History Of Camera Development

Vintage film camera

Cameras have come a long way, from the first crude cameras that projected images onto walls to the day-long exposure times of the 1820s to the 60-second Polaroids of the 1950s and '60s to digital cameras today. The history of camera development includes innovation in jumps and starts, as people slowly created more efficient and accurate methods to capture our most precious moments.

Earliest Cameras

The earliest known camera, called the camera obscura, was used in ancient times to project images before photographic printing processes were invented. Leonardo Da Vinci wrote the first detailed description of the camera obscura in the 15th century, describing it as a box with a pinhole on one side and a glass screen on the other. A lens later replaced the pinhole, resulting in sharper images.

First Photo

In 1826, Frenchman Joseph Nicéphore Niépce created the first photograph with a camera obscura, titled "View from the Window at Le Gras." Niépce created the image with pewter plates treated with a photosensitive chemical called bitumen. The exposure took eight hours, and the image is still visible today.

19th Century Developments

Bellows-style camera

Camera obscuras continued to be used, with a variety of printing treatments, until the first folding camera was created by Charles Chevalier in 1840. Folding cameras were more portable, and they created images on silver-plated copper sheets, called daguerreotypes. In the mid 1850s bellows cameras were introduced. These allowed for greater focal length and the ability to take close-ups. The wet collodion film process also gained popularity in the early 1850s, and led to the addition of draining channels on cameras to keep film wet.

University of London photography lecturer Thomas Sutton created the first single lens reflex (SLR) camera in 1860. Sutton's SLR camera incorporated internal mirrors. Twin lens reflex cameras were introduced in 1881, and featured SLR-style mirrors with two lenses.

Kodak and Leica

Twin lens reflex camera

In 1888, the George Eastman Company introduced the first Kodak camera, the lightest and simplest camera to date. It sold for $25, with the slogan "You press the button, we do the rest." zin 1900, the popular Kodak Brownie camera debuted with a retail price of $1.

The UR-Leica was invented by Oskar Barnack in 1913, and was one of the earliest cameras to use 35 mm film. The Leica A was developed in 1925, and quickly gained popularity thanks to its portability and lens quality.

Quick and Easy Cameras

Early Brownie camera

The first Polaroid camera, which produced an image in just 60 seconds, was created in 1947 by Edwin Land. Polaroid cameras enjoyed quick success thanks to the popularity of their instant images. This breakthrough was followed by the 1953 release of the Kodak Instamatic, the first fully automatic mass-produced camera. The first disposable camera, called the Quicksnap, was created by Fuji in 1986.

Modern Photography

Polaroid camera

The development of professional and autofocus 35mm SLRs, as well as simple point-and-shoot cameras, took off in the 1980s.

In 1981, Sony's Mavica became the first electronic camera to be commercially available. Instead of film, the Mavica recorded images onto a minidisk.

The first truly digital camera was introduced by Kodak in 1991, and was marketed to professional photojournalists. A few years later, in 1994, the first mass-market digital camera, the Apple Quick Take 100, was introduced.

Digital SLR

Tags: camera obscura, cameras were, lens reflex, Brownie camera, camera called, camera first, cameras were introduced

Car Battery Tips For A Long Life

Add a year or two to your car battery's life cycle with periodic maintenance.

The average car battery runs for approximately three to five years. But, according to the Auto-Facts website, the average car battery will make it to only the three-year mark. Extend your battery's life, and reduce your risk of sitting stranded in a parking lot due to a dead battery, by following a few simple maintenance tips.

Water Level

Standard 12-volt batteries hold six power cells (each cell produces two volts to the approximate 12-volt output). Each cell contains an ionized bath called an electrolyte. For car batteries, the bath is a mix of water and sulfuric acid (the water dilutes the acid). The electrolyte generates the electric current in the battery when you turn the ignition. Check the water level in the cells every two to four months. You want the level to barely reach the bottom of the refill hole. If it's low, use distilled water to refill the battery. Edmunds Tech Center warns against using tap water for the process; it will corrode the terminals.

Terminals

The terminals are the positive and negative plugs on top of the car battery that connect to the corresponding wires to transfer energy from battery to car. Clean these terminals with a wire brush every three months or so. This process ensures there's nothing between the connectors (the wires/cords in the car) and battery terminals to dampen the energy connection. Remove the connectors by twisting them back and forth while you gently lift upwards. Edmunds Tech Center advises against excessive tugging or prying. After you clean the terminals, put the connectors back on by pushing each one firmly down onto its terminal. Edmunds recommends coating the terminal-connector joints with high-temperature grease to reduce corrosion and rust.

Extended Parking

Disconnect your battery if you know you won't drive the vehicle for more than two weeks. This prevents a gradual loss of charge. Remove the connector for the negative terminal (see "Terminals" for instructions). You can't take the connector out of the car, so put it where it won't touch the terminal.

Run Time

The alternator recharges the battery while the car runs. However, the car must be on for at least 20 minutes to fully recharge the battery. Try to limit how many short trips you take. According to Auto-Facts, "many starting cycles, coupled with short run times will leave your battery below the ideal charged specification." This cycle will lead to a short life for your battery.

Tags: your battery, average battery, battery life, Edmunds Tech, Edmunds Tech Center, Tech Center, your battery life

Refurbish Lithiumion Batteries

Refurbishing a lithium-ion battery eliminates toxic byproducts and prolongs its performance.

After a battery's power runs out a person has the option of either replacing it or refurbishing it. Replacing a battery is generally more expensive while refurbishing it eliminates toxic byproducts and prolongs its performance. The refurbishing process differs based on the battery that is being used. For example refurbishing a car battery requires the use of a salt solution to clean the inside of the battery. On the other hand, refurbishing a lithium-ion battery is a simple process and can be completed in a number of steps.

Instructions

Instructions

1. Allow the battery's power to run out. This can be done by installing the battery in a device and keeping the device on until the battery energy expires. Lithium-ion batteries are commonly used in handheld or portable devices such as laptops or gaming systems. They are unique because they function better after a full discharge rather than a partial one. This is because most lithium-ion batteries contain fuel gauges that create a sort of digital recording of the battery's charge state. Full discharges will effectively provide a resynchronization of the battery's current charge state with the fuel gauge level. This will help to reduce any added load to the circuitry in the battery.

2. Place the battery in a battery charger. Let the battery charge to its full power capacity. Once the battery is fully charged remove it from the charger. This is a simple step and stands in contrast to the methods used when refurbishing lead acid batteries in cars. These batteries require a user to fill the battery with epsom salt then place the battery on a charger. The charger then releases an electric current that removes the sulfur residue from the battery plate.

3. Place the battery in the device of your choosing. This process will cause the battery's fuel gauge to synchronize with the battery's current charge state and helps to maintain functional capacity. An important tip to maintain longevity of the battery is to keep it in a cool location because elevated temperatures can damage the circuitry. Also when storing the battery it is best to do so when the battery still has some partial charge remaining. To maintain proper fuel gauge calibration it is recommended to do a full discharge after at least 30 charges.

Tags: charge state, fuel gauge, battery charge, battery charger, battery current, battery current charge, battery device

Fix White Noise In A Mic

When recording audio on your computer or portable device via a microphone, you may notice some white noise in the background. Finding a way to correct the white noise with the mic is extremely important because the noise often is disruptive and may draw focus away from the primary audio. Reducing or eliminating white noise often is as simple as moving the mic to a different location or placing a protective covering over the recording device.

Instructions

1. Move the audio recording indoors, if possible, or move the microphone away from wind currents. Wind and other outside noises cause a substantial amount of white noise during the recording process.

2. Place a wind screen over the microphone. The screen, a padded slip the covers the microphone, filters out the unwanted noise without reducing the audio quality.

3. Examine the cable connection that runs from the microphone to the recording device. You receive static and other white noise problems over the recording process if the cable is not inserted completely into the equipment.

4. Purchase and install an audio correction program, such as ProTools or Adobe SoundBooth. These programs feature white noise reduction tools to use after the recording process.

Tags: white noise, recording process, away from, noise often, over recording, recording device

Reformat A Corrupted Sd Card

Format a corrupted SD card to use it with your electronic device.

Secure digital, or SD, cards are commonly used in digital cameras to store pictures. The cards are available in a wide range of sizes. The cards can corrupt easily if you remove them improperly from the card reader, which can cause you to lose the information you have stored on it. When the SD card does not work well with the electronic device, it will need to be reformatted to fix the malfunction. Formatting the SD card will completely erase any data that you have stored on it.

Instructions

Windows

1. Place the SD card into your computer's card reader. If you do not have a card reader, you can purchase a USB adapter card reader.

2. Click "Start" and select "My Computer" or "Computer."

3. Right-click on the drive associated with the SD card. Select "Format" from the options that appear.

4. Click "Start" and wait for the format to complete before you remove the card.

Mac

5. Insert the SD card into the card reader. Click on the "Macintosh HD" on the desktop.

6. Open the "Applications" folder. Click the "Utilities folder."

7. Select "Disk Utility." Look on the left side of the window to see the drives connected to the computer. Select the drive associated with the SD card. Click the "Erase" tab.

8. Check to make sure that you select "MS-DOS" for the file format. Click "Erase" to format the SD card, and do not remove it until it finishes the formatting process.

Tags: card reader, associated with, associated with card, card into, card reader Click

Make A Camera Beanbag

Make a Camera Beanbag

Beanbags can be a photographer and filmmaker's friend when a camera needs to be placed in a tight location or where a standard tripod isn't feasible. Camera beanbags are available for purchase from most camera stores, but they are so simple to make that for the price of one bought at retail, you could make several and still save money.

Instructions

1. Measure the base of the camera at its widest point (side to side). Add 2 inches to the measurement.

2. Cut a piece of flannel twice as long as the camera base is wide (plus the two extra inches). For instance, if the camera measures 6 inches wide, you need to cut a 16-inch long piece of flannel. The width of the fabric in this example is 8 inches (6-inch camera plus 2 inches).

3. Fold the flannel in half, inside out, on the longest side. Using the example, this will give you an 8-inch square. If the flannel does not have a printed pattern (a visible inside or outside), either side of the fabric can be folded.

4. Sew the outside seam adjacent to the fold on both ends of the fold. The stitch should be 1/4-inch from the fabric edge. Stitch right to the fold; you are creating a pouch, and any gap between the stitching and fold will lead to leaks. This step can be done by sewing machine or by hand. Make tight, tiny stitches as close together as possible if sewing by hand.

5. Turn the bag right side out to hide the stitching. Fill the bag half full with rice, dried peas or small dried beans.

6. Fold over the open fabric edges of the beanbag to the inside of the bag by 1/2 inch. Sew the fabric edges together to complete the beanbag.

Tags: Camera Beanbag, fabric edges, Make Camera, Make Camera Beanbag, piece flannel

What Is A Stepper Motor

A common use for the stepper motor is in the household computer printer and the motor that makes your hard drive or CD-ROM go round and round. A stepper motor in the printer, moves the paper in and out and pulls the printing cartridge head across the surface of the paper in order to print. In the hard drive or CD-ROM, the motor accurately spins the disk so the read and write head can precisely place the information for storage and run your favorite programs.

Function

A stepper motor can run in either direction, clockwise or counterclockwise. The voltage that controls the motor's speed is generally of a Direct Current (DC) type. Varying the DC voltage to the motor windings also varies the speed. You may recognize this as you hear the CD-ROM or hard drive speed up or slow down. This is the stepper motor speed controller at work.

Types

Built within the stepper motor itself are positions or steps. These steps are also called pulses. A stepper motor is classified by how many pulses per full revolution have been built in to the motor windings. The motor windings are what create the magnetic waves that cause a motor to rotate. The pulses are the position of the motor as it goes around in a 360-degree circle or single revolution. A stepper motor can be classified in resolution as 1000 steps per 360-degree revolution. In other words, for every full revolution of the motor shaft there are 1000 points to detect that position.

Features

A stepper motor can also be rated not only by the pulses per revolution but also torque value. The torque value is given either in inch pounds or foot-pounds. A 12-inch pound motor would be able to lift 12 pounds, one inch from the center of the motor shaft. Or, one pound can be lifted, 12 inches from the center of the motor shaft. A 12-inch pound torque value, will equal a one-foot pound value.

Identification

A stepper motor can also be rated by the control voltage. This control voltage or pulse power is what turns the motor. The DC voltage is actually pulsed, so many times per second, for the motor to move. A positive pulsed voltage may move the stepper motor in a clockwise rotation. A negative pulsed voltage will then rotate the motor in a counterclockwise rotation. Varying the amount of voltage will then regulate the speed.

Effects

Think of the end shaft of the stepper motor attached to the face of a clock, with the end shaft connected to hour dial indicator. The motor will always start at the 12 o'clock position. he stepper motor is rated for 24 Volts DC and has a resolution of 1000 pulses per revolution. By regulating the control signal, this motor will rotate as follows. The full speed of the motor would be at 24VDC. If the controller outputs 12VDC at 500 pulses, the motor will then move a half of a revolution at half speed, to the 6 o'clock position. Applying a --12vdc signal at 500 pulses, it then returns back to the 12 o'clock spot.

Considerations

Giving the stepper motor a control signal of 24vdc with 10,000 pulses will rotate the motor at full speed with a full 10 revolutions. Each one of the pulses is accurately counted by the stepper motor controller. So regardless of the direction of the stepper motor, if the controller is as fast as the motor, it will always know the position of the end shaft. This allows the stepper motor to constantly run, in either direction. Their positions are known to accurately read or write information to a hard drive or CD-ROM.

Tags: stepper motor, stepper motor, hard drive, motor will, drive CD-ROM

Reduce Shadows In Photos

Shadows can ruin an otherwise great photograph. Learning reduce shadows will make your snapshots look even better. And you can do it with very little equipment.

Instructions

Instructions:

1. Take a picture of a group, individual or couple in the middle of a room, rather than lined up against a wall. When your subjects are close to a wall, their shadows will be projected behind them. Move your subject to at least 6 feet away from the wall to reduce this effect. The extra space will allow the shadows to fall on the floor behind them.

2. Use the bounce-flash technique. When using a camera with an external flash unit, position the flash head to shoot the light at the ceiling. By bouncing the light off the ceiling and allowing it to flow over your subjects, you will reduce the amount of shadows.

3. Take your subjects outside. Photograph them in the shade, so the lighting is even. Photographing your subject in the sun will produce shadows on their face. Choose a spot under a tree, in the shade of a building or anywhere outside on an overcast day.

4. When indoors, use window light. The natural light will illuminate your subject well enough to get a good exposure without using your camera's flash.

5. Shoot close-ups. If you are not able to position your subject, try to shoot so you can crop out the background and the shadows. Zoom in on the face, rather than try for a full-length body shot.

6. Purchase an inexpensive reflector at a photography retail store. Since they are collapsible, they are easy to use and keep handy. Use the reflector to bounce light back into the scene to help fill in shadows. This works particularly well when reducing shadows under the brim of a baseball cap or cowboy hat.

Tags: your subject, your subjects, behind them, light ceiling, rather than, shadows will

Reduce Redeye Using Photoshop

Reduce Redeye Using Photoshop

The term "red-eye" is applied to a photograph in which the subject's pupils have turned red. In some cases, the entire iris appears to be red. One way to avoid red-eye is to take the photograph without a flash. Red pupils can transform a sweet picture of a young child to an almost demonic image. Rather than tossing the picture, a digital photograph can be edited to reduce the red-eye, giving the image a more natural appearance.

Instructions

1. Open the digital image in Photoshop by clicking "File" and then "Open." A new window will open displaying the files on your computer. Locate the file to edit and click on its thumbnail to open.

2. Click on the "Red Eye Tool" located in the vertical menu on the left side of the screen. If it is not visible, click on the various icons to open up more tool options. Click "Red Eye Tool" to choose.

3. Move the cursor over the eye. The cursor should look like a plus sign. Click on the eye.

4. Evaluate the results. If you are satisfied with the results, repeat the previous steps with the second eye.

5. Undo the command if you are not happy with the results. Click on "Edit" and "Undo Red Eye Tool" to return the image to its original state.

6. Adjust the pupil size by changing the percentage by "Pupil size:" at the top of the screen. This will change the size of the black center of the eye.

7. Adjust the darken amount by changing the percentage by "Darken Amount." This will adjust the darkness of the pupil. Repeat steps 2 to 4 to reduce red-eye. When you are finished, save the file. If you want to keep the original file with the red eye, choose the "Save As" command and give the edited version a new name.

Tags: changing percentage, Click Tool, Redeye Using, Redeye Using Photoshop, Reduce Redeye, reduce red-eye

The Difference Between Records & Compact Discs

If you weren't around when records were the main means of playing music, you may not understand why they are so important. In fact, you may not even be familiar with how they are really different from CDs.

Invention of LPs and Compact Disc

LPs on a turntable

LPs or long playing records, were invented by Columbia Records in 1948.

Sony and Phillips designed the first compact disc in 1980.

Size Matters

Compact disc

LPs were originally 16 inches in diameter, but the popular models used for music were 13 inches.

Compact discs are 4.75 inches in diameter, making portability much simpler.

What are they made of?

LP

LPs are made of black lacquer vinyl created with groove for a phonograph needle to navigate across.

Compact discs are constructed of polycarbonate plastic coated with aluminum and a thin translucent acrylic protective coating.

Storage

program saved on compact disc

LPs only store analog sound.

Compact discs can store digital audio, video, digital photographs, and computer data such as documents saved on word processing programs.

Value

Original LP of The Muppet Show

According to LPNow.com, in 2009, out of print LPs ranged in price from $20-$50, but a serious collector will pay thousands of dollars for originals in good condition.

Most recording CDs music range from $19 to $100 depending on if it is a single disc or a collection of three or more.

Tags: compact disc, Compact discs, inches diameter, records were

Send Ringtones Via A Bluetooth Motorola

Most Motorola phones have Bluetooth technology installed into the device when it is manufactured. The Bluetooth functionality allows you to perform a variety of tasks. You can send ringtones and many types of files to other devices through a Bluetooth connection when you are paired with them. Before you can send files, you must first turn on Bluetooth on the Motorola and pair with the device.

Instructions

Turn on Bluetooth on Motorola and Pair

1. Turn on Bluetooth on a device other than the Motorola (such as a computer). To do this, click "Start" then "Control Panel" then "Bluetooth" and then set it to "On."

2. Select "Main Menu" on the Motorola's main screen.

3. Scroll to and select "Settings" then "Bluetooth Link" and then "Setup."

4. Scroll to the "Power" option, then select "Change."

5. Select "Turn On" then the "Back" option.

6. Select the option to add a device to the selectable menu.

7. Select the device that you want to pair with, such as the computer.

Send Ringtone via Bluetooth

8. Select "Main Menu" on the Motorola's main screen.

9. Scroll to the folder that contains ringtones, then open up the ringtone file that you want to send.

10. Press the "Menu" option when the ringtone opens, then select "Send file via Bluetooth."

11. Select the device that you want to send the ringtone to (such as the computer).

12. Make sure the other device receives the file from the Motorola. The receiving device may display a security prompt asking if it should accept the file or not. Select "Yes" if this occurs.

Tags: Bluetooth Motorola, such computer, that want, Bluetooth Select, device that, device that want, Main Menu

Compare The Best Digital Cameras For Action Shots

Choose the right camera for taking action shots.

When choosing the best digital camera for taking action shots, you should first decide whether a point-and-shoot or a DSLR is more appropriate for your needs. Then, consider three important aspects of the camera's functionality: frames per second, image stabilization and low-light capabilities.

Frames Per Second

When purchasing a digital SLR or point-and-shoot camera, determine the model's "frames per second" capabilities. This indicates how many times the shutter can open and close per second while holding down the shutter release button in continuous mode---essentially, how many pictures per second the camera is capable of taking. Four frames per second is considered somewhat slow, while up to 12 frames per second is considered excellent. The more frames per second your camera can shoot, the more successful you will be in capturing the action.

Image Stabilization

Many of today's digital SLR lenses and point-and-shoot camera models feature "image stabilization," which compensates for camera movement and results in clearer photographs. Compensating motion is activated to dampen the movement of the camera caused by an unsteady hand. This feature is excellent for action shots, when you wish for a moving subject to be clear and in focus.

Low-Light Capabilities

Lighting conditions play an important factor in successfully photographing action shots. The camera must be capable of providing properly exposed pictures in low light or ambient light conditions, while maintaining a fast shutter speed to prevent the subject from being blurry. Determine the camera model's maximum ISO setting. The higher the ISO number the camera is capable of, the better it will photograph in dim light. A camera with a maximum ISO of 1600 will require a slower shutter speed and not capture the shot as well as a camera with a maximum ISO of 6400.

Other Things to Consider

How quickly the camera can autofocus on a subject will also effect how well action can be photographed. Look for a camera that has a larger number of "autofocus points." A camera that uses five points of focus will autofocus on a moving subject more slowly than a camera that uses fifteen points of focus. Also, consider the "buffer size." When multiple pictures are taken in rapid succession, photos are temporarily stored in the camera's memory buffer to give the camera time to save the images to the memory card without interrupting the ability to continuously shoot. Top cameras today can buffer up to nine JPEG files or up to six RAW files. Finally, determine your camera's "shutter lag" time. This is the delay between the time the shutter button is pressed and the time the camera actually records the picture. Look for a shutter lag time of less than three-tenths of a second, which is ideal for capturing action shots.

Tags: action shots, camera that, frames second, action shots, camera capable, camera taking

Connect Xm To My Honda Pilot

XM satellite radio uses an antenna to receive signals and transfer them to the radio. There are car installation units made by XM radio that utilize a magnetic backed antenna to attach to the roof of your vehicle without requiring any additional physical installation. A wire runs along the edges of your window and interior of your Honda Pilot to the radio, which is attached to the dashboard of your Pilot. Once set up, you can receive XM satellite radio as long as the antenna has clear access to the skies, and you have an active XM account.

Instructions

1. Clean the Honda Pilot dashboard above the center console, or on a flat area below the air conditioner vent. Peel off the adhesive strip on the back of the XM radio mount and press the mount onto the surface for 30 seconds. Wait 24 hours for the mount to secure before moving on to the rest of the installation process. If using a clip mount, the clip will attach to an air conditioner vent.

2. Connect the XM power adapter to your Pilot's power source. Route the cord up the side of the dashboard to the back of the mount.

3. Place the antenna on the top of the roof next to the passenger window. The antenna uses a strong magnet to keep itself in place without any other materials.

4. Guide the wire back through the passenger side window. Tuck the wire into the window rubber and around the weather stripping to hide it. Run the wire from the side window to the back of the front window. This wire will connect to the back of the XM radio device.

5. Insert the XM radio device into the mount, then attach the power adapter plug and antenna plugs in the back of unit.

6. Turn on the car radio and find a station that has no signal coming through, or only sounds like white noise.

7. Press the XM button on your radio device, and go to "Settings." Select "FM Modulator." Choose "FM frequency" and select the frequency that matches the radio channel you selected earlier. Once selected, XM radio will play through that specific radio channel.

Tags: Honda Pilot, radio device, back radio, conditioner vent, power adapter, radio channel, satellite radio

Repair The Convergence On Your Samsung Rear Projection Tv

Repairing convergence on your Samsung rear projection TV is straightforward. You can manually adjust the convergence through the TV's menu if the automatic option doesn't work. If your convergence needs to be corrected you'll know; the image on the TV will be duplicated in different colors. Should you be unable to correct the project manually, you may need to contact Samsung support to have your TV serviced.

Instructions

1. Turn on your TV and let it play for about 30 minutes.

2. Press the "Menu" button on your remote. You should see the menu appear on-screen.

3. Select "Function" then press the joystick.

4. Select "Convergence" then press the joystick. You'll now see the convergence menu.

5. Select "Red" then press the joystick. You will see a series of crosshairs appear on the screen.

6. Select one of the outside crosshairs to correct. Use the channel and volume buttons to correct the image. You'll want to have all the lines converge as close to the crosshair as possible. Make the crosshair as white as possible.

7. Repeat this process for all the outside crosshairs, then the inside ones.

8. Select "Blue" when you return to the manual convergence menu and repeat all the steps.

Tags: press joystick, then press, then press joystick, convergence menu, outside crosshairs

Make A Slide Show Dvd Movie

Life is full of events and memories you may enjoy reliving from time to time. Modern digital cameras allow even novices to capture clear, accurate images of these events. You can share digital photos over the Internet by attaching them to an email or uploading them to a photo-sharing or social networking site. If you want to share your photos on a larger screen, however, consider creating a slide show DVD, which consists of a series of photos that advance automatically on a television screen. Windows makes creating slide show DVDs from your treasured photos simple, and you can view them on any standard home DVD player.

Instructions

1. Click "Start," then "All Programs." Scroll down the programs list and select "Windows DVD Maker." The Windows DVD Maker window opens.

2. Click the "Add Items" option on the Windows DVD Maker toolbar. The "Add Items to DVD" browser window opens. Find and open a folder on your computer containing photos you want to use to create your slide show DVD.

3. Press the "Ctrl+A" keys to highlight and select all files in the folder, then click the "Add" button. You can also click to highlight a single file, then click "Add." Click the "Add Items" button in the Windows DVD Maker window to add additional photos as needed.

4. Click the "Next" button after you add all the photos you want to use. When the "Ready to Burn DVD" window appears, click the "Slide Show" button.

5. Click the "Add Music" button in the "Change your slide show settings" window. Browse to a folder than contains an audio file to use as background music for your slideshow. Windows DVD Maker accepts MP3, WMA and WAV files as slide show background tracks. Select the file you wish to use, then click "Add."

6. Enable the "Change slide show length to match music length" option to have Windows DVD Maker adjust timing for slide transitions automatically, or click the "Picture Length" list box and manually select a display time for each photo.

7. Select the type of transition effect to use between slides by clicking the "Transition" drop-down list. Click to select a transition, which is a special effect displayed as one picture disappears and the next appears. Windows DVD Maker can set your photos to cross fade, dissolve as the next slowly appears, flip in and out or transition in several other ways. Select a transition type, then click the "Preview" button at the top of the window to view how the photos transition during the show. If you don't like a particular effect, close the preview window and select another type from the list.

8. Click "Change Slide Show" after adding music and enabling your preferred options. After the "Change your slide show settings" window closes, click the "Burn" button in the "Ready to Burn DVD" window.

9. Insert a blank DVD disc into the DVD writer drive of your computer when prompted. Windows DVD Maker verifies the disc is blank and starts writing files to it. Remove the disc from the drive when prompted, then close Windows DVD Maker. Use the new disc in any DVD player, or on any PC with Windows XP or later installed.

Tags: Windows Maker, slide show, then click, slide show, your slide, your slide show

Install An Xovision Xo1735 Dvd Player

In-dash DVD monitors/players are becoming common complements or even replacements for car stereo systems. The XOVision XO1735 multimedia system offers a 7-inch pivoting touch-screen display with an AM/FM tuner and a multimedia receiver capable of playing and displaying most common movie, music and GPS files. The system has a built-in 32-watt amplifier to hook up to your vehicle's sound system, leaving your old system behind. Just purchase the correct wire harness and console mounting kit for your particular model of vehicle, and installing your new XO1735 should be fairly straightforward.

Instructions

1. Open your hood and use your socket set to remove the negative and then positive leads to your car battery.

2. Remove your car stereo by unscrewing and removing screws appropriate to mount your particular model. Pull the stereo from the dash and disconnect its antenna wire, speaker wiring harness and power cable. Make note of the color of each for later placement.

3. Arrange a space on your dash console for your XOVision display. The XO1735 requires a space that is (L/H/W) 7.5 by 6.9 by 3.8 inches. Follow the instructions for your particular mounting hardware to clear the appropriate hole for your DVD player.

4. Connect the wiring from your speaker system. Plug each colored wire into its appropriate hole on your wiring harness, following the manufacturer's instructions. Plug this harness connector into your car's harness connector. If you don't have this wiring harness, navigate to the third link in the Resources section for a wiring diagram for each speaker, antenna and power wire.

5. Plug your car's antenna wire into the corresponding port on the back of your XOVision, then the power cable. Reconnect the positive and then negative leads to your battery and test out the player before finishing the mounting work.

6. Install the wired display according to your particular manufacturer's instructions, and test the system. Press the "Power" button, then "Open." The display should slide slightly down and tilted upward to reveal a card slot underneath at the top.

Tags: your particular, wiring harness, antenna wire, appropriate hole, appropriate hole your

Use Nikon Manual Lenses On Pentax Cameras

As long as third-party manufacturers make adapter rings, you can use nearly any lens on any camera. There are adapters that even allow the use of medium format lenses on 35mm cameras. Even though there are adjustments to be made in your shooting habits, you can use the Nikon manual lenses on a Pentax camera.

Instructions

1. Purchase a Nikon lens to Pentax camera adapter. There are available, both new and used. The adapter is a ring that has the Nikon lens mount on one side and the Pentax lens mount on the other.

2. Attach the Nikon lens to the adapter ring as you would to a camera body. It will snap in on the bayonet mount just as it would on a camera.

3. Attach the Nikon lens-and-adapter combination on the Pentax camera as you would a regular Pentax lens. For example, if you have the quite bright Nikon 50mm f/1.2 "normal" lens, it will work in the normal range just as well as a Pentax lens with better glass. This manual lens has a wider F-stop than most 50mm lenses, so use it in low-light situations you might not be able to use another, standard lens.

4. Use the manual focus on the lens to focus and the manual aperture ring to set exposure. If the Pentax camera has a built in light meter, it will work through the Nikon lens. It will tell you the settings for the aperture and shutter speed.

5. Shoot at least one test roll of film or one memory card of photos through the Nikon-Pentax combination system to make certain your exposures are correct before shooting any serious assignments. Another lens to use is the Nikon 35-70mm f/3.5 AI-s manual focus lens. It is a wide-angle to portrait zoom with good clarity. It has a short zoom that is a good test lens because it lets you use varying focal lengths, all at the same maximum aperture.

Tags: Nikon lens, Pentax camera, Pentax lens, adapter ring, Attach Nikon

Recover Photos From A Formatted Card

When you format a memory card used in digital cameras, you are essentially wiping the card clean and making it ready to be used again. If you have accidentally formatted the card before you downloaded the images to your computer, you can usually recover them. There are a number of free and for-purchase programs available on the Internet that will help you in recovering those pictures from your formatted memory card.

Instructions

1. Turn on your home desktop or laptop computer and connect to the Internet.

2. Download the photo recovery program of your choice. There are a number from which to choose, including "PC Smart Recovery" and "Pix Fix." These are both programs for PCs. If you are a Mac user, you can use Apple's "Camera Salvage." Once downloaded to your computer, open the program.

3. Connect the formatted memory card to your computer, either using a memory card reader, the build-in card reader or leaving the card in the camera and connecting the camera to the computer using a USB cable or its docking port. Wait for a moment for your computer to acknowledge the card is connected to your computer.

4. Click in the navigation bar of the recovery program you chose to use and click on the command to start the scanning process. The wording will vary from program to program, but the steps are the same. Once the scan has started, allow the program to complete the entire scan. A new window will appear on your screen showing all the formatted and deleted pictures that were contained on the card.

5. Scroll through the recovered images and use your mouse to select the images you want to save to your computer's hard drive.

6. Click "File" and select "Save as" to save the selected pictures to your computer's hard drive.

Tags: your computer, memory card, card reader, computer hard, computer hard drive

Troubleshoot A Digital Camcorder

Digital camcorders offer great picture quality, excellent sound, compactness and lots of features. Combine one with a computer for digital editing and output to DVD, and you could end up the talk of the next Sundance Film Festival. Although these cameras don't have many (if any) parts you can repair yourself, it's still possible to troubleshoot some common problems yourself.

Instructions

1. Colors appear off or look different when you view video on TV or monitor. Learn do a white balance for your camera to compensate for artificial light when you're taping. If your camera has a color-bar feature, include color bars at the start of each video. Then you can compensate for color idiosyncrasies by adjusting the TV or monitor.

2. A tape won't eject. Try turning off the camera and then turning it on with the eject button pressed down. Remove all power (including lithium batteries) and leave the camera off for 30 seconds. Then reinstall the batteries and turn the camera on with the eject button held down.

3. FireWire connection to computer keeps getting dropped. Check with manufacturer to make sure you have the latest driver and firmware updates for your camera and computer. Always turn the camera's power on before making a FireWire connection. Disconnect the FireWire cable before turning the camera off. Use the camera's AC adapter when making FireWire connections. Try a different FireWire cable and try connecting the camera to a different computer. FireWire cables and ports sometimes fail.

4. Camcorder won't power up when you turn it on. Remove all power (including lithium batteries) for 30 seconds. Reinstall batteries, connect AC adapter and see if camera will reset. If not, it probably needs service.

5. Camcorder won't focus. Check to see if there's an auto/manual focus switch.

6. Audio and video are degraded. Try a fresh tape. Although digital-video tapes should be good for several hundred plays under good conditions, they can wear out. Clean the camera heads with the manufacturer's head-cleaning kit.

7. Audio records on only one stereo track. Check to see if you're using a monaural microphone. If you are, you can buy a mono-to-stereo adapter plug for it.

Tags: your camera, eject button, FireWire cable, FireWire connection, including lithium, including lithium batteries, lithium batteries

Olympus Vn5000 Digital Voice Recorder Features

The Olympus VN-5000 is a digital voice recorder that not only records without the use of magnetic tapes, but is also capable of capturing 300 hours of audio. The recorder is small in size and includes a long-lasting battery pack. The Olympus VN-5000 is part of the VN series of digital recording devices and is available from a number of retail and online outlets.

Physical Features

The Olympus VN-5000 digital recorder includes a large LCD display and a voice activation control, known as Variable Control Voice Actuator, that works with the microphone by automatically sensing sound. The recorder also includes a built-in 28 mm round dynamic speaker, a 3.5 mm microphone jack and a 3.5 mm earphone jack. The Olympus VN-5000 weighs 2.2 ounces, including batteries, and measures 4 inches wide, 1.4 inches high and 0.8 inches deep.

Recording Features

The recorder contains 512 megabytes (MB) of memory and the ability to set 10 electronic bookmarks to indicate the beginnings of recordings. The Olympus VN-5000 features three recording modes: High Quality (HQ), Standard Play (SP) and Long Play (LP, for recording long speeches and programs). It can also be programmed to record at a specific time using the timer option.

Playback Features

The Olympus VN-5000 includes rewind and fast forward controls, as well as the ability to slow down playback by 25 percent or speed it up by 50 percent, which helps the user to find recordings quickly. This recorder also has an alarm playback mode, which can be set to play a certain recording from the device at a specific time.

Storage Folders

The recorder stores your digital audio files in one of four folders that hold up to 100 files each. If you don't want a recording any more, the Olympus VN-5000 includes controls for erasing a single file or multiple files at once.

Battery Life

The Olympus VN-5000 uses two AAA alkaline or NiMH rechargeable batteries. The alkaline last approximately 39 hours, while the rechargeable ones last 22 hours.

Tags: Olympus VN-5000, Features Olympus, Features Olympus VN-5000, Olympus VN-5000 digital, Olympus VN-5000 includes, recorder also

Use Fillflash In Outdoor Photography

use fill-flash in outdoor photography

Taking pictures in the summer time means bright sunshine, which makes deep shadows on your subjects. This will make your pictures have unpleasantly dark shading on the faces of people or on your subject. The solution is to use fill-flash. By using a bright flash you can flesh out the details hidden in the deep shadowed areas.

Instructions

1. Find the subject you want to photograph.

2. Set your camera's exposure time to the appropriate bright day setting.

3. Now set the exposure on your flash to make the flash a little less bright. Many automatic SLR cameras have a fill-flash feature that you can select by pressing your flash icon until it cycles through to the selection. For manual cameras or external flashes, simply tape a piece of tissue paper over the flash to soften the light.

4. Taking your picture now will have the dark shadows on your subject filled in on the finished print.

Tags: shadows your, your flash, your subject

Recover Deleted Photos In Fujifilm Dcim

DCIM folders are created by digital cameras as a location to save digital pictures.

When your Fujifilm digital camera takes a picture, it is processed through the camera's process then saved as a digital file in the DCIM (Digital Camera Images) folder that is created in the memory card. Digital pictures remain in this folder until they are deleted either intentionally or accidentally. When a digital picture is deleted from the folder, it remains on the memory card until the physical space on the card is used to save a new picture. You can use software to recover deleted pictures.

Instructions

1. Stop using your Fujifilm camera as soon as you realize you have deleted the pictures from the DCIM folder. The more pictures you continue to take after deleting the initial pictures, the higher the chances that the deleted pictures will be lost when the space they occupied on the card is used to save a new picture.

2. Turn on your home computer, connect to the internet, and download a digital file recovery program. There are a number of free programs as well as for purchase ones, e.g., PC Inspector Smart Image Recovery, Pix Fix, or Camera Salvage for Apple computer users. Open the program you just downloaded to your computer.

3. Insert the memory card from your Fujifilm camera into a card reader, or attach it to your computer. Wait a moment for your computer to acknowledge the inserted card.

4. Click "Scan/Start" in the recovery program and select the icon that represents the Fujifilm memory card. The software will scan the card and recover files that were deleted but are still recoverable.

5. Click the file in the new window that opens up after the software has completed its scan. Save the recovered digital files to the hard drive of your computer.

Tags: memory card, your computer, deleted pictures, your Fujifilm, card used

Use My Nikon D40 Remote

The remote for the Nikon D40 lets you take self-portraits.

Japan-based Nikon Corporation manufactures the D40 as its entry-line single lens reflex (SLR) camera. This camera takes photos with a resolution of 6.9 megapixels, and its base model includes an 18m x 55mm removable lens. On the back, the camera features a 2.5 inch LCD display that allows users to view images and scroll through a variety of settings and controls. Users can also purchase the optional (not included) remote: the ML-L3 Wireless Remote Control, which also works for other Nikon cameras. This remote enables users to take self-portraits and group photos.

Instructions

1. Power on the camera.

2. Set the camera to one of the two remote modes: "Delayed Remote" or "Quick Response Remote." Press the "Menu" button on the back panel of the D40 to bring up the menu in the LCD panel. Scroll down in the menu to highlight "Shooting Mode," and then press OK to bring up the choice of shooting modes. Highlight either the "Delayed Remote" icon (an image of a remote with "2s" next to it) or the "Quick Response Remote" icon (an image of a remote) in the menu that appears, and then press "OK" again to enter that mode.

3. Attach the camera to a tripod by screwing the center bolt of a tripod into the fitting on the base of the Nikon D40. If you do not own a tripod, place the D40 on a flat, level surface.

4. Focus the camera on the object, person or landscape you wish to photograph. Unlike some of Nikon's other cameras, the D40 does not feature a flip-out screen that you can use to adjust the focus or see the image before shooting with the remote. Depress the shutter-release button on the remote halfway to confirm that the D40 will focus squarely on what you wish to photograph.

5. Slide out the viewfinder eyepiece cup (the small square-shaped plastic receptacle you would normally look into while taking a picture). Slide the included DK-5 eyepiece cap down into this slot in order to keep out any light that may distort the picture.

6. Get into the frame of the picture if you are taking a self-portrait or group shot in which you wish to appear.

7. Point the remote at the D40 and depress the shutter-release button fully to snap the picture. Please note that if you are using the "Delayed Remote" mode, the D40 will take the photograph two seconds after you depress the shutter-release button.

Tags: Delayed Remote, shutter-release button, depress shutter-release, depress shutter-release button, icon image, icon image remote

Recover A Formatted Xd Card

XD cards are memory cards used almost exclusively in digital cameras. They are most common in Olympus and Fujifilm cameras. XD cards store picture and video files and can transfer these files onto your computer's internal hard drive, or onto a portable storage device like a flash drive. In order to transfer pictures and videos from an XD card onto your computer, you will need an XD card reader, which your computer may have or which you can purchase at an electronics store. If you accidentally delete files from your XD card, while formatting them, for example, you can recover them with a downloaded data recovery program.

Instructions

1. Recover formatted XD card files using Tokiwa, a freeware download designed to restore deleted and formatted files. Download and install Tokiwa. Insert your XD card into your PC's XD card reader. Choose the XD card from the list of drives when the program prompts you to do so and click "Scan Files." The program will display a list of deleted and formatted files. Pick which ones you want to recover and click on "Recovery."

2. Download the program Restoration, a data recovery program designed by Brian Kato, for free on the Internet. Install and start the program. Place the XD card into the computer's XD card reader, or plug the card reader with the XD card in it into a USB port. When the drive selection menu appears, choose the XD card. A list of deleted and formatted files will be displayed. With Restoration, you must choose and restore each file individually. Click on a file and press "Restore by copying," which will return the file to your computer. Repeat this process until you have recovered the formatted files you want.

3. Restore your formatted XD card files using the Uneraser program, which you can download free online. Once you have downloaded Uneraser, run the program. Place your XD card into the XD card reader on your PC. Choose the XD card from the drive selection menu. You will be given a list of deleted and formatted files to choose from. Select the XD card files you want to retrieve. They will be restored to your hard drive, and from there you can copy them to the XD card or any storage device.

Tags: card reader, formatted files, card into, deleted formatted, deleted formatted files

Remove An Eos Base Plate

The EOS family of cameras was launched by Canon in 1987. It was then a new generation of cameras, built around auto focus technology. Since the EOS series was introduced, Canon released the first digital SLR in 2000, the Canon EOS D30.

All of the EOS family of cameras feature a standard 1/4 inch 20 thread per inch socket for mounting on tripods via a base plate or directly onto a screw.

A base plate is a metal or plastic shelf that screws into the camera, then snaps or fastens to the top of the tripod, making the removal of the camera faster and easier.

Instructions

1. Unfasten the base plate from the tripod according to your tripod manufactures instructions. Ensure you are holding the camera as you do this, to prevent it from falling.

2. Turn the camera upside-down, so the base plate is facing up toward you.

3. Locate the screw that secures the base plate to the EOS camera.

4. Turn the screwdriver in a counter-clockwise direction, while holding the camera. The screw should turn easily until it the base plate can be pulled easily away from the camera.

Tags: base plate, base plate, family cameras, holding camera

Comparison Of Nikon Slr Cameras

Nikon SLRs vary from entry-level to high-end professional models.

Nikon formed from the merger of two Japanese optics companies in 1917 and began releasing its Nikkor lenses in 1932. The first camera to bear the Nikon name came out in 1946. The company has released many storied cameras over the years and as of April 2010, its line of digital single lens reflex cameras feature excellent low-light performance. Nikon also still makes a couple of film SLRs.

Entry Level

The D40, introduced in 2006, and D3000, introduced in 2009, are Nikon's entry-level D-SLR. The D40 sports a six megapixel sensor and can shoot 2.5 frames per second. The D3000 has a 10.2 megapixel sensor and can shoot three frames per second. Both are lightweight, at 17 ounces for the D40 and 16.1 ounces for the D3000, and compact, measuring 5 inches wide, 3.7 inches high (3.8 for the D3000) and 2.5 inches deep. The D40 does not have live view auto-focus through the LCD screen, but the D3000 does. The D40 and D3000 will only auto-focus with lenses that have an auto-focus motor designated AF-S or AF-I. They are only sold with an 18-55 lens.

Improved Performance

The D5000 and D90 are the mid-range in the Nikon line. Both cameras are sold either with kit lenses or as body-only cameras. Both have 12.3 megapixel sensors and can shoot 720p high-definition movies. The D90 utilizes the dual jog dial layout on the body that is a hallmark of Nikon's higher-level cameras, allowing for quick adjustment of shutter speed and aperture settings when shooting in manual. The D5000 only has one jog dial. The D5000 has 19 auto-exposure scene modes, while the D90 has five. The D90 is faster, able to shoot 4.5 frames per second against the four frames per second for the D5000, and is also compatible with older Nikon auto-focus lenses. The D5000 weighs 19.8 ounces and measures 5 inches wide, 4.1 inches high and 3.1 inches deep. The D90 weighs 22 ounces and measures 5.2 inches wide, 4.1 inches high and 3 inches deep.

Prosumer

The D300S is Nikon's professional/consumer model. It is durable, with a magnesium alloy body that can withstand more abuse. It has a 12.3 megapixel sensor and can shoot seven frames per second, and shoot 720p HD movies. The 51-point auto-focus system with 3-D tracking is fast and accurate. In addition to SD memory cards, the D300S is the cheapest Nikon to use CompactFlash memory, prized by professionals for greater storage and speed. The D300S weighs 30 ounces and measures 5.8 inches wide, 4.5 inches high and 2.9 inches deep.

Full-Frame Sensor

Nikon makes four models with full-frame sensors. Full-frame sensors are the same size as 35mm film, and have larger pixels, resulting in less noise, even at high ISOs up to 6400, making them ideal for low-light photography. The D700, D3, and D3S have 12.1 megapixel sensors, while the D3X has a 24 megapixel sensor. The D700 is the slowest, shooting five frames per second, and most compact, weighing 35 ounces and measuring 5.8 inches wide, 4.8 inches high, and 3 inches deep. The D3 and D3S weigh 43.7 ounces and measure 6.3 inches wide, 6.2 inches high and 3.5 inches deep. Each can shoot nine frames per second; the D3S can also shoot 720p HD movies. The D3X can shoot five frames per second, weighs 43 ounces, and measures 6.3 inches wide, 6.2 inches high and 3.4 inches deep.

Film

Nikon still produces two 35mm film SLRs, the FM10 and F6. The FM10 is aimed at students and people new to SLRs, with manual film advance and shutter speeds as fast as 1/2000 of a second. It weighs 14.7 ounces and comes with a 35-70mm lens. The F6 has a magnesium alloy body and motorized auto-focus, including single, continuous low for up to three frames per second and continuous high for up to 5.5 frames per second. The F6 weighs 34.4 ounces.

Tags: frames second, inches deep, inches high, inches wide, inches wide inches

Sirius Satellite Radio Antenna Troubleshooting

SIRIUS antennae receive signals from a satellite in space.

If you're having trouble with your SIRIUS satellite radio, it's likely that part of the problem is the antenna. Because SIRIUS gets reception via a satellite in space, it's very important to mount your antenna correctly so that it can efficiently receive signal. You should also check the way you've installed the antenna and pay attention to the error messages you get from the radio in order to determine what the problem is.

Mounting the Antenna

Although you have the option of mounting many SIRUIS antennae on the wall of your car, SIRIUS Satellite Radios recommends always installing it on your roof. This is where you'll get the best possible signal. Acceptable roof locations are in the middle of the roof, three inches above the back window, or three inches above the front windshield. If there's another antenna already installed on your roof, make sure to install your SIRIUS antenna at lease three inches away from it to avoid interference.

The best location for the antenna depends largely on where you live. This is because you can actually position the antenna so that it's facing the SIRIUS satellite. If you live in the Northwest, you can mount the antenna facing east or northeast; in the Southwest, mount it facing north or northeast; in the Southeast, mount it facing north or northwest; in the Northeast, mount it facing west or northwest; in the Midwest, mount the antenna directly on top of your roof.

If you have a roof rack, be sure the antenna is clear of it. Either adjust the roof rack so that the antenna has a clear "view," or move the antenna to the middle of the roof, where any racks aren't obstructing the signal.

Proper Installation

If your SIRIUS radio is giving you the error message "antenna error" or "check antenna," you might not have the antenna installed correctly. Check that the cable connections from the radio to the antenna are secure. Also, make sure the AUX IN cable is properly connected. One end should be plugged into the AUX, AUX IN or LINE IN port on the SIRIUS radio and the other end should be plugged into the AUDIO, AUDIO OUT or LINE OUT port on your car's radio.

Other Problems

If the error message on your radio says "acquiring signal," make sure you're outdoors with a clear view of the sky. If you're in a parking garage, especially an underground one, you probably won't get signal until you're outside.

If there is a lot of static, make sure the FM channel you're using is available, or contains only static or silence. If you hear any talking or music in the background, the station is not available, and the signal to that station will interfere with your SIRIUS radio's signal. You can find an available FM station in your area on SIRIUS's website.

Also, be aware that if you're driving in the city, tall structures might interfere with your signal. Signal also varies by time of day, so you may just need to wait for better signal.

Tags: your SIRIUS, make sure, mount facing, SIRIUS radio, three inches

Build A Bubble Wall

Bubbles in an aquarium add accent to its decor and quality of life.

A bubble wall provides blasts of aerated bubbles in your aquarium for both tank decor and oxygen for the fish. Making a bubble wall in your aquarium proves to be an easy task for someone who has experience with putting together an underwater habitat for their fish. Bubble walls look pretty in a well-lit reef or freshwater aquarium, and the fish appreciate the little bubbles of air.

Instructions

1. Attach a suction cup to the protruding tip of each spherical bubble stone. Make sure to stick the cup to the tip that doesn't have a hole in it. Do this with each sphere.

2. Attach a suction cup to each end and then to the center of the rectangular bubble stone. Make sure, again, not to attach them to the stems that have holes in them. These holes are where the tubing goes.

3. Anchor the rectangular bubble stone into the bottom center of the backside of the aquarium. Stick the suction cups to the inner glass of the back of the aquarium to secure it into place.

4. Place a spherical bubble stone to each end of the rectangular bubble stone. Anchor them into place with the suction cups.

5. Insert one of the opened ends of the junction into the provided outlet in the aquarium aerator pump.

6. Measure the distance from the bottom inside of the aquarium, to the location of the aerator pump. Cut 5 lengths of clear rubber tubing to match the length of the distance.

7. Insert a tube into each available junction outlet. Many junctions provide 6 outlets.

8. Insert the free end of each tube into the provided outlet of each bubble stone. The spherical stones present one outlet each, the rectangular bubble wall presents one at each end and one near the center. Larger lengths of bubble stone (24 inches and larger) present more outlets.

9. Push the power button on the aerator pump and allow it up to 10 minutes to fully gain the momentum needed to provide air to all of the bubble stones. Within a few minutes a literal wall of bubbles will flow up the back wall of the aquarium.

Tags: bubble stone, rectangular bubble, aerator pump, rectangular bubble stone, Attach suction

Slr Vs Compact Camera

There are two major divisions in camera types: film vs. digital cameras and SLRs vs. compact cameras. SLR camera stands for single lens reflex camera. Though the price of SLR cameras is continuing to come down, the cameras are still significantly more expensive than compact cameras. A cheap SLR body will cost at least $450, without a lens. Compact cameras can cost under $200. Depending on the size of your budget, the extra image quality may not be worth the additional cost.

Lenses

The biggest difference between SLR cameras and compact cameras is the ability to change lenses. SLR lenses detach from the body so that you can use different lenses, depending on what you are taking pictures of and how close they are to you. The attachable lenses will usually have much greater zooming capabilities than lenses on compact cameras. Compact cameras are restricted to the lens that is built into the camera.

Size

Compact cameras are significantly smaller than SLRs. Some compact cameras are small enough to carry around in a pocket while SLR camera bodies alone will usually be twice the size of a compact camera. Lenses for SLR cameras can be as large or even larger than the camera body. If the ability to easily bring the camera wherever you go is important, a compact camera is the better option.

Zoom

When you change the zoom on a compact camera, you have to use the electronic motor to zoom in or out. SLR lenses are separate from the body and use a ring that you turn to adjust the zoom manually. The manual adjustment is actually faster than the electric zoom. If you are taking pictures of sporting events or other activities that you need to quickly change the zoom, the SLR is a better option.

Image Quality

SLR cameras have a much larger image sensor than compact cameras do though they may have similar amounts of megapixels. The image quality suffers in compact cameras because the pixels are crammed too closely together. This results in interference which is exaggerated in dimly lit scenes.

Customizability

Beyond changing lenses, SLRs give you a greater range of options to customize the shots you are taking than compact cameras will. With an SLR, you can manually focus the camera as well as adjust the aperture, shutter speed, ISO and other settings. In addition, SLR cameras have the ability to use external flashes while most compact cameras can only use the on-board flash.

Tags: compact cameras, than compact, than compact cameras, better option, cameras have, change zoom, compact camera

Use The 580ex

Flash units expand a photographer's ability to take pictures in low-light and interior settings without worrying about blurriness, graininess or other imperfections. Although modern cameras often come with rudimentary flash capabilities, built-in flash units are limited and difficult to control. Dedicated flash units like the Canon Speedlite 580EX, designed for Canon EOS cameras, include a versatile array of settings to address the subtle lighting needs of any situation.

Instructions

1. Attach the Speedlite 580EX by loosening the locking ring at the bottom of the unit. Slide the unit into the hot shoe socket on top of the camera, and tighten the ring to secure the 580EX.

2. Turn the 580EX on by flipping the switch on the lower right hand of the unit. The pilot light on the left will turn green when the flash is ready to fire.

3. Press the MODE button until ETTL appears on the display to enable automatic flash. Adjust the settings wheel on the camera body to set your camera to either "Program AE" or "Full Auto" mode.

4. Aim the camera at your subject and press the shutter button halfway to focus your lens if auto-focus is enabled. Otherwise, adjust the focal ring manually. Verify that the flash icon is visible in the camera's viewfinder.

5. Press the shutter button down completely to take your picture. The 580EX will flash briefly once before the main flash fires. The flash exposure lamp will be lit up if the shot was taken properly. View your picture in playback mode. Once the pilot light turns green, the flash will be ready to fire again.

Tags: flash units, pilot light, ready fire, shutter button, Speedlite 580EX, your picture

Vhf Radios Pros & Cons

VHF radios operate at very high frequencies, particularly those between 150 and 170 megahertz (MHz). They are used in a variety of applications, including FM, airline and amateur radio broadcasting, but are perhaps most well known for their marine applications. All large watercraft, and a vast majority of smaller vessels, are equipped with marine VHF radios, which can be used for relaying weather information and coordinates, as well as for making (and receiving) distress calls.

Obstructions

One of the main benefits of using VHF radios is that their high-frequency waves are capable of traveling, with relative ease, through obstructions. According to dfa-inc.com, they are able to pass through buildings and trees, and can also adapt to the earth's terrain, by dipping into small depressions or arching over hills.

Range

According to codan.com.au, VHF radios cannot transmit/receive at a distance greater than 3,000 km, which is approximately 1,864 miles (most VHF radios have shorter ranges, but 3,000 km is the max). For this reason, VHF radios can only be used for local transmissions, such as within a specific coastal/ocean area for boats, or a specific broadcasting area for radio stations. However, according to dfa-inc.com, VHF radios can be used over long distances if there is a series of relay towers or repeaters present, which can help carry signals along.

Noise

Another problem with VHF radios is that they are very susceptible to interference or "noise," which in this application refers to radiant energy. This energy can interfere with and even block VHF signals. According to fcc.gov, the most common causes of VHF noise are industrial equipment, power lines and home appliances, such as microwaves, vacuum cleaners and dimmers.

Transmission Power

One of the upsides to using VHF radios is that they require very little amounts of energy when it comes to operating them. According to dfa-inc.com, the vast majority of VHF radios require only between 2 and 5 watts of power.

Low Baud Rate

Baud rate refers to the number of symbols, or amount of data, that can be transferred per second by a system. According to dfa-inc.com, because VHF radios operate on a narrow bandwidth, or range of frequencies, they have low baud rates. This means that they are slower at sending and receiving information in comparison to other systems, such as UHF, or ultra high frequency radios.

Tags: According dfa-inc, radios that, that they, radios operate, radios that they

Tips On Using Canon Fs11 Camcorder

The Canon FS11 is a small, combination hard drive/flash memory standard definition camcorder. The internal hard drive is 16GB, and can record three hours, 40 minutes at the highest quality and over 10 hours at low quality. Recording space can be added by using an SD memory card; with a 32GB SD card, the FS11 offers over 10 hours of recording time at its best setting.

Select the Video Quality

Select one of the the FS11's three video quality modes: LP, SP or XP. LP records at three kilobits per second (Kbps), SP at 6 Kbps, and XP at 9 Kbps. Select XP to get the best recording quality and LP to get the most recording time. SP is a good compromise for most people. To select the mode, press the "Function" button; then use the jog dial to select the setting from the menu; then press "Function" again to save the setting. The camcorder will remember the last setting, even when it is shut off.

Scene Modes

Use the scene modes to enhance video quality in certain shooting situations. The camcorder has optimized modes for portraits, sports, night shooting, snow, beach, sunset, fireworks, and spotlight. Access these modes by pressing "Function," then using the jog dial to select "Program AE," then "Portrait." Press "Set" to display the different scene modes and use the jog dial to choose the preferred setting, then press "Function" to save that setting.

Use Digital Effects

Use the FS11's digital effects to add polish to your recording. The FS 11 has the ability to record with fade in and fade out; to record in black and white or sepia; and to record in an mosiac or art mode. Press the "Function" button, scroll to "Digital Effect Off," then use the dial to select from the different modes. After selecting a digital effect mode, press "Function" again to save it. When using the faders, press the "Record-pause" button to activate the fade in, then press the "Start/stop" button to record with a fade in. Pressing "Start/stop" again will stop the recording with a fade out.

Tags: press Function, dial select, then press, with fade, again save, Function again

Wire A Satellite Radio To A 2003 Gm Factory Radio

Satellite radio is a common option on many factory-installed car radios. But if you didn't get satellite radio with your 2003 GM vehicle, you're not out of luck. Aftermarket tuners specifically designed to integrate with factory-installed radios are available. You'll need specific pieces of gear to wire a satellite radio to your 2003 GM factory radio; but when you're done, you'll have a fully-integrated satellite radio that will be controlled by the GM radio.

Instructions

1. Remove the factory radio from the dash of your car so that you can access the wiring connections in the rear. While the exact tools you'll need to remove the radio vary from vehicle to vehicle, you can usually do the job with a panel tool, screwdrivers and a socket set.

2. Look for a rectangular multi-pin input jack on the back of your factory radio that is not being used. Plug one of the two adapter cables supplied with the Peripheral Electronics GM-11 into the jack on the back -- the exact cable depends on your vehicle.

3. Plug the other end of the cable into the input jack of the GM-11.

4. Connect the adapter cable of the SiriusConnect SC-1 into the input jack of the GM-11. The cables and jacks are specific so you don't need to worry about plugging the cable into the incorrect jack.

5. Plug the other end of the SiriusConnect SC-1 cable into the jack for the SC-1.

Tags: cable into, factory radio, input jack, satellite radio, factory-installed radios

Leica M2 Specs

Leica issued the M2, the second of its M series of rangefinder cameras, in 1957 and continued manufacturing the camera until 1968. Although designed as a less expensive version of the M3, the first of the Leica M rangefinders, it was still intended for use by professional photographers. Leica continues to manufacture the M series.

Shutter Speed

The shutter speed of an M2 ranges from 1 second to 1/1000th of a second. It also has a bulb setting to allow the user to keep the shutter open for long exposures. A lightning bolt on the shutter speed dial is at 1/50th of a second, which marks the fastest speed at which an electronic flash will properly synchronize with the camera shutter.

Rangefinder

A rangefinder is in the center of a camera's viewfinder and is the spot that photographers watch when focusing an image. M2 rangefinders have a framelines for 35 mm, 50 mm and 90 mm lenses and have a magnification of 0.72x. This is a lower magnification than the previously released M3, which results in reduced focusing precision for lenses other than 35mm.

Flash

The M2 has a cold shoe, located on the top of the camera and designed to hold a flash or other accessories, such as a light meter or a magnifier. A flash that sits on the M2 cold shoe connects to the camera via the synchronized cable connector at the back of the camera.

Light Meter

The Leica M2 does not have a built-in light meter. Photographers wanting to use a light meter with the M2 to help determine accurate exposure settings must use a hand-held meter or a meter that attaches to the camera's cold shoe.

Film

The M2 accepts 135 mm film, also called 35mm film. The camera works with film speeds up to ISO 1300.

Dimensions and Weight

The M2 is approximately 5.5 inches long, 3 inches tall and 1.5 inches wide. It weighs approximately 1.25 lbs.

Camera Covering

The majority of M2 camera bodies are chrome, although a select few were also painted black, making the black M2 one of the rarest of the entire Leica M series. The M2 is wrapped in a material Leica calls vulcanite, which is black, textured vulcanized rubber. Over time, the vulcanite can disintegrate and fall off of the camera. When this occurs, the remaining vulcanite is typically scraped off the camera and a new vinyl or leather covering is applied because vulcanite cannot be replaced.

Tags: cold shoe, light meter, shutter speed

Record Local Stations Without Vcr Tapes

If you don't have cable TV and your VCR is no longer working, it may seem like you can no longer record your local TV stations. A DVD recorder or digital video recorder (DVR) can record any video signal, even your local stations from over an antenna. However, most DVD recorders or DVRs have been designed to record cable or satellite TV without the need of a tuner themselves. You might be able to find a DVR or DVD recorder with a tuner that you can use, but if you can't, the tuner of a digital converter can solve your problem.

Instructions

1. Acquire a DVD recorder or DVR that has both a digital tuner and an RF coaxial input port (used for the thick, black cable with the twist-screw connectors). Connect this recorder's input directly to your antenna.

2. Get a digital converter box if your recorder has neither of the above, especially the tuner, and connect it to the antenna using coaxial cable. The digital tuner with the converter will help you tune into channels. You will need this anyway if you have an analog antenna.

3. Attach the converter box to the DVD recorder or DVR. You can use a coaxial cable if the recorder has a coaxial input port, but your most likely option is to use RCA coaxial cables (the ones with the yellow, white and red plugs).

4. Connect the recorder's output to a TV set. Here you can have multiple connection options depending on what available inputs the TV has. The most affordable way is with component video cables (red, green and blue RCA plugs) with RCA audio cables (white and red plugs only). Otherwise, you'll need to make a composite or coaxial connection.

5. Turn on the TV and use the tuner on the recorder or converter to change channels, making sure you get all your local stations and the reception is good. Follow your DVR's instructions for recording your TV broadcast, or use recordable DVDs and and your DVD recorder's directions for recording onto the discs.

Tags: your local, your local stations, coaxial cable, coaxial input, coaxial input port, digital converter

Improve The Battery Life Of An Ipod Shuffle

You can improve the battery life of an iPod Shuffle by using iTunes effectively, limiting the extras you put in your music and by taking care of the portable music player. Simple maintenance and usage habits will help improve the overall battery life as well as extend the play time you get between charges of the iPod Shuffle's rechargeable battery. Follow these steps to improve the battery life of an iPod Shuffle.

Instructions

1. Use iTunes to create good playlists. Keep track of your current favorite songs and assemble them together on a small number of lists to limit the amount of fast forwarding and skipping you do. This helps extend the amount of play time that you get from your iPod Shuffle.

2. Allow the iPod Shuffle to fully charge and you will improve the battery life. Lithium ion batteries are rechargeable, to a point. After about 400 charge cycles, the battery may have trouble storing as much charge. Partial charge cycles put the battery one step closer to needing replacement.

3. Avoid putting equalizer settings on the songs you have in iTunes and then load into the iPod Shuffle. Equalizer settings make the iPod Shuffle's processor do more work. This shortens the amount of play time available before the next recharge.

4. Use the iPod Shuffle frequently. Active use of the portable music player is actually good for the battery life. When you let the player sit for long periods of time, the rechargeable battery may lose some of its ability to hold a charge.

5. Apply compression software to songs you plan on loading into the iPod Shuffle. Smaller file sizes equal less battery usage and that means more play time between charge cycles.

Tags: iPod Shuffle, battery life, play time, charge cycles, amount play, amount play time, battery life iPod

Charge A Nikon D40 Camera

Don't miss a fantastic shot because of a dead battery.

There's nothing worse than reaching your location only to find that the battery has run out on your digital camera. Charging the D40's battery may sound obvious and simple, but if you're new to it or have never used this model, you want to make sure you're doing it right.

Instructions

1. Press the switch on the battery slot on the bottom of the camera and pull it gently toward the back of the camera. Remove the battery.

2. Hold the battery so that the arrow on top faces away from you. Slide the battery into the charger. Push it up until it covers the metal pins.

3. Plug the charger lead into the back of the charger. Plug the charger into a wall socket. If the battery needs charging, a red light will appear on the charger. Leave the battery alone until this light turns green (approximately 30 to 60 minutes).

4. Remove the battery from the charger. Open the Nikon D40 battery slot on the camera. Insert the charged battery with the arrow facing toward the camera.

Tags: battery slot, Plug charger, Remove battery

Stretch The Picture On A Widescreen Tv

You are watching the big game on your new widescreen TV and are just getting tired of those annoying vertical black lines on the side of the viewing area. After all, you paid good money for the widescreen and should not have to put up with it any more. Don't fret; here are a couple of solutions that may help you out if you want to stretch the picture on a widescreen TV.

Instructions

1. Set the ratio on your input source, if available, to match that of your TV. In order to fully enjoy the viewing of a widescreen TV, many video sources (DVD player/recorders, game consoles, satellite and cable boxes, DVRs, video iPods and computers) can be set to a ratio that matches your TV. Go to the main menu for your video source and access the settings screen. Make sure that your device is set at a ratio that matches your TV. In the case of the widescreen, it should be set to a ratio of 16:9.

2. Use the zoom control on your TV, DVD player or cable/satellite receiver. The good thing is the screen will be full. The bad thing is that you will lose parts of the top and bottom of the picture in order to fill the width of the screen, and the picture quality can drop.

3. Set the widescreen TV to Stretch or Full mode to make the picture fill the screen. From the TV's main menu, access the screen features (this will be different for all models). The problem with this can be that when viewing programs that are set at a ratio of 4:3, the programs set at this mode will stretch the picture horizontally and everything will look squat and wider than normal.

4. Set the viewing ratio to Panorama or Theater Wide view from the main menu of your widescreen TV. This feature works better on some brands than others, stretching the outer edges of the picture only and leaving most of the picture in normal view. This however may become more annoying at times, such as when watching the nightly news in panoramic view.

Tags: main menu, main menu your, matches your, menu your, ratio that, ratio that matches, that matches