mic designed specifically for mini DV camcorders. It features a super cardioid pickup pattern and a wide frequency response from 80Hz to 18Khz. The mic has low internal noise levels and 78 dB of dynamic range. It comes with a shock mount holder and 2 different windscreens. This mic provides enough recording power for the avid amateur or professional to record quality sound with any mini DV camera.
Audio Technica PRO-24
The PRO-24 is a stereo condenser mic with a pair of cardioid elements in X-Y configuration. It is compact and lightweight enough for mounting to a camcorder without adding too much weight. The mic's stereo pickup allows for recording a spatial sound field with a single mic. The mic features battery-free operation and rugged construction to endure field recording.
Tags: frequency response, pickup pattern, quality sound, super cardioid, capture nuance, cardioid pickup
Pioneer's AVIC-Z3 is a multipurpose in-dash car multimedia receiver. The unit occupies a double-din slot and devotes its entire front panel to a touchscreen display. The AVIC-Z3 can play videos, display maps, provide traffic updates and handle cell phone calls through a Bluetooth connection. Many of these advanced features are only available while the vehicle's parking brake is engaged. This is designed to prevent drivers from becoming distracted by the screen. Drivers who want to allow their passengers to interact with the screen while the vehicle is in motion can bypass the parking brake switch.
Instructions
1. Disconnect the black cable from your vehicle battery's negative terminal.
2. Remove the AVIC-Z3 from your vehicle's dashboard. Consult your vehicle's owner's manual for information about your vehicle's receiver mounting system.
3. Locate the wiring harness that is connected to the back of the receiver. The wiring harness will have a variety of multi-colored wires connected to one plug. Isolate the light green wire and the red wire from the other wires.
4. Cut the light green wire at least 6 inches away from the receiver. Cover the end of the wire that is not connected to the wiring harness with electrical tape.
5. Open the tap-in wire connector to gain access to the two wire channels inside. Place the end of the light green wire into the connector's shorter channel.
6. Place the red wire in the longer connector channel. Fold the connector closed around both wires. Squeeze the entire connector with your pliers until the locking mechanism clicks into place.
7. Reinstall the AVIC-Z3 into the dash according to your vehicle's mounting instructions. Reconnect the black cable to your vehicle's negative battery terminal.
Tags: your vehicle, green wire, light green, light green wire, wiring harness
Video conferencing is a way of conducting personal or business communication without traveling. The video allows you to see the person that you are talking with so that you can communicate more effectively. However, there are some advantages and disadvantages of video conferencing that should be considered.
Convenience
Instead of traveling to far away places or trying to fit a meeting into everyone's schedule where traveling is involved, video conferencing can be done any time of the day or night.
Share Documents
PowerPoint and other documents can be shared through video conferencing. Whiteboards can be used to allow everyone to share their thoughts in one place during the conference.
Access Other Computers
While video conferencing, one computer can be set up to allow everyone to see the screen, which makes it easy to explain details.
Cost
The cost of video conferencing equipment could be more than what someone wants to pay for the service. However, it is often cheaper in the end than what travel costs may be.
Face-to-Face Contact
When you use video conferencing, you don't have the eye contact that you would if you were in the same room with the people you are talking with. You can't see everyone's reaction or watch their movements when talking.
Video Interference
When using video conferencing, you can lose the connection if a power outage occurs or if your signal is not strong. Sometimes you will have a crisp and clear picture that may become fuzzy or freeze. This can cause problems if the conference is important and time sensitive.
Tags: video conferencing, allow everyone, talking with, than what
The projection methodd is helpful in enlarging art for murals.
Using a projector to enlarge artwork saves time and effort over the usual grid method, and results are generally much more accurate. The projection method is most useful if the end-result will be 16"x20" or larger - any smaller, and the details may be blurry and difficult to duplicate, so the grid method would work better for smaller projects. There are two main types of projectors used for enlargement, the opaque projector and the overhead projector. They both work well, use the same principle, and are comparable in cost, so it is only a matter of what you have access to.
Instructions
Enlarging Your Art
1. Scan the original into a computer. If the original is too large to fit a home scanner, many copy centers that handle large-format work will scan the work for you.
2. Resize the scanned file digitally to fit the projector. Opaque projectors take originals between four and ten square inches, depending on the model. Overhead projectors usually work best with an 81/2"x11" page.
3. Print the scanned file. For an opaque projector, printing onto regular printer paper is fine. For an overhead projector, you must print onto a transparency film. Printer-compatible transparency film can be found at most office-supply stores.
4. Hang your canvas or large paper securely on a wall. Secure at all four corners to be sure it does not move at all while you are working.
5. Set up the projector on a sturdy, level table. If the surface is not level, the projection can be distorted.
6. Insert the print-out of the artwork into the projector. Opaque projectors have a little compartment for it to fit into, either on top of the machine or underneath, depending upon the model. Overhead projectors simply require you to lay the transparency on the glass.
7. Turn the projector on, and turn out the lights. The darker the room is, the clearer the projection will be.
8. Move the table with the projector away from the wall until the projected image is at the appropriate size and location on the canvas or large paper. Overhead projectors have a hinged mirror on the top that can be positioned to move the projection up or down as necessary. Opaque projectors lack this feature, and must be boosted by a sturdy stack of books or other objects.
9. Focus the projector by turning the appropriate knob until the image is crisp and clear. It is helpful to look at the image from about arm's length and adjust appropriately, because although the image may look clear from the projector's location, tiny details may be blurry or lost when viewed up close.
10. Trace the projected image onto the canvas or large paper. Some people use a soft-lead pencil to lightly sketch the image, while others prefer to block it in roughly with paint. While the entire tracing must be done in one sitting to avoid loss of alignment, the actual filling in of colors, shadows, and highlights should not be done in the dark because colors don't appear true without adequate light, and the final work will be "off".
Tags: canvas large, canvas large paper, large paper, Opaque projectors, Overhead projectors, details blurry
The MicroSD is a removable flash drive disk. These small flash drives are commonly used with portable devices, such as digital cameras and some video cameras. The size of the memory unit makes them the ultimate portable disk, however, most computers do not have an adequate MicroSD disk drive to access the material. Because of this, the only way the content can be opened on the computer is by using a MicroSD disk reader.
Instructions
1. Plug the USB cable into the back of the MicroSD disk reader. Attach the other end of the USB cable into an available port on the computer. The computer will not detect the new device because there is no card in the disk reader yet.
2. Insert the MicroSD disk into the reader. Wait a moment and the computer will state it has detected a new device.
3. Open "My Computer" if no imagery software loads. You will see the MicroSD disk listed as one of the available devices (it will most likely be called "removable disk"). Double-click the card and you will be shown all the information on the disk.
4. Create a folder on the computer where you would like to place the material saved on the MicroSD. Navigate to any particular location on the computer and right-clicking. At the bottom off the pull-down menu you will see the option "Create New Folder." Select this and a new folder will be created. Name the folder and open it.
5. Click and drag across all the contents of the MicroSD. This will select all the available information. Drag it over to the newly created folder and release. This will copy all of the data into the folder. Depending on the size of the files this may take a few minutes.
6. Right-click the MicroSD drive in "My Computer." Select "Remove Drive." This will remove the drive from "My Computer." It is now safe to eject the disk from the MicroSD disk reader.
Tags: MicroSD disk, disk reader, MicroSD disk reader, This will, cable into
One of the convenient features included with many Ford 6-disc CD changers is a built-in USB port. If yours has a USB port, you can place music files (in the MP3 or WMA format) on your USB flash drive, connect it to the USB port and then listen to the music through your Ford's stereo system. This is especially useful if your music collection is mostly or entirely digitalized and you don't feel like burning music CDs.
Instructions
1. Plug your USB flash drive into a free USB port on your computer, go to "Computer" and double-click on your flash drive and then click and drag the desired music files (MP3/WMA) into the flash drive window.
2. Remove the flash drive from your computer's USB port, and then push it into the USB port on your Ford 6-disc CD changer's front panel.
3. Turn on your Ford vehicle, and then switch the stereo input selection to USB. Press "Play" and turn up the volume to listen to the music files on your USB drive through your car's stereo system.
Tags: flash drive, music files, your flash, your flash drive, your Ford, Ford 6-disc
Watch your favorite shows in the kitchen on a Polaroid 15-inch TV.
A Polaroid 15-inch TV is a perfect little TV for the kitchen or spare room. It features a flat, sharp LCD screen. Polaroid is perhaps better known for cameras, but their products are sturdy and well trusted. As with most consumer electronics, glitches do occur. Whether it be interference impacting the picture or a setting that needs adjusting, most problems are fairly simple to remedy. There are a few basic troubleshooting steps you can follow before taking your TV in for service.
Instructions
1. Make sure the A/C power cord is securely plugged into the main socket if there is no power to the unit. Try removing the power cord from the socket for 60 seconds and then reinserting it. Press "Power" on the TV or remote control.
2. Make sure the antenna is securely connected at the rear of the unit if there is no TV picture.
3. Press the "Volume" button on the remote control if the picture is good but there is no sound. It could be that the muting function has been activated. Make sure the headphones are not connected to the unit.
4. Check for any nearby external interference, such as neon lights or hairdryers, if horizontal dotted lines appear on the TV picture.
5. Wipe the remote sensor panel on the TV if the set does not respond to the remote control. Make sure there are no obstacles between the TV sensor and the remote. Replace the batteries to the remote, if necessary. Do not use the remote under strong fluorescent lighting.
6. Unplug the TV from the main socket, wait a few seconds and then plug it back in if the control buttons do not work. Plug the TV back in at the main socket and press "Power" on the TV or remote control.
7. Adjust the "Brightness" and "Contrast" functions if the TV picture is poor. Press "Menu" on the remote control and access the "Picture" menu. Press the up/down ("CH") buttons to select "Brightness" or "Contrast." Press the +/- ("VOL") buttons to adjust the selected item until the TV picture is satisfactory.
Tags: remote control, Make sure, main socket, Brightness Contrast, control Make, control Make sure
Pinhole cameras can be placed in just about anything.
Modern pinhole cameras make excellent security cameras, allowing you to observe objects, goods and people to ensure safety and protect property. Their compact size makes them easily concealable in all types of places. Pinhole cameras are generally 10 millimeters to 12 millimeters in diameter and about 4 centimeters in length. They can be hidden in stuffed animals, doors, bookcases and many electronic devices.
Instructions
Pinhole Security Camera Installation
1. Buy a pinhole camera suitable for the location where it will be installed. Factors to consider when selecting a camera include: lighting conditions, necessity of color picture, available power options, necessity of wireless transmission, desired viewing and recording options, and the type of installation necessary.
2. Decide on the type, location and viewing angle of the camera and whether the installation will be static or portable. Examples of static installations include areas such as doors, bookcases and walls. Portable installations include things such as books, stuffed animals and clocks.
3. Create an opening large enough for the pinhole camera to fit in the installation area and insert the camera, its power supply, and any wireless signal or cable accessories provided.
4. Connect the pinhole camera and its components per the manufacturer's instructions. In cases where cables are in use, connect the cables to the chosen monitoring device. Transmitted video signals of a pinhole camera can be sent to any TV, security monitor, video recorder or PC camera drive.
5. Turn on the camera and the monitoring device to test the image quality and the view angle. Make adjustments as needed.
6. Cover the pinhole camera with the material removed during installation or with a different object to conceal it. Make a hole large enough for the camera to function properly, but small enough not to be noticed without close inspection.
Tags: pinhole camera, doors bookcases, installations include, large enough, monitoring device, pinhole camera
A TomTom One XL is a global positioning system, or GPS. A GPS uses satellite technology to track a user's position and provide him with directions to get to his destination. For easier accessibility, a TomTom One XL can be mounted on the dashboard or windshield of a vehicle. This makes it easier for the driver to see and hear the maps and directions that are being visually displayed and announced by the unit.
Instructions
1. Clean the area where you are mounting the TomTom One XL. You can mount the GPS unit either to the windshield or the dashboard. Spray a glass-cleaning product on the windshield or use a vehicle-dashboard-cleaning product to clean the dashboard, and wipe the surface dry with paper towels.
2. Remove the backing from one side of the TomTom adhesive disk. The adhesive disk has sticky residue on both sides. It doesn't matter which side you use first.
3. Stick the adhesive side of the disk to the back of the TomTom One XL's holder or docking station. There is a circular area that holds the disk. Ensure the adhesive disk is securely stuck to the back of the holder or docking station.
4. Remove the backing from the other side of the adhesive tape. Stick the disk on the TomTom One XL's cradle onto your windshield or dashboard. Position it so the holder arm is facing upward. This is where you will place the TomTom. Press down firmly so the holder is stuck to the windshield.
5. Attempt to turn or twist the holder to the left and right. This ensures it is secure.
6. Connect the TomTom One XL onto the holder. The slot on the back of the TomTom One XL unit fits into the holder.
7. Move the TomTom One XL screen up or down based on your viewing preference. The arm on the holder move the TomTom.
8. Insert the power adapter jack into the power adapter outlet on the bottom of the device. Plug the other end of the power adapter into your vehicle's cigarette lighter outlet. Once the car is powered on, the device will receive power and be ready to use.
Tags: adhesive disk, power adapter, back TomTom, backing from, docking station, holder docking
You can use a memory card to save and store a variety of files, including pictures, songs, videos and certain video game files. If the card is damaged, the information stored on it can become corrupt, which renders the information useless. You can retrieve data from a corrupted memory card using free software on your computer.
Instructions
1. Insert your memory card into your computer's SD/MMC card slot. If your computer does not support memory cards, you can use a multicard reader.
2. Download a freeware corruption repair program online, such as FileRestore Professional, ICE ECC or Unstoppable Copier. Save the program to your desktop and double-click on it to launch the program.
3. Select the memory card from the drive selection menu, which appears as a drop-down dialogue box. The program will scan the memory card for corrupt data.
4. Wait for the program to finish scanning for corrupt files; as they are found, the program will piece the information from the files back together and restore the repaired files back to the memory card.
Tags: memory card, your computer, files back, program will
When Apple designed the iPod, it didn't add a balance control feature.
Unfortunately, there is no easy way to adjust the balance on an iPod as Apple designed the iPod without a balance adjustment feature. However, there are alternative measures that can be taken to adjust the balance on an iPod by using third-party hardware. Finally, Apple has a specific feature request where users can request that Apple add a certain feature to any of its devices. If you are interested in a software balance adjustment feature, request it. (See Resources)
Instructions
1. Use balance-control headphones. Plug them into your iPod. You can control stereo balance directly on the headphones.
2. Purchase an in-line volume-control device. (See References)
3. Connect the in-line volume-control device to your iPod.
4. Connect your headphones to the in-line volume control.
5. Turn on your iPod, you can now control stereo balance by adjusting the channels on the in-line volume control.
Tags: your iPod, your iPod control, adjustment feature, Apple designed, Apple designed iPod, balance adjustment, balance adjustment feature
Since the advent of affordable digital cameras, digital photo frames have become increasingly popular. These devices, which are actually very simple computers connected to an LCD screen not unlike the one on a laptop, read digital photos and display a rotation of the images on their memory cards. In order to get the frame to play your photos, you will need to transfer them to the frame's memory card in a format that is readable by the frame.
Instructions
1. Load your images on to your computer. While this is not necessary if your camera uses a memory card compatible with the frame which can be inserted directly into the frame from the camera, in most cases you will want to edit the photos before displaying them.
2. Edit the images in whatever way you please and save them as JPG images, if they are not already in this format.
3. Remove the memory card from the frame and insert it into a card reader attached to your computer. Memorex frames are compatible with three cards -- SD, MMC and Sony's Memory Stick. If your computer does not have a reader for this card format, you can purchase an external reader that will connect to your camera via USB and allow you to read the cards.
4. Transfer the images you want to display on the frame to the memory card.
5. Plug the memory card back into the frame. The frame will now play the images that you have loaded from your computer.
Tags: memory card, your computer, card format, compatible with, frame memory, frame memory card
Rechargeable batteries typically are more cost-effective than replaceable batteries.
Digital cameras, MP3 players, video cameras and any other personal electronic devices need power to operate. If you bought new batteries every time they need to be replaced, it could become expensive. Rechargeable batteries cost more but over the long term likely will save you money because of the years of use. Rechargeable batteries like the "Eneloop" model from Sanyo are designed to be recharged up to 1,500 times, and they last longer on a charge compared with alkaline batteries. When recharging a battery, use only the charger designed for it.
Instructions
1. Remove the discharged Eneloop batteries from the electronic device. Inspect the ends of the batteries to make sure they are clean and the battery overall is in good condition.
2. Place the Eneloop batteries into the Sanyo Eneloop charger, matching the "+" end of each battery to the "+" end of the charger.
3. Push on the battery until it is securely in the charger, and repeat for each battery being charged.
4. Flip out the A/C plug located in the back of the charger unit and plug it into an electrical power outlet. The LED (Light Emitting Diodes) will blink while the batteries are being charged. When the batteries are fully charged, the LED will stop blinking and remain on.
5. Disconnect the charger from the outlet, remove the batteries, inspect them to make sure they are in good condition and reinstall them into the electronic device.
Tags: Rechargeable batteries, being charged, each battery, electronic device, Eneloop batteries, good condition
Burn camcorder videos onto a DVD with a computer connection.
Camcorder videos can be uploaded to a computer equipped with a DVD burner to make portable, long-lasting copies on disc. Most camcorders come with an audio-video cable to connect with a PC or laptop for transferring the video files. Once stored in the computer, the videos can be burned to a DVD using the software that manages the disc writer. Windows DVD Maker is the default program on Microsoft computers equipped with a DVD burner. Mac users can create discs with iDVD on their Apple computers.
Instructions
1. Install the software that comes with the camcorder onto the computer by inserting the program CD in the computer's media tray and closing the tray. Click the prompt buttons on the screen to install the software, and then restart the computer when finished. The software will place a small camcorder icon on the computer desktop. This is a shortcut to starting the software.
2. Connect the camcorder to the PC with the audio-visual cable, typically either an IEEE 1394 (Firewire) or USB cable. Any compatible port on the computer can be used to hook up with the camcorder.
3. Turn on the camcorder, which should also launch the software on the computer. If the program does not start automatically, double-click the camcorder icon on the computer desktop.
4. Click the "File transfer" button or link on the software. The wording will vary, depending on the camcorder model, such as "Upload videos," "Transfer files," "Import videos" or a similar phrase. A window will open with a listing of the videos on the camcorder.
5. Click the desired videos, and then click the "Upload," "Import," "Transfer" or similarly worded button, depending on the camcorder model. A copy of each selected video will be placed on the computer hard drive. The original video remains on the camcorder.
6. Open the computer's media tray, insert a recordable DVD and close the tray. Start the software that manages the burner, such as Windows DVD Maker or iMovie.
7. Click "Add Files" in DVD Maker or "Import" in iDVD to open a folder of videos on the computer. Highlight the videos for burning to disc and click the "Add" button in DVD maker or the "Import" button in iDVD. Add as many videos as desired until the remaining time display indicates the DVD is full.
8. Click "Next" to choose menu styles and other customizable features by clicking each desired option.
9. Click the "Burn" button at the top of the iDVD screen or the lower right on DVD Maker to record the disc.
About the size of a matchbook, Compact Flash cards are a convenient method of music transport.
Many devices use compact flash cards to access music or video files. An MP3 player, for example, might use a compact flash card to read music MP3 files. To put the files on a compact flash card, you will need a card reader to allow you to access the card on your personal computer. Once accessible, you can simply copy the music files over to the card.
Instructions
1. Insert the compact flash card into the card reader. If the reader is an external model, you will have to also plug the reader into an available USB port. Windows 7 will automatically recognize the card reader and compact flash card.
2. Press "Ctrl" and "E" simultaneously to open Windows Explorer.
3. Navigate to where your music files are located on your computer. A popular location is "Music," located under the top-left "Libraries" folder.
4. Hold the "Ctrl" key and click multiple music files to select them.
5. Hold "Ctrl" and press "C."
6. Click the drive letter on the left, which corresponds to your compact flash card. Hold "Ctrl" and press "V" to copy the files to the compact flash card.
Colored filters can enhance views through a microscope.
Microscopes come in a variety of designs and functionality. They generally use different types of filters to improve the images and light they capture. Colored filters perform specific tasks and functions for several areas of study, including taking closer looks at biological and mineral specimens as well as photomicrography.
Color Correction
Colored filters filter specific colors to improve the quality of a magnified image. This function corrects the color temperature of the light source used to view the image on a microscope. Two types of colored filters help in color correction: interference filters and absorption filters. Interference filters deflect a color, while absorption filters absorb and distribute the color of the filter. Absorption filters are used mainly for photographic purposes, while interference filters are used for color correction and image enhancement.
Countering Biological Stains
Stains applied to specimens can help show details more effectively. These stains, however, can interfere with the image of the specimen. Color compensating filters counter this problem. If a stain greatly reduces the details of the specimen, a didymium filter can improve the quality of the image. This filter is made up of several rare elements dissolved in a glass filter and it removes orange light. The removal of this specific section of the light spectrum improves the specimen's image.
Reducing Light Absorption and Illumination
Natural density filters reduce the illumination of a specimen. These filters usually have a gray color that not only reduces the amount of light transferred from the lenses but also distributes this light evenly on the whole specimen's reflection. Through this process the resulting image is clearer and the light distribution on the specimen is even.
Uses in Photomicrography
Colored filters are also widely used in photomicrography, the practice of taking photographs using light microscopes. Although the main functions of colored filters are for color correction and enhancement, they can also be used for special effects and design. Some people combine several colored filters to get a desired effect with photomicrography, allowing them to obtain artistic photomicrographs with different textures and characteristics.
Tags: color correction, Colored filters, absorption filters, colored filters, filters used
A GoPhone is an AT&T prepaid, or "pay-as-you-go", cellular phone. AT&T lets you pick a calling plan and preload minutes either by using a credit card or checking account. In addition, customers can also prepay and select data and text messaging plans to accompany their calling plans. Users can prepay by the month or by the minute.
Selecting, loading and activating a GoPhone is a fairly simple process, and can be done online. Below are step by step instructions to activate and enjoy your new GoPhone.
Instructions
Selecting and Activating a GoPhone
1. Pick your phone. Select the appropriate AT&T GoPhone that fits your needs. There any many types of pay-as-you-go phones. Pick the one that best suits you. Look for features that interest you (mp3, camera, touch screen, games, etc.).
2. Decide on your plan. Select either a monthly prepaid plan or a pay-as-you-go calling card for your GoPhone:
$3 Unlimited Calling Plan: $3 fee only on days that you use your phone (only voice calls) allows for unlimited calling to any number nationwide.
$1 Mobile to Mobile Plan: $1 fee only on days that you use your phone (only voice calls) with unlimited Mobile to Mobile for AT&T customers, 10¢ per minute otherwise.
25c Simple Plan: 25¢ per minute flat rate
$60 Unlimited Talk and Text Feature Package: This is an additional package that you have to manually purchase every month. If you select this at sign up, you are added to the Simple Plan by default.
3. Activate your phone. Visit AT&T's wireless website to go through the step by step activation process. A link is provided in the Resource section below.
Tags: your phone, days that, days that your, Mobile Mobile, only days, only days that, only voice
The ring pillow from a wedding can become a treasured keepsake of a very special day and a family heirloom as well. Use high-quality materials for the pillow and be creative. Experiment with different patterns, materials and textures before you decide on a final design.
Instructions
1. Choose two pieces of fabric that each measure between 8 and 10 inches square. Use white or off-white satin, silk or brocade. If possible, use the same fabric and lace that is used for the wedding dress.
2. Choose lace and ribbon to decorate the pillow if desired. The amounts required will depend on how the materials are used. About 2 to 3 yards each of ribbon and lace will be adequate for most projects.
3. Use two or three pieces of polyester batting as stuffing for the pillow. Each piece should be equal to the dimensions of the fabric squares in step 1.
4. Use a fabric cutting board, ruler and fabric marking pen to mark and measure out two equal squares of fabric. Make all markings on the wrong side of the fabric. Test the pen on a scrap of the pillow fabric to make sure that the marks will fade.
5. Do any embroidery or needlework before continuing to the next step. Add any other decoration to the face of the fabric as well. Embellishments such as small ribbons, charms and delicate lace can be tacked or sewn on to the fabric by hand.
6. Add a lace ruffle to the pillow by pinning the straight edge of the ruffle to the right side of the fabric square that will form the pillow top. Pin so that the edges line up evenly and the right sides (if there is a right side to the ruffle) are together.
7. Pin the ruffle very loosely onto the fabric or gather the ruffle slightly as you pin in order to create a fuller ruffle.
8. Pin the fabric pieces with the right sides together. Edges should match up evenly. Pins should be placed about 1/2 inch apart and should be at right angles to the fabric edges. Make sure that the pinned edge of the ruffle is caught securely between the two fabric layers.
9. Use a sewing machine to stitch three sides of the pillow, 1/2 inch from the fabric edges. Turn the pillow right side out and stuff the batting layers inside. If you would like a fuller pillow, insert additional batting.
10. Fold the edges of the unsewn seam into the pillow 1/2 inch, and stitch closed by hand. Use a slipstitch done by hand or carefully topstitch the edges with your machine.
11. Add a 10- or 12-inch length of 1/4-inch satin or silk ribbon to the top of the pillow. Stitch the ribbon by hand to the pillow at the ribbon's center point. Add a silk or satin bow made from the same ribbon to cover the stitching. Use the two ribbon strands to loosely tie the wedding rings to the pillows.
Tags: right side, edge ruffle, fabric edges, pillow inch, right sides
Car DVD systems that are installed in a vehicle, such as a van, may have only one monitor in which to watch the video. This can be difficult if there are multiple people in a vehicle who may not be able to see the existing monitor. One place that you can add another DVD monitor is in the headrest of the front passenger's or driver's seat. You can wire an additional monitor to a car DVD by first determining how big of a monitor you can use.
Instructions
1. Measure the size of the headrest with a tape measure to determine the largest DVD monitor that you can install and wire.
2. Remove the headrest, if possible, from the seat and place it on a flat surface such as a workbench.
3. Set the DVD monitor on top of a piece of paper and trace around it with a pencil. Once you have finished tracing the outline cut out the template with a pair of scissors.
4. Place the paper template on the backside of the headrest and trace around it with a felt-tip marker or a pencil. Once the outline has been traced, draw an "X" on the inside.
5. Cut along the lines of the X you drew on the headrest with a utility knife. Cut off the corners, leaving about 1/2 inch of material around the perimeter of the opening.
6. Peel back the outer covering of the headrest and remove the padding or foam to make room for the DVD monitor. Remove the padding or foam until you reach the metal bracket of the headrest. Clean as much padding or foam as you can from the bracket.
7. Make a small hole on the bottom side of the headrest for the wires that are needed to connect the DVD monitor.
8. Place one side of hook-and-loop fasteners to the metal bracket of the headrest and then set it back into position on the seat.
9. Run the video wires through the headrest bars and through the seat to the floor. Cut a small hole in the carpet on the floor under the seat, with the utility knife, and run the video wires up to the dashboard.
10. Connect the video wires to the back of the car DVD system. You can also pull the unit from the dash, if possible, to connect the video wires. Make sure you connect the wires to the video-out port on the DVD system.
11. Place the other end of the hook-and-loop fasteners to the back of the DVD monitor, connect the video wires to the video-in port on the monitor and then set the DVD monitor in the headrest opening.
Tags: video wires, padding foam, around with, bracket headrest, connect video
Controlled whited-out surroundings is the key to object based studio photography, especially in food photography. The aim of food photography is to make the food pop in vibrancy, texture and color that is usually not seen in real life. White, or light, boxes are the best way to create concentrated white light void of shadows for small studio objects. Light boxes will take a few hours to create, but will last for many years.
Instructions
1. Collect boards to piece together to form a 50sided box. Boards can be made either out of white foam board or white cardboard. The box should be 2 x 2.5 feet (width to height) to accommodate both small and larger dishes or foods. The width can extend longer than the sides and roof to accommodate possible low-angled shots.
If you do not wish to create a box from boards, use an already made box such as a large postal shipping box.
2. Cut a small flap into the top of the box (or board that will be used as the roof) to be used as a light window. Use a cutting tool such as a knife or exacto knife. Do not cut an open hole into the board, or it will appear reflected in shots with glossy or metallic subjects. Instead, make a three-sided cut that is about 4 x 4 inches and opens on a hinge.
3. Join the outer edges of the side boards together using a clear packaging tape. Cover all the joining edges with tape to ensure that there are no black spaces as they will show in the photographs. If you are already using a ready-made box, make sure that the joints of the box are completely closed. If not, force them together and secure with tape.
4. Line the inside of the box (floor, ceiling and sides) with white paper that is thick enough to cover and the brown or impurely colored walls inside of the box. The inside must be purely white. Browse the paper selection at an office supply store for long, thick ultra-white paper. Skip this step if you are using white foam board instead of cardboard.
5. Attach a horizon-blocker on the (inside) backboard of the box. This is a long piece of paper that should bend in an arc over the backboard bottom joint, thus disguising it and causing any shadow to disappear. Tape one end of ultra white paper (the same used to cover the insides of the boxes) to the backboard and allow it to slope down at an easy, natural angle. Tape the opposite end to the baseboard of the box. Do not use packaging tape or the sheen will appear in the photos. Instead, use a matte masking tape.
6. Open the flap (on top) and position a lamp so that it eclipses the opening and angles toward the backboard. Use only daylight bulbs known as daylight CFL, or compact florescent lights. The bulbs must have a color temperature listed as either 5,000 or 5,500. Do not use regular incandescent bulbs as they have a warm color temperature and produce a soft yellow glow that will project into your box and cause the box to appear yellow rather than white in the shot.
7. Place the other two lamps at the front of the box looking in, each angled toward the opposite sides of the box. The beams will cross, refract the light against the walls and eliminate virtually all shadows.
Tags: color temperature, foam board, food photography, into board, Lightbox Photograph
The world of digital SLR cameras is riddled with accessories, one of the most popular being external flashes. Canon, one of the leading manufacturers of digital cameras, with its flagship EOS brand, has two notable external flashes that have become very popular with professional photographers and hobbyists alike: The Speedlite 420ex and its sister model, the Speedlite 430ex.
Basics
Almost all Canon DSLR cameras come with a built-in flash that protrudes from the top of the camera. These, however, are often considered subpar in their illuminating qualities and are generally only used for casual purposes by casual users. Most professionals prefer to equip their cameras with very powerful external flashes that easily attach to the top of the camera and extend farther above the lens. Not only are these accessory flashes more powerful than the built-in flashes, but because of their height above the camera's lens they can better prevent red eye and create a softer, more professional-looking lighting. Two of the most popular accessory flashes manufactured by Canon are the Speedlite 420ex and 430ex.
Manual Flash
Unlike the 420ex, the 430ex has a feature known as Manual Flash Mode. This is the intensity of the flash, which can be adjusted through seven levels ranging from full power to 1/64 power. This is extremely beneficial depending on the amount of light available at the shooting location. It can eliminate shot-to-shot exposure variations if you are shooting subjects in consistent lighting such as in portraits. The FEC (Flash Exposure Compensation) on the 430ex can also be set independently of the camera, whereas on the 420ex, the flash requires a camera body equipped with this feature.
Recycle Time
The improved, more efficient circuitry in the 430ex has helped it obtain a recycle time 40 percent faster than the 420ex. With four AA batteries, the time has been clocked at 3.7 seconds compared with 5.2 seconds for the 420ex. Take note that the time can be almost cut in half by using NiMH batteries, which are also rechargeable and thus far more economical.
Ease of Use
An oft-mentioned improvement of the 430ex over the 420ex is the inclusion of an integrated LCD screen that allows the user to access its various features. The 420ex, on the other hand, uses only a series of lights, which are labeled with their functions, taking practice and a trained eye in order to adjust the flash's settings properly.
White Balance
In contrast to the 420ex, compatible DSLR cameras can actually communicate with the 430ex and relay information, such as color temperature, and allow the flash to adjust the intensity of its light and create an optimal white balance. This is something that must be done manually, by adjusting outside light sources, with the 420ex.
Price Point
As of 2009, the 430ex is the replacement model for the 420ex and is still in production, retailing for around $300. A used 420ex can be found for around $200. For the added features the 430ex offers, it is the better value, but performance-wise, the 420ex offers about the same basic performance for a lower price.
Voice Over Internet Protocol, commonly known as VOIP, allows users to establish voice connections over the Internet, much like traditional telephone services that traverse dedicated copper wires. While a growing number of users continue to adopt the technology, the relatively new protocol has a number of disadvantages that counter its benefits.
Advantage: Cost
A primary benefit of IP phones, and a benefit often referenced by IP telephone service providers such as Vonage and Magic Jack, is the reduction of cost for IP telephone customers. Traditional, circuit-based telephone companies have invested billions of dollars over several decades to build out their infrastructure and provide expensive resources dedicated to maintaining voice communications. Because VOIP technology relies on the Internet, rather than an expensive dedicated network, IP phone service providers can charge considerably lower prices than their traditional counterparts.
Advantage: Mobility
With the introduction of modular plugs in the 1980s, traditional telephones began to allow users to move the devices from place to place with relative ease. If the user moved the phone to a different location, though, the telephone would operate with a different telephone number and, depending on the service provider, enable different features. IP phones, by contrast and according to IP product vendor Cisco, register with a central server regardless of their physical location. For this reason, a user can move an IP phone from location to location, state to state or even to another country while still keeping the same telephone number and set of features.
Advantage: Features
Traditional telephone services allow basic features such as call waiting, conference calling, voicemail and caller identification. According to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), IP phones typically enable all of these features and a number of others not available in the traditional telephone network. IP phones, for example, can allow a user to place a call on hold and pick it up from anywhere else with an Internet connection, transfer a call to a telephone on another network, ring incoming calls to several telephones on different networks at the same time and even deliver voicemail messages via e-mail. The specific features offered supported by IP phones vary from phone to phone, and many may require support from the VOIP service provider.
Disadvantage: Quality of Service
While the Internet-based routing of IP phone calls enables cheap, mobile service, it also moves voice traffic off a dedicated network and onto an ever-changing digital landscape. In the absence of a dedicated set of voice circuits, IP phones typically, according to Cisco, convert voice sounds into data packages, address them to the VOIP switch and send them out across the Internet with no guarantee that they will arrive at their destination. Despite numerous quality of service (QoS) measures implemented by IP phone vendors, VOIP users may occasionally experience a delay in the conversation (latency), poor or robotlike sound quality (jitter) or miss portions of the conversation (packet loss).
Disadvantage: Internet Requirement
Despite their high mobility, IP phones must have access to the Internet to work. Because IP phones rely on the ability to connect to the Internet and send data packets, according to Cisco, users must subscribe to a broadband Internet service to use the devices. According to the FCC, this requirement may represent an additional expense to users who do not already subscribe to an Internet connection.
Disadvantage: Electricity
Traditional telephones require a small amount of electricity to operate, according to service provider CenturyLink, but they pull that electricity from a special line card in the telephone company central office. As a result, customers can still use a traditional telephone during a power outage. IP phones, according to the FCC, must draw commercial power to perform their functions and may leave customers without telephone service during a power interruption.
Tags: service provider, according Cisco, Advantages Disadvantages, Advantages Disadvantages Phones, dedicated network, Disadvantages Phones
A flashlight's shaft houses its circuitry and power source. Batteries, both rechargeable and disposable, are used to power the flashlight's bulb. Power travels from the batteries, along a series of metal springs and contacts, until finally reaching the lamp and providing it with power. The flashlight's power is regulated by its external on/off switch--which is part of the flashlight's circuitry and embedded with metal contacts. According to Energizer, when the "contact strips [of the switch] are physically moved apart and the path for the electrical current is broken," power to the lamp is halted.
Lamp and Lens
The flashlight's lamp, or bulb, receives power from the battery and converts it into "visible light." The lamp in a flashlight is generally made of a tungsten filament or a light emitting diode (LED). The flow of power to a tungsten filament bulb will wear down the filament, causing it to eventually burn out and break. The diodes in LED lamps, according to Energizer, "are widely considered 'unbreakable' and not replaced--a lifetime lamp."
Reflector and Lens
A metallic reflector surrounding the flashlight's lamp is used to harness the light generated from the lamp. According to Henry Schneiker of HdsSystems.com, a "parabolic reflector can theoretically generate a beam of perfectly parallel light rays the same size as the exit aperture"--simply put, the flashlight's reflector compounds the omnidirectional light from the lamp and directs it as a directional beam of light through the flashlight's lens. The translucent lens at the end of the flashlight merely protects the lamp from damage.
Tags: flashlight lamp, from lamp, power flashlight, tungsten filament
The proper maintenance of an LCD TV depends on the ongoing cleaning and care. Like all types of TVs an LCD TV is susceptible to wear and tear. Protect your investment by taking the following steps to maintain your LCD TV.
Instructions
1. Place your TV in an area with a stable temperature. Too much humidity, heat or drastic temperature changes can affect the life of your LCD product. Do not expose the TV to spray pesticides or aerosol cleaners.
2. Unplug the LCD TV before cleaning. Use a damp soft cotton cloth, microfiber cloth or special screen cleaning wipes to gently remove dirt from the screen. Do not press down. Repeat every three days to avoid dust build up.
3. Buy brand name fluorescent bulbs to replace the old bulbs if the light balance on the TV screen fades. Check the contrast levels of your TV as higher contrasts require more light and age the light source more quickly.
4. Do not stretch and bend the wires of your LCD TV. Wires provide power to the TV and twisting the wires can cause a malfunction. Also do not bring sharp objects near the screen that may cause scratches.
5. Turn off the TV when it is not in use. Also do not let an image pause for a long time as it negatively affects the screen of the LCD TV. Read the user manual for your LCD TV for more maintenance tips.
Photographers use light boxes to evaluate slides and negatives.
If you have an old flatbed scanner/printer that you are no longer using, you can take that old piece of equipment and convert it into light box instead of throwing it out or recycling it. Light boxes are used for a couple of applications. Photographers use them to evaluate slides and negatives. Artists also use light boxes when they need to stencil or trace a specific pattern. Converting the scanner to a light box is not that difficult, especially since you already have a cabinet to work with.
Instructions
1. Unplug your scanner/printer and let it cool down if you have been using it. Remove the paper trays and any ink cartridges from the scanner/printer.
2. Disassemble the scanner/printer by first removing the lid. In some models the lid may simply lift up and off, others may require brackets to be removed.
3. Remove all external screws and open up the scanner/printer's casing.
4. Remove all the internal components form the scanner/printer until you are left with only the casing intact. The internal components will likely be held with a combination of screws or other nuts/bolts. You will only need to have the casing intact at the end.
5. Install a fluorescent light fixture in the bottom of the scanner/printer compartment. Choose a light fixture that has a "line switch" to turn the power on and off, as opposed to having the switch on the actual fixture itself.
6. Place a piece of wax or white parchment paper on the inside of the glass platen. You want the light that is coming from the internal light fixture to be dispersed. You can also replace the glass with a piece of translucent Plexiglas to accomplish the same result.
7. Assemble the scanner/printer casing and plug in the light. You are ready to use your new light box.
Easily activate your new SIM card number by contacting customer care.
AT&T, formerly Cingular Wireless, requires smart chips, or SIM cards, for cell phones to work on its network. The SIM card contains all the information about the wireless account, including account name, cell phone number and contact list. The AT&T cell phone's serial number (IMEI) is programmed with the specific SIM card number. This programming allows your cell phone number to work with that specific device. To activate a SIM card with a new device and number, simply install the small card underneath the battery and power on the phone. For replacement SIM cards, the activation process is different.
Instructions
1. Remove the back off your cell phone. Pull out the battery and locate the small white tab beneath it. Look for the numbers labeled "IMEI." Write down these numbers.
2. Locate your new SIM card. Make a note of the numeric code on the front of the card.
3. Contact AT&T customer care by dialing 800-331-0500 from another line. The wireless account must be fully verified before you can update your information.
4. Provide both the IMEI and SIM card numbers to the representative. Once the numbers have been updated, you will insert the new SIM card into small slot in the back of the phone. A SIM card shape is normally located atop the slot. Insert the battery and replace the phone's back.
5. Power your device on. The AT&T representative will place an incoming test call. The new SIM card is now activated.
Bluetooth technology has become a major contributor to the amenities our mobile devices have to offer. With Bluetooth technology, you can now transmit several different types of media, from ringtones to other themes, that will enable you to personalize your mobile phone with the unique features you desire. Here are some of the options available for downloading themes to your phone using Bluetooth technology.
Instructions
1. Configure and enable the Bluetooth settings for your PC. Click the "Start" menu icon on your computer and select "Programs." Locate the "Accessories" icon and access the "Communications" folder. Click "Bluetooth File Transfer Wizard" located in the "Communications" subfolder. The Bluetooth module will appear, prompting you to choose an action you would like to take for the application. Click "Make Discoverable" to enable the application. (The phrasing of the command will differ depending on the computer' and operating system.) The Bluetooth symbol will appear on the task bar. This is an indication that your PC can now be paired with other devices in order to transfer media and files.
2. Make the mobile device discoverable. Click on the "Menu" button on your mobile device's keypad. Locate the "Tools" icon in the menu folder. Click "Bluetooth" within the "Tools" folder to configure the application's settings. Click "Connection" and scroll to the "Activation" or "Power" link. Click the "Enable" or "Make Discoverable" command. (These commands will vary depending on the carrier of the mobile device, regardless of the phone model.) This command will make the device discoverable so you can pair the mobile device to the computer. You will see a Bluetooth symbol located at the top of the mobile device's screen.
3. Click "Add New Devices" on the PC's Bluetooth module to pair the two devices. The computer will begin searching for local devices. An indication screen will appear on your mobile device. Click "Pair" to accept the request from your PC. Enter a simple passcode for your computer to confirm the discovery. Your mobile device will prompt you to enter the same exact code for pairing purposes. When you have finished entering the code, the PC and mobile device will confirm the pairing attempt. Save the mobile device to your PC's paired devices.
4. Send the theme file to your mobile device directly from your PC via Bluetooth. In the PC's Bluetooth File Transfer Wizard, click "Send File." Your mobile device should automatically be implemented in the "Send to" data form on the wizard. You will be prompted to locate the file you'd like to send. Click "Browse" to search your hard drive and extract the file from the folder where you downloaded the themes from the Internet. Click "OK" and the file will automatically load into your Bluetooth File Transfer Wizard. Click "Next" to transfer the file. Your mobile device should receive the file momentarily. When the indication screen pop ups on your mobile device, click "Accept" to store the theme on your mobile device.
Tags: mobile device, Bluetooth File, Bluetooth File Transfer, Bluetooth technology, File Transfer, File Transfer Wizard
Digital cameras are popular for their ease of use and convenience, and over the past few years, touch screen features have been developed that make camera use even more efficient. The best touch screen cameras allow buyers to perform complex tasks with single-touch selections, and feature good picture quality and a selection of special features.
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX7
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX7 digital camera features a 3.5-inch LCD monitor, and has 10.2 megapixels of resolution. The Cyber-shot DSC-TX7 takes 10 pictures in 1 second, and features a wide-angle lens and video recording capability at 60 frames per second. With the exception of the power, shutter and playback buttons, all other options are activated by touch. Cnet Reviews gives the camera an "8" rating for its features. In 2010, the Cyber-shot DSC-TX7 retails for $399.99.
Nikon Coolpix S4000
The Nikon Coolpix S4000 digital camera has a 27-mm wide-angle lens with 4x optical zoom and 12 MP resolution. The Coolpix S4000 is touch-screen activated, except for a scene mode selector and a playback mode selector that have physical buttons. Touch screen controls include shutter release and auto-focus, and a picture can be taken just by double tapping the photographic subject that appears on the screen. The experts at Digital Camera HQ rate the S4000's touch control as its best feature, and give the camera an overall grade of A-minus. Nikon's 2010 suggested retail price (MSRP) for the Coolpix S4000 is $179.95, but sellers such as Amazon offer the camera for a lower price.
Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ40
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ40 digital camera offers 14 MP of resolution with a zoom range of 18x to 24x and a 3-inch LCD screen. The Lumix DMC-FZ40 uses Intelligent Resolution technology that sharpens image quality, and a Sonic Speed Auto Focus that captures fast-moving photo subjects with clarity. The Lumix DMC-FZ40 also offers a face recognition control and an intelligent scene selector function that auto-selects from six different scene modes. The Lumix DMC-FZ40's enhanced features make the camera more expensive with an MSRP of $399.95 in 2010.
Samsung TL240
The Samsung TL240 has a 3.5-inch WVGA TFT, liquid-crystal display that is fully touch-screen activated. There are only two physical buttons on the TL240: the power and zoom control button and the play button. The other functions are touch-screen controlled, including focus, flash settings, shooting modes and one touch shooting, which allows users to focus and shoot an image by touching the screen. The TL240 also offers a 14 MP lens and a 7x optical zoom, as well as dual-image stabilization technology that reduces vibration and shaking when taking a picture. The TL240 has an MSRP of $299.99 in 2010.
Tags: Lumix DMC-FZ40, Coolpix S4000, Cyber-shot DSC-TX7, also offers, digital camera
The Canon DC100 is a standard definition video camera that records the audio/video content into an inserted miniDVD. This is a lower end video camera, but does not have many of the features you may find on the higher end of video cameras. Once you have captured video onto a miniDVD it is possible to import video onto a computer, without the aid of a video editing program.
Instructions
1. Open the miniDVD slot on the side of the Canon DC100. You do not need the camera on to perform this task. Once open, remove the miniDVD from the open slot.
2. Place the miniDVD into the center slot of your computer's CD/DVD tray, then close the drive. Exit out of any AutoPlay window that may load onto the screen.
3. Click the "Start" button on the desktop, then choose "(My) Computer." Once the new access window comes into view, select the "DVD" icon. A window loads onto the screen with all the video files stored on the DVD.
4. Click-and-drag the video files from the open DVD window onto any location of the computer system, including the desktop and My Documents. Repeat this process with every file on the Canon DC100's miniDVD that you want to import onto your computer system.
Tags: computer system, video onto, Canon DC100, from open, onto computer, onto screen, video camera