How Tell The Difference Between A D300 & A D200

The D300 and D200 are professional-level digital SLR cameras from Nikon. The D200 was introduced in November 2005. The D300 was introduced in August 2007 as the successor to the D200. Both cameras share common traits since they come from the same family, but key differences set them apart.

Image Processor

The image processor is what sets these two cameras apart. The D200 features a 10.2-megapixel CCD optical sensor to take images at a maximum resolution of 3,872 x 2,592. The D300 features a 12.3-megapixel CMOST optical sensor and can take images at a maximum resolution of 4,288 x 2,848. They both have the same 30 second to 1/8000 second shutter speeds, but the D300 has a much wider ISO range. The D300 can shoot ISO 200 through 3200, while the D200 can only shoot ISO 100 through 1600.

LCD Display

These cameras also feature a slightly different LCD display. The D200 has a 2.5-inch LCD display with a 230,000-pixel resolution. The D300 has a 3-inch LCD display with a 920,000-pixel resolution for a better representation of the images you are shooting. The D300 also supports Live View, which allows you to use the LCD screen to shoot photographs. For the D200, you have to use the viewfinder to shoot images. The LCD screen can only playback images.

Dimensions

Both cameras feature almost identical bodies. The D200 measures 5.8 inches wide, 4.4 inches high and 2.9 inches deep, and weighs 29.3 ounces. The D300 measures 5.8 inches wide, 4.5 inches high and 2.9 inches deep, and weighs slightly less at 29.1-ounces.

Price

Since the D300 is the newer model, it retails for more than the D200. The D200 has a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $1,399 while the D300 has an MSRP of $1,799. Prices will vary from retailer to retailer.

Tags: with 000-pixel resolution, 000-pixel resolution, Both cameras, D300 D200, deep weighs

Homemade Photo Enlargement System

You can make your own photo enlarger.

Printing your own pictures is fun, but an enlarger is very expensive. Luckily, with your basic film photographer's equipment and a few other odd items you can make your own photo enlarger.

Instructions

Making the Enlarger

1. Attach your camera to the tripod and adjust it so the lens faces down. Open the back, where the film is loaded, and put one of the smaller ends of the box over the opening. Trim the box as needed to make it fit evenly across the back of the camera and tripod.

2. Cut a 1.5 inch by 2 inch rectangle in the center of that end of the box. On the other end, cut a hole to fit the socket of the light fixture.

3. Line the inside of the box with aluminum foil and tape it in place.

4. Place the lighting fixture socket through the top and screw the enlarging light bulb inside the box.

5. Cut a 4.5 inch by 6 inch rectangle from the plastic carton to serve as your filter. Make two slits in the box, one on either side, halfway between where the bottom of the light bulb reaches and the bottom of the box, which will attach to the camera. Slide in the filter through the slits and tape it in place.

6. Seal the box and cover it with foil, shiny side out.

Using the Enlarger

7. Set up your darkroom with chemicals, trays, safe light and photosensitive paper.

8. Attach your cable release to your camera. Set the shutter speed to bulb, sometimes marked as "B."

9. With the camera mounted on the tripod, open the door to the film compartment and lay the strip of negatives across it, emulsion side down. Lay the plate glass over the negatives to flatten them.

10. Secure the enlarger upright over the camera, so the bulb dangles down inside the box. Turn on the light. Twist the rings on your camera lens to set your aperture, or the amount of light coming through the lens, and to focus the image.

11. Set your photo paper below the lens, where the light will shine. Use the cable release to open the shutter inside the camera and expose light to your photo paper.

Tags: your photo, your camera, Attach your, cable release, camera tripod

The Negative Impact Of Rfid

Radio frequency identification, or RFID, is a technology that uses tiny electronic tags to store and broadcast information. When exposed to a radio wave of the correct frequency, the tag broadcasts its information to the scanner, allowing users to collect large amounts of information quickly. The use of these tags to track and store information about individuals, however, has led to some concerns about their widespread use.

RFID Tags

RFID tags are small devices that contain a circuit designed to store information and an antenna for receiving and broadcasting radio signals. Passive tags are unpowered, relying on the energy from the incoming radio wave to power the broadcast, and have a range measured in feet. Active tags contain an integral power source of some kind, and can broadcast over larger distances. Common uses of RFID tags include encoding them with product information for inventory purposes and encoding personal data on identification or financial documents to speed verification.

Tracking

RFID tags allow companies to track items in inventory, but if the tags remain active after the point of purchase, they can also serve to track consumers. For instance, if you buy a shirt and the clerk neglects to deactivate the tag, the unique identifier in that tag will show up every time you return to the store to shop, or go anywhere else that uses RFID scanners for inventory purposes. Collating a scan of a worn RFID tag with a purchase can give a retailer your identity information, and from there allow them to build up a profile of your shopping and spending habits.

Privacy

Privacy concerns do not end at the retail level. If RFID becomes widespread, the ability to track someone via passive tags in clothing or carried items could become important in criminal investigations or civil disputes. RFID tags associated with big-ticket purchases could provide criminals with information about suitable households to target simply by scanning trash at the curb. Active RFID tags could even provide information to third parties about the contents of your home and your activities, all without your knowledge.

Identity Theft

Another downside of RFID's widespread use is the possibility outsiders to gain access to identity data. Encoding personal data to RFID tags in passports and other important documents can speed customs checkpoints and other areas where citizens must show their papers, but third parties can also read these chips by using a scanner tuned to the right frequency. Government agencies and financial institutions that use RFID encode this information, but if a commonly used cipher is broken or compromised, it could lead to widespread identity theft.

Tags: RFID tags, documents speed, information about, inventory purposes, personal data, radio wave

The Most Common Agfa Plate Problems

AGFA makes printing equipment for industrial and commercial use.

AGFA Graphics is a company that manufactures products for use in the printing and publishing industry. One of the categories of products they manufacture is printing plates, which are used to transfer printed images onto newspaper, packages or other items. At times, problems may arise with these plates.

Plates Don't Pick Up Ink

Some users of AGFA plates complain that the plate do not pick up ink very well. During the printing process, users notice that the images are light and not uniform. There could be a variety of reasons for this problems. The plates may need to be cleaned. AGFA makes a number of plate-cleaning solutions that are chemically engineered to be used specifically with AGFA plates. The plates may also have been prepared for printing improperly.

Holes and Spots in Printing

Users of AGFA plates have also noticed that there are small dots or holes in some of the images printed with the plates. These small dots may appear intermittently on images throughout the printing process, affecting some but not affecting others. This may be due to a defect in the plates themselves. AGFA products carry a warranty for replacement of defective merchandise. However, these dots may also be due to poor preparation, such as use of the wrong ink or washout gum on the plates.

Damaged Plates

Damaged plates are another problem noted by some users. The product warranty covers damage that was not the fault of the user. The company will gladly exchange any defective products or issue refunds.

Tags: AGFA plates, AGFA makes, printing process, small dots

The Meaning Of "Aperture" In Cameras

The aperture diaphragm is inside the lens.

Aperture is one of two exposure controls in a film or digital camera. Along with shutter speed, the aperture setting determines how much light enters the camera to create an image. The amount of control you have over aperture depends on your type of camera. Different aperture settings can also greatly affect the visual outcome of your photograph in terms of its focus.

Physical Description

The aperture is a diaphragm inside your camera lens. With an older analog film camera, you can control the size of the diaphragm opening by turning an aperture ring located at the base of the lens. Newer cameras offer a digital display panel from which you choose aperture numbers to set the size of the opening. When you press the shutter release button, the diaphragm opens to the specified size you have chosen.

The Term F-Stop

Aperture numbers are also called "f-stop" numbers. They are written with an "f" followed by a slash, such as "f/4." Standard f-stop numbers for film cameras include f/2, f/2.8, f/4, f/5.6, f/8, f/11, f/16, f/22 and f/32. These numbers may vary with a digital camera depending on the size of its sensor. The higher the f-stop number, the less light enters the camera. For example, an f-stop setting of f/8 lets in half the amount of light as f/5.6 but double the amount of light as f/11.

Image Effects

A higher aperture number brings more of the composition, from foreground to background, into sharp focus. Choosing a lower aperture number narrows the depth of field in your image, creating blur in planes other than the one you have focused on. Some lenses come with a depth-of-field scale that allows you to determine which parts of your image will be sharp or blurry based on your chosen aperture.

Relationship to Shutter Speed

While aperture controls the amount of light you can let into the camera, shutter speed controls the amount of time that light enters the camera. The two controls have a reciprocal relationship. When you choose a very fast shutter speed to freeze motion in your image, you likely will have to choose a very wide aperture to compensate and make a proper exposure. Your light meter serves as a guide to how much exposure you will need for a given lighting situation, including determine your aperture options.

Aperture and Camera Types

Professional cameras, including single-lens reflex cameras (SLRs), twin-lens reflexes, large formats and most rangefinders allow you to choose your aperture setting. Typical point-and-shoot film cameras have a fixed aperture that attempts to bring most of the image into focus. This lack of control creates a simpler camera but can cause blurring due to the resulting slower shutter speed needed in low lighting. Some digital point-and-shoots allow you to choose your aperture.

Tags: shutter speed, amount light, enters camera, light enters, light enters camera, your aperture, your image

Nikon Camera History

In 1917, three leading optical manufacturers in Japan merged to form Nippon Kogaku K.K., the early name of the Nikon Corporation. The company released small cameras known as Nikon I in 1948. Lenses with the Nikkor name evolved into one of the most comprehensive lines of interchangeable lenses. Nikon cameras have journeyed into outer space with astronauts and received numerous international awards.

The 1940s to 1960s

The first Nikon camera was the Nikon I, a small camera followed by the Nikon M in 1949. The "New York Times" lauded the quality of Nikon cameras and lenses in 1952. The Nikkor Club formed to encourage a photography culture. In 1953, the first service center opened in Japan. From 1957 to 1959, the new models include the Nikon 20, the S3 and the S4.

In the 1960s, production of 8mm cinecameras included the Nikkorex 8, Nokon Zoom 8, Nikkorex 8F, Nikon Super Zoom 8 and Nikon 8x Super Zoom. The United States National Aeronautics and Space Administration, or NASA, used the Nikon Photomic FTN for the Apollo 15 mission in 1971. This camera design allowed astronauts to operate with gloves on. This model included the through-the-lens center-weighted exposure meter.

Single-lens Reflex Cameras

The Nikon F, launched in 1959, featured flexibility with interchangeable lenses, viewfinders and focusing screen. This single-lens reflex, or SLR, model proved popular with professional photographers and photojournalists. In 1971, the Nikon F2 set a standard for professional photography.

Industrial designer Girogetto Giugiaro designed the F3 launched in 1980. This model included a horizontal travel shutter. The F4 produced in 1988 featured a vertical travel shutter and a 1/250-second synchronization speed for flash photography. The F5 in 1996 included upgraded autofocus, exposure metering and motor drive.

Nikon COOLPIX Series

In 1997, Nikon launched the Nikon COOLPIX, a digital point-and-shoot camera or non-SLR. Early models in the 1xx series featured 0.3 megapixels and a fixed zoom. In 2010, the Nikon COOLPIX S8000 won the Design for Asia (DFA) Merit Recognition. The S8000 features a pixel count of 14.2 million pixels and a 10x optical zoom.

Generations of Digital SLRs

Nikon's first generation of digital SLRs produced from 1999 to 2008 included limited options for saturation and white balance. Models included D1, D2 series, D40, D40x, D50, D70-, D70s, D80, D100 and D200.

Nikon's second generation of digital SLRs first introduced in 2007 included D3, D300, D700 and D90. These models offered improved image quality and a 3-inch liquid crystal display screen. In 2009, the Nikon D3s featured 12 megapixels, live view, video, sensor cleaner and ISO ratings up to ISO 102,000. In 2010, the Nikon D7000 featured 16 megapixels, six frames per second, two Secure Digital slots, two types of auto white balance and movies.

In 2010, the Nikon D3100 won the iF Product Design Award sponsored by International Forum Design GmbH of Germany. This entry-level camera features high-definition images, recording of full HD movies and simple operation.

Tags: 2010 Nikon, featured megapixels, Nikon COOLPIX, digital SLRs, generation digital

Troubleshoot A Nikon

Nikon has produced hundreds of camera models over the past few decades, ranging from the simplest digital point-and-shoot to high-end, professional SLR film and digital (DSLR) cameras. Each Nikon camera comes with a user guide, and most of the newer user guides include a troubleshooting section with camera-specific issues and fixes. Troubleshooting digital point-and-shoot cameras requires different methods than troubleshooting DSLR cameras with changeable lenses.

Instructions

Spots on the Image on a Point-and-Shoot Digital

1. Turn off the flash. If the photo you are taking appears on the LCD screen with big, discolored spots, the flash is picking up and lighting up particles in the air that aren't visible to the naked eye. Disabling the flash is the first step to getting rid of these spots.

2. Use a longer exposure mode. Most Nikon point-and-shoot cameras have scene modes for low light shooting that don't need or use the flash. Put the camera on a tripod and set the shutter speed for a longer time (1 second or longer). For cameras without shutter speed control. try adjusting the ISO to a lower number and using the self timer to take the shot, which will assure good light and less blur.

3. Relocate. Some settings just don't work for point-and-shoot photography. If the camera decides the flash is required and having the flash off makes the shots too dark or blurry, you may have to move. Dust and moisture in the air can be caught by the flash and result in poor shots.

Black Spots on Photos with DSLR Cameras

4. Change lenses in clean environments. Most spots that appear on photos are small dust particles that are caught on either the lens of the image sensor, a result of changing the lens in a dusty environment. If you can't find a safe environment, change lens with the camera body pointing down so gravity is on your side. Always check the rear element of the lens before connecting it to the camera.

5. Remove dust and particles from the filter. Depending on the model of Nikon DSLR camera, this process goes a little differently. Newer models have an auto-cleaning program that can be accessed through the menu.

6. Clean the low-pass filter, a protective covering over the camera's sensor. There are different ways to do this. Nikon advises plugging the camera into AC power, but having a full battery will work just as well. Access the menu and enable cleaning mode (called "Lock Mirror Up" on some older models and "Clean Now" or newer models). This will cause the camera's mirror to stay up (shutter open) so you can access the low-pass filter and sensor. Hold the camera upright with the lens off and examine the sensor. You should be able to see the dust or dirt. Use an air blower to remove the dirt. If the air blower doesn't remove the dirt, you can use sensor wipes or a liquid cleaner than can be purchased at any camera store. Use specialty products and not common household items like facial tissue!

Tags: digital point-and-shoot, dirt blower, DSLR cameras, dust particles, low-pass filter, particles that

A Backdrop To Your Photo

Changing the backdrop gives a photo a new look.

You can change a photo's backdrop either on the computer or by hand to create a unique 3-D look. Changing the backdrop on the computer will give you the ability to print your photo with the new backdrop many times. Creating a 3-D photo with a new backdrop can be used for educational purposes or as a do-it-yourself craft. Both can be easy to do with a bit of patience and imagination.

Instructions

Computer Edited Photo With Backdrop

1. Open your photo editing software.

2. Click the "File" tab; select "New." Choose the photo workspace size. A new workspace will appear.

3. Click the "Insert" tab; select "Import." Choose "Add Image." A pop-up will appear. Select your file.

4. Resize the photo by dragging the picture guidelines bigger or smaller using the mouse.

5. Cut the current backdrop or white space from your photo. Select the "Cut" tool to cut around the picture. Do not cut too close to the picture. Leave some space outside the photo to create an outline.

6. Click your "Eraser" tool. Choose the eraser size. Use the eraser to erase any of the remaining outline. Change the eraser size to a smaller eraser to get as close to the picture as possible.

7. Save your file by clicking on the "File" tab and selecting "Save As." A pop-up will appear. Give your file a name.

8. Import the backdrop image. Click on the "File" tab. Select "Import." A pop-up will appear. Choose your file.

9. Resize the backdrop image to fit the photo. Drag the backdrop guidelines bigger or smaller using the mouse.

10. Click the "Edit" tab. Select "Send Backward" to set the backdrop image behind the photo.

11. Adjust the photo and backdrop as needed.

12. Save the file after the adjustments are completed. Click the "File" tab. Select "Save As." Save the photo with the backdrop under a different name to preserve the edits you have made.

Cut and Paste 3-D Photo With Backdrop Method

13. Cut around the outline of the photo using the scissors.

14. Trace around the cut photo onto the poster board. Trace around the cut photo onto the foam core board to create a rough outline.

15. Cut the poster board along the outline using scissors. Cut the rough outline of the foam core board using scissors.

16. Glue the back of the photo onto the poster board. Cut the poster board to fit the photo outline. Glue the poster board with the photo onto the rough outline of the foam core board. The foam core board does not need to fit the poster board. It can be smaller. This is just used to create a 3-D effect.

17.Add the backdrop to the 3-D photo by gluing the photo to the chosen backdrop. Let the photo and backdrop dry.

Tags: poster board, core board, foam core, foam core board, photo onto

Download New Maps On A Garmin Nuvi 350

The Garmin Nuvi 350 is a portable GPS unit from the Nuvi line, which includes digital entertainment options. The Nuvi 350 comes preloaded with maps that you can view in both 2-D and 3-D imaging. However, you will want to occasionally load new maps on a Garmin Nuvi 350 as a way to keep navigational and point of interest information up to date.

Instructions

1. Go to the Nuvi 350 product page on the Garmin website (see Resources). Although the Nuvi 350 is a discontinued product, the site still offers support, including map updates.

2. Click on the "Software" option found on the Nuvi 350 product page. You will then be instructed to download the WebUpdater in order to access up-to-date map information for the GPS unit.

3. Download the appropriate WebUpdater version for your Garmin Nuvi 350. There are both Windows and Mac versions available for the software. You will have to save and open an executable file to your computer in order to install the software. Once downloading is complete, launch the program.

4. Connect the Nuvi 350 to your computer using the included USB cable. Once you have connected the device, the WebUpdater will scan the unit to determine if map updates are available. It will also check for new drivers that can be updated.

5. Select "OK" to download the latest map software onto the Nuvi 350 after it has scanned the device. A wizard will pop up on the screen in order for you to track the progress of the download.

6. Wait until instructed by the Garmin WebUpdater to disconnect the Garmin Nuvi 350. If you disconnect too early, the new maps will not be uploaded onto the GPS.

Tags: Garmin Nuvi, Nuvi product, Nuvi product page, product page, your computer

The History Of Goniometers

Goniometer is an instrument that measures angles and allows for objects to be rotated to a particular angular position. In 1669, Niels Stensen identified a very important characteristic of crystals which stated that the interplanar angles of the quartz crystals are constant. This characteristic was later determined to hold for all crystals (not just quartz), according to Virtual Museum of History of Mineralogy (mineralogy.be), and formalized into Steno's Law by Jean Baptist Louis de Rome de l'Isle in the mid-1700's.

Crystal

Early History

In 1780, Arnould Carrangeot developed a primitive instrument to measure angles between the faces of the crystals during the process of making models of crystals for l'Isle's collection. This instrument was the first of its kind and came to be known as a contact or an application goniometer. It consisted of two sections connected at the joint, according to mineralogy.be. The two sections, or limbs, were applied to adjacent crystal faces and the angle between them was measured. The approximate accuracy of this primitive goniometer was around 15 minutes.

Optical Goniometer

In 1809, William Hyde Wollaston, an English chemist, invented the optical goniometer. This type of goniometer uses light reflection. The crystal is attached on a rotatable horizontal axis which is connected to a graduated (divided) circle, according to mineralogy.be. When the circle rotates, the second surface reflects the light ray in the same direction and the angle between the faces is determined by the difference between the reading of the graduated circle.

Features

The optical goniometer has an accuracy of about 5 degrees. Soon after, a mirror was added to this type of goniometer in order to improve the positioning of the light reflection. This feature improved accuracy from 5 minutes to 1 minute.

Vertical and Horizontal Goniometers

Vertical circle goniometers were introduced in 1843 by Eilhard Mitscherlich. This name comes from the fact that it is a high precision goniometer with a vertical circle and a telescope attached to its base, according to mineralogy.be. Horizontal circle goniometers were introduced earlier in 1839 by Jacques Babinet and they consisted of two attached telescopes. They had an accuracy of 30 seconds and were actually an improvement on the vertical goniometer.

Modern Goniometers

A modern goniometer was first invented by W.H. Miller in 1874 and it consisted of two circles, instead of one. Two circles allowed for further measurements without the remounting of the crystal, according to mineralogy.be. Further developments included the three-circle instrument in the late 1800's, but these were used rarely because they were too expensive and complicated to adjust. In fact, all goniometers fell out of fashion soon after 1900 as a result of X-ray diffraction. Most goniometers are now considered collector's items and are typically only found in museums and special collections.

Tags: according mineralogy, angle between, between faces, circle goniometers, circle goniometers were

Beginner'S Camera Buying Guide

Depending on whether you like film or digital cameras, whether you want to take snapshots or think you may one day be a photographer, you can make an informed decision about which camera to buy if you know what features to look for in a camera.

Digital Vs. Film

Film cameras are still available on the market, but digital cameras are more popular because they're easier to operate and it's easier to print and share photos from a digital camera. However, if you would prefer a film camera to a digital camera, you should know that your options are not limited. There are beginner SLR film cameras on the market, as well as point and shoot 35 mm film cameras.

Compact Cameras

Compact cameras are more commonly known as point-and-shoot cameras because they come with full auto mode, which does all the focusing and decision-making for you, so all you have to do is point the camera at your subject and push the shutter release button. Compact cameras are smart choices for people who just want to take photographs for their own enjoyment or to send to their friends and family because they are generally less expensive and easier to learn use than SLR cameras.

When you're looking for a compact camera, hold each one in your hand so that you can tell if it's comfortable and to see if you can comfortably push the menu buttons and see everything on the display screen, if it has one.

Some extra features that many compact cameras have to make snapshots easy include a zoom lens, red-eye reduction, optical and mechanical image stabilization and face detection. If you're a budget-conscious buyer, don't worry about how many megapixels a camera has; most cameras on the market today have sufficient megapixels to make up to an 8-by-10 inch print. More megapixels are costly, and you probably don't need them if you're just beginning to learn take photographs.

If you think you may want to learn more about photography some day but are not yet ready to buy an SLR camera, look for a compact camera with some manual options, such as aperture priority or shutter priority, so that you can experiment with the settings.

SLR and dSLR Cameras

SLR and digital SLR (dSLR) cameras generally produce higher quality photos than compact cameras, offer the option of changing lenses, and have many more features available. If you're a beginner, you should know that some newer dSLR cameras on the market are made for beginners, offering the image quality of an SLR with the ease of use of a compact camera. If you want a beginner's dSLR, look for models that have full auto modes (or point-and-shoot modes) as well as manual modes.

If you are ready to buy a dSLR, look for at least 10 megapixels, interchangeable lenses (dSLR cameras can sometimes accept SLR lenses), shooting in JPEG and RAW modes, a USB 2.0 interface, and a choice of priority, metering modes, bracketing, different flash modes and manual focusing options.

Tags: because they, cameras market, compact camera, cameras more, compact cameras

Increase Cell Phone Signal Strength

Cell phones have changed the way the world communicates. The convenience of being able to contact family and friends just about anywhere on the globe is something no one thought of until the end of the twentieth century. These little devices have brought the world together and not having good signal reception is very common and extremely frustrating. Increasing cell phone reception is very important and is easy to do; here's how.

Instructions

1. Move the cell phone to another location where the reception is better. Walls, metal roofing and other forms of signal degradation vary from location to location. Move around to find the greatest signal strength.

2. Place a cell phone booster to the inside of the battery compartment. These devices serve as extra antennae for the cell phone and frequently prevent dropped signals. Buy these at any cell phone dealer or even retail stores such as Wal-Mart or K-Mart.

3. Use a cell phone signal repeater within the home to increase cell phone signal strength. These are available at cell phone stores, electronic retailers and at online retailers. These devices increase the power signature throughout the home to reduce the effect that walls and other electronic components have on cell phone signals.

4. Travel to an area where hills, mountains and even large bodies of water affect the cell phone strength. Cell phone signals work best when there is a clear line of sight between the handset and a cell phone signal tower. Water reflects the signal away from such towers and mountains and hills obstruct the reception.

Tags: cell phone, cell phone signal, phone signal, cell phone, phone signals

Build Electronic Kits

Building electronic kits involves installing electronic components on a circuit board.

Building electronic kits can be a rewarding and educational hobby. Following a few simple steps will ensure an enjoyable and successful kit building experience. To build a kit, you'll need to have a work space with the proper tools at hand. Also, selecting a kit with a difficulty level matched to your skill level will help prevent frustration and give you a better chance of completing the job.

Instructions

1. Select a kit matching your skill level. Electronic kits are often grouped by skill level. Start with beginning kits and build several before moving on to intermediate kits. By completing a few kits at each skill level before advancing to the next skill level, you'll build confidence and experience.

2. Study the instructions. Read through the instructions at least twice before starting to build. Mentally step through the instructions to make sure you understand each step. Also, as you step through the instructions, familiarize yourself with the components and make sure that your kit contains all of the required components.

3. Study the instructions. Read through the instructions at least twice before starting to build. Mentally step through the instructions to make sure you understand each step. Also, as you step through the instructions, familiarize yourself with the components and make sure that your kit contains all of the required parts.

4. Gather the necessary tools. Your kit instructions will likely include a list of tools required to build your kit. Make sure that you have all of the tools you'll need on hand before you begin building.

5. Prepare your workspace. Set up your workspace in an area where you can work comfortably and where your tools and building activities will not damage anything valuable or hurt people or pets. Some kits require soldering, and a hot soldering iron or dripping solder can cause burns and ruin furniture and carpets. Working on a project mat or board can help prevent damage to furniture.

6. Build your kit. Follow the instructions carefully as you complete each step in the building process. Once you've completed a step, go back and double check your work. Examine your solder connections or other types of connections to make sure you have a good connection between components.

7. Test the assembled kit. If your kit has test points during construction, then follow the instruction to test portions of the kit according to the instructions. Otherwise, once completed, double check your connections and test the completed project. Pay close attention to the circuit board when you first apply power. If you see, smell or hear anything unusual such as smoke or sparking sounds, remove power immediately and check the circuit.

Tags: through instructions, skill level, make sure, step through, step through instructions, each step

Headsets That Work With Nortel Networks Phones

Nortel was founded in 1898 as Northern Electric and Manufacturing. In addition to IP phones and clients, Nortel offers data networking, optical and wireless networks. With the explosion of cellular phone use, hands-free headsets have become necessary for those who drive while using a telephone or otherwise want their hands to be available for other uses. Several international companies offer equipment that is certified as compatible with Nortel phones.

Plantronics

Among the Plantronic headset models that work with the Nortel phone are the Voyager 510 Bluetooth and Plantonics SupraPlus P25IN. Both models have been awarded the Nortel compatible product designation. These headsets have been tested with various Nortel desktop digital and IP phones for interoperability. Plantronics is a recognized Nortel developer partner.

Jabra GN Netcom

GN Netcom is a developer of performance monitoring for the telecommunication industry. GN Netcom is a member of the Nortel developer program. As such, Nortel has awarded its Jabra line of headsets a certificate of compatibility. Several wireless and cordless versions of Jabra headsets work with Nortel phones. Electronic hookswitch, which can be used with the Nortel IP Phone 1100 Series, is a technology that provides remote control of all functions of the headset.

Altesys

The Altesys Opera is a corded headset that is available as monaural (one channel or signal) or binaural (stereo) model. This headset is compatible with all Nortel Networks IP phones. The Altesys Opera Light can be used with digital telephones through the use of a headset cable down lead.

Tags: with Nortel, Altesys Opera, compatible with, compatible with Nortel, have been, headsets have

The Difference Between Type M And M+ Xd Cards

M+ XD cards work on the same products as M cards, only they're faster.

XD memory cards let you store data -- mainly digital pictures, and then transfer it between devices. There were two primary XD card types: M and M +. The XD card is now obsolete.

History

XD cards reached the market in 2002. They were developed by Fujifilm and Olympus as a means to store audio and visual data in portable media. The drawback to the XD cards was that they only worked in Fujifilm and Olympus products, unlike the SD card, which has more universal compatibility.

Type M Cards

Type M cards hit the market in 2005. They could store up to 2 gigabytes (GB) of audio or visual data, weighed 2 grams and had a NAND Flash-type memory.

Type M + Cards

The XD Type M+ cards had one major difference over the type M cards -- they could transfer data up to 1.5 times faster than the type M cards. Since they were developed later (2008), they also were compatible on some modes that the type M card was not. Physically, they were identical to the type M cards.

Tags: audio visual, audio visual data, Cards Type, Cards Type cards, Fujifilm Olympus, they were

Convert Camedia Camera To Infrared

You Can change a digital camera so that it can shoot infrared light.

All digital cameras are built to shoot the same visible wavelengths of light that the human eye sees. You can convert an Olympus Camedia camera so that it will be able to shoot the "invisible" infrared (IR) spectrum of light. You will have to open up the camera and remove a special filter that keeps the IR light from impacting on the camera's photo sensor. Opening the Camedia camera to remove the IR filter is a delicate repair that will void the camera's warranty. Do it only if you are determined to shoot IR pictures with your Camedia.

Instructions

1. Put the towel down on a table. Put the camera down on the towel. Open the battery compartment and remove the batteries. Close the battery compartment. Open the memory card slot and remove the memory card.

2. Put the camera face down on the towel. Use the Phillips jeweler's screwdriver to remove the screws from the back and the top and the bottom right side.

3. Insert the flat-edged jeweler's screwdriver into the seam between the back and the front parts of the camera. Wiggle the lat-edged screwdriver to loosen the back. Pull the back off.

4. Use the Phillips jeweler's screwdriver to remove the screw from below the LCD screen. Use your fingers to unplug the green ribbon cable from the LCD screen. Remove the LCD screen and place it down on the towel.

5. Use the Phillips jeweler's screwdriver to remove the three screws from around the circuit board on the left side. Carefully remove the circuit board and place it down on the towel.

6. Use the Phillips jeweler's screwdriver to remove the screws from the bracket holding the IR filter over the bluish-tinged glass lens. Remove the bracket. Remove the IR filter and put it down on the towel. Blow out the camera with the compressed air.

7. Put the sheet of clear acrylic on the towel. Put the IR filter on the acrylic sheet. Carefully cut around the IR filter with the utility knife. Put the IR filter away.

8. Place the cut piece of clear acrylic over the bluish-tinged glass lens. Place the bracket over the piece of clear acrylic and screw it down. Reassemble the circuit board. Reassemble the LCD screen. Reassemble the camera. Put the batteries and the memory card back into the camera.

Tags: down towel, jeweler screwdriver, jeweler screwdriver remove, Phillips jeweler, Phillips jeweler screwdriver, screwdriver remove

Scan Digital Channels

Scanning for digital channels on your TV is done by the remote.

Your TV will not get digital channels if you do not program the digital stations to your TV. You can program the digital channels by running a digital channel scan. The entire process is completed from your remote control and does not require any tools. This task only takes a couple of minutes to complete, and then you will be able to enjoy digital channels on your TV.

Instructions

1. Press the "Menu" button on your TV's remote control. Use the directional buttons to scroll to the "Channel" section of the menu. The directional buttons are usually labeled with arrows representing the direction of their function. Press the "Enter" button on the remote to move on to the "Channel" menu.

2. Use the direction buttons to navigate to the "Channel Scan" option on the "Channel" menu. Press the "Enter" button to select the Channel scan option and to be taken to the "Channel Scan" menu.

3. Use the directional buttons to navigate to the "Channel type" option on the "Channel scan" menu. You are then able to choose one of three options: "Analog," "Digital" or "All Channels." Choose either "Digital" or "All Channels" by highlighting the option and pressing "Enter." The TV then begins scanning for your digital channels. Wait for the scan to complete, then exit the menu and start surfing through your new channels.

Tags: digital channels, Digital Channels, directional buttons, buttons navigate, buttons navigate Channel

Use An Ati Tv Wonder Composite Input With Mce

If you have an ATi TV Wonder video card then you will be able to watch television, your camcorder and your VCR live on your computer. This is useful if you want to use your computer for all multimedia. Using the ATI Video Player software you can record with the Composite Input. Once you have recorded and saved from the composite then you can use the video in Windows Media Center Edition (MCE).

Instructions

1. Connect a device to the composite input on the back of your card.

2. Click "Start," then "All Programs." Click "ATI Multimedia," then "ATI Video Player."

3. Click "Capture" in the "Task Control Panel."

4. Click the middle icon in the bottom left, labeled "Composite." This is just next to the "Channel" taskbar. Click "Setup," then "Video" (if you want to change any settings, but this can be left as default).

5. Click "Capture Video." Click "OK."

6. Press "Play" on your connected device. Hit the space bar when you have finished recording.

7. Choose a save location and click "Save." Double-click this video to open it in Windows Media Center Edition.

Tags: Center Edition, Click Capture, Composite Input, Media Center, Media Center Edition, Video Player

How Take A Picture Using The Camera In My Laptop

You can snap a quick photo with your laptop's webcam.

Advances in digital photography haven't just effected the camera and mobile phone industries. Most laptop computers now come equipped with an integrated webcam. Taking a picture with your laptop's webcam is easy, and is a simple way to snap a photograph that is available immediately on your computer.

Instructions

1. Find or download webcam software. Webcam software can change depending on your computer's brand. Find the webcam software by using the Windows' built search function. Open the start menu and search for terms like "webcam" or "camera." If you can't find any webcam software on your computer, some popular free programs are Yewcam and ManyCam.

2. Ensure your webcam is enabled. Some notebook have webcam on/off switches, while others can be turned on and off using a combination of keys on the keyboard. In most cases you will find that one of the "F" keys across the top of your keyboard will have an image of a webcam. Hold the function key and the "F" key with the image of the webcam at the same time and this should enable your webcam. If you don't have this option, visit the manufacturer's website, which should certainly have instructions for enabling the camera.

3. Configure the camera settings. Webcam software may not be configured correctly the first time it's used. Once you get the program running, look in the File menu and around the interface to see if there are any settings you can change to improve the image. Some things you want to look for are "resolution," "contrast" and "brightness." There is no perfect setting; just choose the settings that are most appealing to you.

4. Verify where the software saves the photo. Before you take your photo, you'll want to make a test image so you know what the output will be like and where the program will save it. This will make it much easier when you go back to look for it later.

5. Take a photo. Usually there is a "capture" button, or something similar, overtly displayed on the program's interface.

Tags: webcam software, your computer, image webcam, laptop webcam, with your, with your laptop, your laptop

The Cons Of The Rfid Microchip

Radio Frequency Identification.

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) has been around for at least 50 years but has been a hot new technology for only the last five years. Basically, passive (no power supply) microchips called tags or labels are attached to merchandise, and then the tagged merchandise can be tracked with a hand-held "reader" that senses the tags using a radio frequency signal. This supply chain inventory tracking device has had a surprisingly negative impact due to some unpopular applications.

Early Adapter Problems

The first problems with RFID were felt by the businesses that bought into the technology. First there is the price. The readers are expensive and the tags can be prohibitively expensive when dealing with millions of articles. Also, the readers don't always work as advertised. A metal object touching the tag or a noisy radio frequency environment can severely reduce the effective range of the readers. These problems, coupled with the incompatible radio frequency standards of Europe, Japan, and the U.S., can make RFID use a real headache.

Privacy and Security Issues

The U.S. Army was an early adapter of RFID Technology. Then they realized that RFID tags made it easier for unauthorized agents to tell what was in crates and boxes that were in foreign ports. Prada and Swatch embedded RFID chips into products they sold to track customer activity, until protests and boycotts changed these polices. People didn't like tracking devices in the objects they carried. These and other episodes have given RFID technology a Big Brother aura that automatically turns some people off.

LoJack for People

By far the greatest objections arose when the RFID microchips were first implanted in people. Applied Data Solutions in Malvern, Pennsylvania, makes two different chips (Verichip and Digital Angel) that are marketed for human implantation. There is a good market for these chips with those in danger of kidnapping or who have a realistic fear of getting lost. The chips can be tracked by GPS. However, a lot of people now consider RFID the final step toward a Big Brother society. Some religious people consider RFID the mark of the beast and a sure sign of the final days before the Apocalypse.

Tags: consider RFID, Frequency Identification, people consider, people consider RFID, radio frequency, Radio Frequency Identification

Data Recovery In Dos

DOS (Disk Operating System) was Microsoft's only operating system before the release of Windows. It was also available as a part of Microsoft Windows up to Windows 98 and Windows ME. There are several reasons why you may need to use DOS to recover files, including a computer crash that only allows you to start your computer in DOS mode, or to try to recover a file that has been deleted from the Trash Can. In addition to the steps below, there are third party applications that may allow you to recover data in DOS.

Instructions

1. Open the DOS command prompt. If you are in Windows you can find it from the Start button, then Run, then click on "Command". If you are booting from DOS the command prompt will appear on your screen when the computer has finished booting up.

2. Direct DOS to the drive containing the file you wish to recover. In most cases this would be the C: Drive, so you would type "C:" and then hit Enter on your keyboard.

3. Type "C:\windows\undelete.exe" (without quotes) in the command prompt and hit Enter. If this does not work, your Undelete program may be located elsewhere on your computer. Browse through your directories to locate it, then return to Step 2.

4. Wait for the program to locate files it can recover for you.

5. Click "Yes" or "No" for each file that can be recovered. For each file you wish to recover, you will be prompted to supply a missing letter for the file name. Enter any letter you wish. It does not have to be the letter used originally.

Tags: command prompt, each file, file that, file wish, file wish recover, Windows Windows

Build An Infrared Light

LED infrared light bulbs can be used to make a simple infrared light.

Creating an infrared, or IR, light is an inexpensive and relatively simple project. IR lights can be used for night vision, thermography, heating and various other purposes. Making a freestanding IR light for use in science projects or home experiments gives you more freedom than using a traditional lamp with an IR bulb in it. With a few simple household tools and an LED infrared light bulb, you can create an IR lamp for less than $20.

Instructions

1. Purchase an infrared LED. These can be found at hardware or home stores. Keep the LED with you when looking for the other materials as you will need its electrical information.

2. Obtain a current-limiting resistor for the LED based on the LED's electrical specifications. Divide the LED's voltage by its amperes. The resistor's ohms should equal this number, which will be specified on the packaging.

3. Select a DC power supply with output voltage equal to the LED's operating voltage.

4. Mount the switch onto the perfboard by making a hole in the perfboard with your knife. Utilize the mounting kit that came with the switch on the perfboard.

5. Insert the LED into the perfboard. Place it far enough from the switch that it won't interfere with the switch, but close enough that wiring won't be a problem. Insert the resistor into the perfboard so that one lead of the resistor is next to the LED's anode. The cathode is on the LED's flat side, so the anode is on the opposite side. Solder the anode to the resistor lead. Solder the LED cathode lead to the switch.

6. Connect the negative supply of the DC power supply to the unconnected side of the switch with the wire. Connect the positive side to the unconnected resistor lead. Solder the connections to make it solid. Trim off any wire that remains in sight.

7. Plug in the power supply and turn on the switch. The IR light should turn on.

Tags: infrared light, power supply, into perfboard, lead Solder, resistor lead

Troubleshoot A Panasonic Tv With No Picture But Buzzing

At times, you might see a blank picture on your Panasonic TV and hear it produce a buzzing sound. A blank picture is commonly caused by a power issue; although, other causes should be considered. The built-in cooling fan might make an unusual sound on occasion; however, buzzing can also occur from a variety of different reasons. Follow a simple troubleshooting strategy, and soon, the picture will return and the buzzing will be a forgetful sound of the past.

Instructions

1. Turn the channel. If just one station is buzzing and display a blank picture, contact your cable or satellite TV provider and request a signal strength test be conducted.

2. Secure the antenna, external device and cable cord connections to the TV. Check that all of the power cords are plugged into working wall outlets.

3. Verify that the HDMI device settings are correct, if applicable. Press the "Menu" button on the remote control. Use the arrow buttons to make your selections and adjust the settings. Select "Setup." Press "OK." Select "Other Adjust." Select "Ctrl with HDMI." Select "On." Review your HDMI device's user's manual for instructions on set its audio setting to "Linear PCM."

4. Remove interference causing appliances and power tools to another room. Electric drills, hair dryers and vacuum cleaners are some examples.

5. Press the "SAP" Secondary Audio Program button on the remote control repeatedly and select "Stereo" when it is displayed.

6. Press the "Menu" button on the remote control. Select "Picture." Press the "OK" button. Select "Brightness" and increase the brightness level. Press the "Exit" button.

Tags: blank picture, button remote, button remote control, remote control, HDMI device, Menu button, Menu button remote

Windows Won'T Detect Any 8gb Sd Card

An 8 GB SDHC card may not work on older card readers.

According to the Secure Digital (SD) Card Association website, the "small, postage stamp-sized memory cards are the most popular storage cards in the world." They come in many different storage capacities, but only cards 2GB or smaller are truly SD cards. Cards 4GB and higher are Secure Digital High Capacity (SDHC) cards; as such, your 8GB SD card is actually SDHC and may require a free download to be used on your Windows computer.

Instructions

1. Check the user manual of your computer or SD card reader to see if it can read SDHC cards. If it doesn't state that it's SDHC-compatible, download the latest card reader drivers from the Microsoft website.

2. Eject the SD card from the reader and examine the contacts. If you see any markings or debris, clean it with a lint-free cloth and reinsert it into the reader, pushing until you hear a click.

3. Click the Windows "Start" button and click "Computer" or "My Computer" and look for your 8GB SD card under "Devices With Removable Storage." If you don't see it, eject the card and try reinserting it.

4. Format the card by entering it into another computer or any device that accepts SDHC cards. If you insert it into another computer, click the Windows "Start" button and click "Computer" or "My Computer." Right-click your SD card under "Devices With Removable Storage" and select "Format." Select "FAT32" and click "Start." Wait for the format to finish, then eject the card and reinsert it into your computer.

If you insert it into another device, look for the "Card" or "Memory" option in the main menu and click "Format." When the format is finished, eject the card and reinsert it into your computer.

Tags: eject card, into another, reinsert into, SDHC cards, your card

Connect A Dvr To A Computer

Connecting a Digital Video Recorder to a computer requires a cable equipped with HDMI (High Definition Media Interface) cables on both ends, or an HDMI connector on one end and RCA-type audio/video jacks or a USB connector on the other end, depending on the available connection pots on the DVR. Regardless of the cable you use, the connection is fast and you'll be recording to the DVR or uploading content to the computer in a few minutes.

Instructions

1. Attach an audio/video cable to the back of the DVR. If using an HDMI cable, simply align the prongs from the cable plug with the jack on the DVR and attach securely. If using RCA-type plugs, insert the red and white audio plugs into the red and white audio jacks (right and left, respectively) on the back of the DVR.

2. Attach the other end of the cable to the computer using an HDMI connector or USB port.

3. Power up the equipment and wait for the computer to display a "found new hardware" message, then follow the prompts to launch your software for downloading DVR recordings to the computer, or uploading data from the computer hard drive to the DVR.

Tags: audio video, HDMI connector, using HDMI, white audio

Get Free Ringtones For A Motorola Razor

There are a variety of websites that offer free ringtones for cell phone customers. Certain cell phones, however, have been known to either reject or distort the audio files when they are sent to the phone. Ringtones sent to the Motorola RAZR have been known to be either garbled or completely inaudible. The individuals who run Myxer, a website with many free ringtones, have come up with a fix to this problem. Use these tips to get free working ringtones for a Motorola RAZR.

Instructions

1. Go to the Myxer "Sign Up" page (see "Resources" below).

2. Fill out the required "Account Information" and "Profile Information" and then click "Create Account." Once you do, you will sent a verification email. Click on the link that is located in that email to finish making your Myxer account.

3. Log into your Myxer account and click the "Account" link.

4. Click the "Phone Preferences" link located underneath the "Account Management" heading.

5. Change the format of the ringtones that will be sent to your Motorola RAZR. To do this, click on the drop box found to the right of the "Ringtone Format" heading. Choose "AAC" as this is the format that is necessary for the Motorola RAZR.

6. Click the "Change" tab at the bottom of the page to apply the change to your account.

7. Type in the name of a artist or song in the text box located in the top right corner of the screen. You will then be able to find ringtones.

8. Click on the free ringtone. Once you do, you can listen to the ringtone to decide if you want to send it to your Motorola RAZR. If you like the ringtone, click "Send to Phone" and the ringtone will be sent to the Motorola RAZR by way of a text message. Open that message to save the ringtone to your RAZR.

Tags: Motorola RAZR, will sent, been known, been known either, free ringtones

Timex T463 Instructions

The Timex T463 is a clock radio that allows you to hear your local weather report. It has an analog tuner with a seven preset memory functions. You can listen to the radio, the weather or nature sounds. The T463 features a calendar and a triple alarm function. The unit runs on AC/DC power. If your home loses power, the T463 runs on five "AA" backup batteries.

Instructions

Set the Clock and Calendar

1. Lift the cover on top of the clock radio to reveal the set buttons.

2. Press and hold the "Time Set" button until the clock digits begin flashing.

3. Press and hold either the forward arrow or reverse arrow button to rapidly advance the time. When you are close to the current time, release the button and press it repeatedly to slowly advance the numbers until you arrive at the correct value. Press the "Time Set" button to return to display mode.

4. Press and hold the "Cal Set" button until the display begins flashing.

5. Press the forward arrow button to set the month and press the reverse arrow button to set the date. Press the "7.5.2" button repeatedly until the correct day of the week flashes on the display. Press the "Cal Set" button to return to the display mode.

Set the Alarm

6. Press the "Alarm Set" button on the front of the clock radio. You can set up to three alarms. Each time you press the "Alarm Set" button, you cycle to the next alarm. If you press the button a fourth time, the clock radio returns to display mode.

7. Open the lid on top of the clock radio. Press the forward or reverse arrow button to set the alarm time.

8. Press the "7.5.2" button repeatedly until the amount of days you would like the alarm to be set appears on the display. "7" means the alarm will sound daily, "5" means the alarm will sound Monday through Friday and "2" means the alarm will sound on Saturday and Sunday.

9. Press "Alarm Set" until the clock beeps and returns to the normal display mode. Press any or all three of the "Radio," "Weather" or "Sound" buttons on the front of the clock radio to select the sound you want to wake to.

Listening Options

10. Open the clock radio lid and press the "Radio On" button to turn the radio on. Slide the band on the right side of the unit to either "FM" or "AM." Slide the tuner on the right side of the unit to select a radio station. Press the "Off/Reset" button to turn the radio off.

11. Lift the lid on top of the clock radio and press the "Sound On" button to listen to nature sounds. Press one of the sound buttons on the front of the unit to choose your desired sound: "Ocean," "Forest," "Brook" or "Wind." Press the "Off/Reset" button to turn the sound off.

12. Lift the lid and press the "Instant Weather On" button to listen to the weather. Set the weather channel on the left side of the unit to the position that has the best reception. Press the "Off/Reset" button to turn the weather off.

Tags: clock radio, arrow button, button turn, display mode, alarm will

Install A Wireless Home Security Camera

Home security systems enjoy increasing popularity every year. Follow these instructions to install a wireless security camera in your home.

Instructions

1. Decide which room to install the camera in.

2. Choose the best angle for the camera.

3. Decide how high off the floor you want to place the camera.

4. Hold the mounting bracket in place and use a pencil to mark the screw holes. Use a stud finder from a home improvement store to find an appropriate spot for mounting if the screws must be in a stud.

5. If you don't need to screw into a stud, use a drywall anchor bolt to hold the mounting bracket in place.

6. Select a drill bit that is slightly smaller than the screws you will use to mount the bracket.

7. Drill a hole into the stud or insert the drywall anchor bolt into the drywall.

8. Hold the mounting bracket in place and insert the screws into the predrilled holes or the drywall anchor bolt.

9. Place the camera on the mounting bracket.

10. Plug the camera into the outlet or insert batteries.

11. Follow the manufacturer's directions to synchronize the camera to the base station.

Tags: mounting bracket, anchor bolt, bracket place, drywall anchor, drywall anchor bolt, mounting bracket place, into stud

Connect A Dvd Recorder To A Dvd Player

Connecting a DVD recorder to a DVD player is a fast and efficient method for copying and burning a large number of DVDs at one time. As a stand-alone component, a DVD recorder must first copy the DVD and store the digital information temporarily to a hard drive. A blank, recordable disc is then placed in the DVD recorder for burning the program. By connecting a DVD player to a DVD recorder, you eliminate this two-step process. The DVD is copied directly during playback from one component.

Instructions

1. Disconnect both components from the power supply.

2. Plug audio/video cables into the output jacks of the DVD player by connecting the white audio cable to the white (left) output jack of the component, the red audio cable to the red (right) output jack, and the yellow video cable to the video output jack.

3. Connect the DVD recorder by plugging the white cable into the white (left) input jack on the back of the recorder, the red cable into the red (right) input jack, and the yellow video cable into the video input jack.

4. Connect the two components using an S-video cable if both components are equipped with an S-video jack.

5. Turn on the power.

6. Place the DVD to be copied in the DVD player and a blank, recordable disc in the DVD recorder.

7. Activate the playback on the DVD player and the record function on the DVD recorder.

Tags: cable into, input jack, output jack, yellow video cable, audio cable, blank recordable

Send A Message Straight To Voicemail

Sometimes phone calls come in at inconvenient times, such as during a movie or an appointment. On the other hand, you don't want to miss an important call. If your phone has voicemail, it can answer your calls for you and the caller can leave a message for you to call him back. There are a few different ways to make sure your incoming calls go directly to voicemail.

Instructions

1. Power your phone off. When a phone is turned off, any incoming calls go straight to voicemail.

2. Turn off the antenna by turning on flight mode. Some phones call this airplane mode instead. A smartphone has the capability of turning off the cellular antenna while keeping the rest of the phone on so it can be used as a PDA on planes. Any calls received while flight mode is active go directly to voicemail.

3. Set up contacts to divert directly to voicemail. Check the contact information in your cell phone for a way to enable this function if your phone supports it. This method requires the person calling you not have caller ID blocked.

4. Contact your cellular provider. Some carriers allow you to set a direct-to-voicemail number list in their system by dialing a specific code.

Tags: directly voicemail, your phone, flight mode, incoming calls

Get Directv Satellite Tv Adult Programming

DirecTV offers various adult programs. Remember that this option is meant only for adults. Read the steps below to subscribe to the service.

Instructions

1. Use the toll-free number 1-888-777-2454 to call DirecTV customer service and inquire about DirecTV adult programming service.

2. If you are comfortable browsing the Internet, go to the company's web site to find detailed information about DirecTV adult programming (see link below).

3. On the DirecTV home page, locate the "Packages & Programming" option of the menu located to the left of the screen.

4. Select the "Pay Per View" option from the resulting sub-menu.

5. You will reach a page listing several options under Pay Per View in the menu. These options are also displayed on the Web page. Click "Adult Pay Per View" either in the menu or on the Web page to access detailed information.

6. The service gives viewers the facility of watching up to six adult channels: The Hot Network, Ten, Ten Clips, Spice Wild, Hustler TV and Playboy TV. Of these, Playboy TV can also be accessed on a monthly basis.

Tags: about DirecTV, about DirecTV adult, adult programming, detailed information, DirecTV adult, DirecTV adult programming

Find Out If My Tracfone Will Work In Other Areas

TracFone is a company based in Miami, Florida, that sells prepaid cell phones. These cell phones give people mobile connectivity, but like all cell phones, how well you can make and receive calls depends on the network and where you're located in the network. As such, if you're going outside your regular hometown and you want to make sure that your phone will still work, then there are some simple things you can do to find out.

Instructions

1. Figure out what other areas you want to check on. If you're going on a business trip to Duluth, for instance, you might want to look on a map to check the surrounding areas.

2. Contact a TracFone representative either by going to a local store, calling an office or going to the TracFone homepage listed in Resources.

3. Ask if the area you need to know about is covered by the TracFone network and if you should be able to make and receive calls while you're there. Company representatives will have access to the most updated records on the network, so they should know whether or not the phone will work.

Tags: cell phones, make receive, make receive calls, phone will, receive calls

Polaroid Transfer Techniques

Though largely replaced by digital technology, instant photography is still popular with hobbyists.

Polaroid transfer refers to a printmaking technique that uses Polaroid instant photographic film. Other instant films, such as Fujifilm, also work for this type of printmaking, but may produce slightly different results. Polaroid transfers let you put an instant camera image on fabric, glasses and other dishware, artist's papers and a wide range of other surfaces.

Color Emulsion Transfer

Polaroid emulsion transfers move not just the image, but the entire film emulsion from the photograph to another surface. This method involves soaking a developed Polaroid print in water heated to 160 degrees Fahrenheit, cooling it in cold water, then peeling the photo material off the back of the emulsion. What remains is a thin, filmlike substance containing the image. This can be placed on soaked watercolor paper or another surface, and manipulated with the fingers or a paintbrush. To seal the emulsion to the surface, press it with a wet printer's roller, starting from the center and moving toward the edges. Allow the transfer to air dry. Press flat objects using a warm press set to no more than 180 degrees Fahrenheit.

Black and White Emulsion Transfer

This process works much like a color emulsion transfer, but the film behaves differently. Black and white Polaroid film requires water that is boiling, rather than merely hot. The emulsion will start to peel after being submerged in the water for about two minutes. Instead of mounting the emulsion on soaked paper or fabric, you must place it on a surface coated with wet acrylic gel medium. The medium allows the emulsion to stick to the object. The finished transfer does not need to be heated.

Image Transfer

Image transfers move only the photographic image, not the emulsion. They require a wet substrate, usually watercolor paper, and a very fresh Polaroid photograph. Older photos have cured completely, preventing the image from lifting properly. Wear gloves while making image transfers to prevent your skin from reacting to the chemicals in the photograph. After 10 to 30 seconds, break the seal between the layers of the photograph and discard the positive. Place the negative face down on the wet substrate without sliding it. Use a printer's roller to gently press the dye from the negative into the paper. Wait two minutes, then peel off the negative. Use a paper towel to blot up any leftover chemicals and allow the print to air dry. Press the finished transfer as with a color emulsion.

Film Availability

Polaroid, the first company to create instant cameras and film, stopped producing cameras in 2007 and film in 2008. Existing film supplies can be difficult to obtain. As of November 2011, Fujifilm and the Impossible Project still provide instant film for transfers. Adobe Photoshop users can also simulate Polaroid transfer effects using that program's artistic filters.

Tags: another surface, degrees Fahrenheit, Emulsion Transfer, finished transfer, printer roller, transfers move, watercolor paper

Not Get Ripped Off By A Tv Repairman

When your TV begins malfunctioning, your first inclination may be to look into getting a new one. Getting it repaired, though, is much less expensive. Unfortunately, many TV repair places use these opportunities as a way to rip off consumers. Since you may not know much about the inside of your TV or about TV repair in general, a repair place may try to find ways to take advantage of you. Don't let them by following these tips.

Instructions

1. Find the lowest service fee for inspecting your TV in your area. Most places will charge somewhere between $50 to $80 just to inspect your TV to find what is wrong. Call at least three local TV repair stores to get the best price possible.

2. Make sure the repairman looks at your TV carefully and ask him to list everything that is wrong with your TV right away. Some repairmen will magically find "other problems" with the set once they have the TV in their possession. Have the repairman write down exactly what is wrong with your set and what needs to be done for your set to be fixed.

3. Get an exact quote for repair costs as well as a guarantee that the price won't go up. Once you get this quote and you know exactly what is wrong with the set, call around to a few other local TV repair stores to see if you can get a better price. Since you now know exactly what is wrong with the set, there shouldn't be any price increases from here on. If the repairman cannot guarantee you this, move on to another store that will.

4. Learn how long repairs on your TV should take and get the repair place to stick to that timetable. Have them make a guarantee that you will receive a discount on repair services if your set is not returned when you are told it will be. With a little bit of arguing and threatening to take your business elsewhere, the repair place should be willing to give you this guarantee.

5. Get a warranty on both the new parts as well as the repairs. Some repair places will try to rip you off by either using faulty parts or doing a "less-than-great" job on the actual TV repairs. This way, your TV will break down again within 3 to 6 months, causing you to come back for more repairs. If you don't get at least a 90-day warranty on the repairs and parts, take your business elsewhere.

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Use An Sd Card Adapter With A Pc

SD card adapters make it easy for you to upload photos, files, music and videos that you currently have stored on Micro or Mini SD cards. The SD card adapters allow PC users to upload the information from multiple cards without having to fuss around with wires for each separate device.

Instructions

Move Files to a PC with an SD Card Adapter

1. Take the memory card you would like to get files from and place it into the adapter. The cards will simply slide right into the adapter. If you are using a micro card you may need a SD card adapter. It looks just like a traditional SD card but has an opening to slide an even smaller card into it. The smallest SD cards are commonly used in cell phones.

2. Once you have the card in the adapter simply connect the adapter to your computer using a 2.0 USB port. Your PC will inform you, with a prompt, that new hardware has been detected. You will not need to download new drivers, you will simply see a prompt that gives you options as to what you can do with the card.

3. Scroll down the list of options in the prompt until you see the "view files" option. Double click on the option and a folder will open that contains your files.

4. Highlight the files you would like to move to your desktop, then drag and drop them onto the desktop. You can also right click on the highlighted files (Clicking on one highlighted file will work for all of the highlighted files). You will see a list of options. Scroll to the "send to" option and a list of possible locations will pop-up. Click on "My Documents" and the files will be sent to your documents folder.

5. You can now remove the files from the SD card to free up space. Simply right-click on the files you would like to delete and click the "delete" option. The files will disappear from the device.

Add files to an SD card Using an SD Card Adapter

6. Connect your SD card just as you would if you were uploading files. Slide the card into the adapter then connect it to the PC via the USB port.

7. A prompt will pop-up that gives you options as to what you would like to do with your SD card. Once again click the "view files" prompt and a folder will open that contains your SD cards files.

8. Open the folder where the files you would like to add are located. Drag the files to the SD card folder. You will see a prompt pop-up that tells you the files are being transferred. The process can take between 10 seconds and 10 minutes, depending on the size or number of files you are transferring.

9. Once the files have been transferred to the card, go to the bottom right-hand corner of your windows desktop. At the bottom you will see a small gray and green icon. Click the icon and a folder will pop up that shows you the attached devices. Click on the SD card adapter and hit "stop" on the bottom of the folder.

10. You will be prompted when it is safe to remove the device. Remove the device and place the card back into the device you wanted the files on. The files will be on the card.

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The Differences Between Micro Sd & Sdhc Cards

SD cards are used by portable devices such as cell phones.

SD memory cards are a type of small storage media that are used for a variety of portable devices such as cellphones and cameras. SD cards can also be read on computers that have an SD card reader or card adapter. There are several types of SD cards, including SD High Capacity or SDHC and MicroSD cards. SDHC and MicroSD cards have a few differences between them.

Size and Weight

SDHC cards are larger than MicroSD cards: the dimensions of an SDHC card is 24 by 32 millimeters, while a MicroSD card is 11 by 15 millimeters. SDHC cards are also thicker, being 2.1 millimeters thick versus the MicroSD card's 1 millimeter thickness. There is also a weight difference between the two cards, as the SDHC's 2 grams is four times heavier than the MicroSD card's .5 gram weight.

Storage Capacity

SDHC cards can hold more data, as the maximum storage capacity for an SDHC card is 32 gigabytes, while MicroSD cards have a maximum storage capacity of two gigabytes. However, MicroSDHC cards are also available and have a maximum capacity of 32 gigabytes just like their standard-sized high-capacity counterparts.

Speed Class

SDHC cards are available in Ultra High Speed or UHS formats. Memory cards that are rated at the UHS Speed Class can read and write data much quicker than normal speed class-rated cards, with a maximum transfer speed of 312 megabytes per second. MicroSD cards are not available at the UHS Speed Class rating.

Other Physical Differences

There are two other physical differences between the two cards. SDHC cards have nine pins on the connection interface board, whereas MicroSD cards have one less. SDHC cards also have a "write protect" switch on the left side of the card which allows the user to lock the card so that no additional data can be written to it and currently-stored data cannot be modified. MicroSD cards do not have a "write protect" locking switch.

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What Causes Spots After A Camera Flashes Or Bright Light

Bright light exposure can be uncomfortable for the eye.

"Say cheese!" Is a common phrase used right before a big flash leaving your vision compromised for a few seconds. Keeping your eyes open during a pop of bright light is difficult, which is probably why so many blink when a picture is taken. But why is it that one flash of light from a tiny camera can leave us cringing and rubbing our eyes? It all starts with understanding basic eye anatomy.

Purpose of the Retina

The retina is a part of the eye that cannot be seen from the outside. It lies against the back wall of the eyeball and is a thin layer of nerve tissue. The purpose of the retina is to interpret light and images into electrical signals. These signals enter our brains and are then interpreted into images. Without the retina we would be unable to interpret what we are seeing.

During a Flash of Light

When your eyelids don't protect us and a flash of light is unavoidable then often you will see spots or ghost like dots floating across your vision. They often will take a few seconds to go away and will not disappear instantly even with closing the eyelid. What has happened is the intense light has overstimulated the retina. The result is poor vision or a dark afterimage until the retina recovers.

Recovery

Once a flash of light has pushed the retina to its maximum, the cells are still responding as the brain is simultaneously seeing images. The retinas are not reacting as well to the normal light in the environment since they have been desensitized from the bright flash of light. The brain function and the retina reaction are both acting at once, which causes in overlap of spotty or blurred vision and the images your brain is seeing. Once the retinas adjust from being overstimulated, the images being seen by the brain will appear without dark spots.

Eye Health

The occasional flash of light from a camera or other small device may be uncomfortable but will not do permanent damage. Overexposure to some sources of light, however, may be harmful. This is why it's not good to stare at the sun. A small accidental glimpse isn't anything to stress over, but continually staring would do some damage to the visual cells. This will cause a blind spot in your vision called solar retinopathy that can be permanent. It is important to protect your eyes from bright lights when possible by using sunglasses and other eye protective wear to maintain healthy vision.

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Lenses That Will Fit A Nikon D40

In the mid 2000s, Nikon and Canon broke open the DSLR camera market with a few models that crossed the $1,000 barrier, allowing photographers with a modest budget to buy professional-quality digital cameras. The D40 wasn't Nikon's first prosumer DSLR digital camera, but it was an important first for the company. Unlike its predecessor the D50, the D40 does not have an autofocus motor built in to the camera body, which causes some compatibility issues with certain lenses.

Lens Mount

The D40 uses Nikon's F-mount lens system, which means that any Nikon Nikkor lens made since the 1970s will mount to the camera. You can even attach some other, older Nikkor lenses to the D40 using adapters to expand your lens library, but most of Nikon's lenses will fit on the D40, with two key exceptions: pre-AI lenses, which date from the 1950s and 1960s, and non-AI lenses. Pre-AI lenses have a prong that connects to an aperture coupler inside older camera models, but which will stick into your camera body on the D40 and break the mirror when you try to take a picture.

Autofocus

Most of Nikon's camera lenses are called "Autofocus" or "AF" lenses. Each AF lens has further sub-classifications, such as "D," which measures distance information or "S," which stands for "silent wave motor" (a type of internal focus motor). Any Nikkor AF lens will fit on the D40, but to have full functionality with a lens, you want to make sure it has its own focus motor. AF-S and AF-I lenses have motors built in, so you don't need a camera body with a focus drive. The D40 is fully compatible with these lens types.

Non-Autofocus Lenses

You can still attach Nikkor lenses that don't have an internal autofocus system to your D40, but you can't expect them to work in all shooting modes. The D40 takes AF-D and AI lenses, which fit the lens mount and communicate with the camera, but you can't auto-focus these lenses. This means that when you have the D40 on auto mode, the camera will show you a lens error every time you half-tap the shutter. Shoot on manual, shutter priority or aperture priority modes and turn the focus selection dial to manual to use AF-D or AI lenses.

Third-party Lenses

You don't need to buy Nikon's Nikkor lenses to fit your D40. Third-party lens manufacturers built DSLR camera lenses for a variety of popular camera mounting systems. Sigma (sigmaphoto.com) and Tamron (tamron.com), for example, might make one lens and then sell it with a lens mounts for Canon, Nikon, Pentax and Sony DSLRs. These third-party manufacturers always list compatible cameras for their lenses. Don't be afraid to call Nikon and ask if a lens will work correctly before you attach it, at 800-NIKON-US.

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