A heat shield helps to prevent warm air being sucked into your cold air intake. A heat shield is a small flat piece of aluminum that is placed near the filter and protects it from the heat the engine displaces while it is running. You can improve the performance of your cold air intake by increasing the cold air delivered to your car. Make your own heat shield at home.
Instructions
1. Cut a piece of aluminum sheeting that is up to five inches by five inches using tin snips. Cut the aluminum sheeting as needed to allow for it to fit around the air filter properly.
2. Use sandpaper to smooth the edges of the aluminum sheeting.
3. Cut a hole in the center of the aluminum sheeting using tin snips to the appropriate diameter of your cold air intake pipe. Bend the metal sheeting so that it forms an angle around the air filter.
4. Insert the intake tube through the heat shield and attach you air filter as normal. Drill two small mounting holes on the side or the top of the metal sheet that matches the mounting hole distance on the L-bracket to allow for the L-bracket to be screwed onto. Place the L-bracket onto the drill holes. Insert screws with bolts and tighten so that the L-bracket is secure to the metal shield. This allows for you to mount the bracket to an area near the fender well in the engine bay to help keep the air filter mounted away from the engine.
5. Install the intake system by connecting the straight piece of intake tube to the throttle body, connect the second piece of intake tube which contains the MAF, or Mass Air Flow sensor and connect the elbow intake tubing that connects the air filter down into the fender well. Drill two small mounting holes in the engine bay near the fender well of your vehicle to allow the L-bracket to be fastened to. Be careful not to drill in to any wires or reservoirs. Insert screws through the L-bracket holes and tighten using bolts. The aluminum sheeting will act as a heat shield from the surrounding engine temperatures. This helps your cold air intake system absorb cold air only.
Tags: aluminum sheeting, cold intake, your cold, your cold intake, fender well
The HP Deskjet F2400 All-in-One printer normally will function without many delays. The printer does go through a warm-up process when you first turn it on, during which the lights on the printer will flash to let you know the F2400 cannot process any print jobs at that moment. When the Deskjet F2400 detects an error with its operation, the attention light on the bottom left-hand side of the control panel will flash. You have some methods to troubleshoot issues with the HP Deskjet F2400.
Instructions
1. Press the "Power" button on the printer's control panel and wait for the printer to boot up. If you press the "Power" button again while the printer boots up, this will turn the printer off again. Continue if the printer won't turn on.
2. Examine the F2400's power cord to see that you have it securely plugged into both the printer and the electrical outlet. Examine the connection between the power cord and the adapter box to make sure that it is secure as well. Examine the power strip or backup battery source to make sure you have this turned on, if you don't have the printer's power cord plugged directly into an electrical outlet.
3. Press the "Power" button again to turn on the printer. If the printer won't turn on, plug the power cord directly into an electrical out and turn on the printer.
4. Plug another device into the same electrical outlet to make sure the outlet is working correctly if you still can't turn on the printer. Move the printer to another room if it still does not work.
5. Click on the "Print" option in the software program you use to print and select the F2400 in the pull-down menu. If you don't see the F2400 as your default printer, click "Start" and select "Devices and Printers." Right-click the F2400 and click to place a check mark next to "Set as default printer."
6. Remove all of the paper from the input and output trays if the printer's "Attention" light flashes. Open the printer's top cover and pull out any stuck pieces of paper, close the cover and load the paper back into the input tray.
Tags: power cord, turn printer, Deskjet F2400, electrical outlet, make sure
The Pioneer Premier model DEH-P600UB in-dash CD player has a removable faceplate like many other aftermarket car stereos. This feature is primarily used to prevent car radio theft. Removing the faceplate is helpful if you plan on leaving your vehicle unattended for awhile. You can remove the Pioneer's faceplate in less than a minute; re-installing the faceplate is simple, as well.
Instructions
1. Locate the button in the bottom-right corner marked "Eject/Open."
2. Press and hold "Eject/Open" for several seconds until the Pioneer's faceplate folds down into the service mode.
3. Grasp the exposed edge of the faceplate gently. Slide the faceplate toward you to remove it from the faceplate bracket. Store it in the provided case for safekeeping.
4. Push the faceplate bracket into the CD player to close it. When you are ready to reattach the Pioneer's faceplate, simply push it into place. Make sure it's right-side up.
Tags: Pioneer faceplate, Eject Open, faceplate bracket, Pioneer Premier
The Anchor CM-60 is a wearable microphone designed for use with Anchor's wireless body pack transmitters. Unlike other wireless microphones, the CM-60 isn't worn as a headset or clipped to a lapel, but is literally wrapped around your neck. A flexible neck mount allows you to mount the microphone under your collar, with just the end of the microphone peeking into view.
PA System Compatability
The CM-60 is designed to be used with Anchor Audio's WB-6400, WB-6000 and WB-II Body-Pack Transmitter models. These body packs are used in Anchor's Liberty, Xtreme, Explorer, AN-130 and Megavox Pro sound systems.
Connector Type
The CM-60 features a TA4F 4-pin mini-XLR (Tini-QG) plug, which is a female XLR plug specification used with many types of lavalier and wearable microphones.
Response Pattern
The unidirectional microphone on the CM-60 features a cardioid polar pattern. This feedback-resistant pattern makes the CM-60 ideal for use near monitor speakers.
Microphone Technology
The CM-60's condenser microphone uses an electret technology, which eliminates the need for an internal battery or external power source.
Copying files from an SD media card to your PC is essential to back up your digital photographs or work with your pictures on your PC. After you have copied the files from your SD card to your PC, you can burn them to a CD to be archived or work with them from your computer directly.
Instructions
1. Turn on your PC computer. Allow your computer to boot up and show the desktop screen. Double-click the "My Computer" icon. This will open a separate box showing the contents of your computer. One of the drives listed will correspond to your SD media card drive.
2. Remove your SD media card from your camera and insert it into your PC’s SD card slot or card reader. Look at the list of drives on your computer and take note of which drive is for your SD card. After you insert your card, the drive name will usually change to reflect the brand of card you are using or the type of device (SD).
3. Double-click on the SD card drive. This will open a new window, showing the folders on your SD card. Double-click on one of the folders to view additional folders or the photos inside.
4. Locate the “view” icon on the top part of the screen to change your view to “thumbnails” so you can see small images of your photos on the screen. Click the first photo you’d like to copy from your SD card to your PC. Hold down the Shift key while you click on the last photo you’d like to transfer to your PC. All photos that are highlighted are selected to be copied.
5. Keep pressing down the Shift key and right-click. Select "Copy" from the menu that pops up.
6. Locate where you want to save your files. You can place them in a folder you have created for photo storage or on your desktop. Open that destination and right-click in that folder or on your desktop.
7. Click on "Paste" in the menu that pops up, and your files will be copied from your SD media card to your chosen location on your PC. You may now work with your photos directly on your computer. The original files are also still saved on your SD card. You simply made a copy of the files to work with on your computer.
Tags: your card, your computer, from your, card your, media card, work with
First released in 2007, the Nokia 6300 was one of the first Nokia phones to support MicroSD memory cards, making it a suitable phone for an MP3 player. If you are looking at purchasing a Nokia 6300 for yourself but have never used a Nokia phone before, there are a few tricks that you can use to make using your Nokia 6300 less of a pain and more of a pleasure.
Quick Profile Switching
Switching phone profiles can be very helpful if you are walking into a business meeting or a movie theater and you don't have a lot of time to scroll through menus to manually switch to a different phone profile. You can quickly access the Nokia 6300's different profiles by pressing the power button on the top of the phone. Hold this button for a couple of seconds to bring up your profiles menu. From there you can simply scroll down to the profile you want to activate and select it.
Secret Menu
Did you know that there is a secret menu inside your Nokia phone that will give you every piece of information about your phone that you could ever want? Once you turn your cell phone on and let it power up normally, type the following on your number pad:
*#92702689#
For those of you playing the home game, the numbers spell out "war0anty". Your phone will automatically take you to a secret menu that will list your phone's serial number, manufacturing date, purchase date, last repair date and the life timer of the phone (how long it's been since you've turned it off last).
Return to Factory Settings
Say it's time to sell your Nokia 6300 but you don't want anybody finding out your personal information, such as your friends' cell phone numbers or any "compromising" photos. You don't want to go through the hassle of deleting every single file on the phone, but what else are you to do?
Well, reset the phone, naturally.
You can reset your Nokia 6300 to the original factory settings by typing *#7780# into your number pad. Of course, you will be asked to confirm the decision to reset the phone. Should you confirm, your phone will be wiped of all personal data and returned to its original factory settings.
Tags: Nokia 6300, your Nokia, your Nokia 6300, your phone, cell phone, factory settings, Nokia phone
Controlling the aperture on your Canon XH A1 is the best way to ensure that enough light is being used to capture the setting you are filming. By setting the aperture yourself, you will be able to compensate for changes in sunlight, indoor lighting and other sources of light. You will also be able to focus on objects both near and far without worrying about losing focus.
Instructions
Use the Aperture Priority Mode on a Canon XH A1
1. Find the aperture priority mode button. It's located on the power dial. Press the button marked 'Av'. This will allow you to control the aperture while other functions are controlled by the camera.
2. Locate the aperture control ring. It's the first ring when you're looking down at the camera (the ring that's furthest away from the lens).
3. To control the amount of light that enters the camera, move the ring back and forth. You can view the changes in light by placing your hand in front of the lens. Look at the screen to determine the amount of light you will need. In the upper left hand corner of the viewing screen, you will notice an Av icon. Next to it are F stop values. The higher the number, the darker the picture will be.
4. Adjust the aperture during filming if the light quality changes to maintain a consistent amount of light.
5. Before filming, make any necessary adjustments to the aperture on your camera. Take sample shots from different areas so you will know when to make adjustments during filming.
A test page is printed for checking the graphics and text results of the printer. Printing a test page for a black ink printer is not difficult, as you can simply print any text. However, testing a color printer is a little more complicated in that you need to check every color to make sure the cartridges in the printer are providing correct colors to the page.
Instructions
1. Open Microsoft Word 2007 on your computer. Click the round big button with Office logo on the top left corner of the window. Select "New" and click on "Blank Document," then click "Create."
2. Go to the "Insert" tab on the top menu. Select "Table" and create a table with seven columns and six rows.
3. Go back to the "Home" tab. Locate the small "Shading" icon in the menu. Click the small arrow button next to this icon. Select a tone of gray that is approximately 80 percent white and 20 percent black. Click on each cell of the first row to fill the cells with the light gray shade.
4. Go back to the "Shading" icon and select an approximate darker shade of gray (for instance, 50 percent white and 50 percent black). Click on each cell of the second row.
5. Go back to the "Shading" icon and select an even darker shade of gray (almost black). Click on each cell of the third row.
6. Select black color from the color palette of the "Shading" icon. Click on each cell of the fourth row to fill it.
7. Select the lightest shade of red (approximate pink) from the color palette. Click the first cell of the fifth row to fill color in it. Now select a medium shade of red from the color palette and click the first cell of the sixth row to fill color in it. Select red and click the first cell of the seventh row.
8. Select the lightest shade of orange from the color palette. Click the second cell of the fifth row to fill color in it. Now select a medium shade of orange from the color palette and click the second cell of the sixth row to fill color in it. Select orange and click the second cell of the seventh row.
9. Select the lightest shade of yellow from the color palette. Click the third cell of the fifth row to fill color in it. Now select a medium shade of yellow from the color palette and click the third cell of the sixth row to fill color in it. Select yellow and click the third cell of the seventh row.
10. Select the lightest shade of green from the color palette. Click the fourth cell of the fifth row to fill color in it. Now select a medium shade of green from the color palette and click the fourth cell of the sixth row to fill color in it. Select green and click the fourth cell of the seventh row.
11. Select the lightest shade of blue from the color palette. Click the fifth cell of the fifth row to fill color in it. Now select a medium shade of blue from the color palette and click the fifth cell of the sixth row to fill color in it. Select blue and click the fifth cell of the seventh row.
12. Select the lightest shade of purple from the color palette. Click the sixth cell of the fifth row to fill color in it. Now select a medium shade of purple from the color palette and click the sixth cell of the sixth row to fill color in it. Select purple and click the sixth cell of the seventh row.
13. Print this page. The table must print with exactly the same shades and colors that you put in. If the shades are lighter or darker. or if they have a faded look, get your printer and cartridge checked as the printer is not printing correctly.
Tags: color palette, from color, from color palette, fill color, cell fifth
Transfer your photos to your PC regularly to reduce the chance of losing photos.
Many digital cameras have software that enables you to transfer photos to a PC. If the picture is alreayd a print you can use a scanner to make the transfer. To back up a picture to a PC or laptop familiarize yourself with the process of transferring them.
Instructions
From Camera
1. Run the imaging software that came with your camera or download software to your computer and follow the set-up instructions.
2. Connect the camera to your PC via the USB cord or by inserting the camera's memory card into your computer or the card reader.
3. Go to the "Start" section of the computer, usually at the lower left hand side of the computer screen and click on it. Choose "Computer" or "My Computer" if the screen does not appear automatically.
4. Read the screen that appears, which should come under "Devices With
Removable Storage."
5. Double click to open and then choose the camera folder and find the image files that you want to copy.
6. Copy the images from the removable storage folder to the "Pictures" folder on your computer.
Scanning
7. Take the photo that you want to scan and place it face down on the scanner.
8. Go to the "Start" menu by clicking on the icon in the bottom left corner of the computer.
9. Go to "Control Panel" and choose "Devices and Printers" or "Scanners and Cameras" and choose the scanner you have.
10. Double click on "Scanner" and wait for the scanned image to appear on your screen.
11. Save the scanned image to your computer by using the "Save" option on the scanning software or by right clicking and choosing "Save As." Save the scanned image to the folder of your choice.
Tags: your computer, scanned image, Double click, folder your, Save scanned, Save scanned image, software that
Toshiba projection TVs, like other TVs and consumer electronics items, require work and repair from time to time in order to continue to work efficiently. The first steps to such repair is successful troubleshooting. While a number of problems may be plaguing your Toshiba TV, a few troubleshooting steps should be attempted first. Following these steps will likely alleviate your problems.
Instructions
1. Check to ensure that your TV is properly plugged in. This includes checking the power connectors on the TV and making sure none of the cables are loose, either from a wall outlet or from a surge protector. Make sure these connections are securely made before continuing with any further steps.
2. Check the cables connecting your projection TV to the cable or satellite box you use in your home. Be sure to check the AV (audio/video) cables. Are they snugly attached into the back of your projection TV and into the back of the cable or satellite box? Make sure that this three-pronged wire (one white, one yellow and one red prong) are correctly hooked up into their color-corresponding ports on both the TV and your box.
3. Cycle through the video input options on your TV to ensure you are in the right video mode. Different peripherals require different video modes. For example, video game systems require that you cycle through video inputs on your TV, likely to an AV 1 or AV 2 input. If this input is not switched back, you will have a dark screen and will not receiving TV signals. Press the "Input" button on your Toshiba remote to cycle through the inputs until your TV feed shows up again.
4. Look closely at the face of your projection TV. Are there blotches of color or other irregularities? If so, the TV may have a magnetization problem. To alleviate this problem, use a magnetic coil and wave it in front of the TV slowly. Start at one corner and make small circles in front of the projection TV until you have waved the coil in front of the entire face of your Toshiba. Then remove the coil and see if the picture has become demagnetized and thus blotch-free. Repeat if necessary.
5. Check the coaxial cable coming out of the back of your TV. Make sure it is tight and not wiggling. If it is loose, this may account for any "snowy" TV problems you have in your picture.
Tags: Make sure, your projection, your Toshiba, back your, cable satellite
Using a handheld global positioning system (GPS) navigation device can be as easy as working the remote control for your VCR.
Instructions
Initializing the Receiver
1. Press the Power key to turn the GPS on.
2. Select a region. Use the arrow pad to change the flashing text to select the appropriate region for your present location. Press Enter.
3. Select the country or state by using the arrow pad and press Enter.
4. Enter the elevation by using the arrow pad. If unknown, leave the elevation at 0. Press Enter.
5. Enter the time and date by using the arrow pad.
Saving a Position Fix and Creating a Landmark
6. Save your current position or create a landmark by pressing the Mark key. The GPS receiver will prompt you to enter a name or accept the receiver-generated name for this landmark.
7. To change the position for a landmark, use the arrow pad to change the latitude and press the Enter key to accept.
8. Use the arrow pad to change the longitude and press the Enter key to accept. The newly created landmark is stored in memory.
Creating a "Go To" Route and Viewing the Navigation Screen
9. Press the Go To key from any screen.
10. Use the left/right arrows of the arrow pad until the desired destination landmark is displayed.
11. Select the destination. A navigation screen the name of the Go To destination appears at the top of the screen.
12. Press the Nav key. The position screen will appear.
13. Press the Nav key or the arrow pad while viewing the position or navigation screen. This will move you to the next screen in the loop.
Tags: arrow change, press Enter, using arrow, Enter accept, Enter Enter, press Enter accept
NIHM batters are available in multiple forms, from consumer replaceable to fixed industrial applications.
NIHM batteries are made of nickel metal hydride composites that allow for the battery to be recharged. However, this composite of nickel metal hydride develops a "memory" of its previous power levels. If the same power level is used over and over again, without maintenance, the battery can become used to that power level. To prevent this from occurring, the battery must be fully discharged and recharged occasionally to prevent a burn-in of the "memory" level.
Instructions
1. Fully charge your battery in the recharger when you first get the batteries. Do not take the batteries out until the charge light displays green. Insert the NIHM batteries into your devices and use the batteries up completely. If you take it out with some power left over, the battery will start to "forget" that part of the battery. Only once it is fully discharged should you recharge the NIHM batteries with their associated recharger. This has to be done three times to break in the battery.
2. Keep the battery clean and dry, using a dry cloth to keep the contacts clean. Do not store NIHM batteries in the freezer, as this does nothing for NIHM batteries and the moisture can cause electrical shorts. Do not store the battery in hot places like directly in the sun, as the thermal expansion of the NIHM composite can cause the casing to bulge and render the battery unusable.
3. Do not drop or expose the batteries to fire. Drops can cause kinetic force to be transferred to the integral nickel metal hydride composite structure and break its fragile matrix. Fire can cause thermal expansion that would distort the battery and possibly explode the battery.
Tags: NIHM batteries, metal hydride, nickel metal, nickel metal hydride, fully discharged
You can purchase ringtones for cell phones directly from the cell phone company. You can also search for numerous websites that sell rap ringtones. Spending a couple of dollars every time that you want to change your ringtone can get expensive, however, if you change your ringtone more than once a month. Fortunately, there are a couple of websites that offer a variety of ringtones for free. Use these websites to get free rap ringtones for your phone.
Instructions
Using Myxer
1. Go to the Myxer website and click the "Sign Up" to create a free Myxer account. On the next page, click the "Create Account" tab that is located under the "Personal Account" heading. You will need to enter your email address, cell phone number and type in a password on the next web page. You will receive a confirmation email from Myxer. Open that email and click the link in the email to register your Myxer account.
2. Log onto the Myxer homepage and click the "Sign In" link to sign into your Myxer account.
3. Place your cursor over the "Ringtones" heading in the toolbar and a drop box will appear.
4. Click "Hip-Hop & Rap" in the box.
5. Click the "Rap" link in the blue box on the next page to search for songs that have been labeled as "Rap."
6. Use the text box underneath the "Find" heading to search for rap ringtones by artist or song title.
7. Click on the rap ringtone that you want to download and you will be taken to the page for that ringtone. Click "Send to Phone" and the ringtone or a link for that ringtone will be sent to your cell phone.
Using PhoneZoo
8. Visit the PhoneZoo homepage and click the "Sign Up" tab at the top of the page.
9. Enter a user name, password and your email address on the next page and click "Register." Enter your phone number on the next page and click "Done." You will be taken to a web page where you will have to enter a registration code. Within 30 minutes, your cell phone will receive a text message from PhoneZoo. This text message will have the code you need to enter. Enter that code onto the Web page to create your account.
10. Go back to the PhoneZoo homepage and sign in.
11. Click the "Ringtones" tab near the top of the screen.
12. Scroll down the next page and look for the "Popular Tags" heading. Click the "Rap" link underneath the heading.
13. Browse through the rap ringtones listed. You can find more or different ringtones by clicking on the drop box at the top of the page. You can also search for ringtones by typing in the search box in the top right corner of the Web page.
14. Click on the ringtone to get to the page for that ringtone. From there, you can click the "Send to Phone" tab. When you do, the file will be sent to your phone.
Tags: next page, cell phone, click Sign, Myxer account, next page click, page click, that ringtone
With all of the really great things you can do with your iPod, the only limitation you might have is not knowing make the most of your cool new gadget. If you have an iPod that can display video, you can buy games from the iTunes store and play them on your iPod. With these easy to follow instructions, you will be playing games on your iPod in a few minutes.
Instructions
1. Turn on your computer. iTunes is available for purchase through the iTunes Store. Getting there is easy; buying the games is even easier.
2. Select the iTunes icon on your computer. Once you get there, click on the iTunes Store option. This should take you directly to the iTunes store online.
3. Click Games in the iTunes store options. This should be on the left hand side menu area. When you click on the Games area, a menu of all the games will pop up.
4. Shop around for a game (or games) that you find to be fun. Many games will have demos that you can play to decide if you really want them. This is an excellent way to not wind up with a game that has a really interesting description, but when playing, is not as fun as you thought it might be.
5. Click Buy Game when you have decided on the game that is right for you. You can pay for your games with a credit card or a PayPal account.
6. Connect your iPod to your computer. The beauty of using iTunes to download games to your iPod is that the games will automatically load to your iPod after you connect it through the USB port.
Tags: your iPod, games will, iTunes store, your computer, game that, games your, games your iPod
If you're ready to upgrade to a newer digital camera, you may want to consider selling your old one. You can use a site like eBay, but you will have to wait the duration of the auction and then pay eBay some fees even if you don't sell it. If you are looking for some quick cash, find a pawn shop near you. The pawn shop will buy your digital camera outright and pay you for it that very day.
Instructions
1. Remove the memory card from the digital camera. If your camera stores its photos without a memory card, make sure to manually delete them all. You don't want someone else getting your personal pictures.
2. Leave the batteries in the camera or fully charge them so that you can demonstrate to the pawn shop owner that the digital camera still works properly.
3. Gather all handbooks and accessories that go with the digital camera. This will help you get a better price for it.
4. Print out what your specific digital camera is selling for brand new. This figure will be used by the pawn broker to figure out how much he wants to offer you.
5. Take all of your items to the pawn shop and show them to the owner. Demonstrate that the camera is in working order and point out if it is still in mint condition.
6. Consider the pawn broker's offer. Keep in mind that the pawn broker can probably sell your camera for half of what the camera goes for new. In order to make a profit, she'll have to offer you less. If the offer seems fair, take it. Otherwise, try another pawn broker.
Tags: pawn broker, digital camera, digital camera, memory card, pawn shop
If you've made the big leap to purchase a digital SLR camera, you'll certainly want to keep it in good condition. As part of your maintenance routine, you'll need to clean your camera at regular intervals. While this task may seem tedious, regular cleaning maximizes the quality of your pictures and extends the longevity of your camera. Read on to learn more.
Instructions
1. Prepare an area for cleaning your camera. Dust the area thoroughly and place a bright lamp or light over your work space.
2. Use a lint-free cloth to clean the exterior of your camera. Wet the cloth slightly to reach dust in corners of the camera.
3. Attach your camera to the AC adaptor before cleaning.
4. Read your manual to determine set your camera to the cleaning mode. This is usually done on your menu. Cleaning mode opens your shutter, exposing the sensor.
5. Utilize your blower to gently blow away any dust from the sensor.
6. Place a small amount of cleaning solution on your sensor cleaning swab. Gently wipe the swab across the sensor in one smooth motion. Flip the swab and wipe across the sensor again, heading back to where you started.
7. Blow away any residual dust. Return your camera's settings to normal. Finish by using a cloth to clean your camera's lens.
Tags: your camera, across sensor, clean your, clean your camera, cloth clean
Telephone voice recorders are used in homes and offices to keep records of important conversations. These recordings safeguard against potential misunderstandings with clients or serve as tools in infidelity and stalker cases. Please learn the laws in your state before recording telephone conversations. Depending on your need, here are some ways to use a telephone voice recorder.
Instructions
1. Maintain a record of your telephone conversations. Connect your voice recorder to the phone jack and record incoming and outgoing calls from any extension. Attach it to a single phone handset to capture calls for a personal line or home business.
2. Set the telephone voice recorder to automatically begin recording once a call is initiated and to stop at the end of the call. Your recorder can be set to record at a particular time each day or week.
3. Capture the date and time of calls for accuracy. Some voice recorders offer a time stamp feature and show the date and time on the telephone voice recorder. If equipped, try the alarm feature.
4. Save recorded telephone calls and messages to your computer. Transfer data using a USB cable or the accompanying software. Create, edit, store and share files. Certain recorders contain folders to better organize conversations.
5. Record calls without connecting to the phone at all. Simply hold the telephone voice recorder near the phone. This is not as efficient for calls, but works for meetings. Models vary, so check to see if your recorder has an internal microphone or if an external microphone is needed.
Tags: telephone voice recorder, telephone voice, voice recorder, date time, telephone conversations, voice recorder, voice recorders
The Konica Minolta Dimage Z2 digital camera allows users to take digital photos for storage on the camera or an inserted memory card. You can use the camera's manual focus to zoom on to subjects without diminishing the resolution of the photos, or zoom in even closer using the digital zoom, which will affect the resolution. As a user, you have the choice of either transferring photos from the camera to a computer by connecting the two with a USB cable, or by removing the memory card and inserting it into the computer's memory card reader.
Instructions
Taking Pictures
1. Remove the lens cap and press the "Power" button on the center of the camera's rear controls. Find the subject you would like to photograph using the camera's LCD screen in the back.
2. Zoom in or out to include or exclude elements around your subject by rotating the dial on the right side of the top of the camera counterclockwise to zoom in and clockwise to zoom out.
3. Press the camera's shutter button partway down to lock in the focus and exposure settings. When the focus LED light illuminates red, let go of the button and try again.
4. Press the shutter button all the way down once the focus LED light illuminates white. You will see the picture displayed on the camera's LCD screen for a moment.
Transferring Pictures to a Computer
5. Plug the camera's power cord into an electrical outlet near the computer and plug the other end into the camera's AC port. Turn on the computer and open the memory card door to check that the memory card is installed in the camera.
6. Insert the larger end of the USB cable into the computer and the smaller end into the plug next to the memory card slot. Make sure the triangular mark on the USB plug faces the back of the camera.
7. Press the camera's "Power" button to turn it on. Wait for the camera and computer to connect to one another automatically.
8. Click on "Transfer Files and Photos" to begin the transfer process. Once the transfer has completed, unplug the USB cable from the camera and the computer.
Tags: memory card, camera computer, camera screen, focus light, focus light illuminates
There is no shame in wanting to look your best in the pictures you share with friends and family, just as long as you don’t overdo it. And a decent, do-it-yourself “airbrushing” does not require fancy, expensive software that will overload you with a plethora of options.
Instructions
1. Have the picture you want to edit on a file on your hard drive. Open it in a photo editing program, and save a copy using the Save As option. Should you make a series of mistakes and discover that the undo button has failed you, you will still have the original to turn to.
2. Find the color swatch or pick color tool. The icon usually looks like an eyedropper or a pipette, but it may vary. This tool opens up your palette options by letting you take colors straight out of the picture. Place your mouse over a spot on the picture and click.
3. Zoom in on the area of the photo you want to touch up. Successful edits are done on the small scale so that stepping back from the picture (zooming out) looks natural. Also, getting closer to the pixels familiarizes you with the actual colors that come into use. For example, what you may identify as simply red may be a combination of maroon, pink, mauve and gray.
4. Choose your brush. One brush will have a few size and shape options for the sort of mark it will make. Experiment with some of the brushes to become more familiar with them. While “airbrush” is the common term used for this sort of process, you do not actually have to limit yourself to the airbrush tool. The pencil tool may be preferable for most purposes, because it can alter one pixel at a time, offering maximum precision.
5. Swatch the colors closest to the feature you are trying to remove. Use this color with your brush of choice to cover the blemish.
6. Zoom out of the picture to see the composite, and ascertain that your edits look natural and appropriate. If they do not, use the undo option. If the photo fails, you still have the original. Save your work when you are finished with the edit.
Tags: have original, still have, still have original, your brush
A stun device lets you protect your home from an unwanted invader without the fear of causing lethal damage. You can make a pair of stun gloves that will deliver a shock to the person who has broken into your home. You will need a few supplies from a hardware store, disposable flash film cameras from a drugstore and expertise in using a soldering iron. The stun gloves will work to incapacitate the invader without causing permanent damage. Because the use of a stun gun or any stun device is banned in some states, you must check with your local law enforcement or city council to verify whether you can legally use the stun gloves.
Instructions
1. Put a sheet of newspaper on a table. Put one of the disposable flash film cameras on the newspaper with the lens facing up. Release the tabs holding the front case of the disposable flash film camera to the back case with the flat-edged screwdriver. Remove the front case from off of the back case of the disposable flash film camera.
2. Remove the film cartridge from inside of the back case of the disposable flash film camera. Dispose of the film cartridge. Remove the battery from inside of the disposable flash film camera. Place the battery aside.
3. Drill two holes in the side of the back case of the disposable flash film camera that is next to the silver cylindrical capacitor on the circuit board.
4. Cut two 4-inch long strips of electric wire using the wire cutters. Strip a half inch of the insulation off of both ends of the two electric wires using the wire strippers.
5. Solder one of the ends of one of the two electric wires to one of the two contacts on the top of the silver cylindrical capacitor. Let the solder cool for a minute.
6. Solder one of the ends of the other electric wire to the other contact on the top of the silver cylindrical capacitor.
7. Push the free ends of the two wires through the two holes you have made in the side of the back case.
8. Wrap the free end of one of the electric wires around the base of a metal screw. Push the metal screw into one of the two holes in the side of the back case. Apply bonding glue around the hole. Let the bonding glue set for an hour.
9. Wrap the free end of the other electric wire around the base of a metal screw. Push the metal screw into the other hole in the side of the back case. Apply bonding glue around the hole. Let the bonding glue set for an hour.
10. Put the battery back into its position on the circuit board. Close the front case over the back case. Push the front case down firmly so that the tabs engage to hold the two parts of the disposable flash film camera together.
11. Put the left insulated glove inside of the left work glove. Place the work glove on the newspaper with the palm facing up.
12. Apply bonding glue to the back of the disposable flash film camera. Place the back of the disposable flash film camera against the palm of the work glove. Let the bonding glue set for a day.
13. Repeat the entire process of making a stun glove using the other disposable flash film camera and the right work glove.
14. Put on the pair of work gloves. Wind the film advance of each disposable flash film camera using the thumb of the other hand. Wait for the yellow or white LED to illuminate. Touch the metal screws on either or both work gloves against an intruder to deliver a shock from the stun gloves you have made.
Tags: disposable flash, disposable flash film, flash film, film camera, flash film camera
Cleaning the lens of a Canon camera will make a significant difference in the optical performance of this product. It is crucial that one do this step properly, since any wrong steps will critically damage the lens and scratch it permanently--and replacing the lens will also be a costly investment. Use a professional lens cleaning kit for best results.
Instructions
1. Purchase a professional Canon lens cleaning kit from the authorized dealer where you originally bought the camera from, or from another canon dealer found on the website under additional resources. Ensure that this kit is for your specific Canon camera make and model; it should contain, at the minimum, a blower brush, lens cloths and cleansing solution.
2. Remove any lens filters.
3. Hold the blower brush at an angle, just slightly a centimeter above the lens. Use the blower brush to carefully remove any dust and dirt from the lens surface.
4. Angle a flashlight across the lens to make sure that all dust is gone.
5. Repeat the above two steps until all dust and microfine particles are gone; this is necessary to prevent scratching of the lens when cleaning.
6. Place a drop of cleansing solution on a clean piece of lens tissue (never apply the cleansing solution directly on the lens). Using this tissue, wipe the lens surface in a circular motion from the edges towards the center with a dusting rather than rubbing motion.
7. Check to see that there are no streak marks on the lens by angling a flashlight on the lens; if necessary, repeat the above step to remove these.
Tags: blower brush, cleansing solution, Canon camera, lens cleaning, lens surface, that this
Are you tired of having to use a different machine every time you want to switch from a DVD to a CD? You'll be happy to know that it isn't difficult to use your DVD player to play a CD, too. Follow these steps to find out how.
Instructions
1. Turn on the DVD player. It generally takes a few seconds to get going. Take out the DVD if there's one in the drive already.
2. Make sure the disc isn't scratched or dirty. Use a soft rag to clean the disc if you see any smudges. Insert the CD into the DVD player's disc drive and close it.
3. Press the "Play" button on the DVD player or remote control. Some DVD players will begin reading the disc automatically. Pushing the button works just as well.
4. Use the "Scene Selection" buttons on your remote to select a track. Some DVD players have odd ways of ordering the buttons on the remote. You might have to play around a bit before you find all the right buttons to work the CD playing function of your machine.
5. Crank it up and enjoy your music. The DVD player will act just like a CD player and play the tracks of the CD through the TV.
If the radio in your Toyota Solara has quit working, you can save the money the dealer will charge for installation by buying a replacement Solara radio and installing it yourself. All the wiring connections will be simple plug-ins -- all you'll need to do is remove the existing radio and install the new one in its place.
Instructions
1. To prevent shorts, disconnect the negative battery wire from your battery. Then set the parking brake for your car.
2. Pry out the panel with the air vents above the radio. Insert your panel tool into the joints around the panel and work all the way around until it is loose. Then remove the panel.
3. Take out the two Phillips screws at the top of the radio, revealed by the panel removal.
4. Pry around the edges of the center console trim panel. When the clips are released, remove the center console trim panel.
5. Open the door of the storage compartment below the radio. Pry around the edges of the trim surrounding the compartment and remove it by pulling it away from the dashboard. Remove the two 10mm bolts at the bottom of the radio exposed by the removal of the compartment.
6. The radio is now loose. Pull it straight out from the dashboard and disconnect the wiring plugs on the back (they pull straight out). Note the position of the plugs as you remove them.
7. Plug in the wiring to your new radio and place it in the dash. Reassemble by reversing the previous steps.
Tags: around edges, center console, center console trim, console trim, console trim panel
Bored on a rainy day? Want to know how fast rain is falling in the hopes that the clouds will soon dry up? It's pretty difficult to say with exactness how fast the rain outside your window is falling (too many variables), but you can certainly get an approximation. Here is measure the speed of falling raindrops.
Instructions
1. Determine the prevailing winds. Wind blowing up from below will obviously slow a drop, but even crosswinds will skew the drop shapes, making it less aerodynamic. If there is any wind at all, your estimate will surely be slightly high.
2. Determine how big the drops are. You've got to be awfully quick with a ruler to measure raindrops. Most drops fall between 3 mm and 6 mm. You can pretty safely assume "fat rain" rain is on the 6 mm end, and drizzles are on the 3 mm.
3. The smallest drizzle falls at about 6.5 m/s and the largest drops fall at about 9 m/s. You can eyeball the drop size and then adjust it accordingly based on what you think are the prevailing winds.
4. You can use a highly sensitive force meter inside a wind-proof cylinder. When a raindrop falls in you'll see a spike when it hits, then a lower number (its weight in Newtons). With this data you can use Newtonian movement equations to figure its speed at impact.
5. You can also use a video camera running at a high frame rate. If you can manage the lighting so that you can record a raindrop falling in front of a ruler, you should be able to see the distance it travels over the period of 2 or 3 frames and determine its speed from that.
Sometimes, after a long life of wear and tear, the connector on the end of a coaxial cable can become damaged, and fall off. However, this does not mean you need to throw the coaxial cable away. Simply follow this guide to crimp (attach) another connector to the end of your cable.
Instructions
1. Slide the ferrule ring about 2 inches down on the coaxial cable.
2. Use the wire strippers to remove the first inch of rubber coating on the end of the coaxial cable. Be careful not to damage the wiring underneath.
3. Pull the wire away that is shielded by a thin aluminum or plastic covering (if there is one on your cable). Cut about 1/4 inch off of the insulation underneath. This should reveal the copper wire at the center of the cable.
4. Slide the connector on the end of the cable, making sure that the smaller end of the connector fits underneath the shielding. The copper wire should extend about 1/4 inch past the end of the connector.
5. Cut away any excess shielding, and slide the ferrule ring on top of the connector. Use a pair of wire cutters or pliers to tighten the ferrule ring on top of the connector by gently squeezing it. Your cable is now crimped.
Tags: coaxial cable, ferrule ring, about inch, copper wire, ferrule ring connector, ring connector
A Flip video camera is a compact, handheld camcorder made to easily record and share videos. The Flip camera connects to a computer using a built-in USB arm, and records in different resolutions based one of the four currently available versions, Flip Mino, Flip Mino HD, Flip Ultra, Flip Ultra HD.
Recording Capacity
The different versions of the Flip have different recording times. The Flip Mino and Flip Mino HD record for 60 minutes, while the Flip Ultra and Flip Ultra HD record for 120 minutes. In terms of memory, this equates to 4 GB of memory for 1 hour of High Definition (HD) video and 2 GB of memory for 1 hour of Standard Definition (SD) video. This amount of memory would directly translate to how much memory a computer would need to store video from a Flip video camera. Thus, the right amount of memory would be however much footage would be saved long term. The more video stored, the more memory would be required to store it.
Computer Requirements
The SD Flip cameras require at least a 2.0 GHz Pentium 4 processor, while HD versions would require a 3.0 GHz Pentium 4 processor or better. All of the cameras require at least 512 MB of RAM if the camera is used with Windows XP or 1 GB of RAM if using Windows Vista. These hardware requirements are for the software that comes with the Flip camera, which is used to easily transfer, edit and share the recorded videos.
Limitations
The Flip cameras have fixed focus lenses and limited zoom. In addition, the cameras do not give much control of picture settings, as many of these settings are automated. All of these factors contribute to the lack of the ability to adjust the picture to desired specifications. The Flip camera was designed to be able to record video quickly, but does not account for a more controlled recording experience.
Use
Using the Flip camera is simply a matter of pointing the lens at the desired subject and then pushing the record button. Once the desired footage is recorded, connect the camera to a computer's USB port using the Flip camera's USB arm. The footage can then be imported, edited and shared using the Flip software.
Considerations
Unlike many digital cameras, the Flip camera does not use expandable memory, meaning it has a fixed amount of memory. This is not a big issue, but if the necessary recording time is longer than the maximum capacity of the Flip, the footage would have to be transferred before more could be recorded. In contrast, in a camera that uses memory cards or even tapes one could easily switch out one tape or card for another. However, to compare and choose between the Flip and other camcorders would require determining what the acceptable trade off is between desired features and value.
For many audiophiles, listening to vinyl remains the ultimate experience in music reproduction. While digital has advanced greatly, it's essential binary nature means the original analog sound is never fully reproduced, just recreated. Vinyl, as an analog medium, reproduces the original sound in full. Vinyl has its own problems, including pops and hisses, but these can be reduced significantly by properly caring for your vinyl.
Record Cleaning Machine
A record cleaning machine is an indispensable piece of equipment for the serious vinyl lover. An RCM has a platter driven by a motor and a vacuum suction tube that removes dirt and debris. Brand new and newly purchased old records should be cleaned with an RCM before playing. Place the record on the platter and secure it to the platter, then turn on the motor. Apply some record cleaning fluid (available from most vinyl collecting stores), then use a brush to lightly scrub the record as the platter spins the vinyl. Finally, place the suction tube over the record and turn on the vacuum, and the machine will remove the cleaning fluid. Let the record turn once as it does this, then turn off the vacuum.
Dry cleaning
While wet cleaning is recommended on new vinyl and periodically on old vinyl, you do not have to do it every time you play your vinyl. A record cleaning brush is helpful for removing any loose pieces of dust. Carefully remove the record from its sleeve, being sure not to get fingerprints on it, and place it on the turntable. Take the record cleaning brush and lightly brush dust off the surface, starting on the inside and working toward the outside. Use a Zerostat antistatic gun to remove any static charge from the record surface.
Stylus care
Making sure your stylus is in proper shape is the final step in caring for your vinyl. A damaged stylus can destroy your record collection. There are many stylus cleaning products on the market, and your stylus should be cleaned fairly frequently to remove dust and other particles that can build up on it. If the stylus is out of alignment or worn down, replace it immediately.
Tags: record cleaning, your vinyl, brush lightly, caring your, caring your vinyl, cleaning brush, cleaning fluid
LRC files are associated with karaoke programs. As anyone who has been to karaoke night knows, it is imperative that the lyrics to each song are projected to a screen at the correct time. LRC files hold the actual lyrics, and are also responsible making sure the lyrics are projected when they should be.
Overall Purpose
LRC files are in text format, and allow karaoke machines to display song lyrics while a song is being played. Without LRC files, a karaoke machine would not be able to correlate each set of lyrics with the appropriate song. LRC files also facilitate the display of lyrics on the screen at just the right moment. The files also hold information regarding the color and font of the text displayed.
Timing
One of the primary benefits of the LRC file is that is contains a timing function. The line item tags in a LRC file give the karaoke machine the cues it needs to play the lyrics at the right speed. For example, the files ensure that the lyrics to the chorus of a song start being projected on the karaoke machine's screen just as the chorus music begins. The files support centisecond time intervals, meaning lyrics are timed down to the hundredth of a second.
File Names
The name of a LRC file is exactly the same as the song it is correlated to -- only the extension code is different. For instance, if the song file is named partysong.mp3, the LRC text file is named partysong.lrc. The name of a LRC file should never be changed, as changes will interfere with the file's ability to be cued with the correct song.
Opening Files
LRC files can be opened in select programs designed for Mac, Windows or Linux. Mac programs that can open a LRC file include Apple iTunes with the MiniLyrics plug-in and StepMania. Windows owners can open the files with programs that include StepMania and Recisio KaraFun. The only Linux program that can open LRC files is StepMania.
Tags: karaoke machine, file named, file named partysong, files also, name file, named partysong, open files
Bluetooth is a wireless technology that allows different devices to connect to one another to share data, such as ring tones or photos. Before you can connect to a device with your Nokia 5300, which is a procedure known as "pairing," you must first turn on the Bluetooth feature. Enabling the Bluetooth feature on a Nokia 5300 cell phone is a quick and simple process that only requires working your way through a few brief menu screens.
Instructions
1. Press the center "Menu" button on the Nokia 5300 cell phone. Scroll over and select the "Settings" menu.
2. Scroll through the new options and select "Connectivity." Choose the "Bluetooth" menu entry.
3. Highlight the "Bluetooth" entry at the top of the menu and press the circle button at the center of the phone to enable the Bluetooth feature. Look for the Bluetooth symbol at the top of the screen to ensure the feature has been turned on.
4. Press the button again and wait for the symbol to appear if it was not present. Scroll down and select "Search Audio" to search for a Bluetooth compatible audio device.
5. Choose the "Paired Devices" option to search for any other Bluetooth device you want to connect to, such as another cell phone or a computer. Select the "Pair" entry to connect to the device.
Tags: Nokia 5300, Bluetooth feature, cell phone, 5300 cell, 5300 cell phone
The LG C1300 is a basic, dual-band Global Systems for Mobile Communications (GSM) cellular telephone that was originally released in early 2004 and sold for use on the AT&T Wireless, formerly known as Cingular, network in the United States. The phone was discontinued and is no longer in production. AT&T Wireless/Cingular generally sold the LG C1300 with a carrier lock that prevents you from using the cellular phone with a non AT&T Wireless/Cingular Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card. It is, however, possible to unlock the LG C1300 so that you can use it with another cellular service provider.
Instructions
1. Purchase a non AT&T Wireless/Cingular SIM card. You can purchase SIM cards from any GSM cellular service provider worldwide. Most cellular service providers sell both pre- and postpaid SIM cards.
2. Call AT&T Wireless customer service at 800-331-0500. Ask the customer service representative to give you the unlock code for your LG C1300. AT&T Wireless will generally give you the unlock code free of charge provided you have an active account in good standing. Alternatively, you can purchase the unlock code from a variety of companies. Write down the unlock code.
3. Remove the back cover from your LG C1300 and take the battery out of the phone. Under the battery compartment you will find your AT&T Wireless/Cingular SIM card. Replace your existing SIM card with the SIM card you purchased in Step 1. Replace the battery and rear cover. Power on your LG C1300.
4. Enter the unlock code you wrote down in Step 2 using your LG C1300 keypad. Your phone is now unlocked and will work with the new SIM card.
Tags: unlock code, Wireless Cingular, your C1300, cellular service, cellular service provider
In electrical terms, "grounding" describes the safe directing of electricity into the earth. This is an important element of all home electrical appliances, including audio components. One of the most common problems that occurs when testing a newly set up home stereo system is a low-pitched hum that is heard at all times and with all functions. The usual explanation for this is that the receiver, which is the stereo's "nerve center," has not been properly grounded. Once this problem is solved, not only should the hum disappear, but the operation of the receiver should be better and safer. While attaching the ground wire, the receiver should not be plugged in.
Instructions
1. Choose an adequate ground. The household metal that attaches directly into the ground is typically a cold water pipe. Any pipe connected into the house's water system, however, will serve as an appropriate ground connection. The pipe will need to be unpainted and otherwise uninsulated, so that a bare wire can be connected directly to it.
2. Cut ground wire to adequate length. Take the roll of 16 gauge wire, knot one end of it loosely at the location of the receiver, and walk it to the area where it will be attached to the water pipe. Be sure to allow for extra length needed for running the wire along walls or behind furniture. Once the wire has been brought to its grounding point, allow a little more length than necessary and then cut it with a pocket knife.
3. Strip both ends of the wire. Use a stripping tool or the pocket knife. Be sure to cut through the insulation, but not into the wire strands themselves. On the end to be connected to the receiver, strip away about 1 inch of insulation and twirl the wire ends until they compact into a solid mass. On the end to be connected to a grounding pipe, strip more insulation away, exposing enough wire to wrap around the pipe about 1 1/2 times. Repeat the wire twirling process.
4. Attach wire to receiver. The back panel of the receiver will have a connector that is marked as "ground" or "ground wire." (Don't confuse this with the grounding attachment for a turntable.) The connector will be either a hand-adjusted knob or, more rarely, a screw that requires a screwdriver. Wrap the twirled end of the cord around the shaft so that, when it is turned clockwise to tighten, the wrap of the wire is not undone. If a washer is present, the wire should be wrapped under the washer so that the tightening screw doesn't push the wire out.
5. Attach wire to best grounding source. Cut off several inches of electrical tape from the roll. Wrap the other stripped end of the wire around the pipe as tightly as possible and apply tape, wrapping it tightly to hold the wire in place.
6. Test the system. Plug in the receiver, turn it on, and operate it.
Tags: ground wire, around pipe, Attach wire, pocket knife, receiver should, water pipe
Individual generic cell phone batteries are compatible with a multiple phone models.
There are paths to obtaining replacement cell phone batteries. The first and far more expensive method is purchasing a brand battery. The alternative is purchasing a Chinese generic brand technology. Numerous companies like Narada and Better Power offer less expensive cell phone compatible batteries that can be purchased directly from the company or through online retailers like CellularFactory or Batteries4Less.
Better Power
Better Power is a Shenzhen-based generic brand battery, adapter and power source manufacturer. The company creates products compatible with laptops, cameras, camcorders and mobile phones. Better Power produces lines of lithium-ion batteries compatible with Nokia, Samsung, Motorola and LG phones. Shapes and dimensions of the batteries differ per type and are designed to fit multiple phone designs produced by each of the listed companies. LG and Motorola compatible batteries produce 3.7 volts of power. Samsung compatible batteries produce 1500 milliamp hours of power. Nokia compatible battery power is unspecified.
Better Power Electronics Co
Better Power Building
Mabuxincun
Shiyan Baoan
Shenzhen China 518108
86-755-29686606
better-power.com
Guangdong Weiliwang Electronic Co.
Guangdong Weiliwang Electronic Co. makes and sells batteries compatible with 28 cell phone brands. Batteries for major international brands such as BlackBerry, Apple, Nokia, LG and Sharp stand alongside Asian brands like Vodafone, Huawei, and HTC in the company's catalog. Guangdong Weiliwang Electronic Co. offers seven types of lithium-ion batteries for Motorola phones. Each battery in this line comes with a list of Motorola phones with which it is compatible. For instance, the Motorola V3 replacement battery will fit models such as PEBL U6, RAZR V3, RAZR V3a, and RAZR V3c.
Guangdong Weiliwang Electronic Co.
Building 37-38, Fumin Industrial Zone
Pinghu, Shenzhen
Guangdong, China 518111
86-755-8467-9582
szwlw.com
Narada
Narada is a Chinese company with a Japanese name that produces batteries for applications as far ranging as low temperature military devices and electric cars. The company makes a line of cell phone batteries so generic as to not even be designed for specific phones. Rather, the Narada catalogue simply lists the dimensions, voltage, capacity and impedance of the models and asserts each battery will work on any phone with corresponding size and power requirements.
Narada Power Source Co., Ltd.
No.72 Jingguan Road, Qingshan Town, Lin'an
Economic Development Zone
Zhejiang, China 311305
86-571-2882-7013
en.naradabattery.com
Shenzhen All-round Electronics Co
Shenzhen All-round Electronic Co produces batteries for nearly 80 cell phone brands. Each battery in the catalog is accompanied by information regarding its voltage, capacity, type and the model or models with which it is compatible. Cell phone brands available in the United States that are compatible with Shenzhen batteries include Nokia, Motorola, Samsung, Siemens, Sony and Toshiba. With regard to the American market, the primary drawback to Shenzhen batteries is that all labels are printed in Cantonese or Mandarin.
Even natural light photography utilizes lighting techniques.
Photography utilizes the same interplay of light and shadow as painting. Just as a painter adds lighter or darker colors to a canvas, the photographer adds or removes light to emphasize or diminish certain aspects of the image. Photographers use a basic series of lights in their setup, which allow them to achieve different lighting effects. By using some basic lighting setups, you can add or remove light and shadow to produce effective photographs.
Instructions
1. Determine the location for your "key" light, which provides the bulk of the illumination in your image. Use a photography light or reflect light using a reflector. Aim the key from any position in front of the subject, but generally a 45-degree angle slightly downward on the subject works best.
2. Add a "fill" light to the subject, which fills in the shadow left by the key light and allows more visibility of the subject. Fill lights generally have less intensity than the key light and most often are aimed at a 45-degree angle to the image. Use a photographic light or reflector and ensure that the fill does not shine more brightly than the key.
3. Aim a light or reflector at an angle to the subject from behind. This light is called a "back light." Do not point the back light directly at the camera or it will wash out the exposure and cause lens flares.
4. Aim a light or reflector at the background to create a "background" light, which highlights the background and helps the subject stand out. Aim this light from any angle against the background directly behind the subject.
5. Add a "hair light" when photographing portraits. This light shines down from slightly behind the subject and above, lighting the hair and outlining the face. This light should focus on the hair but leave the face in total darkness. Do not use this light with portraits of bald people as it will produce distracting highlights.
6. Diffuse the light from any of your light sources by placing diffusion material in front of them. This heat-resistant, paper-like material softens the shadows cast on your subject and may suit lights used in portrait or product photography.
7. Alter the color temperature of your light sources by placing colored gels in front of them. Use colors ranging in the normal range of sunlight from blue to orange. Use intense colors to create more intense lighting effects.
Tags: light reflector, This light, your light, 45-degree angle, back light
With so many brands and features, how can you decide which one is right for you? Well this article will help you make a wise choice and get the one that's right for you.
Instructions
1. **Know your current setup and equipment**
I've run into shoppers who look at various models of dvd recorders and don't remotely think about their exisiting setups. In other words, what TV they have? Do they have a cable or sattelite box? What camcorder or digital camera they have.
After all, why would you? You're not buying any of those; you're getting a dvd recorder. But it is important!
2. **Antenna connections**
Not every dvd recorder has coax connectors on them. Those are the plugs that can handle your antenna. In other words, you could plug your cable or sattelite antenna wires directly into the back of the dvd recorder.
Some recorders have pass-through coax connectors. What this means is that the recorder doesn't do the tuning of your channels. Your cable or sattelite box handles that. All the dvd recorder does is allow you to connect the cables so it can record whatever channel your box is set to.
And some recorders have coax connectors that actually do the tuning. In other words, the dvd recorder can actually tune to record various channels, independent of your box.
So know what type of connections you have right now and if you can find a recorder with coax connectors on them, that will make your hookup easier. And you'll have fewer cables connected in the back, which makes things look neater.
3. **Your TV**
Some of us have older TVs. Others have HD-TV. And some of us have those big plasma or LCDs. So there is quite a variety of televisions out there.
One thing that you should know before you go shopping for a recorder is what type of connector(s) your TV has. If you have a coax, that's all you really need. Many newer ones lack this!
If you have an S-video connector, that's good too. S-video gives you a higher quality picture on your screen, but you'll need a recorder that has that connector too in order to use it!
And if your set only has composite inputs, then you'll need a recorder with those plugs on it. So I strongly suggest writing down what connectors you TV has right now before you go shopping.
FYI: My dad bought a recorder and thought it would be easy to hookup. Just 2 wires to plug in. Would have been, except for one big problem! His recorder didn't have coax antenna connectors on them so the hookup wasn't as simple. So this is why I make that suggestion of checking first!
Another thing that's important here is whether or not your set is has a built-in tuner or not. And if so, is it an analog or digital tuner?
You see, beginning Feb 2009, all TV broadcasts will be in a digital format. So those of you with an analog tuner won't be able to view those stations without a converter box (Cable or Sattelite, or a separate one that you'll need to buy).
If your set has this and you don't have cable or sattelite, then you'll be able to receive those digital broadcasts without the need for a tuner. That means you can buy a recorder without it and possibly save a little money.
4. **Built-in tuner**
Some recorders have built-in TV tuners that can scan your stations and record various channels. This is a good feature for those of you who want to watch one channel and record another. Or for those of you who don't have cable or sattelite TV because you have what's called analog, which is being phased out by Feb 2009!
The reason is because it's important to have a recorder that's capable of controlling the television stations. In other words, the recorder determines what channels it recognizes and can actually change from channel to channel.
You'll pay a little more for this feature, but generally, it's only $30-50 more.
5. **Tuner types**
There are 2 types of tuners, digital and analog. You'll pay more for the digital tuner, but it's not overly expensive in most cases. Generally $35-50 more.
The difference between analog and digital is this. An analog tuner requires a converter to receive digital broadcasts, which will be the standard beginning Feb 2009. A digital doesn't require this converter and is able to receive both analog and digital broadcasts.
So digital tuners cost more. But if you already have cable or sattelite, then you already have a digital tuner. Your cable or sattelite box.
Whether or not you decide to spend for a built-in digital tuner is up to you, but it's important to understand that all TV broadcasts in 2009 will be in a digital format. And many right now are broadcasting either in both analog and digital, or some in just digital.
6. **Progressive Scan**
Some recorders have this feature, while others do not. What progressive scan means is that the quality of the picture will be better. In other words, they'll be less flickering and a higher quality look to it.
I suggest spending the extra money to buy a recorder with this feature. To me, it's not splurging or just something nice or cool to have. It's really essential in my opinion. Do you like having TV stations that flicker constantly or are blurry? No! So why would you want that from watching dvd movies?
So it's not a question of you'll see things in more vivid colors or every little detail, but rather a more steady and clearer picture. I think most people would find these 2 things very important. Especially since you'll be watching and recording things on a regular basis. After a while, flickering can get rather annoying! So it's worth the small extra money to avoid this problem.
FYI: You may see pscan or p-scan when looking at recorder specs. They both mean progressive scan and are common abbreviations for it.
7. **Recording formats**
There are a variety of formats that dvds can be recorded in. These include:
1) DVD-R
2) DVD+R
3) DVD-RW
4) DVD-RW
What's the difference between all these? Those with the "R" at the end mean it can only be recorded onto one time. So it's permanent and the space is used up. But "RW" means it can be recorded, erased, and re-recorded.
FYI: RW discs are more expensive, but not overly so.
What's important here is what format your recorder can handle. There are "minus R and RW" and "plus R and RW." So a DVD-R is a "minus R," while a DVD+RW is a "plus RW."
Not every recorder can handle all these formats. For instance, I have one that can only handle the minus discs. My other one can handle plus and minus ones.
If you buy say a minus machine, then you'll need to make sure you only use DVD-R or DVD-RW discs in it. If you were to buy DVD+R by mistake, your machine won't be able to read it and you'll get an error message.
So it determines what discs you can use with it. So long as you know which one your recorder will use, you can make sure you buy the right discs. But if you want more flexibility and/or want to avoid possibly buying the wrong one, then you may want a machine than can handle both minus and plus discs.
FYI: DVD+R and DVD+RW discs tend to be a little cheaper than the minus discs. About $1-2 less.
8. **Combo units**
Some people only want a dvd recorder because they either don't want to use tapes or already have a VCR to record on tape. Others want one machine that can record and play tape or discs.
A combo unit is a DVD on one side and a VCR on the other. So you can play and record both tapes and discs. They're more expensive and run around $100-150 more, but it can be a space-saver.
In other words, you'll have 1 machine instead of 2. And that saves space, uses fewer cables and outlets, and 1 remote instead of 2. That's because the combo units have a single remote to work both sides of the machine.
For example, I replaced an old VCR with a combo unit. That way, I have both a VCR and DVD recorder and 1 remote. My other TV has a separate VCR and DVD. So I have one remote for the VCR and another one for the DVD.
FYI: Universal remotes may work. Depending on the make and model recorder, a universal remote may be compatible. But you should be aware that some remotes may only work the DVD or VCR side. In other words, it may recognize the brand's VCR but not DVD and vice-verse. So be prepared for needing to use the remote that came with your unit.
FYI: Some of you may be thinking of buying a combo unit so you can record 2 channels at the same time. One onto tape and the other onto disc. Sorry, but you can't do that! A combo unit isn't capable of recording 2 things simultaneously!
A combo unit simply means that you can record and play something on tape or disc, but still records one thing at a time. So if you have two programs on at say 7am and want to record one on tape and the other on disc, a combo unit won't do it.
But with a combo unit, you can say record one program at 7am on tape, and another program at 10a on disc.
The biggest advantage of a combo unit is your being more easily able to dub (copy) between tape and disc. So you can take your old tapes and transfer them onto disc with the push of a button. The same goes for taking something on dvd and putting it onto tape.
All combo units include the dubbing or copy feaature! So it's standard with them.
Without a combo unit, you'll need to connect cables between your DVD recorder and VCR. The quality will be less because you loose picture and sound with cables. But the combo unit won't effect quality at all!
9. **Brand name**
Some people prefer a particular brand, such as: Panasonic, Sony, RCA, Toshiba, etc. Others don't really care which one it is so long as it's a good one.
For example, I bought a no-name one years ago and never had a problem with it. My newer one is a name brand and works just fine too. You see, there aren't that many moving parts so very little can really go wrong.
Just like a VCR. Regardless of the brand, they all tend to work and last long enough. Same is tru for most dvd recorders. But if you want piece of mind or prefer to stick with a particular brand, that's your choice.
Just realize that some brands are more expensive than others. And some brands are more compatible with universal remotes than others.
10. **Built-in hard drive**
Some of the newer recorders have built-in hard drives you can record onto. This allows for increased storage and can be upgraded with a larger drive if you'd like.
However, one problem I've heard from people who've purchased them is that the hard drives may fail or become corrupt. Yes, you can replace them with another drive, but to me, the last thing you want is a hard drive to fail in the middle of a recording!
While it may not happen all the time, if a hard drive were to fail, you could loose not only your recent recording, but possibly everything on the drive! So it's like your computer crashing!!
So I tend to suggest avoiding these machine, which can cost $200-300 more!
Discs can hold around 6-8 hours at the lowest quality setting, which is about 3 movies. In addition, discs don't generally fail in the middle of recording, so they're pretty stable. And discs aren't expensive, so you'll be able to buy a pack of 50 for around $30-50.
FYI: I recently bought a pack of 100 DVD-R for $25!
So I feel that the hard drive models aren't worth the extra money or risk. Use that extra money to buy more discs and have something that's more stable and proven reliable.
Tags: combo unit, other words, cable sattelite, recorders have, analog digital, coax connectors
In the early '90s choosing a professional camcorder was simple. Betacam, Sony's pro version of its failed Betamax format, ruled the roost. If you bought a BVW-400A you could be assured every network and television station could play back your tapes. True, the cameras were expensive compared to equivalent quality today, but this format was practically universally accepted. Today the choice is more complicated.
Instructions
1. First determine what you plan to do with your camcorder. There is a vast variety of professionalism within the video business: event videography; shooting weddings, proms and funerals; working as a broadcast news stringer; creating instructional DVDs; supplying high definition programming; electronic cinematography and more. Although there is some overlap, be very clear as to how you plan to earn a living with your camcorder.
2. Next decide on your output. If you are an event videographer, do you want to be able to offer your clients high definition memories for which you'll charge a premium, or is your target demographic barely past the transition from VHS to DVD? If you plan to shoot for local television news as an overnight stringer, actually ask the local stations or bureaus in bigger markets what kind deliverables they expect. Even though there have been a few movies shot on mini-DV, and blown up to 35mm, our standards have changed. If you plan to shoot for eventual theatrical distribution, your really do need to shoot on high definition video.
3. Determine your budget. Some high definition camcorders, like Sony's top end HD Cam can cost you as much as a small house. There is an inherent element of seductiveness to buying a new camera. Don't buy more than you need. Remember, unlike that home, camcorders will only depreciate in value. Leasing is an option, but by the time you've paid off your lease, your equipment will inevitably be worth less than you paid for it.
4. Learn the differences in recording formats. Mini DV and HDV capture plenty of detail on small tapes but skimp on color information retained. They are perfectly adequate for event videography and news, but they are 4:1:1 formats where the luminance is sampled four times to each sample of red and blue, compared to the 4:2:2 formats of Digital Betacam, DV 50 and HD Cam, where you have twice as much blue and red information captured. You simply can't do complex color imagery or clean chroma keying on a 4:1:1 format. Also, although you can do DVDs with a 4:1:1 format, because DVDs are also highly compressed, the quality will be noticeably worse than shooting in a 4:2:2 format.
5. Make sure that your camcorder has three chips, either CCDs (charge couple devices) or CMOS (complementary metal oxide semiconductor). The two different transducers work differently. Until recently CCDs had the edge but CMOS is catching up. The bigger the chip the better is the image. 2/3-inch chips are the professional standard.
6. Get an interchangeable lens. There are good professional camcorders with permanently mounted zoom lenses, but lens interchangeability offers you far more flexibility for attaching wide angle primes or extreme zooms.
7. Make sure your camera can generate color bars for reference. Some offer tone generators, an added bonus.
8. For fast run and gun shooting it is useful to have full auto, but for backlight shooting, fluorescent lighting or a host of other conditions, be sure that you have easy to use manual override of all controls, from iris to auto focus, and white balance to audio levels.
9. Favor shoulder mounted camcorders. They are essential for long hand held shooting. Panasonic's HVX 200A is a wonderful camera, but it's difficult to hand hold for long periods of time.
10. Choose XLR microphone inputs for direct connection with professional mics.
Tags: high definition, your camcorder, event videography, Make sure, plan shoot