Buy A Fuji Camera

Whether you are loyal Fuji camera owner or are just intrigued by the brand, you will want to make sure you get the right model of Fuji digital camera. One nice thing about Fuji digital cameras is they come in a wide range of types, from inexpensive to compact to professional quality. After deciding which type to buy, you'll need to pick a model and get a good price.

Instructions

1. Decide what you will use your camera for. Think about if you need an ultra-compact camera for easy transportation or a larger camera for more professional quality prints. In between these two extremes lies the cheapest cameras Fuji has to offer, the sub-compacts.

2. Choose a three megapixel Fuji camera to save some money if you only want 4 by 6 inch prints. However, if you want some 8 by 10 inch prints, choose at least a six megapixel model. Also consider the zoom. With Fuji cameras, you can choose a basic three times zoom or a much longer zoom, great for capturing sports and other outdoor activities.

3. Compare digital camera models at the Fuji website. From the "Consumer" menu, choose "Cameras and Accessories." Fuji provides specifications and descriptions for each camera. Narrow your choice down to one camera that best fits your needs.

4. Read reviews for your chosen camera online. Many websites give in depth reviews of Fuji digital cameras and provide sample images.

5. Look for a good deal on your digital camera. Compare prices at regular brick and mortar stores, but also see if you can get a better deal online.

Tags: digital camera, Fuji digital, digital cameras, Fuji camera, Fuji digital cameras, inch prints, professional quality

Solder Flux Types Explained

Without soldering flux, electronic equipment would be much more expensive to build.

Soldering and brazing are processes for bonding two or more pieces of heated metal together with a molten filler metal that forms an extremely strong bond. Flux is a chemical cleaner applied to the surfaces being soldered or brazed to remove all traces of oxidation from the heated workpieces and the molten filler metal. Otherwise, the oxides would block heat flow, producing a weak joint. Different types of flux exist for different joining jobs.

Inorganic Acid Flux

Inorganic acid flux is a blend of hydrochloric acid, zinc chloride and ammonium chloride. This type of flux is extremely active, used to solder copper, brass and stainless steel with a tin-lead alloy in household and commercial plumbing and in industrial applications. Acid flux requires thorough post-soldering cleanup of the joint to remove corrosive residue that could eventually weaken the joint. Acid flux comes as paste or liquid, or in acid-core solder that combines solder and flux in one. It cannot be used for electrical or electronic assembly work.

Rosin Flux

Rosin flux incorporates acidic compounds derived from conifer tree rosin, mixed with solvents. Rosin fluxes are used with tin-lead solder alloy for soldering electronic components because they don't leave corrosive residues. They do, however, leave behind a sticky residue that will attract moisture and dirt. The residue must be cleaned off with liquid solvents like trichloroethane. Rosin flux comes in paste or liquid or in rosin-core solder that combines flux and solder.

Organic Acid Flux

Since the 1940s, electronics assembly has increasingly turned to organic acid fluxes, developed by the Batelle Memorial Institute, for use with tin-lead solder. Organic acid fluxes are a blend of acids carried in alcohol or water without rosin, inorganic compounds or solvents. These fluxes have only about a third the solid matter of traditional acid or rosin flux. Sold only in liquid form, organic acid flux is used when rosin flux isn't active enough. Depending on formulation, organic acid fluxes either leave no residue or their residue washes away with water. Most liquid fluxes for electronic assembly are organic acid types.

Brazing Flux

Brazing is similar to soldering except it requires temperatures roughly double those needed for soldering. Brazing uses brass or alloys of nickel or silver as the bonding metal. Brazing also requires a flux that is extremely different from the fluxes used for soldering. Brazing flux is made up of potassium, boron, fluorine and sodium compounds, including potassium tetraborate, boric acid, potassium pentaborate, potassium biflouride, sodium dodecyl sulfate and boron, mixed with water as the carrier. Like soldering flux, brazing flux chemically cleans oxides from the metals to be joined.

Tags: acid fluxes, with tin-lead, Acid flux, comes paste, comes paste liquid, electronic assembly

Fix A Timex Clock

Timex clock problems are addressed in its product manual guide.

Timex clocks come in a variety of models, from small travel alarm clocks to digital stereo CD clock radios. All models have the same basic functions, with some having a few additional features depending on its specific model type. Several common problems are addressed in the Timex product manuals. But other issues may require repair service work.

Instructions

Wrong Time and Date

1. Press and hold the "Time Set" button located on the back of the clock. While holding this button, press the "Hour" button until you reach the correct current hour. For clocks with date displays, this button is labeled as "HR/Month/Year".

2. Use the PM indicator to confirm the correct time has been set. The PM indicator is a small dot that lights up on the clock display when the time has reached PM hours.

3. While still holding the "Time Set" button, press the "Minute" button until you reach the correct current time. For clocks with date displays, this button is labeled as "MIN/Date/Year".

For some clocks, it may be necessary to press the "Time" button once again to exit the time setting mode.

4. To correct the date, hold down the "Calendar" button on the back of the clock until the display is flashing the year number.

5. Press either the "HR/Month/Year" or "MIN/Date/Year" buttons until you reach the correct year.

6. Press the "Calendar Button" again until the month/day is flashing. Press the "HR/Month/Year" button to correct the month and press the "MIN/Date/Year" button to correct the day of the month.

7. Press the "Calendar" button once more to exit the calendar setting mode.

8. Set the time zone switch to your appropriate region, if there is one on your clock.

9. Set the daylight savings time (DST) switch on or off, depending on your location.

No Display or Audio Sound

10. Check that the clock is connected properly to the outlet.

11. Plug another device into the outlet to check that the outlet itself is functioning properly.

12. Plug the clock into another outlet.

13. Check that the backup battery has been installed. The backup battery is installed to power the clock in the event that it is disconnected, or there is a power failure.

14. Open the battery compartment on either the back side or bottom of the clock.

15. Insert the appropriate battery into the compartment. Timex clocks run on either AAA, AA or 9V batteries, depending on the model. Alkaline batteries are recommended for longer use.

16. Consult the clock's specific product manual, available at the Timex website, for more information if the clock still has no power.

17.Call the Timex Audio Products Division Customer Service line at 1-800-888-4491 for any further help.

Lighting Problems

18. Trace the power source of the device to rule out other possible causes before checking the light bulb.

19. Open the clock and locate the light bulb compartment, if there are no power source issues.

20. Remove the light bulb and replace it with the appropriate bulb for the model. Timex clocks use light-emitting diode (LED) light bulbs.

Tags: Date Year, light bulb, Month Year, reach correct, this button, Time button

Set An Adjusting Analog Graphic Equalizer Smile

Set an Adjusting Analog Graphic Equalizer Smile

An analog graphic equalizer adjusts the audio frequencies of stereo components for a custom sound when played back on speakers. The equalizer "smile" is a popular setting of the audio frequencies named for the shape of the slider controls that curve upward on the ends for the bass and treble settings, with low control settings for the mid-range. While countless variations are available for the equalizer smile, each control can be set in slightly different increments. Thus, the basic setting is a good starting point for fine-tuning the slide controls to personal taste.

Instructions

1. Slide the two outermost controls, on the far left and right, to the top positions on the equalizer.

2. Set the next two controls one setting below the far left and right controls.

3. Adjust the third control from the left and right one step below the second controls.

4. Push down the next pair of controls another step. Continue with each control until the two middle sliders are at the bottom position. The slider controls now resemble the upward curve of a smile. This setting accentuates the high and low frequencies, while minimizing the middle range.

Tags: left right, Adjusting Analog, Adjusting Analog Graphic, Analog Graphic, Analog Graphic Equalizer, audio frequencies, each control

Gps Unit Work

Global Positioning Satellites

Global Positioning System, or GPS, satellites transmit signals that are received by a variety of equipment. Handheld units, automobile units and wrist receivers all use satellite signals to help find the way. The signal only goes one way, as GPS units only receive and do not send or transmit a signal. GPS units, whether they be mounted or handheld, require an unobstructed view of the sky. In other words, there can be no solid objects between the antenna of the GPS unit and the satellite that is sending the signal. As this is the case, GPS units are typically only used outdoors. A failing of GPS units is they often do not perform well within forested areas. Since outdoor activities is a major reason many people purchase GPS units, this is a factor that should be strongly considered.

How GPS Signals Work

Global Positioning Satellites transmit information that includes its location and the current time. GPS satellites are dependent upon very precise time synchronization. For this reason, clocks on board the GPS satellites are synched with atomic clocks at the U.S. Naval Observatory. The result is that all GPS satellites transmit a signal at precisely the same time. These signals, moving at the speed of light, will reach your unit at different times due to the distance each satellite is from your specific location. The handheld unit calculates the amount of time it takes for the signal from up to four satellites to reach the unit. By estimating this amount of time, a triangulation or three dimensional reference point is plotted. Many units will indicate the number of satellites that are being detected by a unit at any given time. It is not uncommon for up to 8 of the 24 orbiting GPS satellites to show as a signal source.

Determining Your Position

The transmission from the GPS satellites not only includes time but distance. This is crucial as a GPS must be able to locate satellites. The GPS unit will estimate the distance to a satellite and determine its location at a point on the satellite. By calculating its location on several satellites, the unit determines an intersection point and thus provides a pinpoint location for the unit and user.

Accuracy of GPS

So exactly how accurate is your GPS unit? Just how close can it come to giving you an exact reading on your location? A rule of thumb is that the type of receiver being used will greatly determine the accuracy. For example, most handheld units will be accurate to within 30 feet or so. However, other types of units such as those mounted in vehicles, are more accurate, due to the use of a stationary receiver unit. This unit is used to provide constant calculations and corrections which allow these units to provide much greater accuracy. In fact, the accuracy can be increased to as close as 5 feet.

Tags: Global Positioning, amount time, Global Positioning Satellites, Positioning Satellites, satellites unit, transmit signal

Buy A Cell Phone For Kids

Many teens and preteens use cell phones to stay in touch with parents and friends. Before buying a phone for your child, there are several things to consider so they can easily use the device in any situation, including emergencies.

Instructions

1. Look at the age of your child. If you're buying for a younger child, you may want to look at a cell phone with parental controls like the Firefly. Look at other kid-only phones from ChatNow, TicTalk, Disney Mobile and Mattel.

2. Decide on what features you need. Teens believe that text messaging is a necessary accessory. For any age child, you might want to be able to put parents and 911 on speed dial. Fireflys allow parents to program up to 22 phone numbers that come through or go out.

3. Shop around for cell phones. Cell phones can be more than a way to call Mom to pick you up. They can also be a fashion accessory in bubblegum pink or action toy slime colors. Superman fans can even buy a Superman phone.

4. Buy cell phones directly from cell phone providers, discount stores or online. Toys R Us sells cell phones for the younger set. Find out which cell phone providers market kids-only phones. For example, Cingular Wireless is the first national carrier for the Firefly phone.

5. Look at the different calling plans available. You might want to settle on a set amount of minutes each month or buy additional time as needed. Firefly allows kids to call 911 even if they have run out of minutes. Activate the phone through the providers you settle on.

6. Talk to your kids about rules and expectations regarding cell phone use. Remind them that cell phones are a privilege. For older kids, use the cell phone to teach responsible use by buying a plan that only allows a certain number of cell phone minutes or text messaging per month.

7. Monitor kids' cell phone usage. Many providers can send you a detailed statements that shows exactly what numbers your child is calling and receiving calls from. If you want to know where your child is at all times, look into a GPS Locator phone.

Tags: cell phone, your child, cell phones, cell phone providers, cell phones, kids cell

Register A Sim Card On A Tracfone

Tracfone is a company that offers cell phones without a required monthly fee. When your minutes run out, you cannot make additional calls until you buy more. This type of cell phone is important when cost of a monthly bill is out of reach. Tracfones can be purchased online or from a local retail store. Then you register the SIM card and purchase minutes.

Instructions

1. Log on to the Tracfone official website.

2. Click on the first menu option, "Activate/Reactivate Phone." If you have an account, click the "Existing Customer" bar. Then insert the password and email address. If you are a new user, select the "New Customer" button.

3. Complete the register questionnaire. This includes your name, home telephone and email address. Create a password for your account as well. Press the "Submit" option.

4. Decide the activation selection. Click the circle next to the option, such as "Activate with New Number." Then select the model of the cell phone you purchased. Press "Submit" again.

5. Place the battery inside your Tracfone if applicable. Ready the phone for an incoming call. Then enter the serial number in the bar. This is on a card in the packaging material.

6. Hit the "Submit" tab. You will receive a computerized phone call on your Tracfone when activation of your SIM card is complete.

Tags: cell phone, email address, Press Submit, your Tracfone

Fix Dvd Shrink Errors

DVD Shrink is a software package for copying DVDs on a computer running a Windows platform, then burning the digital copy onto a recordable DVD (DVD-R). The software enables users to copy all information on a DVD, or pick and choose content, such as making a copy of a film on DVD but omitting the special features from the digital copy. Occasionally the software will fail to backup and copy the files on a DVD, instead displaying a DVD Shrink Error message. You can fix common Shrink Error problems.

Instructions

1. Clean the DVD. Dirty discs are the most common problem associated with Shrink Error messages when attempting to copy discs. Use a camera lens paper with a few drops of isopropyl alcohol to clean the disc in a gentle circular motion.

2. Attempt to buff out scratches. Shrink Error messages are the result of the software's inability to read the digital data on a DVD. This is often caused by scratches. Insert the DVD in a buffing and polishing tool available at electronics stores to see if this can salvage the disc. Even if you can play the DVD on your regular equipment, Shrink software may not be able to read the encoded information due to scratches.

3. Clean the laser lens in the DVD-R drive of your computer using a lens cleaning product such as one manufactured by Memorex. Follow the cleaning procedure listed on the product, which usually takes about five minutes to complete a cleaning cycle. Insert the cleaner disc in the drive and follow the on-screen prompts.

4. Adjust the settings in DVD Shrink. Click on the "Tools" tab and choose "Settings," then select the box labeled "Default."

5. Click the tab labeled "I/O Key Exchange" and select "Yes" next to the "On Failure" option.

6. Under the "I/O" tab, check the box labeled "Ignore Read Errors." This will cause the software to override its own settings and skip past unreadable sections due to scratches. Although this may affect your copy quality, and there may be some image jumps in the recorded DVD, the software in many cases will be able to read over bad DVD sectors due to scratches.

Tags: Shrink Error, able read, digital copy, Error messages, scratches Shrink, Shrink Error messages, Shrink software

Charge A Canon Sd870 Camera

The battery for the Canon SD870 camera can be charged using any electrical outlet.

Cameras with rechargeable batteries normally charge one of two ways. Either an adapter is attached directly to the camera and then plugged into a power outlet, or the battery is removed from the camera and charged separately. The Canon SD870, a compact digital camera designed for the casual photographer, is one of the former types. A battery charger comes with the camera that is capable of providing a full charge to the included lithium-ion battery within about two hours.

Instructions

1. Slide and pull to open the battery compartment cover on the bottom of the camera.

2. Press the small white battery lock outwards then pull the battery out of the camera.

3. Insert the battery into the battery charger, making sure the two triangles match up to indicate proper placement.

4. Pull up to release the plug prongs on the charger.

5. Plug the charger into a power outlet.

6. Unplug the charger once a green light indicates the charging is complete. This should take just over two hours.

7. Remove the battery from the charger by pulling straight up on its right side.

8. Insert the battery into the battery slot on the bottom of the camera. Push until it clicks into place.

9. Close the battery compartment cover.

Tags: battery charger, battery compartment, battery compartment cover, battery into, battery into battery

Use An Infrared Remote With A Nikon D90

The Nikon D90 is a mid-range DSLR (digital single-lens reflex) camera that utilizes interchangeable lenses, manual camera operation and a host of other features and functionality. It was the first DSLR to feature a movie mode, recording clips in 720P high-definition and making use of the camera's large sensor for breathtaking video. Using the ML-L3 wireless remote by Nikon, users can control the D90's shutter via infrared.

Instructions

1. Press and hold the self-timer/wireless remote button on the Nikon D90. It is located to the right of the secondary LCD on the top of the camera right above the "AF" button.

2. Rotate the main command dial on the back of the Nikon D90 while holding the button.

3. Select the "Quick Response" or "Delayed" remote mode. The icon for the mode will appear on the secondary LCD screen; the remote icon represents the quick response mode and the remote icon with the clock represents the delayed remote mode.

4. Use the infrared remote to release the shutter and capture your picture.

Tags: remote icon, remote mode, wireless remote

Angle Vs Straight Viewfinders Spotting Scope

Whether for hunting or wildlife watching, the proper spotting scope is important.

Spotting scopes are used to provide a highly magnified view of a distant object. Spotting scopes are generally offered with either angled or straight viewfinders. Each of these styles offers both advantages and disadvantages to the user.

Uses of the Spotting Scope

New users often find that it is easier to find objects with a straight viewfinder. Straight viewfinders are also easier when following an object that moves frequently. Angled viewfinders are more useful when observing objects at an angle (such as birds high in a tree). Angle viewfinder spotting scopes can be mounted on a tripod at a lower height which makes the tripod more stable.

Users of the Spotting Scope

When more than one person will be using the spotting scope at the same time, the angle viewfinder often is easier to use. The angled viewfinder allows users of various heights a minimum of movement to see through the scope when placed on a tripod or table.

Optical Clarity

Straight viewfinder spotting scopes should be clearer as they have one less mirror for the image to be reflected off of before reaching the eye. However, all high-quality spotting scopes are very clear and the difference is minimal.

Tags: Spotting Scope, spotting scopes, Spotting scopes, viewfinder spotting, viewfinder spotting scopes

Program A Yaesu Handheld Scanner

Yaesu hand-held scanners are used by ham radio users. Following these steps, you can program one of the most common Yaesu models, the VX-170 radio/scanner. With the vast array of scanners and radio scanners manufactured by Yaesu, it is impossible to cover all of them in one article; the following steps are most common to the largest variety of hand-helds.

Instructions

Direct Programming Mode

1. Start here to program your Yaesu directly, and not clone from an existing preprogrammed radio. Locate the Function key and the Set key. On the VX-170, the Function key is the F key and the Set key is the 0 key. Press the F key and then press the Set key to enter the Set mode. Once you enter Set mode, release the two keys.

2. Turn the dial to select the Set mode item that you want to adjust.

3. Press the F key momentarily to enable adjustment of the item you have chosen by turning the dial.

4. Turn the dial knob to adjust or select the individual parameter on the item you have selected in the above step.

5. When you've finished your selection and/or adjustment, press the "Push-to-Talk," or PTT, key momentarily to save the setting and exit back to normal operations. These steps can be repeated for each item that you want to adjust.

Cloning Mode

6. Use Cloning mode if you want to transfer all the presets on an existing radio to a second radio. If your hand-held is a radio/scanner, then it will likely include an option for cloning. This feature is not included on scanners without a radio function. You will also need access to a preprogrammed model identical to yours.

7. Turn off both radios. Connect the cloning cable between the radios. In the VX-170 model, this is a cable that attaches from mic/speaker jack to mic/speaker jack.

8. Press and hold the Monitor switch while turning the radios on. The Monitor switch is just below the PTT key on this model, and it doesn't matter in which order you turn them on.

9. Turn the dial knob on each radio to select "Clone." Press the F key briefly. The display will disappear for a moment, and then the "Clone" notation will appear on the screens of both radios when successfully activated.

10. On the destination radio (the one you are programming), press the Monitor switch. The notation "RX" will appear on the display.

11. On the source radio (the one with the pre-existing programming), press and hold the PTT key, and "TX" will appear in the display window. At this point, data will be transferred from radio to radio.

12. Check for problems. If there was a problem during the process, an "Error" message will display; check your cables and battery charge and give it another try. If it was successful, the "Clone" message will reappear on both displays. When finished, turn off both radios, then disconnect the cloning cable. You are now able to turn on your radios and begin normal operation.

Tags: both radios, Monitor switch, Turn dial, will appear, appear display

Build Your Own Homemade Trail Camera

Use a trail camera to track deer and other wildlife.

Hunting has changed significantly in the past several years. The availability of satellite imagery, GPS navigation and digital imaging has turned the woods into a year-round recreational destination. Hunters, with the use of infrared-triggered cameras -- also known as game cameras, deer camera, trail cameras, trail cams or scouting cameras -- have the ability to study the behavior patterns of wildlife and learn to predict the animals' movements. With a bit of planning, the outdoor enthusiast with a love for electronics can build his own trail camera installation.

Instructions

1. Choose potential camera locations. Hunters position cameras strategically along trails, at food plots or feeders, at scrapes and rubs, at salt or mineral licks. By monitoring deer or elk, hunters learn when they begin to grow their antlers, strip their velvet, drop their antlers, breed or fall prey to forest predators. Because deer will return to the same rutting sites, scrapes or mineral licks season after season, hunters can anticipate the locations where specific deer will be found. Trail monitoring with cameras has become an indispensable tool for many outfitters wishing to ensure their clients a successful hunt.

2. Compare camera models and options. When purchasing the components to build a trail or game monitoring camera setup, consider the setting in which the camera will be located and choose the model best suited for the types of photos you are trying to achieve.

3. Determine the motion range required for your installation. Infrared sensors used for scouting cameras are able to detect motion from 10 feet to over 100 feet away. Research sensors to determine how quickly they fire after triggering and their level of sensitivity to movement. What is the range of the camera flash? Determine the life of the batteries you will use in your camera setup. Battery longevity will determine how long your can leave your camera unattended.

4. Purchase a kit or order components for assembly. There are dozens of types of controller boards, Fresnel lens, weatherproof cases, digital cameras, cords, batteries and mounting hardware available from outfitting stores, online, or at local camera shops. Follow the manufacturer's package assembly instructions or follow the guidelines offered in installation manuals available online. A typical trail cam will be composed of a controller card, camera shutter and flash hole, flash gasket, gasket seal, optical glass, lens and lens holder. Research the market and choose the components or kit suitable for your assembly. Trail cam kits will have all the electronic components included for you to install. Camera, case and wiring are purchased separately. A case can be readily constructed from a recycled tackle box or metal first-aid kit. Any weatherproof case can be recycled as a trail cam case. Paint with camouflage colors prior to installation.

Tags: build trail, camera setup, deer will, mineral licks, scouting cameras, their antlers

Facts On Stereo Headphones

Stereo headphones are a great way for a person to be able to enjoy their favorite music at high quality without bothering the people around them. Regardless of popular belief, headphones are not all created equal and although they may be pricey, a good pair of stereo headphones is worth it.

Benefits

Stereo headphones allow you to listen to music directly from the stereo without having to broadcast it over speakers for other people to hear.

Considerations

Stereo headphones run the gamut as far as price and quality are concerned, as you get just what you pay for.

Warning

Stereo headphones should never be used while driving or riding a bike or in any other instance in which one must be able to hear clearly with both ears.

Types

Some types of stereo headphones cup your ear, whereas others are able to be positioned inside your ear; different types of headphones suit different types of people with various needs.

Misconceptions

It has often been said that stereo headphones are bad for the ears and can cause deafness. In reality, it is all about the volume they are set at and the manner in which they are used.

Tags: different types, Stereo headphones, Stereo headphones

Replace A Thermo Coupler

The thermocouple in your hot water heater or furnace is a safety device that is used to shut off the flow of gas if it does not detect a pilot light flame. This is a small copper device that sits close to the pilot light and stays red-hot while the unit is in operation. If the pilot light were to blow out, the thermocouple cools and shuts off the gas flow to the appliance, keeping your family safe. You can replace a worn out thermocouple in less than an hour, using basic tools.

Instructions

1. Shut off the gas to the water heater or furnace and turn the unit to the "Off" position.

2. Remove the front cover off the unit, at the base. This cover protects the pilot light and burner assembly from catching anything on fire in the home. This cover can be removed from its small clips by hand. Some covers are attached with screws.

3. Locate the pilot light assembly near the center of the burner tubes. The thermocouple is a piece of copper rod attached to the base of the pilot light.

4. Remove the old thermocouple from the mounting bracket, using a pair of pliers. Unscrew the thermocouple from it's base, which will have a long, copper wire traveling to the gas regulator.

5. Install the new thermocouple by threading back into the mounting bracket. Adjust the thermocouple so that the top 1/2 inch of the copper rod is heated by the pilot light.

6. Turn on the gas to the unit and light the pilot light. Replace the heat covers and test the unit to make sure that the thermocouple allows the gas to flow, once the pilot light is burning. You can test this by turning on the furnace or hot water heater. If working properly, the burners will ignite once the pilot has heated the thermocouple.

Tags: pilot light, water heater, device that, heater furnace, mounting bracket

Buy Android Apps

Buy apps to enhance your Android experience.

The Android Market allows you to download applications, games and tools for free and for a fee to enhance the functionality of your Android-powered phone. The market operates with Google Checkout, which means you need an account to purchase apps. You can set up your Google Checkout account online and start browsing through the Android Market immediately.

Instructions

1. Visit the Google Checkout webite and click "Sign up now." Enter your personal information. If you already have a Google account, you can sign in using your Google account username and password and then add your billing information. You must have a credit card number on file to download paid apps, and you must have a Google account to download free apps.

2. Press the home button on your Android device, then tap "Market." If it's your first time using the Android Market, you need to confirm that you agree to the terms and conditions, which will appear before you can begin browsing. You can also visit the Android Market website to browse and buy apps from your PC and have them sent to your phone or tablet.

3. Browse through the applications available by categories, such as games, entertainment or health and fitness, or use the tabs at the top of the screen to filter results by popularity or price.

4. Tap an application icon to learn more about it. You can read the application description, see screen shots and read reviews before you decide to purchase.

5. Touch the "Buy" or "Install" button to verify your information and download the app directly to your Android-powered device. You may need to enter your password before the download begins, depending on the last time you accessed your Google Checkout account.

6. View the email account associated with your Google Checkout account for receipts for your Android Market purchases.

Tags: Android Market, Google Checkout, your Google, Checkout account, Google account

Cassette Deck Work

Cassette Tapes

Cassette tapes have a long, plastic tape wound between two spools. This tape has a magnetic coating on it, which stores audio signals. The magnetic coating will align facing in different directions to record the values of the audio signal. There are two pairs of tracks on the tape to get four tracks total. One pair of signals is for each side of the tape.

Cassette Reading

The cassette deck has two winders that automatically turn the tape at a continuous speed. As the tape moves, it runs past the read head. The read head is positioned to read one pair of audio tracks. As the tape rolls by, the magnetic field it produces creates a small electrical current in the read head. This electric current is a copy of the original sound recorded on the tape.

Cassette Playing

The read head then sends the signal to an amplifier, which makes it louder and more powerful. The amplifier is usually controlled by a volume knob which controls the overall loudness, and an equalizer. The equalizer can change the balance of high, low and medium frequency sounds. If a tape hissed too much, for example, a listener could use the equalizer to make the high frequency tape hiss quieter. After the volume is adjusted, it is sent to the speakers. One audio track is sent to each speaker to create stereo sound.

Tags: read head, magnetic coating, tape Cassette, tracks tape

Nikon Speedlight Sb 28 Specs

The Nikon SB-28 Speedlight can be used as a fill flash or to light up an entire room.

The Nikon SB-28 Speedlight is a full-sized flash designed for a 35mm film SLR camera.The flash was released in 1998 and could fire as often as once every four seconds with fully charged batteries. It fastens with a hotshoe mount, and is able to communicate with the camera through electrodes in the mount.

Basic Features

Powered by four AA batteries, the SB-28 offers users three modes: automatic, manual and TTL, or Through The Lens metering, for Nikon camera bodies. TTL allows the flash to anticipate and adjust for a picture's lighting needs. The flash is smaller than its predecessors, measuring 2.7 by 5 by 3.6 inches and weighing 11.8 ounces without batteries. Features include an auto-focus illuminator light designed to help the camera focus in low-light situations, and glowing controls to help the user work in low-light environments as well. Additionally, it has a built-in diffuser card to help in bouncing light toward a subject, and offers red-eye reduction. The flash is designed to work with lenses between 24 and 85mm. In wide-flash mode, it can service 18 or 20mm lenses as well.

Bouncing Light

Bouncing a flash off a ceiling, wall or diffuser card creates a softer light for subjects. With the SB-28, Nikon brought a better ability to move the direction of the flash -- eliminating the need to blind subjects or create significant shadows in pictures. The flash can be moved in any direction using the lock release button.

High-Performance Features

The SB-28 was designed as a high-performance flash that waits until the end of the exposure to fire. This offers better and more natural lighting, especially with moving subjects. Its 3-D light sensor allows the flash to calculate needed light based on the subject as well as the background, something that is useful when the background is bright. Nikon markets the flash as able to sync with shutter speeds of up to 1/4,000 of a second, according to the company's website. The flash is ready to fire again in seconds. In testing, it recycled in four seconds when using NiCd AA batteries and six-and-a-half seconds when using conventional AA batteries. NiCd batteries offer the least number of flashes per charge, with less than 100. Lithium batteries, by comparison, are good for up to 200 flashes per charge.

Limitations

The flash is compatible with digital SLR cameras, but it will only function in manual or automatic modes.

Tags: allows flash, diffuser card, flash designed, flashes charge, four seconds, NiCd batteries

Cheap Gifts For A Guy Friend

Your gift for your male friend should be creative and memorable.

If you have a male friend and you're looking for an inexpensive gift for him, you don't have to always purchase items from a store. Depending on his personality, you can also create a personalized gift for him. Avoid gifts that he may have received already by giving him something that's unique and memorable.

Graphic T-Shirts

For the male friend who has a good sense of humor and cracks a lot of jokes, you can give him inexpensive graphic T-shirts with funny slogans and designs. When buying the shirts, be sure that the slogans are not culturally or religiously offensive as this could offend your friend. Also consider what he always cracks jokes about when finding good T-shirts for him.

Gift Card to a Local Restaurant

If your male friend enjoys dining out, give him a gift card to a local restaurant. When choosing which restaurant to get a gift card from, think about your friend's culinary tastes as well as his budget. For example, if your friend likes Thai food and can't always afford to eat out, choose a Thai restaurant that also offers daily lunch or dinner specials that are affordable.

Grooming Kit

Since most men want to look their best, you can give your friend a grooming kit that includes shaving cream, a nail file, fingernail clippers, aftershave, toenail clippers and tweezers. You can find inexpensive grooming kits at most drugstores.

Magazine Subscription

If your male friend likes to stay well-informed on political issues, you can give him a gift subscription to magazines such as "Time," "Newsweek," "Business Week" or "The Weekly Standard."

Tags: male friend, your friend, your male friend, your male, cracks jokes, friend likes, gift card

The History Of The Original Polaroid Camera

Polaroid cameras feature film that develops itself in moments.

The Polaroid camera, invented by Edwin Land in 1947, was a breakthrough in photography. Previously, photographers had to remove from the camera and develop it in a darkroom to produce usable pictures, a long and tedious process that exposed the developer to a host of chemical substances. The Polaroid process, however, allowed the user to snap a picture and hold the fully developed photograph in her hands in a matter of moments, and Land's self-portrait demonstration at the Feb. 21, 1947, meeting of the Optical Society of America drew international attention. The Polaroid camera's ease of use made it popular with families, and many professionals took advantage of the ability to produce photographs in moments rather than hours.

The Land Camera

Land's film design featured a thick, layered sheet containing the photo film, the negative, and a capsule containing a special reagent. After the user snapped a picture, rollers in the camera would break the capsule, spreading the reagent between the negative and photo surface, transferring the image. After waiting a predetermined time, the user simply peeled away the negative sheet, revealing the final photograph. Early film stock produced sepia-toned images, and the company quickly followed it up with black-and-white film. A defect in the process, however, required users to treat the finished pictures with a separate fixative to prevent fading, a problem that would linger until 1963.

Early Success

Despite early technical glitches, the Polaroid line of cameras proved to be immensely popular. Black-and-white units sold well until the release of the first instant color camera in 1963, when the company began to maintain a line of cheaper black-and-white cameras geared toward younger photographers. In 1966, the company produced a system that could pair instant photographs with automatic lamination to produce ID badges. By 1970, the company's sales topped $500 million.

The SX-70

In 1972, Land produced a new color camera that would become iconic under the Polaroid name. Unlike earlier models, which required manual manipulation of the film, the SX-70 featured an internal motorized film cartridge that handled the development process automatically, ejecting a blank white slide that slowly faded into the finished picture. Sales continued to expand, but the expense of research and development into this new camera, as well as failed ventures into instant film for movie cameras and medical imaging, eventually began to take their toll on the company.

The Rise of Digital

While Polaroid continued making instant cameras into the 21st century, the rise of digital photography ate into the company's market share. The company eventually moved into the digital realm and discontinued its line of instant film cameras in the mid-2000s. By 2011, however, the company introduced the Polaroid 300 instant film camera, geared toward the nostalgia market as well as at first-time camera users.

Tags: instant film, color camera, geared toward, Polaroid camera, process however

Instructions For A Casio Hdc 600

The Casio HDC 600 series are a line of sports watches with an analog and digital combination that can keep time for two times zones at once. Features on the Casio HDC 600 include a 10-year battery, a 30-page data bank and three daily alarms. The set-up instructions for the Casio HDC 600 are fairly straightforward.

Instructions

Set The Digital Time and Date

1. Press and hold the top-left button until the digital setting screen begins to flash. The seconds will flash when your are on the setting screen.

2. Press the bottom-left button the move through and select setting screen options (second, minute, hour, etc.) and press the top-right or bottom-right button to set the time.

3. Press the top-left button to exit the setting screen.

Set The Analog Time

4. Press the bottom-left button six times. This will place the watch into the "Hand Setting Mode."

5. Hold the top-left button until the current digital time starts to flash. This will indicate that the watch is in the "Analog Setting Screen."

6. Press the bottom-right button to advance the analog time ahead by 20 seconds. If you need to speed up the advancement to the desired time, simultaneously press the top and bottom buttons on the right of the watch. This moves the analog hands at a high speed.

7. Press the top-left button to exit the setting screen.

Tags: setting screen, top-left button, bottom-left button, bottom-right button, button exit, button exit setting

Develop Pinhole Camera Negatives

Negative film has fallen out of favor due to the popularity of digital cameras. Black and white film that is shot from inside of a pinhole camera must be developed in order to provide a negative that can be printed onto photographic paper. You can make a photographic developing solution yourself from some common household products and sodium thiosulfate crystals purchased from a pool supply company. Once the negative film has been developed, it can be printed by a photo lab to provide a record of what was shot.

Instructions

1. Go into the bathroom. Tear off a piece of wax paper and put it at a corner of the bathroom's counter top. Fill the plastic gallon container almost to the top with tap water. Place the plastic gallon container in the bathroom sink.

2. Add 10 tsp. of washing soda to the plastic gallon container. Stir the water with the wooden ruler.

Add 4 tsp. of instant coffee crystals to the plastic gallon container. Stir the water with the wooden ruler.

Add 1 tsp. of vitamin C crystals to the plastic gallon container. Stir the water with the wooden ruler. Wait for any bubbles that appear on the surface of the water to dissipate. Wash off the ruler with tap water.

3. Place the plastic quart container on the bathroom counter top to the left of the sink. Put 24 oz. of sodium thiosulfate crystals into the plastic quart container. Add four cups of tap water into the plastic quart container using the measuring cup. Stir the water with the wooden ruler.

4. Close the bathroom door. Set the kitchen timer to 18 minutes. Turn on the kitchen timer. Turn off the light.

5. Hold the pinhole film canister in one hand and the bottle opener in the other. Flip off the canister lid with the bottle opener. Remove the film from the canister.

6. Dip the film into the plastic gallon container. Leave the film in the liquid for 30 seconds before lifting it out for three to four seconds and then returning it into the liquid. Lift the film out of the liquid for about 10 seconds every minute. Agitate the film back and forth when it is in the liquid.

7. Turn on the cold water tap when the kitchen timer goes off. Remove the film from the liquid and hold it under the water while you count off a minute.

8. Turn off the cold water tap. Dip the film into the plastic quart container that is to the left of the kitchen sink. Agitate the film while you count off five or six minutes.

9. Turn on the bathroom light. Turn on the cold water tap and hold the film under the water for at least six minutes. Put the film down on its side on the wax paper to dry.

Tags: gallon container, plastic gallon, plastic gallon container, into plastic, plastic quart, plastic quart container, quart container

Build Fish Aquariums

Building your aquarium allows you to create custom housing for your fish.

A fish tank is a relaxing hobby, but purchasing some of the larger or more interesting shaped aquariums can be an expensive proposition. There are those who swear by building their own aquarium not just for cost purposes but for overall quality as well. A tank you build yourself is something that can be fit to a custom space and you can make it to your personal specifications. No special tools or skills are needed to build a fish aquarium just the proper materials and instructions.

Instructions

1. Calculate the dimensions of your aquarium and the sizes of glass you need to support the weight of the water. Constructing a rectangular tank is best, shaped tanks are a highly advanced project. Standard glass of up to 6mm, or about 1/4 inch thick is suitable for aquariums up to 18 inches in length, use 10mm for tanks up to 36 inches. Anything larger you need to consult the glass supplier for strength specifications.

2. Purchase the glass pieces pre-cut from the glazier. Have them bevel and smooth the edges if possible.

3. Lay the materials out on a flat work surface free of grit or dust. Any of this type of material will stick in the silicone and compromise it's strength. Make sure the work surface is an area that can be damaged, the glass may scratch it and the silicone may stick to it.

4. Smooth the edges of the glass with the emery or sand paper if it wasn't done at purchase to remove any sharp edges. Sharp edges will not only cut your hands but slice through the sealant and compromise the tank integrity. If the glass was smoothed before purchase check the edges to be sure there are no burrs or sharp points missed during fabrication.

5. Treat all edges of the glass with the methylated spirits to ensure a clean surface clear of any grease, fingerprints or dust that will compromise the sealant. Keep fingers away from the edges once treated.

6. Lay the back panel flat on the work surface. Take 6 strips of the painters tape about 8 inches long and apply them to the bottom and both sides of the panel on the outside, with half the tape on the panel and half sticking out to adhere to the other panels when attached. Have someone assist you with the next step.

7. Run a line of silicon sealant along the bottom edge of the back panel. Stick the bottom panel into the sealant lining the bottom surface of the glass up with the bottom edge of the back panel. Bring the tape sections up and attach them to the bottom so the two pieces are taped together. Have someone continue to hold the piece until you have a side section attached to brace the construction.

8. Add a line of silicone sealant to the side of the back panel, and along the bottom edge of a side panel piece. The side panel will sit on top of the bottom panel as all of the sides will, and inside the front and back panels. Set the side panel in place and secure the tape. Now that three pieces are together, you should no longer need extra assistance to hold the bottom piece in place. Add the other side panel in the same manner as the first.

9. Lay the front panel in place on top of the construction by placing silicone sealant on the outside edges of the side panels, and along the bottom edge of the front panel. Set this panel in place and tape it to the sides and bottom with the painters tape.

10. Move around to the top opening of the tank while it still lays on it's side. Run a bead of silicone sealant on each inside joint. This is done by running the silicone into the corners tightly, then smoothing it with your finger. Do this along the bottom joints and all four corners.Install the stress bar if it is needed. Stress bars should be added to tanks 30 gallons and up. The stress bar is located at the top of the tank between the front and back panels, put in place with the silicone as the panels were. Now leave the tank to cure for at least 24 hours.

11. Set the tank upright after the silicone has cured, and fill with fresh water. Allow it to sit for 12 to 24 hours to test the seals on the tank.

Tags: along bottom, back panel, bottom edge, side panel, along bottom edge

Connect An Olympus Fe340 To A Pc Using A Usb Cable

The Olympus FE-340 was originally released in February of 2008, offering an easy to use and accessible camera for the casual photographer and family. The FE-340 features a 5x optical zoom, face detection, a smile shot system designed to capture spontaneous smiles and 19 shooting modes. Hooking up the FE-340 to a computer to offload pictures is a simple procedure using the included USB cable and Olympus' Master software, both included with the FE-340's original box.

Instructions

Using Olympus Master

1. Insert the Olympus Master CD-Rom that was included with the camera into your computer.

2. Follow the on-screen instructions to install Olympus Master to your computer.

3. Turn off the camera and ensure it is turned off by checking the monitor and lens. If the monitor is off and the lens is retracted, the camera is turned off.

4. Connect the USB cable to the camera's multi-connector and your computer's USB port. The camera will start up automatically.

5. Choose PC from the menu displayed on start-up.

6. Give your computer a moment to recognize the camera.

7. Open Olympus Master.

8. Click on "Transfer images," then "From Camera."

9. Select the desired destination Album, or click "New Album" and enter an album name to make a new album.

10. Select the image files you wish to transfer, and then click on "Transfer Images."

11. Click on "Browse Images Now" to browse the images.

12. Close Olympus Master.

13. Turn off the camera and unplug the USB cable.

Without Olympus Master

14. Turn off the camera and ensure it is turned off.

15. Connect the camera to the computer using the USB cable.

16. Choose PC from the menu.

17.Locate the picture files on your camera's memory card. It will be displayed as a "Removable Disk" drive, and can be accessed directly.

18. Cut or copy and paste the images to the desired location on the computer. Turn off the camera and unplug it from the USB cable.

Tags: Olympus Master, Turn camera, your computer, camera ensure, camera ensure turned

Build Bugging Devices

Bugging devices allow individuals to listen in on conversations from a remote location. The range of the device depends on the sophistication of the components and the obstacles between the transmitter and the receiver. A simple bugging device can be created from just a few items available at a local do-it-yourself electronics store. Once the device is complete, you can hide it in an everyday item like a VHS tape case, hollowed out book or anywhere else you can fit the components and battery pack.

Instructions

1. Remove the circuit boards from the stereo amplified listener and wireless FM transmitter. The process varies from model to model. In general, remove the screws that attach the front and back halves of the devices. You may need to remove the battery case covers to access the screws. Carefully pull out the circuit boards.

2. Unsolder the microphone or microphones from the stereo amplified listener. Plug in the soldering iron. Locate the microphone on the circuit board. All devices will have at least one if not two located near the edge of the circuit board. Hold the hot tip to the base of one of the wires that holds the microphone to the circuit board. The solder will melt and the wire will come free. Repeat this process with the other wire.

3. Unsolder the wires from the microphone. Hold the tip of the solder iron on the wire where it meets the microphone. Remove the wire when the solder melts. Repeat to remove the other wire. This process must be completed on all the microphones from the device.

4. Cut a 6-inch length of black wire for each microphone. Cut a 6-inch length of red wire for each microphone. Strip 1/4 inch of insulation from each of the ends of the wires. Use the soldering iron and solder to attach 1 black wire and 1 red wire to each microphone. Solder the wires to the microphone in the same way as the original wires were soldered. Repeat this step for each microphone.

5. Solder the extended microphones to the circuit board. Solder the red and black wires to the circuit board where the original red and black wires were soldered.

6. Prepare the power wires. Locate the red and black power wires on the stereo amplifier. These are the wires connected to the spring leads for the positive and negative sides of the batteries. Use the wire strippers to snip the lead board away from the wires and strip 1/4 inch from each. Repeat this process with the power wires from the FM transmitter. Strip 1/4 inch from the red and black wires attached to the AA battery case.

7. Extend the power wires. Cut 3 3-inch lengths of red wire. Cut 3 3-inch lengths of black wire. Strip 1/4 inch from each end of each wire. Solder one red wire to the red wire on the FM transmitter. Repeat this process for the stereo amplified listener and the battery case. Solder 1 black wire to each of the black wires on the 3 devices. Cut 6 1/2-inch lengths of heat shrink tubing. Slide 1 length of tubing onto the extended black wire of the FM transmitter until it covers the soldering point. Hold a flame 1 inch under the tubing to make it shrink wrap the soldered area for protection. Repeat this process to protect each of the solder points on the other extended power wires.

8. Splice the power wires together. Insert the ends of the 3 red power wires into a wire nut and twist it clockwise to splice the wires together. Repeat this process with the 3 black wires.

9. Plug the FM transmitter's ear phone plug into the stereo amplified listener's ear phone jack.

10. Test the system. Insert AA batteries into the battery holder. Turn the switches on the circuit boards of the transmitter and the amplified listener to "ON." Turn on the FM receiver. Tune the receiver to the frequency of the transmitter. Consult the transmitter's user manual for the default frequency settings. Place the bugging device in a room with ambient noise. Walk to another room with the FM receiver and verify that the bugging device transmits the signal to the receiver.

Tags: power wires, Repeat this, amplified listener, black wire, black wires, circuit board

Scan Slides Quickly

Scanning old slides into a computer is a great way to create slide shows on a CD or the adjust image quality using digital software tools before printing the pictures for framing or a photo album. Because slides are small and photographers are likely to have many of them, scanning individual slides can quickly become a tedious chore. A faster method is to use a template to capture more than a dozen scans in a single pass of the scanner.

Instructions

1. Arrange slides in a scanner template, which is a large plastic frame divided into individual squares for holding slides. This frame can hold between 20 and 25 slides, depending on the size of the scanner.

2. Place the template and slides on the flat-bed scanner glass and close the cover.

3. Open the scanner software on the computer by double-clicking the scanner icon or the name of the scanner in the list of programs installed on the computer.

4. Click "Image" or "Image Quality" on the tab at the top of the screen and then click "Resolution."

5. Choose a resolution setting for scanning the slides. The higher the resolution setting, the sharper the scanned images will appear. A resolution of 600x600 is the minimum setting for a quality scan of a 35 ,mm slide and 1200x2400 is preferred for professional-quality printing. At a higher resolution setting, the scanner will take longer to process the slides into digital images on the computer, so use the lowest acceptable resolution setting to increase scanner speed.

6. Press the "Scan" button on the scanner or click the button on the computer screen to scan the slides.

7. Click the "File" tab at the top of the screen and look for an "Automate" or "Automatic" setting in the drop-down menu.

8. Click "Crop and Straighten" ("Automatic Image Adjustment" or similar wording depending on the scanner software). This will automatically separate the multiple scanned slides into individual digital photo files, eliminating the need to click on one scanned slide at a time to separate it from the other images and store in a separate folder. This one step could save up to an hour that would be devoted to separating 20 or more scanned images into individual photo files on the computer.

Tags: resolution setting, into individual, slides into, higher resolution, higher resolution setting, photo files

How Does Rfid (Radiofrequency Identification) Work

RFID technology enables the tagging and tracking of animals, people and objects.

RFID (radio-frequency identification) refers to a technology that uses radio signals to exchange data between a terminal and an object, person or animal for identification and tracking purposes. RFIDs work via an antenna, transceiver and transponder system.

Scanning Antenna

RFID scanning antennas are often permanently attached to a surface, but can also be hand-held. The RFID scanning antenna transmits short-range radio-frequency signals, which are picked up by any RFID transponders within that range.

Transponder

Transponders, also known as RFID tags, are programmable devices attached to an item of interest, and may be of two types. Active RFID tags contain a power source typically in the form of a battery, and may have a life span of up to 10 years. Passive RFID tags contain no power source, are activated by an external source and have an unlimited lifespan. Passive RFID tags switch on via the signal transmitted by the scanning antenna when in range. Both passive and active RFID tags transmit information stored on their microchips to the antenna.

Transceiver

RFID transceivers contained in transponders are used to send and receive radio signals. The transceiver houses a decoder device which translates the signal the transponder receives from the antenna into binary code (a series of ones and zeros) that the transponder can understand.

Tags: RFID tags, contain power, contain power source, Passive RFID, Passive RFID tags, power source

How Make A Short Wave Radio Antenna

An external antenna will improve your shortwave reception.

While many shortwave radios have a built-in telescoping antenna, you'll find that some models have a input for an external antenna. If you've got the space for an external antenna, you'll enjoy greatly improved reception if you use it in place of the simple aerial. Designs for shortwave antennas vary greatly, but there is a simple foolproof design that works well for many users.

Instructions

1. Cut three small blocks of wood from your board. Two should be 2 inches long, and the other 3 inches long.

2. Drill two holes in the 3-inch block of wood, each 1 inch in from the end of the block. Insert your bolt, washers and nut through each hole so you have the following order: bolt head, washer, block of wood, washer, washer and nut. Do not tighten the nut yet, just enough to hold all the parts together.

3. Drill two holes in each 2-inch block of wood, one near each end.

4. Cut two pieces of 14-gauge copper wire (uninsulated), each piece 40 feet long. Loop one end of each piece of wire through a 2-inch block of wood and twist the wire so that it is securely fastened.

5. Take the other ends of the copper wires and wrap them around the bolts on either end of the 3-inch wood block. You'll now have a center block, with two wires extending from it, each terminating in wooden block.

6. Slide the connectors of a 300-ohm to 75-ohm transformer onto the bolts, one on each. Tighten the nuts on the bolts to hold the wires and the transformer securely together.

7. Connect an RG-6 cable to the transformer, and the other end to your receiver.

8. Suspend the antenna with ropes attached to the end blocks. The higher the antenna, the better the performance.

Tags: block wood, external antenna, 2-inch block, 2-inch block wood, Drill holes, each piece

Make A Real Movie

Digital video has revolutionized filmmaking.

With the explosion of the digital revolution, the movie-making floodgates have burst open as the lower cost to make movies using digital video as opposed to shooting with film allows you to explore this visual medium without a massive amount of money invested. Despite this technological innovation, there remains much more to making a movie than simply pointing a camera and yelling "Action." Independent movie-making is a discipline that requires multiple talents.

Instructions

1. Determine the budget for your movie. Keep in mind that you will need a cast, crew and one or more locations for shooting. If you spend long days shooting your movie, the cast and crew will need to be fed and, in case of any accidents, money may be needed for first aid. If you don't shoot on a soundstage or your own personal property, you will need to persuade location owners to allow you to shoot on their property for little or no money.

2. Write a script that allows you to shoot the movie you want within your budget. A movie with continuous explosions and vehicle chases may be a blast to write but unaffordable for you to actually make. "Break down the script" by combing through every element within the script and identifying every prop, location, cast needed in the shot, things that must be acquired for the shoot and anything else required to make certain you can get the highest possible production value for the budget you have available. Know what you have at your disposal and craft the best script you can using those elements.

3. Seek out and enlist the services of a good assistant director, or AD. Make certain you and this individual can have a compatible working relationship. The AD will help you, the director/writer/producer, enormously by breaking down the script, scheduling the shoot, preparing call sheets for cast and crew and otherwise freeing you to fully concentrate on the creative elements of the movie you want to make. Once you actually bark, "Action" and the production is running smoothly, you'll thank your AD for her work. Many independent productions fall apart because of poor organization in the preproduction phase.

4. Prepare! Familiarize yourself with the workings of your digital camera and know exactly how you want to shoot each scene before the time to actually shoot arrives. On the set, communicate with your actors to help them find the mental and emotional state in which to play their roles correctly. Be specific in your direction to obtain the objectives you seek in each scene in your movie. Explain to novice actors that movie production is often a slow, tedious process to help them pace their energy throughout the shoot. Rehearse and, if possible, host a social event with the cast and crew to improve everyone's comfort and boost camaraderie.

Tags: cast crew, will need, your movie, down script, each scene, help them, movie want

Use A Lensbaby

A Lensbaby is a single-element lens with a flexible casing that allows the lens to be focused like a traditional lens and as a tilt and shift lens. Available in a variety of lens mount styles, the Lensbaby was designed to work with Canon, Nikon, Sony, Leica and Minolta cameras. Being able to tilt the lens gives the photographer the ability to alter the angle of the lens to the film plane, which results in a change of focus even at wide aperture settings.

Instructions

1. Remove the rear cap from the Lensbaby by turning clockwise.

2. Insert the mount of the Lensbaby onto the camera's lens mount and secure. Remove the lens cap to reveal the lens and check that it is free of debris and dust.

3. Select and install the appropriate aperture ring into the Lensbaby. Slide the ring removal tool under the rubber washer, pulling it out. The aperture ring will fall out when the lens is tilted forward. Insert the new aperture ring and replace the rubber washer securely.

4. Adjust the shutter speed and ISO of the camera.

5. Focus by pulling the focusing collar forward or back. This will change the focus from one foot to infinity or any setting in between.

6. Bend the lens toward the desired area of focus and expose the image.

Tags: aperture ring, change focus, lens mount, rubber washer

Plasma Tv Stand Work

The Purpose of a Plasma TV Stand

The need for specialized stands for plasma TVs arose from the very design of the TV itself. Plasma TVs are thin, wide units that are often quite large. The most popular models will range from 42 to 50 inches in size. These large models will not work with typical stands -- thus the need for a new and specialized type of furniture. Wall mounting is an option for these sets; however, when there are considerations including space, wiring issues and personal concerns, a stand then becomes the more logical option for the TV. Stands can function as the housing for the TV as well as the other components that go along with it. Wall mounts do not give that option.

Types of Stands

Plasma TV stands are available from a wide variety of manufacturers and come in just about every conceivable shape, size, color, finish and material. If you are attempting to match a stand to the decor of your room or home, do not fear, there is a stand out there for you. From local big-box stores featuring stands for a few hundred dollars and under to high-end specialty furniture stores featuring stands costing more than a thousand dollars, there is a stand for everyone. Stands may be minimalist, designed only to hold a TV. More elaborate stands may have storage features and options for other equipment including receiver boxes, home theater equipment, DVD players and DVD storage.

Supporting the TV

A plasma TV stand is essentially designed to seemingly perform one main function: supporting the TV. This is accomplished by means of a large flat surface which holds the base support system that usually comes with the set. Additionally, depending on manufacturer, there may be ports for cable, satellite and speaker wires designed into the stand. Typically the stand will be a wide unit which will be matched to the TV unit itself. It is suggested that the width of the stand exceed the width of the TV itself. Stands are narrow from front to back and generally use less space than stands for traditional sets.

Tags: featuring stands, models will, need specialized, stores featuring, stores featuring stands, there stand

Build A Public Address System

A public address system can be used in an office, gymnasium, party room or anyplace else where you need to control multiple audio sources through one master control. The main components of a public address system are a mixer to combine multiple audio sources, an amplifier to maximize the volume level, a microphone for the announcer and the speakers to project the sound. Other devices are also connected to play music over the system as well.

Instructions

1. Connect an audio mixer with three or four channels to an amplifier, or get a mixer with its own built-in amplifier. For a separate mixer-amplifier combo, connect the amplifier's input to the "Amp" output ports on the mixer. Use RCA audio composite cables, which have red and white plugs.

2. Hook up as many speakers as you need to the amplifier. Depending on the available ports for all devices, use RCA cables or stereo mini-coaxial cables (these have a single plug with two black bands). An amplifier with at least four RCA output ports works best. Position the speakers around the room, and make sure you have enough cable.

3. Attach a microphone or headset to the mixer through its "Mic" port. This should be a large stereo coaxial port, in which the plug it connects to is much thicker than a mini stereo plug. A headset has a second plug that connects to the mixer's "Phones" port.

4. Connect a set of headphones to the "Phones" port if you connected a separate microphone to the mixer. You need headphones to hear everything that plays on the system above crowd noise.

5. Hook up extra devices to the mixers other channels. This can include a CD player, MP3 player, radio or computer with music files. You may need mini-to-RCA cables to connect them, which have the red and white plugs on one end and the small stereo coaxial plug on the other. Take note of the channel each device is plugged into so you know which volume dial it uses.

6. Plug in and turn on all devices. Use the mixer to control the volume on any channel you are using, making sure its master level is at full volume. For example, when using the microphone, turn up its volume level while turning down the volume on other devices that are playing, like the CD player.

Tags: audio sources, have white, have white plugs, mixer with, multiple audio

Build A Nimh Battery Charger

A simple circuit can recharge NiMH batteries.

You can recharge nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) batteries hundreds of times. Their light weight and decent current output make them a good choice for powering electronic equipment. The charger for NiMH batteries is a simple circuit that anyone with a modest amount of electronics experience can build in a few hours. The circuit takes direct current (DC) from a standard "wall-wart" type adapter and manages the charging process with a single transistor. A light-emitting diode (LED) indicates when the battery is charged.

Instructions

1. Orient the transistor just inside the perfboard's edge with the transistor's metal back facing away from the board. Set the transistor into the perfboard, letting its pins slip through the holes in the board. The pins should protrude through to the board's copper side.

2. Insert one lead of the 120-ohm resistor near the transistor's collector and the other lead near the base. Solder these two connections. Place the LED's anode near the transistor's base and put the LED's cathode lead into a nearby hole. Insert one lead of the 18-ohm resistor near the LED's cathode. Insert the resistor's other lead near the transistor's emitter. Solder these connections.

3. Orient the jack on the edge of the perfboard, connector side facing out. Insert the anode lead of the 1N4007 diode near the jack's positive lead and solder the connection. Insert the diode's cathode lead into a nearby hole. Put the positive lead of the 220-microfarad capacitor near the diode's cathode and solder the connection. Place the capacitor's negative lead near the LED's cathode and solder. Cut a 2-inch piece of wire and strip a quarter-inch of insulation from each end. Solder one end to the jack's negative pin. Place the other end near the LED's cathode and solder.

4. Place the red wire from the battery holder near the 1N4007's cathode. Place the black wire near the transistor's collector. Solder these connections. Trim excess wire and leads on the board's copper side with the diagonal cutters.

5. Put a small dab of heat sink compound on the metal back of the transistor. Slide the heat sink snugly onto the transistor.

6. Place two discharged AA-size NiMH batteries in the battery holder. Plug the 9-volt power adapter connector into the jack and plug the adapter into a wall outlet. The batteries will take a few hours to charge.

Tags: near transistor, NiMH batteries, cathode solder, lead near, near cathode, Solder these

Turn Your Pc Into A Home Monitoring System

With the falling cost of miniature spy cameras, which can be found all over the Internet, do-it-yourself home security is becoming more prevalent in American homes. You may wish to install a camera outside your house to catch intruders before they attack or install one in your nursery to watch over your baby. With a few easy steps, you can turn your personal computer into a home monitoring station in just a few minutes time.

Instructions

1. Place your wireless spy camera in the location you wish to monitor. Hide it if you so choose.

2. Insert the video capture card into your PC. There should be a slot on the side if it is a laptop, or the center of the computer tower if it is a desktop.

3. Connect the composite wires of the camera receiver to the video capture card.

4. Install the video capture card's software, which should be on a compact disc that should have been included with the capture card's purchase. This is to stream the images from the card on your PC.

5. Turn on the camera and the receiver. The video from the camera should begin to stream onto your PC's monitor.

Tags: capture card, video capture, video capture card, camera receiver, camera receiver video

Build A Light Box For Tracing

Many projects begin with drawing or tracing a picture, a task that can be simplified with the use of a light box. Light boxes illuminate the original picture from behind so the image can be traced onto an overlying page. Whether you are creating 2-D animation or pulling together a new woodworking project, a light box can be a useful tool. You can make a light box from any type of wood and hard plastic sheeting. If you’re uncomfortable with woodworking, you can use cardboard, but the results will be less sturdy.

Instructions

Make the Frame

1. Cut two 18-inch pieces from the 1-by-2 wood, using the short side of the plastic sheet to measure. Repeat this process with the long end of the plastic sheet. This will give you three 1-by-2 boards to use for the frame.

2. Cut one 24-inch piece of wood from the 1-by-4 to use for the frame header.

3. Place a 1-by-2 side piece on its end on top of the 1-by-4 header. Use a pencil to trace the outline of the smaller board on the top edge of the header. Remove this piece with a jigsaw.

4. Glue the side pieces into the header. When the glue is completely dry, reinforce this joint with nails or wood screws.

5. Glue the remaining 1-by-2 in place between the side pieces, at the opposite end from the header. Once the glue has dried, strengthen the joints with nails or wood screws.

6. Smooth all surfaces and corners with sandpaper.

Assemble the Box

7. Sand one side of the plastic sheet, making it cloudy and diffusing the light. Sand down the sharp edges of the corners of the sheet.

8. Wipe down the frame to remove any dust or debris that may have accumulated.

9. Paint the frame and allow it to dry.

10. Follow the directions included in the packaging, and mount the light fixture on the inside of the 1-by-4 header board.

11. Place the plastic over the frame, scuffed side down. Once the plastic is in position, fix it in place with glue or place a screw in each corner. Be careful not to overtighten the screws if you choose this method, or the plastic may crack.

12. Plug in the light and turn it on.

Tags: plastic sheet, 1-by-4 header, nails wood, nails wood screws, side pieces, side plastic, side plastic sheet

Add More Pictures To A Magnetic Digital Photo Frame

Photography

Digital photo frames come in a magnetic form that allows you to display pictures on metal surfaces. These digital frames have a limit for the number of photographs that can be loaded.

Digital Magnetic Photo Frame Description

Digital magnetic photo frames offer the best of two worlds by giving you the ability to display your photos on the refrigerator, a locker or a metal file cabinet at work. They scroll though your pictures, offering a dynamic look at your photo album.

Pre-set Amount of Photos

The cost of the digital magnetic photo frame usually determines the number of photos that can be stored. You cannot exceed the preset limit on these frames.

Cost of Pre-set Digital Magnetic Photo Frames

A typical magnetic digital photo frame that has a memory size of 32 megabytes retails for an average of $40. This frame will hold up to 66 pictures.

Add Pictures to a Digital Magnetic Photo Frame

When you purchase a frame, it comes with software that allows you to load your digital pictures from your computer. This software also allows you to set transitions, timing and special effects.

Expanding a Digital Magnetic Photo Frame

Currently, these frames cannot be expanded.

Tags: Digital Magnetic Photo, Magnetic Photo, Photo Frame, Digital Magnetic, Digital Magnetic, Magnetic Photo Frame, photo frames

Order Photos Using The Facebook Printshop

Head to the Facebook printshop to order posters, cards, calendars and other keepsakes using Facebook photos. Print not only your photos, but also those of your friends who have allowed printing in their privacy settings. These photos are a simple way to share and save your favorite photos.

Instructions

Create Items With Your Photos in Printshop

1. Log in to the Facebook home page using your email address and password to shop for photos to print (see Resources below).

2. Go to the "My Photos" page by following the link.

3. Click on the "Go to Printshop" button to begin shopping for creative ways to show off your prints.

4. Select the item you want to create and hit the "Create" button. You can create a minibook, a calendar and many other cool things using your photos.

5. Select the photos you want to use. There will be directions for how many images you need to select for each item.

6. Choose how you want each photo to appear on your item. Depending on the merchandise, you can choose order and layout. Complete each step to create you item. A preview will display as you build your item.

7. Review your item in the final preview. If you are happy with the final design, click the "Add to Cart" button.

Order Your Items

8. Create an account with QOOP (see Resources below), which is Facebook's provider for printing your photos. You will actually order through them, so a separate account is needed. When you add items to your cart, you will be redirected to QOOP.

9. Complete the form with your billing and shipping information to create a QOOP account. After you agree to the Terms of Service, you can create you account.

10. Purchase your personalized items by going to your cart and clicking "Checkout."

11. Choose your shipping address and method of shipping. The cost for each type of shipping is displayed, along with expected print and shipping times.

12. Click "Continue" to enter your payment info. Hitting "Continue" again will let you confirm your merchandise a final time before you complete the order.

13. Confirm your shipping and billing information and complete your order.

Tags: your item, your photos, Resources below, using your, your cart, your shipping

Take A Good Picture

Every photographer has his own methods.

Taking a good picture is a lot more than pointing a camera and snapping a button. It requires a lot of practice and a lot of skill. It also requires you to be familiar with your camera and be able to operate its basic functions. What qualifies as a good picture tends to change with the photographer because it comes down to your personal taste. However, you can follow a few general rules to ensure your photographs are successful.

Instructions

1. Take your pictures from eye level or lower. If you're taking a picture of a group of people, kneel down so that the camera is even with the center of their bodies. If you're taking a picture of something lower, such as a flower, get as low as you can to be even with your object. Try lying on your stomach to take photos of objects very close to the ground.

2. Use auto focus or know focus your camera. Refer to your manufacturer's instructions if you don't know do this. Most digital cameras focus when you hold the shutter down half-way. If your main subject is not in the center of your picture, place them in the center of your shot, focus the camera, then move the camera to get the frame you want without letting go of the shutter button.

3. Use your flash indoors and outside. Even outside, shadows or bad lighting can darken a picture. Use your flash to ensure the subject will be well-lit.

4. Avoid back-lighting. When your light source is behind the subject of your photo, your subject becomes dark and difficult to see. Make sure your subject is not standing directly in front of the sun, doors, windows or lights before you take your picture.

5. Stay away from busy backgrounds. If there's too much going on in the back of your shot, it takes away from your subject.

6. Take some candid shots. Getting a picture that tells a story or shows an action is much less boring than a posed photo. These photos are often regarded as special mementos because they show your subject in her natural surroundings and easily evoke memories.

7. Turn your camera to the side and take vertical pictures if it works best for your subject.

8. Get close when you're taking pictures. Fill up as much of the frame with your subject as possible instead of filling it with background.

9. Have fun with it. Direct people to have fun, go crazy and do something exciting in the photo. If you're taking a group shot, a picture of everyone in action is much more interesting than everyone smiling in a line.

Tags: your subject, with your, your camera, action much, away from, center your, even with