Turn your DVD slideshow into a movie by adding video clips and music.
Create a multimedia DVD slideshow using still digital images, video clips, music and narration. Slideshow movies are created to commemorate special events or occasions, such as weddings, holidays or life stories. Music, narration and sound effects create mood, turning your slideshow into a movie. Multimedia DVD slideshows are created with special software programs. Depending upon the software, DVD slideshows can include special effects, transitions and multi-layer slides. These movies may be viewed via computer or television set.
Instructions
1. Open a new folder on your computer. Name this project folder for the video you will create.
2. Save digital images, video clips and selected music to your project folder.
3. Open your slideshow software program. Using the timeline, add slides and video clips to your new movie.
4. Add selected music and preview your movie.
5. Select transition styles between movie elements, still images and video clips.
6. Add special effects to digital images and videos, if desired.
7. Preview your DVD slideshow and edit to match music with visual images. Vary transition times for aesthetic appeal.
8. Output your DVD slideshow by saving to your project folder.
9. Burn your DVD slidesDVD following the instructions of your DVD-burning software.
Tags: your slideshow, digital images, images video, images video clips, project folder, video clips
Prepaid cell phones are growing in popularity in the United States. This growth is due partly to the flexibility such plans give to consumers by not enforcing a multi-year contract like many mainstream cell phone plans. Thus, prepaid cell phones won't penalize users for canceling their calling plan before a certain time period. Prepaid cell phones have also become more popular as their traditionally-higher costs have fallen. However, consumers should know evaluate prepaid cell phone plans to find the plan that works best for them.
Significance
Prepaid cell phones forced an industry-wide examination of cell phone plans and opened the market to make room for more consumer choice. Most major cell phone companies, such as Verizon Wireless, AT&T, T-mobile and Sprint, rely largely on contract-based cell phone plans for a large portion of their wireless business. These mainstream plans require consumers to sign a one, two or three-year contract. Canceling such a plan typically forces the consumer to pay a large early cancellation fee (ECF). On some carriers, this fee can be as high as $400. Prepaid cell phone plans made the cell phone industry re-evaluate its business practices by allowing consumers to purchase cell phone plans that did not require a contract. While prepaid cell phones have traditionally been more expensive than contract-based plans, prepaid cell phones have dropped in price as their popularity has grown.
History
One of the earliest versions of the prepaid cell phone business model was promoted by a company called TracFone. Based in Florida, TracFone's parent company launched the prepaid cell phone business in 1996. Three years later, the largest telecommunications corporation in Central America (Telmex) took part ownership in TracFone and helped grow the company. Since then, TracFone has become one of the largest prepaid cell phone companies. However, in the decade following TracFone's launch, most of the major cell phone carriers have launched their own prepaid cell phone divisions.
Types
Unlike the cell phone handsets offered by major cell phone carriers in relation to their contract-based calling plans, the types of cell phone handsets offered by prepaid cell phone plans are typically much more limited. In general, most handsets offered for prepaid calling plans are slightly older models released by major handset manufacturers such as Nokia, Motorola and LG. As prepaid cell phones have become more accepted, the types of models offered have also increased. For example, the prepaid cell phone industry has largely lagged behind more advanced types of technology (Bluetooth or WiFi technologies, for example). However, TracFone, Verizon and several other prepaid cell phone providers have begun selling phone models featuring these wireless capabilities.
Function
Prepaid cell phones function differently from contract-based plans. Most prepaid cell phone plans function by selling a consumer a certain allotment of minutes with various time restrictions on their use. These minutes have are prepaid and are typically in the lower range in terms of size (100 to 500 minutes). Once these minutes have been paid for, the consumer can apply the time credits to their prepaid cell phone handset. Generally, the minutes are good for a limited amount of time (such as 30 to 45 days). If the consumer wishes to keep any unused minutes, he or she must purchase additional minutes and apply them to the phone. Failing to do so will result in a loss of any remaining minutes. However, unlike contract-based cell phone plans, there is no penalty for deciding to abruptly end your cell phone service.
Considerations
Before buying a prepaid cell phone plan, evaluate your needs and your budget. Remember that the less minutes you buy at once, the more expensive each minute is. For example, companies such as Virgin Mobile may charge you up to 30 cents a minute if you buy 150 minutes or less. Generally, the more minutes you buy for your prepaid phone, the cheaper each minute is. Also take into consideration whether the prepaid phone company charges a daily access fee. This fee is common on many prepaid phone plans, but there are some carriers who don't charge it (but, in exchange, will charge more per minute). If you will not be using a lot of minutes, find a prepaid cell phone plan that waives the daily fee.
Occasionally, a GPS unit will need to be reset. This can be due to software errors, firmware updates or simply at the command of technical support staff. A reset either will restart the unit, possibly clearing up any minor errors, or will restore the unit to the settings it was built with. There are three major Magellan GPS units, which utilize different methods to perform this task.
Instructions
Triton GPS Unit
1. Using the stylus, tap "Main Menu" and select "View."
2. Tap "Settings," and select "Restore Factory Settings." You will be given the option to confirm this action. Be sure that you want to reset to the settings that the GPS was built with. This action is irreversible.
3. Tap "Confirm," and the unit will begin to reset.
Maestro/Roadmate GPS Units
4. Locate the button marked "Reset" on the left, right or bottom of the unit.
5. Using a thin object, such as a paper clip, depress the button for two to three seconds. The unit should reset.
6. If the unit does not reset, immediately press the button again and hold it for up to 10 seconds.
The iPhone combines the functions of Apple's iPod with the functions like a camera. You can snap a picture using your iPhone or store pictures from your computer for easy retrieval from the iPhone's memory. There are several ways to view an image on the iPhone.
Instructions
1. Peek at the photos you have taken with your iPhone by accessing your Camera Roll. You access the "Photo" section from your main page and press the "Camera Roll" feature to see every picture taken from your iPhone.
2. Delete photos that did not turn out well. Tap the thumbnail of a picture you want to eliminate and press the "Trash" icon to permanently delete it.
3. Access photos that you uploaded to your iPhone from your home computer. From the "Photo" menu, press "Photo Library" to check out your favorite photos.
4. Press on the thumbnail of a photo to access a full-sized version. You can access several photos at the same time. Press on the number in the corner to move from one photo to another.
5. See an image on your iPhone in widescreen perspective by turning the camera on its side. The iPhone automatically rotates an image as you move the phone and spreads the edges to comply with the view screen's orientation.
6. Get a closer look at an image by double tapping the iPhone screen. Two taps will magnify any image. Another two taps will return the original view.
7. Look for photo quality or parts of an image that are difficult to see by pinching an image. Check small defects in an image by touching the image with two fingers and spreading them toward the edges of your view screen. Pinch the image back to original size by bringing your index finger and thumb together.
Tags: your iPhone, from your, Camera Roll, photos that, taps will
The good thing about photographing landscapes is you don't have to try to get them to smile or worry that they'll make bunny ears over the other landscapes. Unfortunately, you often have to get up early and wait all day for the light to be just right for your photograph. Following are some steps for making your landscape photography worth the effort.
Instructions
1. Find a point of interest. It's not enough to take a photo of a mountain range or a lake; you have to find something interesting enough to draw the eye to a specific point in the photo. A covered bridge, a rainbow or water mist are some examples of interesting objects.
2. Include a foreground object. These help give a sense of scale and distance to the photo. People make especially good foreground objects because everyone knows about how big a person is.
3. Use the rule of thirds. Your point of interest shouldn't be in the center of the photo, but in the left or right third (or the top or bottom third if your photo is taller than it is wide).
4. Wait for the perfect time. A mediocre photo in the morning can be a great photo at sunset. A photo taken in the rain can be better than one taken on a sunny day. Be prepared to wait hours or even days (sometimes even months) for the best photo.
5. Remember the edges. If you're using a film camera, you need to be aware that the standard print isn't as wide as what you see in the viewfinder. Allow for one or both edges to be cut off. If you want to have control over what is included in your photo, take it to a store that develops them on site and tell the developer what you want.
6. Turn off your flash, buy high-speed film (if you use film) and put your camera on a tripod. Consider buying a camera that allows you to take panoramic photos. Invest in a couple of filters.
7. Change your position. Try taking your photo while lying on the ground or standing on the top of a building. Turn the camera.
Microphone cables come in several varieties for different needs.
Microphone cables are an important factor in the audio quality created when using a microphone. The type of cable you'll need depends both on how you'll be using the microphone and on what type of microphone you're using. Different cables are necessary for small lapel microphones (lavalier mics), high-impedance mics for casual use, and high-quality low-impedance mics for professional use.
Low-Impedance Microphone Cables
Impedance is a technical term for the amount of resistance to electrical current. A low-impedance microphone consequently provides less resistance to the signal passing through it. This aspect is why these cable types are preferred for professional applications. The lower the impedance, the more signal passes through the cable. However, more signal may also mean more signal noise, which is a common deficiency in these types of microphone cable. This problem is addressed by the shielding, or insulation, that is wrapped around the signal wires inside the outer protective material of the cable. The best shielding overall is known as the braid-type, which provides a greater protection against ambient signal noise becoming mixed in with the source signal passing through the cable. Low-impedance microphone cables with braid shielding and 3-pin XLR plugs are among the best types of microphone cables available.
High-Impedance Cables
High-impedance microphone cables have their place, although it’s not usually in a professional setting. This is due to the higher signal noise potential of these types of cables. The advantage is that a microphone with a high-impedance cable can be plugged directly into a variety of power sources, such as guitar amplifiers and lower-priced audio mixers. This provides flexibility and affordability for those who may not own or have access to a low-impedance mixer. Some adaptors are made to match a high-impedance microphone signal to a low-impedance mixer input, making them a valuable accessory for those who use high-impedance microphones and cables. It is important to use a shorter cable for high-impedance microphones to avoid unwanted, extraneous signal noise.
Balanced and Unbalanced Microphone Cables
The balancing of the signal in a microphone cable refers to the amount of positive and negative current flowing through the cable. An unbalanced cable generally has just one signal wire inside wrapped with shielding or insulation. The design theory is to reduce noise emitted by radio frequencies or other external sources from mixing in with the source signal moving through the microphone cable. However, this theory will not hold in most cases, even with high-quality braided shielding. This is because both the positive and negative currents are flowing through the same signal wire, thus creating the potential for more signal noise. A balanced cable has two separate wires inside, one for each of the current factors (positive and negative). Although the opposing currents are running in the same direction within the same cable, the noise is kept to a minimum because they are separated and because the voltage is matched. The addition of a tightly-wrapped braid-type shielding further reduces the signal noise, acting like an antenna to pick up the noise and keep it out of the cable.
Tags: signal noise, more signal, positive negative, through cable, cable However, cables important, flowing through
A mouse is a handheld pointing device used to position a cursor on a computer screen. This allows the user to select items stored on a computer and, subsequently, perform actions on those items.
Function
A mechanical mouse consists of two rollers in contact with a ball located inside an object the user can slide over a flat surface. The rollers are at 90 degrees to each other and connected to slotted wheels. As the mouse slides, the ball rotates the rollers, causing the slots in their attached wheels to interrupt infrared light sources, thus giving the computer a way to interpret the motion and move the cursor accordingly.
Uses
The ability of a user to navigate to locations on-screen is integral to computing. Moving the mouse, you can press its button to "click" on files, folders, drives or other storage devices. Once selected, these items can be moved, opened, deleted or copied. The mouse can also be used to select and manipulate information within a given file.
History
According to Macworld, Douglas Engelbart invented the first computer mouse prototypes in 1963 while working at the Stanford Research Institute. Engelbart first introduced the mouse to others in the computing industry in 1968 at the Fall Joint Computer Conference in San Francisco.
TomTom is a popular brand of GPS receivers used for navigation and travel; it offers over a dozen models (including the XL-S and 330) with different features depending on the user's driving habits and travel needs.
Screen Size
The TomTom XL-S' screen is 4.7 inches in diameter. The TomTom 330's screen measures 4.3 inches.
Features
TomTom XL-S offers a two-hour battery life, car charger, Bluetooth, many display languages, color maps, 1 GB built-in memory with memory card slot, pre-installed points of interest, 2D/3D maps, and many navigational features like the choice to avoid tolls roads or highways.
In contrast, TomTom 330 offers three hours of battery life, car charger, 1 GB built-in memory without memory card slot, many display and spoken language choices, pre-installed maps, and navigational features like being able to choose the quickest or shortest route.
Price
TomTom 330 costs $180, as of October 2010, and the TomTom XLS costs $150 (prices subject to change).
Tags: battery life, battery life charger, built-in memory, card slot, features like, life charger
Although hard disk drives and flash memory serve the same purpose---they both store computer data---they function in very different ways. Hard drives contain moving parts; flash memory does not.
Hard Drive Storage
Hard drives contain several metallic disks, commonly called "platters," which spin at very fast speeds---most hard drives turn at 7,200 rotations per minute. An actuator arm moves across the platters to read to or write from different areas on the disk, as the computer requires. The actuator stores information onto the spinning platters by magnetizing regions of the disk.
Flash Memory Storage
Flash memory works much differently than hard disk drives. With no moving parts, data is stored in the form of a zero or a one, depending on whether transistors hold an electrical charge. No charge represents a zero; the presence of a charge represents a one. This is how flash memory holds computer files.
Future of Storage
As of 2010, hard disk drives are still the standard storage model for most computers. They hold more data than flash memory and are available at cheaper prices. Smaller types of flash memory, such as USB flash drives and camera memory, are useful for purposes that hard disk drives have a hard time replicating.
Tags: disk drives, hard disk drives, flash memory, charge represents, drives contain, flash memory, Flash Memory
SMART Board speakers are specially designed to work with the interactive whiteboard technology called SMART Board. These speakers are state-of-the-art and work well with the interactive whiteboard. Installing these speakers doesn't require any special, technical skills because it is a simple, straightforward process. You don't even need any special tools to install SMART Board speakers because most of the tools you'll need come included with the speakers at the time of purchase.
Instructions
1. Attach the mounting brackets to the back of each of the two SMART Board speakers. The right-side speaker should have the mounting bracket sticking out toward the left and the left-side speaker should have the mounting bracket sticking out toward the right. Use six of the Allen-head screws and the Allen wrench provided with the speakers to attach the mounting brackets.
2. Attach the two speakers to the SMART Board set by screwing four of the Phillips head screws provided with your speakers on each of the mounting brackets.
3. Plug the speakers to each other using the non-USB, speaker cable provided with your speakers.
4. Plug the speakers to your computer using the USB cable.
5. Plug the speakers to a power outlet using the power adapter provided with your SMART Board speakers.
A diode is an electrical component that allows current to flow in only one direction. An ideal diode conducts with zero resistance in one direction and has infinite resistance in the opposite direction. Diodes are widely used in modern electronics, and there are many different types. Diodes vary both in terms of their application and the physical principles that their operation is based on.
PN Junction
A PN junction is a basic semiconductor device that can be used to make a basic diode. Most diodes use PN junctions. PN junctions are created by doping a piece of silicon with two different atoms that result in one side of the piece of silicon having an excess of electrons (negative, or "N" charge carriers), and the other side having an excess of holes (positive, or "P" charge carriers). This means electrical current can only flow in one direction. Practical PN junction diodes require an activation voltage before they stop current flowing. This activation voltage is typically 0.7 volts.
Zener Diode
A zener diode is a type of semiconductor PN junction diode that prevents current flowing in one direction up to a particular voltage. A zener diode allows current to flow in one direction, but will prevent current flowing in the opposite direction while the applied voltage is less than this voltage. Zener diodes are used extensively in power regulators to ensure that voltages are only supplied above a certain level.
Schottky Diode
Schottky diodes are similar to PN diodes except their turn-on voltage is lower than the usual 0.7 volts, sometimes as low as 0.15 volts. This means the Schottky diode behavior is closer to "ideal" diode behavior. To achieve this effect, Schottky diodes are constructed differently from normal PN diodes, usually combining a metal plate and semiconductor components, rather than being made entirely from semiconductor.
Light-Emitting Diode
A light-emitting diode is a type of semiconductor diode that emits photons when current is flowing through it. Light-emitting diodes behave like normal PN semiconducting diodes apart from their producing light. Light-emitting diodes are widely used as status indicators in electronics, as part of screens and as light sources.
Cat's Whisker
Cat's whisker diodes are a very old type of diode. Cat's whiskers are made of a thin wire placed on a mineral crystal. Cat's whiskers are unreliable by the standards of modern diodes but were used in early radio sets.
Laser Diode
Laser diodes are similar to light-emitting diodes except they produce coherent, or laser, light. Laser diodes are used in many applications that require compact, low-power lasers. Laser diodes are used in CD players, DVD drives, laser pointers,and distance measuring devices.
Photodiode
Photodiodes are used to detect light. They can also be used to generate electricity from light, so they can be used as components in solar panels. Photodiodes otherwise behave similarly to normal PN junction semiconductor diodes.
Tags: current flowing, diodes used, Laser diodes, activation voltage, allows current, allows current flow
Teleconverters and close-up lenses extend the capability of SLR and DSLR cameras.
While both a close up lens and a camera lens extender make the lens on a professional SLR camera physically longer, the two devices perform opposite functions. A close-up lens, often called a macro lens, allows the camera to focus on objects at very short distances. A camera lens extender increases the focal length of the lens, magnifying distant items up to two or three times their normal size.
Teleconverters
Teleconverters are an economical way to extend the focal length of a traditional, or favorite camera lens. A 2X teleconverter will extend the range of a 150mm lens to a huge 300mm. Purchasing the right telecommuter will allow the photographer to extend the size of all the lenses in his inventory, thus saving a substantial investment. A 150mm lens with a 2X converter is also much lighter weight than a 300mm lens
Teleconverters versus Telephoto
While teleconverters have some advantages over telephoto lenses, they also have a few downsides. Teleconverters reduce the amount of light entering the camera when compared to a similar focal length telephoto lens. This means that a lens with a teleconverter will be less versatile in low light conditions than a traditional telephoto lens. Teleconverters also may slow the speed of an auto-focus camera, and affect the overall image sharpness. Teleconverters may work with some lenses and not others for the same camera. So when purchasing a teleconverter, make sure to investigate its compatibility before making your purchase.
Macro Lenses
The optics in a macro lens are designed to allow the camera owner to move in toward objects, and snap incredibly clear pictures at just a few inches away from the subject. Macro lenses are a perfect addition for an outdoor nature enthusiast who wants to photograph flowers, berries, and other plants in fine detail in their natural lighting and element. Macro lenses are typically designed so the lens operates at standard focal lengths, and then adapts to close range work. A typical macro lensfocal length range is from 28mm to 85mm, making a single lens perfect for close-up shots, portraits and minor telephoto use.
Close-Up Lens Converters
Similar to the teleconverter adapters, close-up adapters and fish eye lens adapters are available for standard SLR and DSLR camera lenses. Some adapters thread into the end of the camera lens, while others are attached between the camera body and the existing lens. These adapters create the same abilities offered by a macro lens. The photographer is able to focus at extremely short distances and take pictures with distinctive clarity.
Tags: camera lens, focal length, macro lens, 150mm lens, camera lens extender
What makes a CD recorder a recorder is the fact that it can both read and write to compact disks. CD recorders can copy data files such as documents and software, as well as music and video files. Original CD recorders could only write to a CD once. Today's CD recorders have rewrite capability, which allows you to reuse your media.
CD Recorders Have Two Lasers
A CD recorder has a write laser and a read laser. The unit has two separate lasers because writable CDs are coated with a heat-sensitive dye. The write laser runs hotter than the read laser in order to write to the compact disk.
CD Recorders Recognize Blank Media
Put a blank CD into a CD player and the machine will tell you there is no disk in the drive or that the disk has no data. CD recorders are designed to read the surface of blank disks so that they can tell if you are trying to play or record the disk. Because CD players do not record, they do not need this function.
Recognizing a CD Recorder
Most CD recorders are labeled as either CD-R or CD-RW. In some cases they may be labeled as CD burners. DVD recorders should be labeled as DVD-R/CD-R, or --RW, if they have CD recording capability.
The DOCSIS 3.0 DSP 860 is a portable cable analyzer that can be used to determine the strength and signal quality of analog, digital HSD, and VoIP services, according to the product's official site. If your device is not working properly or detecting a weaker signal strength than is actual being emitted, it my be malfunctioning. Before you send your device off for repairs, run through a list of troubleshooting techniques to narrow the list of problems and potentially resolve the issue yourself.
Instructions
1. Upgrade the upstream bandwidth that will be the device. If the device does not receive enough bandwidth, it is unable to process a cable with a very high signal strength. The overwhelming amount of traffic submitted by the cable can cause the device to give a very inaccurate reading, if one at all.
2. Utilize the "Test Meter" button on the device. If the test meter reads lower than a 64 QAM signal source, you likely have a problem with your antenna that can only be corrected by the device's manufacturer.
3. Complete a system sweep of the device's operating system. Resetting the device back to its factory state is a good maintenance habit, as well as a useful troubleshooting technique. If a glitch has occurred within the device's software, you can completely restore the device back to its state when you first open its back, hopefully eliminating any errors in the process.
Using variable power flash units will allow you to balance your flash with ambient light.
Learning to balance light between available ambient light and flash will produce pictures that have a more natural look to them. To get the most of being able to balance flash and ambient light, ideally you will be using a single lens reflex camera and a separate through the lens flash unit with variable output settings.
Instructions
1. Turn the camera on. Set ISO to 400, set the exposure program to "aperture priority" and set the aperture to f8. Meter for the available ambient light and see that the corresponding shutter speed is within the range for flash synchronization.
2. Adjust the flash output to one full stop less than the ambient light reading. This can usually be done either through the camera, using the flash exposure compensation adjustment or on the back of the flash unit itself provided it has controls to do so.
3. Take the picture. If using a digital camera, review the picture to see whether the exposure is correct and make adjustments where necessary. In most cases, setting the flash one stop below the ambient reading will provide a more even-looking, natural picture. In some cases, depending on how strong the ambient light is, the flash setting may need to be set at different levels to produce the desired results. With practice and experience, you will develop an ability to evaluate the light and the settings for the flash.
Tags: ambient light, ambient light, ambient light flash, available ambient, available ambient light, flash unit, light flash
The antenna is an uplink's final step and a downlink's first step.
A satellite feed has three major components: the uplink, the downlink and the satellite. The uplink includes all of the equipment required to send usable data to the satellite, while the downlink includes all of the data required to receive and decode this data. Between these two is the satellite.
Signal Flow
The satellite uplink portion of a feed begins with data entering the modulator/demodulator (MODEM). The baseband or intermediate frequency (IF) carrier then flows from the MODEM to the upconverter. The signal leaves the upconverter at the transmit frequency and enters the high-power amplifier (HPA). The signal leaves the HPA for the antenna, where it is uplinked to the satellite.
Equipment Functions
The data from the end user first enters the MODEM, also known as the encoder. The MODEM places the information on an IF carrier, typically at 70 MHz. The IF from the MODEM enters the upconverter and is multiplied to the transmit frequency. While increasing the frequency is the primary purpose of the upconverter, it also slightly amplifies the signal. The transmit frequency from the upconverter than moves to the HPA, where it is greatly increased in preparation for the long trip to space. Next, the amplified signal at the transmit frequency goes to the antenna, where it is amplified, focused and sent to the satellite.
Amplifier Types
The three major types of amplifiers are Klystron tubes, traveling wave tube amplifiers (TWTAs) and solid state power amplifiers (SSPAs). Klystron tubes are the oldest of these technologies and without modification are effective for only a frequency span of about 40 MHz. TWTAs are a newer technology and are capable of transmitting for the entire 500 MHz frequency span of a typical satellite. SSPAs are the newest technology; they are capable of reaching the same power levels as TWTAs while using much less power.
Antenna Types
As a general rule, a larger antenna requires less power for a signal to reach a satellite. Also, some antennas are not designed to transmit a signal at all. These antennas are called "receive only," and an example is a satellite television dish on a roof. These antennas cannot transmit because a massive amount of power would be required for signals to reach a satellite, and the signal would be very unfocused, causing power to radiate in a very wide area.
Downlink
Downlink is basically the reverse of uplink. The signal goes from the satellite to the antenna, where it travels through a low-noise amplifier (LNA). At that point, it is boosted back to a usable level. The signal moves from the LNA to the downconverter, which lowers the signal frequency to IF. The IF signal then travels from the downconverter to the MODEM, where the signal is stripped from the carrier and the data is sent to the end user.
Tags: transmit frequency, antenna where, frequency span, from downconverter, from MODEM, Klystron tubes, less power
Your PictBridge-compatible printer is capable of printing color and black/white photos.
PictBridge is a technology present on some inkjet and dye-sublimation printers that allows you to print pictures directly from your digital camera or camcorder without having to use a computer. The PictBridge port is on the front or back of the printer and accepts the larger connector on your camera's Universal Serial Bus cable. The printers are only able to accept images from digital cameras or camcorders that are PictBridge-compatible.
Compatibility and Enabling
Consult your camera's documentation or owner's manual to see if your camera is compatible with a PictBridge printer. The documentation will clearly state PictBridge compatible, enabled or similar wording. You will also see a PictBridge logo on your camera's casing or on its documentation if the device is compatible. If your camera is PictBridge compatible, plug your camera's USB cable's smaller connector into the cooresponding port on your camera's side. Plug the cable's larger connector into the PictBridge port on your printer. If connecting your digital camcorder to your PictBridge printer, the printer will only be able to retrieve and print still images taken with the camcorder.
Detecting and Selecting
Your PictBridge printer will automatically detect your camera. A message will appear on your camera's display prompting you to confirm the PictBridge connection by selecting "PictBridge" or similar wording. Images from your digital camera will then display on your printer's LCD screen, if equipped, or on your camera's LCD screen. Use the navigation keys on your printer or camera to scroll through the images. Press the "OK," "Accept" or "Enter" key to highlight the images you want to print. Select "Print" or similar wording option to start the printing process.
Image Storage and Cautions
Once your images print, the files are still on your digital camera. The PictBridge connection and printing process doesn't erase your images. You can still connect your camera to your computer for transferring the images, if desired. When using PictBridge, do not disconnect your digital camera from your printer while printing images -- this will interrupt the printing process. Wait until printing is complete and then disconnect your camera.
Image File Formats
PictBridge printers are capable of printing JPEG image files from digital cameras. The printers are not capable of printing TIFF, PNG, RAW, BMP and other image file formats. The printers do not contain built-in file converters and you cannot add a third-party file converter to your printer.
Tags: your camera, your digital, your printer, digital camera, your digital camera
Photography is the art of recording imagery with light. Light enters through the lens of a camera and is recorded on a digital sensor or a film plane. The image is then processed either with chemicals or a computer, and can then be reproduced as a print image. Photography is a documentary process that records people, events and moment in time of the world around us.
Tools
The main tool used in photography is the camera. There are two types of cameras; film based and digital based systems. Both create photographs, or visual documentation of moments in time.
Accessories
External lighting is often used in conjunction with the camera. On camera flash units add extra light to photographs. Free standing studio lighting is used in portrait studios. Tripods help steady the camera for sharp photographs.
Types
From family snapshots to professional portraits, photojournalism in the newspapers or scientific data recordings, there are many applications for photography.
Effects
Photography creates a visual record. This documentation can teach future generations about the past, preserve history and help revive memories.
Identification
Photography can be found in everyday life. On the cover of a magazine, cereal box, in frames on the wall or in school text books, photography presents visual information.
All current Nikon lenses incorporate AF-D technology.
Nikon manufactures one of the most complete lines of camera lenses of any camera manufacturer. The various letter designations found on Nikon lenses indicate different mechanical and optical properties of the lens. Designations such as AF-D, AF-S and AF-I all indicate different mechanical changes made to Nikon's autofocus lens line.
Original AF Lenses
Even though all Nikon SLR/DSLR lenses use the original Nikon "F" bayonet mount, not all Nikon lenses function fully on all Nikon cameras. In 1986, when Nikon first introduced its autofocus lenses, it gave them the designation of AF. The original Nikon AF lenses used a slotted coupling on the lens to connect with the camera body. The slotted coupling allowed a flat prong in the camera body to fit into the slot. The flat prong literally made the lens' focusing mechanism turn, giving the lens autofocus capabilities.
AF-D Designation
Nikon introduced AF-D lenses in 1992. The AF-D designation on Nikon lenses means the autofocus lens now has the ability to read and translate distance information to the camera. This improvement in Nikon's lens technology allows flash units to obtain more accurate camera-to-subject distance information. In other words, prior to AF-D lenses the camera's metering system was handicapped because the camera never knew the exact distance of the subject from the camera. With AF-D lenses the camera had precise distance information. This resulted in more accurate exposures especially when used with a dedicated Nikon flash unit. The first two Nikon lenses to incorporate the AF-D designation were the 35-70mm f/2.8D AF and the 80-200mm f/2.8D AF.
Current Technology
Today all Nikon lenses incorporate distance information in their design. Nikon no longer marks lenses as AF-D, but still uses the technology. As of 2011 Nikon's latest mechanical and optical technology includes increased vibration reduction with its VR lenses, nano crystal coating for better anti-reflection capabilities and electronic diaphragm control for its PC (perspective control) lenses. Traditionally the aperture control on PC lenses required manual control. Nikon's latest PC lenses have full automatic aperture control on certain higher-end Nikon cameras.
Other Autofocus Designations
Other Nikon lens designations for its autofocus camera line include the AF-I designation. AF-I lenses incorporated a coreless motor integrated into the lens. This was primarily used on Nikon's longer telephoto lenses such as the 300mm f/2.8 and the 600mm f/4.0. AF-S lenses featured a silent wave ultrasonic motor designed into the lens. The ultrasonic motor allowed faster autofocus capabilities. The first of Nikon's lenses to use the AF-S designation were the 300mm f/2.8, 500mm f/4.0 and 600mm f/4.0.
Unlike still photography, moving images can be difficult to edit en masse. The sheer volume of images that create a few seconds of movie footage is astounding, with at least 24 individual frames per image. As such, it's much easier to use a filter like the Arri Varicon to apply effects to your image than it is to do so in post-production. Arri's Varicon filter is a colored filter that applies anywhere from a slight color cast --- designed to correct lighting color problems --- to deep colors that thoroughly dye the images. Though designed for movie cameras, Varicon filters can also be used with still cameras to produce the same effect on each frame you shoot.
Instructions
1. Mount the lens that you will be shooting with onto your still camera, following the manufacturer's instructions.
2. Mount the matte box onto the camera, following the included instructions. While some matte boxes screw on to the front of the lens at the lens filter mount, others attach via a collar that can be loosened and tightened with an attached thumbscrew. Whatever method your matte box uses, take care not to damage the lens when mounting it.
3. Insert the Arri Varicon filter into the matte box by snapping it into place, if your matte box allows inserting a filter or sliding it through the side of the matte box at the filter guides. Again, matte boxes use different methods, so take care when mounting and follow the manufacturer's instructions.
4. Adjust the camera's exposure settings to match the camera's through-the-lens metering system. The Varicon filter reduces the light entering the camera by a variable amount, depending on the density of the filter used. You will find you need to overexpose to compensate, which the through-the-lens metering system automatically takes into account. If you are using an external light meter, overexpose by the amount of stops recommended on the data sheet for your particular Varicon filter, as all use different exposure adjustments.
5. Press the shutter to take a picture as you normally would. The image will now be colored by the Varicon filter, giving the desired effect.
You're sitting back couch-potatoing and something goes wrong with your television. Quickly, you scour your files for the warranty receipt only to find it has lapsed. Rather than call a repair technician to charge you hundreds of dollars, you decide to try to fix it yourself. After some heavy Internet searching, you find the transformer is the culprit. So you unplug the TV, crack open the rear of the television and locate the transformer; here's what to do next.
Instructions
1. Make sure you are grounded before touching the transformer. Even with the television unplugged, enough static electricity can be present to give you an unpleasant shock and damage the transformer beyond repair. Touch an appliance or fixture to discharge any static electricity.
2. Put on gloves and unfasten the mounting screws holding the TV transformer in place. Remove it from the television and place it on an anti-static mat. Remove the assembly screws with a screwdriver and open the transformer case.
3. Inspect the inside of the transformer for corroded or frayed wires, burn marks or oxidation. If you find any frayed, corroded or oxidized wires, remove them with a soldering gun and replace them. Wipe the inside with denatured alcohol and cotton swabs to clean away corrosion.
4. Locate the capacitor. Discharge any residual static electricity from the capacitor by touching an insulated metal screwdriver. Set your multimeter to "ohms." Check for resistance by touching the probes to the capacitor. If you get infinite resistance, the capacitor is bad. Unsolder it from the transformer with a soldering gun and solder a new capacitor into its place.
5. Reassemble the transformer casing, mount it inside the television, and plug the television back in to test. If it solves the problem, turn the TV off and replace the rear access panel.
The Plantronics Discovery 975 headset is compatible with many Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones and other devices. The headset will stream audio coming from a paired device, including music. On a single charge, the Plantronics 975 will allow you to listen to up to five hours of music. The gel ear tips on the headset speaker are designed to provide comfort while the headset is lodged in your ear, letting you listen to music for extended periods of time.
Instructions
1. Turn the Plantronics 975 headset off. Place the headset within a foot of the cellphone or Bluetooth-enabled device.
2. Press and hold the "Call" button on the top of the Plantronics 975 earpiece until the LED flashes red and white.
3. Turn on the "Bluetooth" option on the handset or mobile device. The exact location of this menu option varies with each device. For example, on a Verizon HTC phone, select "Application" from the main menu, "Settings," "Wireless & Networks" and then tap "Bluetooth." On a Blackberry, select "Manage Connections" and "Set Up Bluetooth."
4. Search for devices. In the cellphone or mobile device menu select the option to "Scan for Devices" in the Bluetooth menu. The device will pick up the Plantronics 975.
5. Select "Plantronics Headset" in the "Found Devices" list on the cellphone or mobile device to pair it.
6. Place the Plantronics 975 earpiece into your ear.
7. Select the main menu on your device, and choose the music player. Select a track and play it. The song will be audible through the Plantronics 975.
Tags: mobile device, cellphone mobile, cellphone mobile device, main menu, Plantronics earpiece
Digital cameras tout their higher and higher megapixel ratings as a selling feature. But what exactly is a megapixel and how do is a megapixel rating calculated?
Instructions
1. To understand calculate megapixels you first must understand what they are. Images taken by your digital camera are composed of very small dots called picture elements, or pixels for short. Arranging the pixels together along a horizontal and vertical axis creates a picture.
2. A megapixel is a rounded number found by multiplying the total number of horizontal pixels by the total number of vertical pixels.
3. The number of horizontal and vertical pixels will depend on the size of the image. A digital camera with a 5 megapixel rating takes pictures that are 2,592 pixels wide by 1,944 pixels tall.
4. 2,592 pixels multiplied by 1,944 pixels equals 5,038,848 pixels, which is rounded to 5 megapixels.
5. The same equation can be used to calculate any megapixel rating. For example 3,000 horizontal pixels multiplied by 2,400 horizontal pixels equals 7,200,000 pixels, or 7 megapixels.
Color charts can be found for free on the Internet or simple household items that reflect the color gamut can be used to evaluate film.
Shooting film will not offer the immediate feedback you get when shooting digital, so it is crucial to understand how the film you have chosen to use will respond in various lighting situations. The best way to do this is to shoot a test roll of film using a color chart. Color charts usually consist of 18 patches of varying colors and six patches of gray shades from white to black. Shooting a color chart can help you better understand the tone you will get in daylight shooting as well as studio shooting with strobes and gels.
Instructions
1. Arrange your color chart on a flat, neutral-colored surface like a wall or low counter top. Load film into camera. Lock camera into tripod and focus on color chart so that the color chart takes up as much of the viewfinder as possible. Depress the shutter release and prepare for the next shot.
2. Expose a second frame of film one stop under the first frame. This will tell you how the film reacts to underexposure. Expose a third frame one stop over the correct exposure. This will tell you how the film reacts to overexposure.
3. Arrange strobes or flashes in settings you plan to use in the studio. Repeat Steps 1 and 2. Add a warming gel to the lighting and repeat the test using correct, over and under exposure.
4. Develop the film in a standard developer. Scan or print the film without enhancement. A scan might be affected by scanner software and might appear with slight color shifts if your monitor is not properly color calibrated. Evaluate the prints for color and tone by comparing the color swatches on the chart. Evaluate the prints for dynamic range by checking the gray-scale chart.
5. Repeat this procedure with a film of a different type or brand. Try to keep exposure, color chart and camera position as close as possible to the values and position used in the first test. Compare prints from the second roll of film to the first roll. Archive prints and negatives for evaluation of new film in the future.
Tags: color chart, Color charts, Evaluate prints, film reacts, roll film, tell film, tell film reacts
A magnifying glass is a tool used for a wide variety of professional and amateur purposes. In its simplest form the magnifying glass is a round lens enclosed by a metal or plastic frame and affixed to a handle. This type of magnifying glass is frequently associated with the mythical sleuth Sherlock Holmes. The tool is used to enlarge, or magnify, an object to make it easier to see its details.
History
English inventor, scientist and philosopher Roger Bacon is credited with inventing the modern magnifying glass in 1250 A.D. However, the instrument's history goes much farther back, into antiquity. The seven-volume "Book of Optics" by Iraqi scientist Ibn al-Haytham described the magnification properties of the convex lens early in the 11th century, and the Greek playwright Aristophanes refers to the "burning-lens" in his play "The Clouds in the 5th Century B.C."
Benefits
The lenses of contemporary magnifying glasses are typically constructed of either glass or acrylic. Glass lenses tend to deliver a clearer image because they allow light to pass through more easily. Glass magnifying glasses can be quite heavy and are subject to breakage. Acrylic lenses do not provide the same level of clarity as glass magnifiers, but they are much lighter and much less likely to shatter. Most magnifying glasses, particularly for amateur use, are made of acrylic.
Considerations
A magnifying glass, also referred to as a hand lens, utilizes a convex lens to produce an enlarged image of the object being observed. "Convex" means the lens bulges outward in the middle, as opposed to a concave lens, which narrows in the middle.
Function
Typical household uses of a hand lens may be to enlarge the print of books, newspapers, or magazines to make reading easier. Hobbyists utilize hand lenses for delicate detail work when doing cross-stitch, needlework, model-building, numismatic and philatelic examination. Professionals such as jewelers, geologists, and art dealers use magnifying glasses for close examination of objects to determine their origin or authenticity.
Types
A loupe, sometimes called a jeweler's loupe, is a type of magnifying glass that is similar in composition to a microscope. The jeweler's loupe typically provides magnification of 10 times. The lens on a loupe is usually much smaller than that on a lollipop-style magnifying glass and requires both the object being observed and the eye of the observer to be very close to the loupe for proper magnification.
Tags: magnifying glasses, magnifying glass, being observed, convex lens, Glass magnifying, hand lens, jeweler loupe
When you upgrade to a new computer, don't let your old computer equipment get dusty in the basement. That old equipment can be somebody's starter computer, and it can earn you some cash. Orlando residents can sell used computer equipment to computer dealers or community residents for a good profit. Selling computer equipment is not hard, but you should take safety precautions before selling hard drives to ensure you don't give away personal information.
Instructions
1. Comparison shop before you sell by going to Orlando Craigslist or searching on eBay for similar used computer equipment (see Resources). Learning what others are asking for the same or similar equipment can give you a guideline of what consumers expect to pay so you don't price your equipment too high or too low.
2. Gather all material that goes with the used computer equipment, from cords and software to hardware CDs and instruction manuals, and store these items in a plastic bag.
3. Clean the computer by wiping it with a disinfectant cloth. This removes dust, dirt and grime from its exterior and makes it look presentable to potential buyers.
4. Erase your personal information if you are selling a hard drive. If you're only selling computer parts like a keyboard, monitor or cable, you can skip this step. Computer Hope provides instructions for PC users who need to erase their hard drive. Users running Windows XP, Windows 2000 or an older version of Windows can erase their hard drives by using commands (see Resources). The University of Delaware provides instructions for Apple users to erase their Mac hard drives (see Resources).
5. Create an advertisement for Craigslist to list your computer equipment for sale in Orlando (see Resources). List the items you are selling with their age, model numbers and approximate condition, and include photographs. List the price and sale terms.
6. Drop off computer equipment at Finders Merchandise, an Orlando-based, used computer equipment store, for a quick sale. Finders Merchandise buys computers and computer parts. If you have a laptop and laptop accessories, you can sell them to Orlando's Laptops Plus (see Resources).
7. Create an eBay listing to sell your used computer equipment to local buyers by pickup only or outside the Orlando area if you don't mind shipping. Upload images and a description like that required for Craigslist. This also allows you to monitor the sale and control the price by setting a minimum acceptable selling price (reserve price) or by setting no minimum price in order to ensure a sale.
Tags: computer equipment, computer equipment, erase their, erase their hard, hard drives, their hard, used computer
Converting your 35mm slides into a digital format can be done with a digital scanner.
Shooting with a film camera was the norm several years ago. But in the digital age, film cameras are virtually obsolete. The images that you captured with a 35mm camera, however, may not be obsolete to you. It is possible, using a scanner connected to your computer, to scan 35mm slides to your hard drive and convert them to a digital format. This process will allow you to save your old images and share them with friends and family quickly and easily through email or portable discs.
Instructions
1. Clean the glass on your scanner. This will prevent dust or smudges from appearing on your 35mm slides. Once the glass is clean, set up the scanner to scan transparent materials. This is typically done by removing the opaque cover that is on the lid of your scanner.
2. Put the slides you wish to scan face-down on the glass of your scanner. Arrange them to fit the most slides on the glass as possible. When you are finished, close the lid of your scanner.
3. Push the "Scan" button to scan the 35mm slides. Save the images as one big image file in a format that you are able to open with your image editor, such as a .jpg.
4. Open the image file with your image editing program. If you need a program, you can download Photo Pos Pro, VicMan's Photo Editor or PC Image Editor for free from their respective websites. Once you have downloaded and installed one of these programs, open the image using "File" and "Open." You will see all of your slides on this image. Highlight the first image you want to save and go to "Edit." Click "Cut" to remove it from the original image.
5. Open a new image by clicking "File" and "New," and paste the image you just cut into it by clicking "Edit" and "Paste." You should just see the image without the slide or other images on the original. Save the image as whatever file name you see fit in whatever file type you want.
6. Go back to the original image and cut out the next picture you want to save. Open a new file, past the photo and save it just like you did in Step 5. Repeat this process until all of your photos are converted to a digital format.
Tags: your scanner, 35mm slides, digital format, glass your, glass your scanner
The Europass is an accepted CV format throughout Europe.
If you are applying for a job in Europe, it is important to format your CV in a way that is acceptable and understandable to your potential European employer. Writing a CV according to the Europass format will ensure that it is understandable to employers throughout Europe. The Europass CV format was instituted by the European Union as a means of standardizing the format for CVs throughout its member nations. Using the Europass format ensures that whether you are applying for a job in England or Romania, your CV will contain all the information that your potential employer is expecting.
Instructions
1. Go to the Europass website at europass.cedefop.europa.eu. Select your preferred language. The available languages include English and all of the other official European Union languages. Click on "Europass CV" on the left-hand side of your screen. Next, click on "Create your Europass CV online now". This will open up an on line program that will take you through the steps to create your CV.
2. Fill in your personal information on the first page. The information requested includes your name, birth date, contact information, gender and nationality. If your employer has requested a photograph of you, which is not uncommon in Europe, you can upload it on this page. When you have completed this section, click on the arrow pointing to the right to advance to the next section.
3. Fill in your desired employment or occupational field. For example, "elementary school teacher" or "civil engineering." After filling this out, click the right arrow to move to the next section.
4. Fill in the information requested in the "work experience" section. This section includes spaces for all the information you may want to include, such as the positions you have held, the dates you were employed and the employer's contact information. Complete this section and then click the right arrow to advance.
5. Provide your education details according to the form's specifications. Then advance to the next section.
6. Fill in the information about your language abilities. You will be asked to state your mother language and can provide details about your abilities in other languages. Advance to the next section.
7. Fill in the information regarding your personal skills and competences as requested. Advance to the next section.
8. Include any relevant information that you have not had the opportunity to provide yet in this section. Then proceed to the final step.
9. Save your Europass CV. You will have the option to save it in a variety of formats, including pdf and Microsoft Word. You can also choose whether to download your CV directly or to have it emailed to you.
Tags: next section, next section Fill, section Fill, Europass format, Fill information, section Fill information, this section
Digital cameras have become commonplace, and people have grown accustomed to the advantages of having pictures saved as digital photo files. As the advantages of digital photos become more apparent, many are also looking for ways to preserve older family pictures. There are many top quality photo scanners available to home users who want to convert family photos to digital.
Epson Perfection V700 Photo
ConsumerSearch rated the Epson Perfection V700 as the best scanner for advanced hobbyist and professional use. It can scan photos up to 4800 dpi scale, and process slides and film at 6400 dpi with included adapters. Features include the ability to digitally remove scratches and dust from images, and the capability of setting multiple user profiles. It also comes with an advanced software bundle for editing and retouching. There is no feeder, however, so each document must be handled individually. For the occasional user, the 6400 dpi resolution is unnecessary, and its average $550 price may keep the Epson Perfection V700 from being a top choice for some. There are several other models in the Epson Perfection line that may be more suitable for less advanced or occasional users.
Pandigital Photolink One-Touch Scanner
Pandigital is known largely for digital photo frames, but they also make photo scanners. These inexpensive handheld scanners are designed for small photos, up to 5 x 7. The Pandigital Photolink has a built-in memory card reader that supports any of five different media types, and scans directly to the memory card. It scans quickly, processing most photos within a few seconds. Reviewers give this sheet-fed scanner high scores for ease of use and portability, and its price will be attractive for casual users. One disadvantage to the Pandigital Photolink, however, is that it cannot be connected directly to your computer. Scans must be saved to the memory card, although they can be downloaded by USB to the computer. Some reviewers have also complained about lines and distortion in scans with some models, especially after repeated use.
Nikon Super Coolscan Series
As makers of highly regarding cameras and photography equipment, it's probably not surprising that Nikon also makes a top rated photo scanner. They offer high resolution, and the Coolscan can handle not only photos, but 35mm slides and negatives as well, and it comes with editing software suitable for advanced or professional users. Scan time varies from roughly 30 seconds to approximately three minutes, depending on what options chosen on the scan. The Coolscan also renders subtle colors well because of the ED glass used for the flatbed. The Coolscan is more expensive than many scanners, making it more suitable for advanced hobbyists or professional users.
HP Scanjet Photo Scanners
Hewlett Packard has a variety of scanners in their Scanjet series, which are mostly relatively inexpensive scanners suitable for hobbyists and casual users. Specifications vary with model, but most of these flat-bed scanners scan up to 4800 dpi. They come bundled with easy to use software for basic photo retouching, such as removing scratches, adjusting color, and correcting red eye. Scanjets easily attach to your computer with hi-speed USB cables, and many also can be used for black & white photocopies. Most models can process slides and negatives, but will produce the best results with photos.
FiOS (Fiber Optic Service) TV is a digital television service provided by Verizon that uses fiber-optic cable to give the user access to hundreds of digital and high-definition channels. It uses a receiver similar to that of cable and satellite companies and can also be bundled with digital phone and high-speed Internet service.
Fiber optics
Fiber-optic cables transmit data by sending pulses of light through a thin optical fiber. The light forms a modulated electromagnetic wave that carries the information and provides a faster, stronger signal than older copper wires. The FiOS receiver decompresses the signals and converts them to pictures and sound for the TV.
Features
FiOS TV, like cable and satellite providers, offers more than 300 digital channels, more than 100 of those in HD and Dolby 5.1 channel surround sound. It also includes video on demand, on-screen menus, guides and settings, parental controls, games and other interactive features.
Video Recorder
The FiOS receiver has an optional Digital Video Recorder (DVR), which records and stores up to 80 hours of standard definition (SD) programs and up to 20 hours in HD. The user can then play back the programs, as well as rewind, fast-forward and pause the playback as they choose.
Set up
Upon subscribing, a technician secures the connection outside the house and runs a fiber cable from a telephone pole, installs the TV hookups and connects the cable to the FiOS TV receiver. The system is activated and tested to make sure the equipment and features are working.
Availability
As of 2009, FiOS is only offered in limited areas. To check availability, go to a Verizon outlet or visit the company website (see link in Resources).
Tags: FiOS receiver, cable satellite, more than, Video Recorder
A USB flash drive can be used as a dongle for wireless LAN.
Computers without built-in wireless cards can use an external device as a dongle to provide connection to the Internet. The dongle for a wireless LAN device, based on Ralink RT73 chipset, is a USB hardware extension installed to the Windows operating system. The RT73 driver must be installed and configured to provide the network connection. It will allow a flash drive inserted into your computer's USB port to act as a dongle for the wireless LAN.
Instructions
1. Download the Ralink RT73 driver from the Softpedia website (see Resources, "readme.txt" file in self-extracted ZIP file).
2. Connect the RT73-based USB Wireless LAN dongle to a USB port of your computer.
3. Select the "No" option in the "Found New Hardware Wizard" window and click the "Next" button.
4. Select the "Install the software automatically (Recommended)" option and click the "Next" button to install the RT73 driver.
5. Click the "Finish" button to complete installation of the USB flash drive dongle for a RT73 wireless LAN.
Adding a subwoofer to your truck will have big benefits for the sound. Your bass will be stronger, and the overall sound much fuller and richer. To work properly, a subwoofer must be placed into an enclosure, commonly referred to as a subwoofer box. In the case of a truck, be sure that the subwoofer box has a good chance of fitting into the limited space behind the seat. This design holds a 10-inch subwoofer and will do the job in many trucks, and doesn't require anything beyond basic carpentry skills.
Instructions
1. Cut the front panel, rear panel, top and bottom panels for the sub box with your circular saw. Cut the pieces to the following dimensions.
Front: 14 by 12 inches
Rear: 14 by 12 inches
Top: 14 by 6 inches
Bottom: 14 by 6 inches
2. Cut an opening for the subwoofer into the front panel. Use your subwoofer as a template for the size of opening, and cut the opening with your drill and the jig saw.
3. Assemble the panels together with wood screws and carpenter's glue.
4. Cut two end panels for the subwoofer box, measuring 6 by 13 1/2 inches, with your circular saw. Cut an opening for the terminal cup into one of the panels, using your drill and the jig saw.
5. Mount the end panels onto the box, using wood screws and carpenter's glue.
6. Attach a 12-inch length of speaker wire to the inside tabs of the terminal cup. Feed the wire into the box, and then mount the terminal cup to the box with wood screws.
7. Attach the other end of the speaker wire to the subwoofer, and then mount the subwoofer into the box with wood screws. Place the box into your truck and connect to your amplifier.
Tags: wood screws, with wood, with wood screws, with your, carpenter glue
When shopping for an amplifier or a preamplifier for your home stereo system, you may run across the term "line level." Power amplifiers are designed to take line level signals and amplify them into a signal that can be translated to sound by a loudspeaker.
What is Line Level?
Line level describes the strength of an audio signal and is the signal an amplifier needs to be able to power a pair of speakers. Line level signals are put out by sources such as CD players, tape decks and DVD players. Other sources, such as turntables, microphones and instrument pick-ups output a different strength signal that needs a preamplifier to be line level.
Measurement
The measurement of consumer audio line level is -10dBV. Professional audio gear has a much higher line level reading, +4dBu, so that the signal will carry over long cable runs. The measurement dBV describes decibels above or below a reference voltage of one volt required to produce a milliwatt of power over a 1 kilohm load, while dBu is the power needed to produce a milliwatt of power over a 600 ohm load. So, -10dBV is equivalent to 0.316 volts, while +4dBu is 1.23 volts.
Preamplifier
The job of the preamplifier is to boost the signal of lower-level audio signals to line level. A phono preamplifier, in addition to boosting the signal to line level, also removes the RIAA (Recording Industry Association of America) curve applied to the record when it is cut to vinyl.
Connecting
Since CD players, DVD players and tape decks output a line level signal, it is technically possible to connect them directly to an amplifier. However, it is best to run through a preamp, which can function as a switcher, switching between the components, and also give the listener volume control.
Headphone Amplifiers
A headphone amplifier is designed to amplify a line level signal to power a pair of headphones. A headphone amp puts out a signal greater than a line level signal.
Tags: line level, level signal, line level, line level signal, level signals
You can even invert the colors of an image with ease.
Anybody with a Windows-based PC can edit her photographs, but not necessarily with built-in Windows software. You can start with the Windows Picture and Fax Viewer in XP or Windows Photo Viewer in Windows 7, the default applications that open when you click on an image on a Windows XP- or Windows 7-based PC. You cannot edit photos with either program, but you can right click on the photo to bring it into the Paint program -- which is not a photo-editing program but a drawing and painting program. If you want a real photo-editing program, you will probably have to download it.
Instructions
Windows XP
1. Open the image you wish to edit in Windows Picture and Fax Viewer.
2. Right click on the opened image and select "Edit." This will bring up the Paint program.
3. Use the painting and drawing tools that now appear to add effects to the image.
Windows 7
4. Open the image you wish to edit in Windows Photo Viewer.
5. Click "Open" in the toolbar at the top of the Windows Photo Viewer window.
6. Click "Paint" in the list of choices that appear.
7. Use the painting and drawing tools that now appear to add effects to the image.
Tags: Photo Viewer, Picture Viewer, that appear, Windows Photo, Windows Photo Viewer, appear effects
A telephoto lens is a camera lens with a narrow angle of view and a longer focal length than a lens for the normal image size produced by that camera.
Function
A telephoto lens zooms in on distant objects, making it a frequent choice of news photographers and sports photographers--or parents homing in on their child in a parade or graduation ceremony. This type of lens also can be flattering for candid wedding photography or for portraits.
Features
The key feature of a telephoto lens is a long focal length, or the measure of how strongly it focuses light. This gives an image a shallow depth of field, meaning unwanted objects in the foreground and background can be blurred easily to concentrate on the subject.
Types
Depending on size, lenses are classified as moderate telephoto, medium telephoto and super-telephoto lenses.
Size
For the 35 mm format, moderate-length telephoto lenses can be anything greater than 35 mm, typically 85 mm to 130 mm. Many portrait photographers opt for 105 mm. Medium telephoto lenses range from about 135 mm to 300 mm. A super-telephoto lens is about 400 mm to 800 mm.
Considerations
As the lens size increases, so does the expense--and the weight. Telephoto lenses can go out of focus easily because of their narrow view, so use a tripod for accuracy and support.
With the help of installation guides and online forums, hooking up a CB radio is a good do-it-yourself project. Here are some tips to help hook up your CB.
Instructions
1. Choose a CB radio that fits your vehicle. If you are hooking up a CB in a truck, then space isn't a problem. However, hooking up a CB in a car can be a tight fit. Measure the area under the dashboard in your vehicle and the CB radio to ensure a good fit.
2. Decide where the CB antenna will be placed so you can buy the proper antenna mount. If the instructions call for a hole, drill one for the antenna mount into metal. The metal will reflect the signal you are sending. A magnetic antenna requires no hole and can be removed when it's not in use. A cable runs from the back of the CB radio to the antenna so placement of the antenna is important. An all-in-one kit is available with magnetic antennas and is more economical.
3. Install the antenna, and then run the wire to the back of the CB radio. If using a magnetic antenna, just put the wire through your window and hook up to the back of the CB radio in the antenna socket.
4. Use an adapter for your cigarette lighter to hook up the power supply. The adapter plugs into the back of the CB radio at the power hook up and can easily be plugged into the cigarette lighter. When the CB radio is not in use, simply unplug it from the lighter. An adapter is much easier to use than trying to hardwire the CB radio.
Tags: back radio, antenna mount, back radio antenna, cigarette lighter, magnetic antenna, radio antenna, your vehicle
These small cameras aren't intended for outdoor use.
Whether you want to watch birds nesting in spring, keep an eye out on your aging animal companion or jazz up your local neighborhood watch program, outdoor webcams are the answer for cheap, real-time footage of an outdoor space. But before you take the three dollar USB camera you bought on eBay and try to super glue it to your mailbox, you should know a few things about outdoor webcams.
Instructions
1. Choose a webcam. Wi-Fi webcams can be added to your current Wi-Fi network, or you can use a wired setup that connects your webcam to your computer with an Ethernet cord. Both options are viable, since you can purchase Ethernet cables 100 feet long or longer. Consider purchasing an enclosure to protect your camera.
2. Follow the directions included with your camera to install any necessary software that is included. Some webcams might be plug and play and may not require additional installation, while others may come with a disk. Your manual will provide you with the step-by-step directions for your specific camera. If you are installing a Wi-Fi camera, you will need to configure it first. This will likely require that you use an Ethernet cord and plug the Wi-Fi camera directly into the router. Complete the configuration as directed in the manual.
3. Mount the camera in your desired location outside. You will have to be near a power source, so keep this in mind. If you purchased an enclosure to protect the camera from the weather, place the camera in the enclosure prior to mounting it. If you are using a wired camera, run the wire from the camera to the computer. You can run it through the attic so it is out of sight, or you can enclose it in a PVC pipe if you are mounting the camera away from any buildings.
4. Access your camera by typing its static IP address into your web browser. The static IP address of the camera should be listed in the camera's manual. Consider bookmarking the address for future use.
A thermagraphic or thermal camera, also known as a FLIR (forward looking infrared), is a device that creates an image using infrared radiation, which is heat. The measurement of the infrared light illustrates and makes visible the heat radiation from the object. There are different types of thermal cameras which are utilized in various fields, and improvements and adjustments are regularly made to enhance their versatility.
Cooled Infrared
Thermal cameras can be arranged into two types--cameras with cooled infrared image detectors, and cameras with uncooled detectors. Cooled detectors are usually enclosed in a vacuum-sealed case or flask. Cooling temperatures ranges from 4 k to 110 k, but is commonly used at 80 k to 90 k. If cooling is absent, the sensors would be flooded by their own radiation.
Uncooled Infrared
Uncooled thermal cameras utilize a sensor operating at or near the ambient temperature. Modern uncooled detectors all use sensors which respond to the adjustment of voltage, resistance or current. Uncooled infrared sensors can be stabilized to a specific temperature to minimize image noise. However, they are not reduced to low cooled temperature and do not require the use of cryogenic coolers. This makes an uncooled thermal camera more compact and less expensive than a cooled one.
Disadvantages
There are disadvantages of cooled infrared cameras, such as the expenses of producing and running one. The cooling and evacuating can also become time and power consuming, especially the cooling down of the camera before it begins to work. A disadvantage of uncooled infrared camera is their lower image and resolution quality compared to cooled infrared cameras.
Handheld camera
The handheld thermal camera is designed to meet the needs of the law enforcement profession. This series of thermal cameras gives an unprecedented infrared imaging performance. Behind its design are features including near instant-on, image optimization, and a removable eye-cup. This handheld thermal camera successfully carries out any mission, such as conducting perimeter surveillance, locating a missing person or searching for contraband.
Improvements
This year PCE GROUP (advisors in measuring instrument/ test equipments) have increased their range of thermal cameras. They are currently offering thermal cameras for on-site professional use involving inspection of machines or installations, and for security. Thermal cameras are advancing and increasing the knowledge pertaining to the discipline of infrared measurement. The models are more compact, economical, and easier to handle. Lack of expertise to capture infrared images is not a problem with the new generation of PCE-ITC 1 series. Its small design provides complete portability to the user.
Versatility
Thermal cameras were originally created for military purposes during the Korean War, but they slowly migrated into other fields. Steadily decreasing prices have also helped influence the adoption of infrared viewing technology. Besides lower prices, advanced optics and sophisticated software interfaces enhance the versatility of thermal cameras These cameras are used in fields which range from night vision to law enforcement and anti-terrorism. The detection of people infected with SARS is another method used which illustrates the thermal camera's versatility. The thermal camera detects people with SARS by performing a non-voluntary screening on the human face for fever symptoms. The fever scan M3000 series of thermal cameras is capable of evaluating hundreds of people per minute. Furthermore, it detects individuals with elevated body temperature.
Thermal Imaging technology has been in use for nearly half a century in both the military and civilian worlds. It is useful in finding injured people that are masked from view in burning buildings and is used in industries where temperature regulation of objects is mandatory. Discover the history of thermal imaging devices and their military roots. Explore the concept and two major categories of these devices, and learn the important scientific and home inspection applications of this heat-based imaging technology.
Concept
Thermal imaging cameras are technological devices that measure the amount of heat radiating or reflecting off an object. It forms an image using the infrared spectrum as opposed to the visible light spectrum. All objects radiate black body radiation, and the more radiation emitted, the greater the temperature. The scanning process is nondestructive and the process is very rapid. Thermal imaging cameras/detectors don't actually see anything, rather they render an image based on the amount of heat radiation that the object emits.
Uncooled verses cooled detectors
Cooled thermal imaging devices are kept in a vacuum-sealed environment that is cooled to temperatures as low as -443.2 degrees Fahrenheit but no warmer than -261.4 degrees Fahrenheit. The purpose of cooling the devices is to remove any interference from their own heat radiation information. Uncooled thermal imaging devices have a sensor that detects the environmental temperature, which creates the basis for the readings. Anything that is detected is a reflection of how different the object is in relation to the environment. Cooled thermal imaging devices have a superior image quality compared to uncooled devices, but are bulky and expensive.
History
Researchers began laying the foundations for producing thermal imaging devices as far back as World War II to complete military objectives such as weapons guidance, intelligence gathering, locating targets and tracking. The Vietnam Conflict saw the first devices, used for surveillance and infiltration, and afterwards the technology moved toward astronomy and environmental applications like monitoring pollution.
Spitzer Space Telescope
The Spitzer Space Telescope is an infrared telescope that launched into space August 25, 2003. It contains an infrared camera that operates on four, simultaneous wavelengths: 3,600 nanometers, 4,500 nanometers, 5,800 nanometers and 8,000 nanometers. It has an infrared spectrometer, which measures radiation frequencies. The telescope detected a very young star in 2004, which had appeared dark to ground-based observatories. The telescope in 2007 successfully mapped an extrasolar planet's surface temperature.
Building and home inspections
Thermal imaging devices are a valuable tool when used to inspect buildings and homes for heat loss. The device can render the difference between effective windows and those that allow cold air to bleed in through the glass or perimeter of the window. It is also used to locate ideal areas in which mold will grow and to detect leaking refrigeration equipment. It can detect poorly insulated roofs, and perform structure analysis on masonry and pipe and wire hotspots.