Find Metropcs Coverage Areas

Communicating with others is necessary in today's busy society. Coordinating schedules with others and so that you are accessible when family needs you are both important reasons to have a connection upon demand. If you choose to use MetroPCS as your cellular phone provider, make sure their coverage areas meet your family's needs.

Instructions

1. Visit MetroPCS's website (see Resources below). Click the, "Check your coverage" link to the left.

2. Examine the cities for which MetroPCS currently has coverage. If you do not see your city listed, check back often, as MetroPCS expands rapidly. Selected major coverage areas include Southern California (Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Orange County and San Fernando), Northern California (Yuba City, Modesto, Salinas, Napa, Redding, San Francisco, Sacramento and Santa Cruz), South Florida (Fort Lauderdale, Fort Myers, Miami, Naples, The Keys, West Palm Beach), Central Florida (Clearwater, Lakeland, Sarasota, Saint Petersburg, Tampa, Orlando and Daytona Beach), Georgia (Athens and Atlanta), Michigan (Detroit, Taylor and Southfield) and Texas (Dallas, Fort Worth, McKinney and Sherman).

3. Call MetroPCS to check coverage. The toll-free phone number is (888) 863-8768. If MetroPCS does not currently offer coverage in your area, feel free to point out the benefits of your metropolitan area as a good location for future expansion.

Tags: coverage areas, coverage your, family needs, with others

Negative Become A Photograph

The Process

In chemical photography, a negative refers to the visible developed image on a strip of film or that piece of film itself after it has been developed. When a photograph is taken in a film-based camera, light enters the chamber containing the film. The chemicals on the film react to the light. Depending on the nature of the film, various chemicals are used; all of these chemicals can be described as reagents. The more light the reagent encounters, the more strongly it will react.

During film development, these activated reagents adhere to the film while the rest are washed away. Consequently, the brighter a given section of a photograph, the more reagent will remain after development.

This results in the negative. Because the reagent is opaque after it is activated by light, development produces a "negative" version of whatever was photographed--the brightest areas will appear darkest and vice versa.

Making a Photo Print

As part of creating a finished photograph from a chemical negative, light passes through the negative onto a piece of photoreactive paper. As the light passes through the negative, it is obscured by the darkest areas and passes unobstructed through the brightest. Because the light is shining through a negative version of the desired photograph, this means that more light hits the areas of the paper corresponding to dark areas and less in areas that are meant to be bright.

Processing the Print

On the paper essentially the same reaction--though the chemistry is different the principle is the same--occurs as in the film itself: The more light the paper receives, the more the chemical treatment will react. This results in a latent image. As with film, the image will not be visible until the paper is processed. A final chemical bath will reveal the print of the photograph.

Tags: more light, through negative, film itself, light passes, light passes through, negative version

Heil Hc5 Specifications

Microphones are composed of three basic parts: the housing, internal wiring and a capsule that houses the microphone element. The function of a microphone element is to accentuate the audio response of a microphone which allows transmitted signal to be heard even under poor radio conditions. It eliminates distortion and adds a punch to the signal, making the sound clearer. The frequency range for microphone elements is between 300 to 3,000 hertz as regulated by federal broadband rules. Broadcast microphones, such as used for singing and public speaking, contain elements with the widest frequency range. The elements in amateur radio microphones are limited to normal speech range. The Heil HC-5 is the second of two microphone elements designed in1983 by Heil Sound, Ltd.

Dimensions

The element dimensions are .530 by .850 by .310 inches. Copper wire is wound around voice coils in the construction of this dynamic element. A labyrinth made of tubing 1 ½ inch long and 3/32 inch in diameter tunes the diaphragms to each peak. The sensitivity of the Heil HC 5 is -68dB. The impedance factor is 1,000 ohm at 1kHz. The element is designed for one to two inches of speaking distance into the microphone.

Hearing Loss Curve

The Fletcher Munson curve was discovered by Bell Labs in the 1930s. This discovery proved that the human ear has hearing loss at 2,000 Hz and depends on the volume level of the signal to pick up sound. Based on this information, Heil Sound, Ltd. designed the HC5 microphone element which equalizes the hearing loss reported in the Fletcher Munson curve.

History

Bob Heil founded Heil Sound, Ltd. in 1966. Mr. Heil was known as the pioneer of the live sound and recording industry. Some of his clients included major acts of the 1960s and 1970s such as the Grateful Dead, Peter Frampton and the Who. In 2007 he became the first and only manufacturer invited to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. He was given this honor so that he could display his famous Heil Talk Box, a quadraphonic mixer that was the first modular console invented.

Tags: Heil Sound, microphone element, Fletcher Munson, Fletcher Munson curve, frequency range, hearing loss, microphone elements

Take Photos Of Landscapes With A 100 F2 0 Canon Lens

Landscape photos are easy to ruin if you take them improperly.

Shooting a landscape photo correctly is the difference between a ho-hum image and an eye-catching work of art. Using a Canon DSLR and the Canon EF 100mm f/2 USM telephoto lens, you can take very good landscape photos. Whether you are in the middle of a city, on a Pacific island beach or hiking in the Rockies, there are several tricks to take best advantage of this photographic equipment for landscape shots.

Instructions

1. Use the Rule of Thirds to take compositionally-sound photographs.

Divide the landscape into thirds using the camera viewfinder. Photographers often use the Rule of Thirds to take landscape photographs. This artistic principle dictates that the photo composition should be broken into three nearly equal parts. A wilderness photographer might dedicate roughly one third of a photo to a lake in the foreground, another third to a mountain and the last third to the sky. If shooting a beach sunset, he would divide the photo evenly between the sand, ocean and sky.

2. Aperture controls the size of the lens opening.

Adjust the aperture settings on the lens. On most Canon DSLRs, you must hold down the "Av" button, and turn the dial on top of the camera. The Canon EF 100mm f/2 USM telephoto lens is capable of shooting very low apertures, but you need to increase the aperture for this shot. This is necessary because landscapes have a large depth of field. An aperture between f/8 and f/11 works best in most situations.

3. Turn the ring on the front of the lens to focus.

Turn the dial to the left to decrease the shutter speed. Do this until the light meter indicates a correct exposure. Focus the 100mm lens by turning the ring on front of the lens to the left or right. If the camera is set to auto-focus, you do not need to worry about this step. Manual focus gives you more control over the shot, but takes more time.

4. Hold the camera steady, and press down the shutter to capture the landscape. Take some additional photos in case the first did not come out well. Move around to explore different shot angles. Take a few shots at different shutter speeds as it is possible the light meter did not give you a good exposure the first time.

Tags: 100mm telephoto, 100mm telephoto lens, Canon 100mm, Canon 100mm telephoto, front lens, light meter

Make A Home Projector

Any type of projector, whether it projects still or video images, works by shining light and the image through lenses to project and focus the image. If you know the basic principles of refracting light, you can build a still-frame or video projector at home. Once you know the images you want to project, you'll need a light source, lenses to focus the light and a projection frame to contain everything and project the image in a fixed direction. The types of lenses and light source you need depend on whether you are making a still-image or video projector.

Instructions

1. Choose a source of light for the projector. If you are making a video projector, you also need a video source like a TV set with a video player. In this case, the TV set provides the light source for you. A flashlight works for a slide projector, while a light bulb fixture (taken from a lamp) can be used for larger still images like transparencies.

2. Get lenses that will focus the light for the projector's images (see Resources). They should be close to the size of your light source. For a still-image projector, you need a glass convex and a concave lens, like the ones used in magnifying glasses and telescopes. A fresnel lens, which is used in stage lighting, will work for a video projector.

3. Cut out a set of frames from cardboard or wood to hold the lens(es). For a video projector, make the frames the same size as your video screen. For a still projector, make them as big as your lenses and light source. Cut holes in the frames and fit the lenses inside them. If using a flashlight, make another frame and fit the flashlight in it with its lens removed.

4. Construct a box-like frame to contain the light source and lenses. It should be as high and wide as your lens frames and about 45 cm long. The frame is made of four pieces with the two ends that are the size of the lens frames left open. Make the top piece removable.

5. Connect one end of the box frame to your light source. Tape it onto the TV screen, glue the frame with the flashlight to it or place the light bulb near the end and close the end up with another wood/cardboard piece (leave a small hole for its power cord).

6. Insert the lenses into the box frame. With glass lenses, the convex lens (which curves inward) is placed closest to the light source,and the concave (curves outward) goes near the box's open end. If using a fresnel lens with a monitor, you can use just one, but you must turn the monitor upside down.

7. Cut a hole in the top of the box frame if you are making a still projector. This is to insert the still pictures (like slides) into the projector The hole must have the light source on one side and all lenses on the other.

8. Activate the light source (plug in the light bulb or turn on the TV/flashlight) and provide the image (turn on the video player or insert a slide) to start the projector. Reach in and adjust the position of the lenses to focus the image that projects on the wall (opening the top of the box helps).

Tags: light source, video projector, light bulb, focus image, focus light, frame contain

Learn Lcd And Plasma Tvs

Buying a new LCD or Plasma TV for the first time can be somewhat unnerving. The technology is different than you've experienced before and there is probably a lot you don't know about these TV sets. Luckily, there is a plethora of information at your disposal to help you both learn about these TVs and make the right decision when purchasing your set.

Instructions

1. Begin by determining the size of LCD or Plasma TV you want to purchase. The reason you should do this first is that the picture on a larger TV set will obviously be different than what is found on a smaller TV, whether the picture is standard or HD. The information you learn about a 42-inch TV will be different than what you could learn about a 26-inch set made by the same manufacturer.

2. Read Circuit City's guides to how Plasma and LCD TVs work. Circuit City has put together two web pages with basic information about both Plasma and LCD TVs. These guides are recommended because they give you a short rundown on how these sets work without getting too “techy” in description. For those of us who aren't engineers, this is a breath of fresh air. You can read these two pages and get just the information you want without getting a headache from confusion.

3. Go over the Consumer Reports articles about both LCD and Plasma TVs brought to you by Circuit City. These articles begin by giving a basic overview about what makes both kinds of sets good buys for you. They then mention the type of sets you can purchase, what types of features each set offers and things you'll need to consider before choosing which type of set you'll purchase. These are must-read articles for anybody buying their first Plasma or LCD TV set.

4. Read reviews of different Plasma and LCD TVs. Consumer Search offers an easy and reliable way for you to compare different Plasma TVs. There are short paragraphs comparing the best Plasma TVs, reviews from both “experts” and consumers such as yourself as well as information on where you can buy these TVs. For reviews on LCD TVs, head over to the LCD TV Buying Guide. This website has reviews on every type of LCD TV you could want, including every size and every brand you could think of. If there's an LCD TV, there's a review for it at the LCD TV Buying Guide.

5. Go to your local store, talk to a salesperson and inspect these TV sets yourself. You can read about pixels and resolutions until you're blue in the face. The fact is that you can only appreciate the picture a TV set has by seeing it in person. Go to an electronics store and see for yourself what you like and dislike. Speak to a salesperson about what type of TV he or she has. That person gets a discount on sets, so it's unlikely that he or she will own a sub-par TV.

Tags: Circuit City, different than, learn about, these sets, about both

50th Birthday Gift Ideas For A Techie

Tech-oriented gifts come in various shapes, sizes and price ranges.

Buying a birthday present for someone, especially a big event such as turning 50 years old, can be challenging. if you are shopping for a techie, one who enjoys and revels in all things related to technology, you have available options ranging from elaborate to silly. Choosing the right gift is based on your relationship with the person, your budget and the type of personality the birthday person has.

Low Tech

To give the gift of low tech to a techie is best done by using humor and invoking a sense of the past. This type of gift works best for the person who seemingly has everything available and is hard to shop for. Gift ideas include an original bag phone -- the precursor to today's smart phones and CRT televisions. These items are available used, through secondhand sources such as vintage stores, antique dealers and flea markets. Add a funny card about the birthday person's penchant for "antique" tech to round out the gift.

Modern Versions of Past Technology

Another way to celebrate a 50th birthday is by buying an updated version of an older-tech item. For example, if the person is a music lover, a digital turntable that resembles a record player yet plays MP3 recordings is a way to pay tribute to the past. Additional techie versions of items with historic appeal include metal detectors with LCD monitors in place of bar gauges, and barbeque tools with digital readouts and computer-embedded memory for recipe selection.

Movies and Music of the Past

Yet another 50th-birthday idea for a techie is to load an external hard drive with movies and music of the previous 50 years. Choose hit songs and blockbuster or influential movies to include in the collection. An external hard drive allows the techie to play the movies and music on an assortment of devices.

Gift Cards or Certificates

True techies have an assortment of gadgets and gizmos just laying in wait for more apps, games and programs to be loaded. One way to ensure the birthday honoree gets exactly what he wants it to give a gift card. An MP3-user might appreciate a gift card from a digital music store, a gamer might enjoy credits for live gaming action and an ebook or netbook reader might enjoy a gift card from an online bookstore.

Tags: gift card, birthday person, card from, external hard, external hard drive

Install A Toggle Switch For An Amp

A toggle switch allows musicians to produce varied sound from their amplifiers. Installing a single-throw toggle switch only requires a few simple steps.

Instructions

1. Remove the input jack from the face of the amplifier. Find the cables that run to the input jack from the power amp. Cut them at the place where you would like the toggle switch.

2. Attach the cables from the input jack to the middle conductor on the back end of the toggle switch. This configuration allows the toggle switch to behave in an on/off fashion. To attach the cables, twist them together then cover the exposed wire with electrical tape. This reduces the possibility of contaminates getting into your signal chain.

3. Take the cable still attached to the power amp and attach it to the opposite middle conductor on the toggle switch.

4. Re-attach the input jack to the face of the amp and plug in an instrument. If you hear sound, job well done. If not, check each cable connection. Failing that, use the volt meter on each cable to see if one has shorted out or is in the wrong position.

Tags: input jack, toggle switch, each cable, input jack from, jack from, middle conductor, toggle switch

Make A Collect Call From Spain To The United States

Traveling in a foreign country can make the everyday activities that you perform at home a challenge. For instance, making a collect call from Spain to the Unites States is not as easy as simply calling the operator.

Instructions

1. Call your local telephone companies, before you head off to Spain, and ask them if they have international access numbers for making collect calls. While not all providers will have them, many will be able to give you a toll-free number which will connect you to a U.S. operator who can assist you in making your call.

2. Prepare in advance to call U.S. cell phones collect, as most cell phone providers do not allow for collect calls. Others, however, will allow the client to unblock the collect call option, but you need a special access phone number for calling from Spain.

3. Dial to reach an international operator from inside of Spain by dialing 1-005 and then wait for the prompt and push the number which corresponds to "cobro revertido," or collect call. You will be asked to enter the country code for the U.S., which is 001, plus the area code and telephone number. An operator will come on the line to help you with your call, and you can ask how much the call will cost. Often operators speak accented English.

4. Speak directly with an English speaking operator to assist you with your collect call from Spain by dialing (900) 99-0011. This is an international toll free number which will connect you to AT&T in the United States. Simply follow the prompts to make your call or talk to a U.S. operator.

Tags: collect call, from Spain, number which, your call, call from

Amplify A Car Radio Antenna

Amplifying a car radio antenna is accomplished by connecting an in-line amplifier into the transmission line of the antenna, before the signal is fed to the car radio. These devices are equipped with inputs and outputs so that can be incorporated into the transmission line without splicing. They also feature power and ground wires so they can tap into the car's 12-volt electrical system.

Instructions

1. Unplug the antenna cable from the back of the radio. The antenna cable is the black cable with a silver-colored metal plug on the end.

2. Plug the male end of the cable attached to the antenna amplifier into the car radio's antenna jack. This is the jack you removed the antenna plug from in Step 1.

3. Plug the antenna cable you unhooked in Step 1 into the female connector on the antenna cable attached to the antenna amplifier.

4. Route the antenna amplifier's red power cable to the fuse box of the car. Insert the end of the antenna amplifier's power cable into an unused fuse slot.

5. Route the antenna amplifier's black ground cable to a metal screw or bolt attached to the body of the vehicle. Loosen the screw or nut and slide the ground cable underneath. Tighten the screw or nut to hold the end of the wire.

6. Slide the power switch of the amplifier to ON when using the amplifier.

Tags: antenna amplifier, antenna cable, amplifier into, amplifier power, amplifier power cable, antenna amplifier power, attached antenna

Use A Pager For Audio Surveillance

Pagers can be intercepted with a warrant and specialized technology.

Whenever pagers are important devices for communication, they are also important law enforcement tools for surveillance. Criminal organizations often use pagers to send short, coded messages containing information regarding plans and organizational structure. The ability to intercept pager messages is crucial, and to do so requires the use of specialized technology.

Instructions

1. Purchase a pager intercept system. A pager intercept system allows law enforcement agents to intercept messages sent to or from an individual pager once the phone number associated with the pager has been identified.

2. Obtain a wiretap warrant from a judge under whose jurisdiction your law enforcement agency operates. With the exception of cases of national security, judicial warrants are needed to execute any kind of wiretap, including pager interception. You must have opened an investigation and have grounds for investigating certain people before you can obtain a wiretap to legally intercept pages from those people.

3. Acquire the phone number assigned to the pager(s) you are interested in. If you have information on the person you are investigating -- home phone number, person's nickname -- you may run a search for pager messages containing that information. Interception systems have a variety of techniques for finding a pager's phone number and CAP code, or Channel Access Protocol, the pager's unique electronic three-digit code.

4. Leave the interception machine running for a period of time. If you do not know important dates and times when the pager may be in use, simply leave the machine running for several days or weeks. If you do know when the person or people under investigation use pagers for business, just run the interception program during those times. As a general rule, it is best to collect as much information as possible when conducting a wiretap.

5. Save intercepted communications as text files on a regular basis. Most modern interception systems save intercepted data as electronic documents; thus, they can be copied onto a word processor, retrieved and searched at a later date. In addition to providing you with an organized system for data retrieval, this will also provide you with data should the interception system encounter technical difficulties.

Tags: phone number, intercept system, machine running, messages containing, pager intercept, pager intercept system

Use A Nikon Sb800 Flash Unit For A Camera

Use a Nikon SB800 Flash Unit for a Camera

If you own a Nikon digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) camera, an external flash unit helps enhance your photographs. External flash units like the Nikon SB-800 provide you with more control over the output and angle of light. According to Nikon, the company can only guarantee the performance of this flash unit when you use it with a Nikon camera, and you could damage your SB-800 flash unit by trying to use it with another camera.

Instructions

Instructions

1. Prepare the flash unit. Using one of the types of batteries specified in your SB-800 flash unit user's manual, insert batteries into the battery chamber of the flash by following the guide marks on the unit. Replace the lid to the battery chamber. While the flash unit remains unattached to the camera, turn on the flash unit and test the flash and ensure that it fires. Turn the flash unit off, and do not turn on your camera yet.

2. Attach the flash unit to your camera. On the flash unit, you should see a lever near the mounting foot. Rotate the lever to the left and slide the flash unit's mounting foot into your camera's hot shoe, also called an accessory shoe. You can find the hot shoe on the top of your camera. Once you have done this, turn the same mounting lever to the right to lock the flash unit onto your camera. Locate a release button on the side of the flash head. Once pressed and held, this button will let you rotate the flash head into a forward position facing toward the subject of your photograph.

3. Set the ISO sensitivity. For some cameras, this will happen automatically. For others, you may need to change the ISO sensitivity using the Custom Settings mode on your flash unit. ISO sensitivity simply indicates the sensitivity to light of the image sensor. The GREATer the number, the more sensitivity to light. Once you set the ISO sensitivity, adjust the zoom-head position or verify that it adjusted automatically. Adjusting this feature allows you to concentrate the flash light or spread it out.

4. Set the exposure mode and metering system for your camera. Nikon recommends setting the exposure mode to "Programmed Auto" and the metering system to "Matrix Metering" if possible. Then, set the flash mode on your SB-800 flash unit and set the camera's flash sync mode to "Front-curtain sync" for normal flash photography. At this point, you can now compose your photograph and shoot.

Tags: flash unit, your camera, SB-800 flash, SB-800 flash unit, your SB-800, your SB-800 flash

Use The Sharper Image Mini Portable Camcorder

Use the Sharper Image Mini Portable Camcorder

Sharper Image's mini portable camcorder records onto a built-in memory slot, which then allows you to upload the contents from your camera onto a computer system. The camcorder is standard definition. It fits in the palm of your hand.

Instructions

1. Press the "Power" button on the top of the device to turn on the camera.

2. Slide an SD card into the SD card slot, located on the side of the video camera. This is the memory device to which your camera records all the video footage.

3. Push "Record" to start the video recording. Press the same button again at any time to stop the recording.

4. Push down on the right side of the "Zoom" button to zoom into the object. Press the opposite side to zoom out. Note that there is no optical zoom, so the image is going to become pixelated when you use the zoom.

5. Plug the USB data cable into the USB port on the Sharper Image video camcorder, then inset the other end into a USB port on the computer. Set the camera to "View" mode and the computer detects the connected equipment. Click "Start," "Computer," then double-click the camera icon. A window loads onto the screen with all the saved video files. Click and drag the video files into the computer to copy the contents to the system.

Tags: Sharper Image, Image Mini Portable, into port, Portable Camcorder, Sharper Image Mini

What Are The Different Types Of Blends Used For Rigid Contact Lenses

Rigid contact lenses have many blends including color.

Rigid contact lenses replaced the hard, uncomfortable lens of the past. The new lens, known as rigid gas permeable, is made of plastic that is firmer than soft lenses. Rigid lenses produce a sharper vision and deliver oxygen to the cornea. People who have astigmatism and irregularities of the cornea find the rigid lens more suitable than soft lenses. Blends used in rigid contact lenses provide crisper vision and better aesthetics.

Corneal-Scleral Orthokeratology

The corneal-scleral orthokeratology lens is a rigid gas permeable that addresses the corneal curvature. The asymmetric blends are shorter toward the center and broadens towards the edges of the lens. It makes the lens fit to the cornea increasing the vision possibilities and correcting the curvature. A computer system can custom design a lens by measuring the sagittal height of the eye, a line measuring front to back.

Color Blends

Color blend lens attempt to mimic the natural eye color by blending various colors. The iris is usually a blend of more than one color, often in shades. Blending produces a more natural color. It is also used to enhance the eye's existing color. In some cases, multiple colors are blended together to make fanciful lenses that are used in movies. The rigid lens adapts well to the color and allows more patients to experience eye color change.

How can you tell if someone is wearing colored lenses-look at them from the side? You can often see the natural color of the iris from the side view. Color blend lenses are clear where the iris lies. One disadvantage to colored lenses is they slip when a person blinks causing the colored part to slide in front of the iris. A precaution for colored lens wearers it not to share lenses because it can cause infection and damage to the eye.

Bifocal

Bifocal or progressive lenses are a blend of two prescriptions without a visual line to distinguish them apart. People who suffer from presbyopia have difficulty seeing things close up such as a newspaper. Opting for contact lenses can eliminate the need for glasses. Bifocal or multifocal rigid lenses blend vision in two ways. The most common blend is the alternating vision where the pupil views through the two lenses with different prescriptions. An up or down view allows for close up vision and distance. The simultaneous lens blends the near and distance prescriptions that are viewed at the same time. Determining the proper lens view is not difficult for the eye to perform.

Tags: contact lenses, natural color, Color blend, from side, lenses blend, Rigid contact

Check My Text Messages If My Phone Is Broken

Text messaging is the way many people communicate. It seems easier to send a text message because it gets delivered instantly and the recipient can respond almost simultaneously. It can be a distressing experience when your phone is broken and you have no way of checking the text messages that are being delivered. There is a way to check your text messages if your phone is broken, however. The process may require your time, but getting your messages from your friends, family, and colleagues will be the reward.

Instructions

1. Remove your SIM card from the back of your cell phone. The SIM card holds the phone's information, such as phone numbers, photos and any saved messages.

2. Contact your cell phone's provider. Your cell phone provider can use you SIM card to access certain information. Cell phone providers keep text messages for a short period of time. Slate.com states that AT&T keeps sent text messages for 48 hours, while Sprint keeps text messages for two weeks. Your cell phone provider can use your SIM card to access your recent text messages. However, you may need a court order to get access to your text messages.

3. Log on to your cell phone provider's text-messaging website to access text messages. For example, Verizon Wireless states that users who log on to their text messaging website to send and receive text messages can view or print content and replies for 120 hours after the original message has been sent.

4. Place your SIM card in another phone and read your recent messages. Your SIM card is connected to your cell phone number so when you place the card in another phone you can access your text messages. You can use a friend's or family member's phone to access your messages until you get a new phone. Make sure that the other phone is compatible with your carrier. For example, if you had an AT&T phone you have to use an AT&T phone to access your messages.

5. Purchase a device that connects to your SIM card and computer, and recovers text messages. There are several devices available, such as Cell Phone Spy, SIMCon, and Pro Data Doctor. These products can be purchased online. Before purchasing any of these devices, make sure that it is compatible with your device and carrier.

Tags: text messages, access your, cell phone, cell phone provider, phone provider, phone access, phone access your

Use A Nikon Flash

Any amateur or professional photographer can lose a beautifully composed photograph to poor lighting conditions. Back lighting or too much or too little light will turn an otherwise picture perfect pose into a piece headed for the recycle bin. Fortunately, Nikon offers a wide range of flashes--from popups on the camera to remote controlled lights--that can help photographers of all levels create the perfect lighting conditions. The technology is advanced enough to function on its own for beginners or let the experts create unique custom settings.

Instructions

use a Nikon flash

1. Decide what type of flash is right for you. Nikon's digital compact and SLR cameras are designed with a flash, but these flashes are limited in scope. They may perform well for amateurs or for shooting subjects at close range, but for shooting objects more than 15 feet away a speed light is likely the best choice. Two of the most popular choices are the SB-600 and SB-900, according to Landon Farrow with Wolf Camera. These flashes are compact and versatile, and they cost $100 to $600, depending on the type.

2. Mount the speed light onto the camera. Nikon speed lights are designed to make this an easy process. Most flashes simply slide into place on the top of the camera, where contact points connect the speed light with camera. After the flash is in place, Farrow recommends turning on the camera before turning on the flash.

3. Orient the flash to send light in the right direction. The flash can point straight ahead, or it can face the ceiling to reflect the light and create a different look. Some flashes come with a diffuser, which slides over the flash to soften the light. Diffusers may also be purchased separately or created by individual photographers for a custom look. Photographers may also station remote flashes at various locations and set them off simultaneously for a different look.

4. Set the flash to provide the amount of light needed, or let the camera do the work. Nikon flashes utilize I-TTL technology to automatically set the flash. This occurs with a burst of light before the main flash is bounced off items in the frame. Information sent back through the camera adjusts the amount of flash needed for balanced lighting in the photograph., according to Nikon's Web site. I-TTL allows amateurs to use the best flash settings without making any manual changes, but professionals have the option of changing individual settings to create a unique lighting scenario.

5. Take the picture. The flash may need up to about 5 seconds to recharge and be ready for another shot.

Tags: speed light, create unique, different look, lighting conditions

Play A Mini Dvd

While most people think of standard DVDs as being the only size of DVD disc available, DVD discs actually come in different sizes. The most common non-standard DVD size is that of the mini DVD, a disc which is about half the size of a standard DVD disc, and which generally can hold around 15 minutes worth of video. Mini DVDs are most often used for promotional materials and home video recording, but they are of course used for other purposes as well. Though some people may think that they require specific equipment to play, they can actually be used with pretty much any device or computer capable of playing standard DVDs.

Instructions

1. If you have an auto-loading DVD player or other auto-loading device and it is designed specifically to play both DVDs and mini DVDs, you can simply insert the mini DVD directly into the player. The device will load it automatically without you needing to do anything else.

2. If the DVD player or device that you're wanting to play the mini DVD with has a loading tray, eject the tray and place the mini DVD in the middle of it. You will notice an indented area that the mini DVD will fit perfectly into. Close the tray and the DVD player or device will load the mini DVD automatically.

3. Should you have an auto-loading DVD player or other device which isn't set up to use mini DVDs, you can purchase a Mini DVD adapter (provided your Mini DVD recorder didn't come with one, if your mini DVDs come from a camera). The adapter is a DVD-shaped piece of plastic which your mini DVDs can snap into. This adapter will fill the space that would normally be taken up by a DVD, letting the player or device load it as normal.

Tags: player device, mini DVDs, auto-loading player, auto-loading player other, device will, device will load, disc which

Sirius Radio To A 2003 Pathfinder With Navigation

Install the SIRIUS receiver away from your 2003 Nissan Pathfinder's navigation system.

Installing SIRIUS Satellite Radio in your 2003 Nissan Pathfinder gives you and your passengers access to hundreds of uncensored, commercial-free music, sports and other entertainment channels. However, an external navigation system may limit installation space availability. The SIRIUS Satellite Radio car installation kit provides multiple location possibilities for your 2003 Nissan Pathfinder's plug-and-play receiver so that you may work around the navigation system. The kit contains everything you need to get started, including multiple receiver mounts to choose from.

Instructions

1. Choose a location for inside the 2003 Nissan Pathfinder that is suitable for your SIRIUS Satellite Radio plug-and-play receiver. You can install the receiver on a vent, the windshield or dashboard, so long as you can avoid the navigation system. Test out the various mounts before deciding on one. Your final mount location must be comfortably within the driver's arm's reach without impeding the driver's vision.

2. Install the SIRIUS Satellite Radio plug-and-play receiver mount to your desired location in the 2003 Nissan Pathfinder's cabin. Slip the vent mount onto a driver's side vent. Alternatively, you may attach the suction cup mount directly behind the 2003 Nissan Pathfinder's rear view mirror on the windshield near the driver's side window. Finally, you may use an alcohol pad from the car installation kit to wipe down a flat dashboard surface away from the navigation system. Peel the sticker from the base of the dashboard mount and press it down onto the clean surface. Allow the adhesive mount to dry untouched for at least 24 hours.

3. Use the Phillips-head screwdriver to fasten the docking cradle to the receiver mount if necessary. Otherwise, slip the docking cradle onto the mount.

4. Stick the magnetic or adhesive SIRIUS Satellite Radio antenna included in the car installation kit onto your 2003 Nissan Pathfinder's roof. There should be no racks or wires within a 3-inch radius of the antenna.

5. Open the 2003 Nissan Pathfinder's rear door. Run the antenna's wire down the weather stripping and into the passenger area. Run the wire under the carpet and up to the receiver mount, making sure to avoid the navigation system. Insert the antenna wire's TRS plug into the docking cradle's "Antenna" or "ANT" input port.

6. Connect the SIRIUS Satellite Radio plug-and-play receiver mount to power. Insert the power adapter included in the car installation kit into the 2003 Nissan Pathfinder's cigarette lighter. Insert the power adapter's TRS plug into the docking cradle's "PWR" or "DC" port.

7. Insert the SIRIUS Satellite plug-and-play receiver into the docking cradle to give the device power and a satellite signal. Turn the receiver on manually if it does not start automatically upon insertion.

8. Turn on the 2003 Nissan Pathfinder and tune its stock radio to the frequency displayed on the plug-and-play receiver. You will then be able to hear SIRIUS Satellite Radio through your 2003 Nissan Pathfinder's speakers.

9. Call the customer service number shown on the SIRIUS Satellite Radio plug-and-play receiver to activate the service. This number is also documented in the receiver's owner's manual. You may also activate the service from the SIRIUS website.

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Understand Dx & Vr Lenses For A Nikon

Nikon DX lenses are designed specifically for the APS-C image sensor found on many Nikon digital SLR (single lens reflex) cameras. The APS-C sensor is small, with dimensions about 2/3 that of a full-sized (FX) sensor. Nikon VR lenses contain a vibration reduction system that compensates for small camera movements caused by shaking hands or an unstable platform. DX (without VR compensation) and VR lenses in DX format are made by Nikon as well as other manufacturers. Consider your photographic requirements, equipment type and budget when selecting camera lenses.

Instructions

1. Determine the image sensor size on your Nikon camera. All Nikon SLR cameras contain APS-C image sensors except the following models, which contain the full-size, FX sensor: D3, D3X, D3S and D700.

2. Select DX lenses for cameras that use the APS-C image sensor. Calculate the "crop factor" for prime lenses (no zoom or telephoto) because of the smaller size by multiplying the lens focal length by 1.5. For example, if the lens is a 100 mm lens, multiply it by 1.5 because of the smaller sensor and the lens has the same angle of view as if it was a 150 mm lens.

3. Calculate the crop factor for zoom and telephoto lenses by multiplying the minimum and maximum focal length by 1.5. For example, a lens with a range of 70-200 mm has the same angle of view as if it was a 105-300 mm lens.

4. Determine the need for VR capability by evaluating your photographic needs. The VR compensation allows you to avoid camera shake four f-stops slower than traditionally recommended. For example, if you photograph without blur at 1/125 second, you can do the same at 1/8 sec with a VR lens. Use a tripod to eliminate camera movement, but if you don't use a tripod and a small amount of blur is present in most of your photographs, a VR lens may be something you need.

5. Check camera lenses for the DX and/or VR designation before you purchase. The designation is contained within the lens focal length and speed description --- 18-22mm f/3.5-5.6G ED AF-S VR II DX, for example.

Tags: APS-C image, focal length, image sensor, angle view, APS-C image sensor, because smaller

Dslr Sony Tutorial

DSLR Sony Tutorial

For years, Sony has been a household name in electronics. It continues to innovate, and its new digital single lens reflex cameras (DSLRs) are enabling amateurs and experts alike to enhance their digital photography abilities. Getting started with the Sony DSLR camera is the first step on your path to digital photography expertise. Know the basics before you miss out on that picture-perfect moment.

Attaching Lenses

To get started with the DSLR camera, you first need to attach the lens. Point the body of the camera downward. Line up the orange dot on the lens with the orange dot on the body of the camera. When the dots are aligned, push the lens into place and twist clockwise until the lens clicks into place.

To replace a lens, again face the camera downward. Avoid changing the lens in a dusty or windy environment, because you risk getting debris into the body of the camera while the lens is detached. Hold the lens release button, which is small black button just beside the lens. Twist the lens counterclockwise until the orange dot is again aligned with the orange dot on the body. Once the two are aligned, gently pull the lens out of its place and replace it with a new lens.

Taking the Best Pictures

Remember to customize your shot by using the mode dial, located at the top of your camera. The Sony DSLR features a number of modes. The default option will be auto, which is used for general picture taking. However, you can also use modes such as sunset, landscape, sport or portrait to capture the right moment the right way. Use these settings wisely to take the best picture.

How you hold the camera can completely change the way your pictures turn out. Whenever you are taking a picture, support the lens with the palm of your left hand. Unlike other cameras, the Sony DSLR captures pictures through the small viewer, not on a digital screen, so hold the camera close to your eye. Tuck your elbows in close to your chest to avoid swaying or being bumped. Control your breathing as you line up the shot so that the camera does not move too much.

To take the picture, do not simply jab the shutter button. Instead, depress it slowly, so that the camera focuses on the picture before snapping the shot. The flash will automatically deploy when the camera does not detect enough light in the area. However, you can manually activate the flash by pressing the small button with a downward-point arrow that is located on the side of the view finder.

Viewing Your Pictures

Review the photos you have taken at any time by pressing the play button on the camera. It features a forward-facing arrow in a box, much like the play button for your DVD player or VCR. Press this button and scroll through your pictures with the left and right buttons on the control pad. You can also zoom with the zoom button, which features an icon that looks like a magnifying glass with a plus sign in the center.

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Choose The Right Digital Slr Lenses

Lenses with focal lengths below 50 millimeters are considered wide lenses.

Various digital SLR lenses are available for your camera. Some are suitable for casual outdoor use with bright natural lighting, and others are built to meet more demanding low-light conditions like concerts and indoor events. Nature photographers, for example, will often choose different lenses than portrait photographers. Choosing the right digital SLR lens involves matching the right lens mount, quality and flexibility preferences, subject distance considerations and light-gathering ability.

Instructions

Lens Mount and Series

1. Check your camera's brand and model to verify lens compatibility. Most lenses are compatible with lenses that are the same brand. However, brands produce lenses in different series, and some series are not compatible with some cameras. For example, Canon produces a series of EF-S lenses that are not compatible with some Canon cameras. Check the technical specifications for a lens you are considering to verify that it is compatible with the model of your camera.

2. Decide between prime or zoom lenses. Prime lenses are fixed focal length lenses. Zoom lenses have variable focal length. Prime lenses often produce images with superior image quality, and tend to weigh less than zoom lenses. Zoom lenses provide focal length flexibility, and may replace the need for several lenses. Zoom lenses are usually appropriate for beginners, hobbyists and freelance photographers, because they increase the photographer's flexibility without the cost of additional lenses. Prime lenses are often suitable for commercial photographers, high-end portraitists and fine art photographers, because the superior image quality can accommodate large print production.

3. Choose the right focal length. The focal is the lens’ distance of focus, and it determines the lens’ angle of view. Short focal lengths under 50 millimeters are considered wide lenses, because they provide a wide angle of view. Long focal lengths over 80 millimeters are considered telephoto lenses, because they make subjects at greater distances appear closer by narrowing the angle of view. The choice between short and long focal lengths usually depends on the camera’s distance from the subject, and the amount of the surrounding environment that is part of a shot.

4. Pick the maximum aperture. Large or wide maximum apertures are indicated by lower f/numbers on the lens, like f/1.4. Short or narrow maximum apertures are indicated by higher f/numbers like f/3.5. Wide apertures have greater light-gathering ability than narrow apertures, and wide aperture lenses are usually more expensive than narrower aperture lenses. Wide apertures are good for low-light conditions, stop-motion photography and fast-moving subjects. Narrow apertures are suitable for outdoor daylight photography and flash photography, or photography with artificial light sources.

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Condition Nimh Batteries

Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) batteries are commonly used to replace AA and AAA alkaline batteries. NiMH holds an advantage over traditional alkaline technology in that NiMH can be recharged. This can add up to a substantial savings over the life of your battery operated device. To get the longest life and best performance out of your NiMH batteries, they must be used correctly.

Instructions

Condition NiMH Batteries

1. Charge the battery completely before using. The first charge should be a complete and slow charge. Do not use quick chargers to perform this initial charging.

2. Use the battery until it is drained. After the initial charge, use the battery until it is drained and then recharge it. The second charge can be done using either a regular or quick charge device. Although, they charge the batteries in less time, your batteries will discharge faster if you use a quick charger.

3. Recharge the battery whenever power gets low. NiMH batteries do not need to be completely discharged each cycle. You can connect the batteries to the charger whenever the power starts to get low.

4. (Optional) Cycle the batteries to obtain maximum life. Approximately once every 30-60 days completely discharge the batteries by letting the device that they are powering run until shutdown. Allow the NiMH batteries to remain in a discharged state for four to six hours. Then recharge the batteries using a non-quick charge method and resume normal use.

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Can Dx Format Lenses Be Used On The D80 Camera

The Nikon D80 camera is a crop sensor digital Single Lens Reflex camera. The term "crop sensor" refers to the size of the sensor in relation to full frame lenses. Crop sensor cameras crop part of the image from lenses made for full frame cameras, such as Nikon's DX series of lenses.

Compatibility

You can use all Nikon DX series with the Nikon D80. Nikon design its DX lenses to fit on all of its DSLRs, including APS-C sized sensor cameras, such as the Nikon D80. APS-C, or Advanced Photo System type-C, refers to the size of the sensor. A Nikon APS-C sized sensor is 15 mm high by 22.5 mm wide.

Crop Factor

Nikon makes its DX series lenses specifically for the DX series of cameras, including the D80. The lenses have a 1.5x "field of view" crop. This means that to determine the actual focal length of the lens when using it on a D80, you must multiply the effective focal length of the lens by 1.5. This calculation reflects the smaller coverage of an APS-C sensor, compared to a full frame sensor. For example, if a DX lens is set to 50 mm on a D80, it will have the same field of view as a 75 mm full frame lens on a full frame camera.

Advantage

The advantage of the 1.5 crop factor on DX lenses is that it is more cost effective to gain, in effect, a longer, or more zoomed-in, lens. For example, telephoto lenses for shooting subjects, such as wildlife and sports, have long focal lengths, such as 200mm. In order to get the same field of view on from a DX lens on a D-80, you must use a lens with a focal length of 133 mm. In general, shorter telephoto lenses cost less than longer telephoto lenses, so you may be able to save money by using a DX telephoto lens on a D80 body.

Disadvantage

The disadvantage of using DX lenses on a D80 camera is that in order to get a wider view, or the ability to see more in your lens without stepping backwards, you must use wider lenses than you would with a full frame camera and lens. For example, if you wanted to achieve a field of view equivalent to a 25 mm full frame lens, which is a wide angle suited to photographing groups of people in a room, you would need to use a lens that has a full frame equivalent focal length of 16mm. These super wide lenses are typically expensive to manufacture and, therefore, will cost you more.

Tags: full frame, field view, focal length, telephoto lenses, APS-C sized, APS-C sized sensor

Use A Motorola Minitor V Pager

The radio will open the speaker and you'll hear the traffic.

Motorola's Minitor series of tone pagers are used by fire departments and other organizations needing to notify individuals of incidents over radio. The pager tones trigger the radio. The latest Minitor V two-tone pager is voice compatible, and available in UHF and VHF. It stores voice, so if a user misses the page, the user can listen to it later. The device is programmed by the user's department with specific frequencies and tones. Using a Motorola Minitor V can be performed by following a few steps.

Instructions

1. Set the "Function" switch to a tone-alert position to place the Minitor into alert monitor status. Rotate the On/Off Switch/Volume knob clockwise to turn on the Mintor on. You will hear eight short beeps and both lights will illuminate.

2. Move the "Function" switch to a simple monitor position. For example, a fire dispatch channel. Listen for traffic and adjust the volume to a comfortable level.

3. Set the "Function" switch to a function position such as selective call tone, selective call vibrate, monitor or scan. These function positions will be preset by your department, and can include monitoring a frequency for predefined tones and then sounding beeps, vibrating, beeping and vibrating, or simply playing and recording. Positions can include simple monitoring. For example, set the "Function" switch to "Position 1" to monitor Fire Dispatch silently, when the tones are heard by the radio, the loudspeaker will open and any traffic will be heard live and also recorded.

4. Leave the pager once set, to monitor traffic and listen for pages. Depending on how the Function is programmed, the radio will open the speaker and you'll hear the traffic. If you miss the traffic, listen for periodic beeps which indicate the Motorola Minitor V has recorded the traffic. Press the Playback button to listen to the recording.

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Use A Leica Lens

Leica has been producing rangefinder cameras and lenses since the early 1900s.

Best known for its line of "M" rangefinders and accompanying lenses, Leica is a recognized leader in quality photography equipment. Rangefinder lenses are slightly different from their SLR counterparts. With an SLR, a photographer views the scene through the lens, while with a rangefinder the photographer looks through a viewfinder that has lines to replicate the field of view of the lens.

Instructions

1. Hold the Leica camera up to your eye and look through the viewfinder. Position your left thumb under the lens into the grooved focusing tab. On smaller Leica lenses there is a grooved tab designed for the photographer's thumb that can be used to focus the lens. On larger Leica lenses the focusing ring resembles those found on SLR lenses.

2. Move your hand toward the front of the lens, and turn the aperture ring to change the lens' aperture to the required setting for correct exposure. The aperture ring on Leica lenses is always at the front of the lens, whereas on manual-focus SLR lenses it is at the rear of the lens, close to the mounting ring.

3. Observe the depth of field guide to confirm your lens is in focus. Focusing with a rangefinder takes a little practice and, when first starting out, you may find it more difficult compared to SLR focusing. The depth of field guide is a series of numbers representing the lens aperture. The numbers appear in sequence on the left and right side of a center dot. If your aperture is f8, find the number eight on the left side of the center dot and the focusing distance that is on the focusing ring just in front of the guide. Do the same on the right side of the center dot. The range between these two focusing distances will be in focus when the aperture is set at f8.

Tags: Leica lenses, side center, aperture ring, depth field, depth field guide, field guide

Use The Eye Toy As A Webcam

Using the PlayStation 3's Eye Toy as a computer webcam is a straightforward task that should not take longer than a few minutes to set up. As a PlayStation 3 peripheral, Eye Toy can turn any individual into a video game character using images captured on the camera. With the right instructions, the Eye Toy can also be configured as a PC webcam.

Instructions

1. Navigate to a Web page that has the necessary drivers to make the Eye Toy into a valid webcam and follow the on-screen instructions to download what you need. Be sure to save the driver to a location that you will be able to easily find, such as the desktop. The link in References contains all of the available drivers for the Eye Toy.

2. Click on the "Start" button at the bottom of the computer screen and select the "Control Panel" option. Select the "System" tab followed by the "Hardware" option in the next window. Continue by selecting "Device Manager" on the following page.

3. Plug the Eye Toy into an available USB port and select the device from the available options in the "Device Manager" tab. Right-click the Eye Toy and press the "Update Driver" option. When the Hardware Wizard pops up, select "No, not this time" when asked if Windows can search the Internet for updates and click "Next."

4. Select "Install from a list or specific location" and click the "Next" button. Press the "Browse" button on the next screen and select the folder where the driver was downloaded and saved to from the available options. Click the "Next" button.

5. Select "Continue Anyway" when the Windows warning message appears on screen. A window will appear asking about the power frequency setting for your computer. Follow the on-screen instructions to select whether or not you live in one of the areas mentioned in the window and click "Yes" or "No" depending on your geographical location. Click the "Finish" tab at the bottom to enable the Eye Toy as a webcam.

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Protect A Camera From Condensation From The Cold

Cameras used outside in the winter are prone to condensation.

When a cool object is put into warm air, condensation forms on the object. This buildup of moisture can easily rust or mold the internal elements of a film-based or digital camera body, a camera lens or a camera flash unit. When moving from cool air conditioning or cold outdoor winter conditions to a warm, humid environment, condensation will occur.

Instructions

1. Keep the camera warm when in cool conditions. Place it under your coat, or cup it inside your hands while wearing thick, insulated gloves. Never let the camera cool completely to the ambient cold air temperature.

2. Wrap the camera in newspaper or a plastic food storage bag when preparing to leave the cold environment.

3. Seal the plastic food storage bag so the condensation forms on the interior lining of the bag, not the internal components of the camera, lens or flash unit.

4. Move to the warm environment. Allow the camera to stay in the newspaper or plastic bag until it warms to the new surrounding temperature.

5. Remove the camera from the protective cover carefully. Look it over and make sure it is dry before turning on the power. Wipe down the surface of the camera with a microfiber cloth, removing any visible condensation.

Tags: camera lens, condensation forms, flash unit, food storage, newspaper plastic, plastic food

Build Led Strobe Lights

A basic strobe light is a just a flashing light. However with the new LED lights available it is possible to change the light color, add additional strobe sources, change the scene and display messages. LED lights can strobe very fast as these have the fastest response time of all lights except lasers. The lights can be fixed in place, portable and programmed for different strobe patterns.

Instructions

1. Remove the LED light from its socket. Use a battery to determine which wire is the positive wire. Touch one wire to the positive end of the battery and the other to the negative end. If the LED lights up then you have chosen the correct wire for the positive end. mark this positive wire with a red permanent marker.

2. Solder the resistor to the LED positive wire using electrical wire. To determine the type of resistor needed use a resistor calculator found online. Plug in the LED voltage and the voltage of the power supply and the calculator tells you the type of resistor needed.

3. Solder another wire to the other end of the resistor and trim away any excess with a wire cutter.

4. Solder another length of electrical wire to the other lead on the LED light.

5. Place a length of heat shrink tubing over the exposed wire and resistor. Use a hair dryer to heat shrink the tube. Place another length over the exposed wire on the other LED lead. Shrink this tubing with heat. Make sure you have all bare wire covered as this prevents any short circuits.

6. Wrap another length of heat shrink tubing over the base of the LED light. Shrink the tubing with heat. This provides additional support and stability to the light.

7. Wire the light into a circuit board that contains lighting effect firmware, one example being the DCx16 controller board from D-lights.

Tags: another length, heat shrink, positive wire, wire other, wire positive, electrical wire

Use A Minolta Auto Meter Ivf

The ISO film speed is displayed in one-third increments.

Measuring light in order to properly expose photographic images (especially for film cameras) is the primary use of Minolta's automatic IVF light meter. Upon receiving your first electronic light meter, you may have a few questions as to properly use it. Following a few simple steps will have you operating your meter efficiently and effectively in a short amount of time. Learn to install a battery into your meter, set the film speed, determine which measuring method works best for you, select your measuring method, render a reading, and use your meter with a camera flash.

Instructions

1. Install a battery into the meter by first turning the meter's back towards you. Slide the battery cover door open to the right with your fingers. Insert a AA battery (or 1.5 alkaline-manganese, carbon-zinc, or 1.2 volt nickel-cadmium battery) into the battery chamber, with the positive end facing up. Replace the battery cover door. Press the "Power" button (located on the top left face of the device) to turn the meter on.

2. Set the film speed by pressing and holding the ISO button (located on the front of the device to the left underneath the monitor). Use the up and down buttons (located on the right edge of the meter) to choose your ISO (ISO 125 and 1250 will appear on the display as 120 and 1200).

3. Determine which light measuring method you would like to use. Choose to do an "Ambient Light" measurement by selecting "Ambi" with the "Mode" button (located on the front below the monitor to the right) without any attachments, and press the "Measure" button (located on the right side of the device above the up and down buttons). Choose "Incident-Light Readings" to measure the light that falls on your subject alone. place the meter in front of your subject and turn the receptor towards the camera lens, and then press the "Measure" button. Choose "Reflected Light Readings" to measure all light bouncing off your subjects, attach the supplied reflected light attachment, turn the receptor head to face your subjects, and push the "Measure" button.

4. Measure the camera flash with a sync cord to determine your camera settings for use with flash. Begin by turning the meter on and setting your ISO. Press the "Mode" button to select "Cord." Use the up and down buttons to choose the X-sync speed of your camera (choose speeds between 1/500 and 1 second). Attach the flash sync cord to the sync cord receptor (located at the bottom of the front of the meter) and the other end to your camera. Place the meter in front of your subject and press the "Measure" button. The flash will go off and your meter will display a light reading.

5. Pressing the "Measure" button will render a reading on your meter's display. Suggested aperture and shutter speed settings will appear that will properly expose the image. The meter can be set to an unwavering aperture or shutter speed setting, or both can be determined automatically. Following a measurement, adjust your camera's settings according to the reading from the meter, and then shoot your subject with the camera.

Tags: Measure button, your meter, button located, your camera, your subject

Find The Perfect Fit In A Bra

Find the Perfect Fit in a Bra

Whether you choose a bra to enhance, minimize, support or show off your bust, fit is crucial. It's the key to keeping you comfortable and supporting your breasts properly. Here are a few steps to finding the ideal bra.

Instructions

1. Use a measuring tape to measure around your bare rib cage, just beneath your naked breasts. This number indicates the band size most appropriate for your figure.

2. Measure the widest part of your bust, sliding the tape around the middle of your back. Hold the tape as level as possible to ensure accuracy.

3. Note the difference between the two measurements. Use the following as a guide, and try on a range of sizes above and below your measurement: If your bust measurement is up to 1 /2 inch larger than your band size, then your cup size is an AA. A measurement of 1 /2 inch to 1 inch more than the band size indicates an A cup, 1 to 2 inches indicates a B cup, 2 to 3 inches indicates a C cup, 3 to 4 inches indicates a D cup, and 4 to 5 inches indicates a DD or E cup.

4. Select a range of bras according to your band and cup size.

5. Try on a bra. Place your hands through the straps and bend over to allow your breasts to fall into the cups. The cups should contain your breasts'unless you're trying a demibra or an enhancing bra'and should center your nipple in the fullest part.

6. Close the bra using the middle hook. Look for a band that fits snugly but doesn't cut into your rib cage. If it's too tight, try adjusting the hook closure before proceeding to a larger size.

7. Adjust the straps so the band fits comfortably under the breasts and around the rib cage. If the bra seems to slip forward, if you find yourself pulling up on the straps, or if it feels as if your breasts are falling out of the bottom of the cups, the band size is too big.

8. Check the fabric or bridge between your breasts. This should lie flat on the breastbone. If it sticks up or stabs your breastbone uncomfortably, try a larger cup size. If it puckers, try a smaller size.

9. Move up a cup size if your breasts bulge from the bra. Move down a size if you notice wrinkles in the cup material.

Tags: your breasts, band size, inches indicates, indicates inches, indicates inches indicates

Spotting Scope Work

How Does a Spotting Scope Work?

Refracting Telescopes

Spotting scopes are essentially compact amateur astronomy telescopes that have been optimized for use during the day, portability, and looking at ground objects. Because of these considerations, they are usually refracting telescopes. Refractors use lenses to concentrate light and achieve magnification, and spotting scopes are based on the venerable Galilean model. This uses a convex objective lens, and the bigger the objective lens, the greater the basic magnification power. The Keplerian model is not used for spotting scopes because it turns the image upside down.

Periscope Viewing

The viewing mount and eyepiece of a spotting scope are done either using the simple, straight-through telescopic model, or the periscope model. In the latter, the viewing mount is on the side of the bottom end of the spotting scope tube, usually pointed up for ease of viewing. Light collected and concentrated by the objective lens is bounced off a mirror or prism along an angle to the eyepiece, just as in a periscope.

The Eyepiece

The main accessory for spotting scopes is the eyepiece. While sometimes fixed and singular, many spotting scopes have an eyepiece with a zoom lens function. Others allow eyepieces to be removed and swapped for eyepieces with differing optical features. Regardless of the actual working set-up, changes in magnification are always controlled at the eyepiece, and not the objective lens.

Camera Adapters

Many spotting scopes that feature removable eyepieces are also capable of fitting adapters for cameras. The specific adapter depends on the features of the camera in question, but the general principle is to replace the eyepiece assembly itself with the lenses of the camera.

Tags: objective lens, spotting scopes, Scope Work, Spotting Scope, Spotting Scope Work, spotting scopes

Troubleshoot Stereo Receivers

Stereo receivers are produced by a number of different companies with countless different brands, ranging from expensive top-of-the-line models to simple dilettante types with a minimum of extra features. Each model has its own particular design, and its own particular methods for correcting problems when they arise. Certain basic issues are common to all types of stereo receivers, however. You can address them with a few basic troubleshooting steps before calling a repairman or buying a replacement.

Instructions

1. Check the connections in the back of the receiver and the cables that link it to the speakers, the radio antenna and other components like a TV or a VCR. The cables need to be securely fastened on both ends of the connection and plugged into the correct outlet ports. If the cables or outlet ports are dirty, that may be interfering with the sound. Clean them using a cloth or paper towel moistened with rubbing alcohol.

2. Examine the buttons on the front of the receiver to make sure that they are set to the correct component. Stereo receivers can switch the signal from different input jacks, allowing you to play CDs, watch television, listen to the radio or view a movie on DVD all from the same centralized control station. If you are not receiving sound from the component you want to use, push the button corresponding to it.

3. Adjust the balance controls on your receiver if the sound is only coming out of one speaker or the other. In most circumstances, the sound should be evenly balanced between left and right.

4. Check the fuses inside the stereo receiver. In the event of a power surge, a fuse will blow, which cuts off electricity to the machine and spares the remaining components any damage. Your stereo instruction manual should tell you replace a fuse in your particular receiver.

5. Make sure that the stereo receiver input is set to "Analog" when making a recording to an audio tape or a VHS tape. Many new stereo receivers broadcast in digital, which older components cannot receive. If the receiver isn't switched to "Analog," it will not record to those components.

6. Move the receiver away from any fluorescent lights or tube-box television sets. Sometimes they can interfere with the receiver signal, creating a buzz or a low hum.

7. Check the batteries in the remote and make sure that there is no obstruction between it and the stereo receivers. A remote needs fresh power to work and a direct line to the receiver in order for the signal to get through.

Tags: sure that, make sure that, outlet ports, stereo receiver, stereo receivers

Transfer Video From Camcorder To Pc Using Usb

Capturing some of your most important memories on video is great, but what good is it sitting in the camcorder? In order to make the most of your video, it should be transferred to a PC. The easiest way to transfer videos to a PC is by using a USB cable. After that is done, with the correct software, you can edit your videos like a professional, or just distribute them immediately!

Instructions

1. Purchase a USB cable that corresponds to both your camcorder and your PC. This can be done at any electronics store. Consult your owner's manual first to see what type is needed for your exact model.

2. Connect the camcorder and the PC using the USB cable. Make sure the cable is connected tightly to the port, but don't force it.

3. Turn the camcorder and the PC on. Normally the PC will recognize the device and pull up the appropriate program. If it does not, pull the program up manually.

4. Follow the on-screen prompts to upload the video to your PC.

5. Once the video has loaded, shut off the camcorder. Make sure you save the video before doing anything else.

Tags: Make sure, using cable

The Advantages Of Handheld Camera Light Meters

The Advantages of Handheld Camera Light Meters

Most modern cameras have a built-in light meter that calculates the light needed to capture an image. In fully automatic cameras, this information tells the camera what shutter speed and aperture opening to set to get the correct exposure. Professional photographers still use handheld light meters because they give more specific information to get a better-than-average photo.

Types

The main difference between handheld and in-camera light meters is how they measure light. Handheld meters measure the light incident to where they are. In-camera or reflected-light meters measure the light reflecting off a subject or a scene. This type of meter takes an average of the light coming into its sensors and makes adjustments to shutter and aperture settings automatically, or tells the photographer what will work, who then sets them manually.

Incidental Light

The photographer or an assistant holds the meter next to the subject and measures light there. This may need several readings at different places in the scene---say on a face, a dress or the shoes---to get an accurate reading. These three or more measurements are added together and averaged for the exposure.

Accuracy

If your subject is posing in a brightly lit outdoor scene, the light on her face probably will be much different than the surrounding shadow and highlight areas. Taking a reading near her face with a handheld meter gives a a more accurate exposure than an in-camera meter. It will make her face show up better in the final image.

Flash

A handheld meter also can give you a better idea of when to use fill flash or to use a reflector. If, for example, your subject is in deep shadow with bright sunshine behind her, the in-camera meter may be overwhelmed by the brightness, and underexpose the person. The handheld meter will more accurately show the difference between the person and the background so you can decide whether to add the fill flash or the reflector.

Better Photos

Handheld meters ignore light reflected in various ways by facial features and coloring. Hold the meter right in front of the face to show you the light falling there, not what the in-camera will "see" from the face. This also will lead to better photos.

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Transfer 35mm Slides To Dvd

Getting your slides onto a DVD is a two-step process. First you have to turn your slides into digital images. You can then burn them onto a DVD using a slide show program such as DVD Slideshow or iPhoto. If you are burning them to DVD for storage only (as data) you won't need slide show software.

Instructions

1. Prepare your scanner for the slides. A dedicated slide scanner will produce the highest-quality images, but for home use, a flatbed scanner should be sufficient. Place the slides on the scanner (use the flat slide tray if one is provided with your scanner), and scan them directly to your computer or import them into a photo retouch program such as Photoshop. Using a high resolution, such as 3200 dpi, will yield the best results, but if the images are too big, your computer may have trouble managing them, depending on how much memory you have.

2. If you are burning the slides to DVD for storage, you can do that with Windows Media Center or Windows Explorer (on a PC) or in Finder (on a Mac). If you are creating a slide show, format the digital scans to the specifications of your DVD slide show software. Most programs can accommodate virtually any size or format of image, but if you have scanned very large images (say 20 MB or above) you may want to shrink them before you import them to speed things up. Save the files as .jpeg or .tiff, depending on the instructions of your DVD slide show software; .jpegs have a smaller file size but are lower quality, and .tiffs are larger, high-quality images.

3. Once you have the slide images in digital format on your computer, import them into your DVD slide show program. You then can arrange them however you want and add transitions, music and special effects such as dissolves or wipes.

4. Once you have the slide show set up, you're ready to burn the DVD. Follow the instructions on your DVD slide show program, burn and enjoy.

Tags: slide show, your slide, your slide show, import them, show program, show software, slide show program

Set Up Complete Choice Voicemail

Complete Choice is a package of calling features offered by BellSouth, a division of AT&T, which allows customers to bundle various options for landline phone service for a monthly fee. Voice mail is one of the options offered to Complete Choice customers. Once the service is established, you can access your voice mail from your home phone or while you are on the road. Make sure the service is active and that you've received your temporary passcode from BellSouth before attempting to set up your voice mail.

Instructions

1. Press "*98" on your telephone keypad. You must use the phone that has Complete Choice service. The "*98" command allows you to directly access your voice mail service. Enter the passcode that was assigned to you when voice mail service was initially added to your plan.

2. Press the "#" key to enter voice mail setup. You'll be prompted to enter a passcode. Create a unique passcode between four and 10 digits in length that other people will not be able to guess. Press "#" to save your passcode and continue.

3. Record your greeting. You can speak for up to 90 seconds. Press "#" when you are finished recording. Press "9112" after you've recorded your main greeting if you want to record a "busy greeting" your callers will hear if your line is busy at the time. Press "#" when done.

4. Record your name when prompted. This can be your first name, full name or the name of your business. Press "#" when finished. Your Complete Choice voice mail is now set up.

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The Canon Ae1

If you have a Canon AE-1 in your photography arsenal, consider it an innovative, durable camera. The metal and polycarbonate film-based camera from 1976 was one of the first to introduce photographers to automatic photography. Set the exposure mode to "Program" and the lens to automatic, or "A," and you could aim and shoot. This feature made capturing images quicker since photographers no longer had to manually adjust several camera settings.

AE-1 History

The Canon AE-1 is a single-lens reflex, or SLR, camera. In addition to the automatic option, like many other cameras of the same era, the AE-1 offered fully manual exposure options including aperture, shutter speed, film speed and lens focusing. Unlike digital cameras, the Canon AE-1 does not offer an image preview option, white balance settings or custom functions. Photographers used the camera to record images on film, which was later developed into negatives that were used to make prints.

Lens Options

Like all SLR cameras, the Canon AE-1 uses interchangeable lenses. Canon manual focus and automatic focus FD-series lenses fit the AE-1. When the camera graced photography retailer shelves, salespeople often paired it with a Canon FD 50 mm f/1.2L lens. Although this multipurpose fixed-focal length lens doesn't zoom, it works well for everyday group shots or pictures of nearby scenery. Other popular focal lengths marketed to accompany the Canon AE-1 included a wide-angle 24 mm lens and a telephoto 85 mm lens.

Battery Power

The Canon AE-1 can use several types of 6-volt alkaline or lithium batteries. Compatible model numbers include A544, 544, PX28, PX28L, 4LR44 and 4SR44. The camera doesn't have an LCD to indicate when the camera battery gets low. Instead, locate the battery indicator button on the top of the camera. It is near the rewind lever, just under the serial number printed on the left side of the camera. Press the button and listen for a beeping sound. A new battery will beep six times per second. A low battery will beep three times per second.

AE-1 Accessories

Even in the 1970s, photographers wanted optional accessories for their cameras. The Canon AE-1 has a hot shoe, which accommodates an external flash unit. Since the camera doesn't have a built-in flash, the option to attach a flash meant greater versatility for photographers shooting in low-light conditions. The maximum flash sync speed for a Canon AE-1 camera is 1/60. An electronic cable release, rubber eye-cup and carrying strap can also attach to the AE-1.

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