Install An American Standard Scala Whirlpool Tub

American Standard products are an American bathroom staple. The Scala whirlpool tub provides a number of features you will love, including an integral seat and six adjustable jets. Installing a Scala whirlpool bathtub can be a challenge, but if you prepare the site correctly, the rest of the process will go smoothly. Installing a bathtub can be a messy project. Clean as you go, removing trash and unneeded materials from the work site, to speed up the job and help ensure safety.

Instructions

1. Following the manufacturer's specifications, frame a space in the bathroom for the tub. The Scala whirlpool tub is designed to fit into a corner or other triangular area. Frame in an access panel (12-by-24 inches minimum) to allow access to the pump and electrical components after installation is complete. Install bath deck supports along the walls to support the bathtub. Locate these supports roughly 19 and 3/4 inches above the ground. This height may vary depending on the amount of leveling the tub requires.

2. Fill the bathtub with water to check for leaks that may have occurred during shipping and handling. If a leak is found, call for warranty service before completing the installation process.

3. Place the bathtub in the framed structure, allowing the deck supports to hold the tub. Place a four-foot level along the back edges of the tub to ensure the tub sits correctly. Use composite shims to make leveling adjustments as needed. In addition, place the level along the front edge of the bathtub to ensure that edge is also level. Run a small bead of silicone caulk under the shims as adhesive to keep them in place.

4. Apply plastic vapor barrier to the exposed studs around the bathtub with a staple gun. Install cement board over the vapor barrier, attaching the cement board to the studs with cement board screws. Run the cement board down the wall so the edge of the board slightly covers the edge of the bathtub. Fasten the edge of the cement board to the wall studs with roofing nails just above the edge of the tub.

5. Apply ceramic or other tile to the cement board, leaving a 1/16- to 1/8-inch gap between the edge of the tile and the tub. Allow the tile adhesive to dry completely before grouting the tile. After the grout has cured, run a bead of silicone caulk along the edge of the tub between the tile and the tub. Smooth the bead with a wet finger or a caulking tool.

6. To ensure your safety, as well as the safety of your family, have a licensed electrician connect all of the electrical components in accordance with state and local laws.

7. Remove all debris and trash from the installation area. Use paint thinner or naphtha to remove glue and other adhesives from the bathtub surface before using. Clean the tub thoroughly before the first use.

Tags: cement board, American Standard, bathtub with, bead silicone, bead silicone caulk, deck supports, edge bathtub

What Is The Difference Between Wilson 1000 & Wilson 5000

Wilson 1000 and 5000 base loaded CB antennas offer very similar features and benefits, like low loss coils and industry-leading power. They differ, however, in their power, reception, strength, reliability and cost effectiveness.

Power and Reception

The power handling of the 1000 is 500 watts AM and 3,000 watts SSB, while the 5000 gets 5,000 watts AM and 20,000 watts SSB. The Wilson 1000 incorporates a 14-gauge wire and a 10-gauge coil, while the Wilson 5000 uses a larger and more capacitative 6-gauge wire and proper coil. The Wilson 1000 uses a highly conductive copper wire and coil; the 5000 uses a copper wire encased in even more conductive silver.

Durability and Reliability

The Wilson 5000 is not only built 65 percent larger than the Wilson 1000, but it's stronger as well. The 5000 boasts a floating coil design that won't freeze, crack or ice up. The 5000 is designed not to stop working in extreme weather.

Cost

If running less than 1,000 watts, the Wilson 1000 is the more cost-effective model. Users report little if any audible difference between the two in TX or RX at low power.

Tags: Wilson 1000, Wilson 5000, 5000 uses, copper wire, watts watts

Unlock Nextel I930

It is possible to unlock your Nextel i930 cell phone, even if it has been locked by the phone company. You need an unlock code to use it. Such codes are available for a small fee from several vendors. Some companies also offer to unlock your phone through hardware if you mail it in. You will also need to get a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card for which your phone will NOT work.

Instructions

How the Nextel i930 Becomes Locked

1. As a Nextel subscriber, you face a dilemma when you travel outside of your country of origin, because there are very few countries where Nextel has operations, either alone or in partnership. The moment you leave the coverage area, your phone is going to be useless.

2. This is a tactic that most GSM (Global System for Mobile communications) operators have adopted to restrict services provided to subscribers outside the coverage area and to minimize cell phone thefts; they use the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number of your phone and associate it with an unlock code.

3. If you move outside your provider's area of operations and want to change the SIM card, you just can't do it. This can be a real problem if your phone company charges high tariffs outside the country; you can't take advantage of inexpensive calling rates in SIM cards offered by a local provider in the country you are traveling to.

Unlock the Nextel i930

4. Purchase an unlock code (see Resources section below for link). Open the cover of your phone. Remove the battery. Remove the SIM card provided by Nextel.

5. Insert another SIM card (not one issued by Nextel). Replace the battery. Turn on the phone. A warning about invalid SIM should be displayed.

6. Press "OK." Type in the unlock code that you purchased. Wait for a message stating that the phone is unlocked to appear. Your phone is now unlocked.

Tags: unlock code, your phone, Nextel i930, cell phone, coverage area, outside your, phone company

What Is A Stereo Receiver

A receiver is one piece of a stereo system that combines the functions of two components: the power amplifier and the tuner. While some people prefer to use a separate tuner and amplifier, a majority of those who use a full stereo system utilize a receiver as its centerpiece.

Power Rating

The main specification to notice in a receiver is its power rating, expressed in "watts per channel."

Front Panel

Most receivers have a lighted front panel that shows the tuner dial and also many of the component's functions.

Special Dials or Switches

The front panel also contains switches for volume, radio tuning, tape monitor, speaker selectors, headphone jacks, and audio options such as bass-treble controls or graphic equalizers.

Back Panel

A typical receiver contains inputs for a CD player (the AUX input must be used in pre-1980s models), phonograph, at least one tape deck, and at least one auxiliary input for unspecified extra components. Some models have fuses accessible on the back panel.

Speaker Jacks

The receiver has also at least one pair of speaker output jacks, and often two. Older models use RCA connectors for all components, while newer ones may have coaxial jacks or an optical cable connection for pure digital sound.

Requirements

Receivers must be matched with speakers of the same impedance (expressed in "ohms"). The speakers should also be rated for wattage appropriate to the output of the receiver.

Tags: stereo system

Zune Setup Help

A Zune media player is more than a toy that plays music. The media player stores music, video and pictures but is also a wireless device that can share media items with other Zunes. But before you can run you have to learn to walk, and with the Zune you have to set-up and master the basics. The basics of the Zune media player can be a gateway to interactive social networking and more.

Zune Basics

To charge your Zune, connect the USB cable from the Zune to your computer. It should charge for two hours for full battery life, which can vary from 4 to 30 hours. Installing the Zune software tends to be easier if you download the software online. Hit the official Zune site and grab the latest software. Once completed, personalize your settings and get any existing media files, music, video and photos dumped into the Zune software. These files are monitored by Zune. When new media is added to the computer, Zune adds them to your collection. You can specify what types of files may be monitored and added.

Syncing Media to Player

Click the "Device" tab under settings, where you will see up to 10 options. Click the top category, "Sync Options." Here you will sync your software with your Zune player. Music, pictures, videos, channels, pod casts and friends can be controlled here. You have three options for each: "All," "Items I Check" and "Manual." "All" covers just that: every time you dock your Zune player, the software will automatically update. To micromanage what goes on your Zune, select "Manual." This may be a wise choice for your photo option as the software will pull and upload any images on your computer. Click back to "Device" and you will see the sync in process.

Fun and Other Options

Detach your Zune player from the USB cable and check your updates. You can view your music, videos and pictures to see the files in each category. To listen to music, click the category and choose a music file by way of albums, artists, playlist, songs and genres. Once you feel confident about navigating through the sync and uploading process, you can explore the other many options. Going wireless allows your Zune player to talk and share files with other nearby Zunes. You can enable the wireless option under settings and operate them in your Zune player under "Social." The "Radio" option taps into local terrestrial radio stations. Toggle back and forth, as if you are on your own stereo, and Zune will identity the channel's call letters, FM numbers, genre of music and even artist and song currently playing. "Marketplace" and Games" round out the top options.

Tags: your Zune, your Zune player, Zune player, media player, files monitored

Autorotate Images In A Digital Camera

Many digital cameras have a myriad of options that allow the user to manipulate images directly in the camera, eliminating the need for a computer with imaging software. Many models offer an auto-rotation feature that helps the photographer compose or realign their photos.

Instructions

1. Locate the menu option or function button that allows for the playback of images within the digital camera. Many times this feature is automatic if the camera is set to display images immediately after capture.

2. Inspect the image on the LCD display on the rear of the digital camera to determine the photo's proper orientation.

3. Use the digital camera's toggle wheel or function buttons to rotate the image or to set the camera's software to auto-rotate each image.

4. Open the digital camera's main menu and look for the image orientation area. There are often drop-down menus that offer the user the option to toggle the auto-rotation feature on or off. Choose the option that best fits the photo-shoot's needs.

5. Find the auto-rotation option on the top or rear of the camera. These buttons are often located as function buttons or as an option on a control wheel. There is an icon that represents an image with a curved arrow showing direction of rotation on some models of digital cameras.

6. Read over the digital camera's owner's manual for the auto-rotation chapters dedicated to that particular digital camera. Check the index in the rear of the manual for faster searching.

Tags: digital camera, auto-rotation feature, digital cameras, function buttons

Live Without Cable Tv

You don't need cable TV, and not having it can save you a bundle of money and time. Americans watch an average of 12 years of TV over their lifetimes. Think about what you can do with 12 years of your life besides watching TV! Here's do it without feeling like you're missing anything.

Instructions

1. See what is on network stations. Many stations have quality programing and you can get just as addicted to their shows as you can to any cable TV station's show!

2. If there is a series you simply cannot live without, see if it is available on DVD. Buying the DVD set is often cheaper than a year's subscription to cable. Check eBay and other sources for more savings. Also, be sure to check out your local public library's selection. You may find it to watch for free if you are patient enough!

3. Speaking of the library, check out the book selection. Reading is a very enjoyable pastime and the library is chock full of books on every imaginable subject. They also have videos, DVD's, magazines, newspapers and music. You pay for it with your tax dollars, you may as well benefit from it.

4. Do anything else--daydream, go on a walk or work in the yard. Watching TV is a nice escape, but there are millions of other things that you can be doing. Try not to think about cable. Pretty soon, you won't even miss it!

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Repair The Lens On A Coolpix E8800

Lenses that are encased within a camera body, such as on the Coolpix 8800, can be difficult to repair.

The Nikon Coolpix 8800 was released in 2005. The heart of the camera is a large, 10x optical zoom lens. The focal length ranges from 35 mm to 350 mm. It is fairly fast, with maximum apertures of f2.6 at the 35mm focal length and f4.9 at 350 mm. Lenses such as these that are encased within the camera body can be difficult to repair, and you may need to send it to a camera shop or back to the manufacturer.But you also may be able to fix it with a few simple procedures .

Instructions

1. Replace or recharge the batteries in the camera. The Coolpix 8800 uses the Lithium-Ion EN-EL7 rechargeable battery. If the battery charge is low or the battery is not holding a charge, the camera and lens may not function properly.

2. Inspect the lens if it is not extending or retracting properly. Look for dirt, grit, sand or other foreign objects lodged between the casing and the lens. If you find something, try to pry it out with a pin or tweezers. Do not use compressed air because the force of the air might drive the object farther into the lens casing.

3. Press the "W/T" rocker button on the back of the camera. When the lens is working properly, you should hear a soft humming noise near the front of the camera as the lens motor extends or retracts the lens. If you hear a grinding or skipping sound, take the camera to a camera repair technician authorized by Nikon.

4. Look through the viewfinder and press the shutter release halfway down to activate the autofocus system. If the lens focuses but the image in the viewfinder is out of focus, turn the small wheel to the left of the viewfinder. This will adjust the image in the viewfinder so it is in focus as well.

Tags: Coolpix 8800, camera body, camera lens, difficult repair, encased within, encased within camera, focal length

Load Film In An Slr Camera

Despite the rise of digital cameras. many photographer still use film SLRs.

Although it's now rare to see someone loading film into an SLR, film photography still offers many advantages. Whether it's for film's higher resolution, for its ineffable feel or simply for the sake of nostalgia, the emergence of digital cameras has provoked a resurgence of older and antique film techniques, including the use of film cameras. Loading film into an SLR camera can be tricky business, but with some practice and dexterity, you can do it.

Instructions

1. Open the back of the camera. You can usually do this by pulling up on the adjustable wheel on top of the camera until you hear a popping noise and the back pops open.

2. Place the film cartridge into the spot for it on the left on the camera with the protrusion on the top of the canister facing downward and the film leader lying on top of the shutter.

3. Pull the leader over to the other side of the camera body and engage it with the winding mechanism, if your camera loads the film automatically. Close the body. You should hear the sound of the electronic winder advancing the film.

4. Pull out about 3 inches of the leader from the film canister, if you have a SLR that does not load the film automatically,

5. Feed the narrow part of the leader through the film slot on the post in the cavity on the right side of the camera.

6. Hold the tab that you just inserted in place as best you can while winding the film onto the post by rotating the post by hand. This takes practice and dexterity and is easily the most challenging and frustrating part of loading a film SLR.

7. Close the back of the camera and advance the film by two frames. On most cameras, you will advance the film until you see that the frame-number reading indicates that you are at the first frame. This pulls the leader farther onto the take-up spool, which is the post you wound it on to, and advances past the part of the film that does not have any usable emulsion on it. You are now ready to start shooting.

Tags: advance film, back camera, digital cameras, film automatically, film into, practice dexterity

History Of The Cassette Recorder

We all remember singing along to our first 8-track or cassette tape, and many of us carried around our very own plastic cassette recorders as kids. Now, they are used mainly for voice recording or dictating, but cassettes were the dominant form of music recording and playing in the 1970s and 1980s; and today, they have been eclipsed by CDs and MP3s. In little over a century, magnetic tape recording technology was developed and then declined.

Early Recording Technology

In 1877, Thomas Edison invented the first sound recorder and reproducer, which operated by converting the vibrations made by sound waves into a permanent physical pattern in the form of indentations on tin foil that could be used to regenerate the original waves. He called this the cylinder player or phonograph, and this invention gave rise to all sound recording systems, according to Bryan Dewalt of the Canada Science and Technology Museum. Ten years later, Emile Berliner adapted Edison's design to record onto shellac records, an invention known as the gramophone, and twenty years later, Valdemar Poulsen developed the telegraphone, which recorded electrical audio signals from a telephone transmitter as variations in magnetic flux on a length of steel piano wire.

Magnetic Recording

Dewalt writes that the first commercially successful wire recorders were developed in the late 1920s, and they were used as dictators and telephone recorders, while records were most popular for music recording and playing. Throughout the 1930s and 1940s, recording on solid steel media such as wire or tape became the dominant form of magnetic recording.

Improvements in Magnetic Tape

In 1933, the Blatterphone was developed in Germany. This large machine recorded on steel tape 3mm wide and was mostly used for radio broadcasting. Later in this decade, German researchers developed a method of coating thin celluloid tape with iron oxide particles, material that is much lighter and more compact than steel. Also, the particles used were more easily magnetized. This invention was called the Magnetophon, and was used in homes, radio stations, and record companies. Dewalt writes that this new development was capable of very high fidelity and low noise performance, and it could record long passages without interruption. Therefore, errors could be corrected and programs assembled through splicing, or joining together different pieces of tape to make one recording.

Improvements in the Recording Industry

In the 1950s, according to Dewalt, recording engineers discovered that by overdubbing and recording multiple tracks, they could assemble the ideal performance without recording an entire ensemble in a single, flawless take. This was a revolution in the music industry that changed album-recording procedures and created a myriad of new possibilities for music, all due to magnetic tape recording technology.

Hardware Improvements

In the same decade, light, compact recorders were developed for mobile news and film crews, but consumer acceptance of the commercially available open-reel recorders and players was limited because they were fairly bulky and complex to operate. Soon, the transistor was developed, which used solid steel components instead of heavy vacuum tubes, making the machine lighter and smaller. Also around this time, manufacturers developed various cassettes and cartridges to simplify tape operation.

Cassette Recorders and Players

The first of these cassettes was the 8-track, which was very popular from the mid-1960s to the mid-1970s. In 1963, Phillips introduced the "compact cassette," a smaller tape designed for office dictating machines. By 1970, the compact cassette recorder was used widely in private homes and offices, and by recording professionals. Two other developments improved cassette recording and playing in the 1970s: higher quality cassettes that were acceptable for music listening and cassette decks as part of stereo components. In 1980, Sony made the cassette player even smaller, with its portable Walkman, and stereos soon shrank to a portable size with "boom boxes."

Digital Technology and Computers

The first digital tape recorder, which recorded binary bits on tape, was invented in Japan in 1967, according to Dewalt, and digital technology advanced a great deal with the advent of computers in the 1970s. This led to the invention of CDs in 1982, which largely replaced cassettes by the 1990s. In 1999, the first MP3 player was developed, which played music recorded digitally on a computer, and cassettes were relegated to voice recording and dictating only, while digital technology took over the music recording and playing industry.

Tags: recording playing, music recording, music recording playing, according Dewalt, cassettes were

Install A Navionics Hotmaps Premium

Bringing a GPS with you on your fishing or boating trip can be a good way to ensure you are never lost. The problem is, sometimes an area can change over the years. Navionics makes a line of maps, called Hotmaps Premium, that helps keep you up to date. These maps have many features that can aid you in your trip, including the current coastline, dock locations and water depth.

Instructions

1. Turn off your GPS unit and remove the SD card from the card slot on the side. If your GPS does not feature an SD card slot, or if you do not have an SD card, you will not be able to install Navionics Hotmaps Premium on your device.

2. Insert the SD card into an open SD card slot on your computer's card reader. Wait for the card to appear on the list of available drives on your computer before continuing. When the card is ready to use, open up your web browser and go to the Navionics home page.

3. Click on the "Webstore" link at the top of the page. You will see a list of all the available Navionics products. Click on the Hot Maps Premium option and the screen will show a breakdown of the program along with a price. Click the "Purchase" button, then enter your payment information into the forms that appear on the page. Click "Purchase" again.

4. Wait for the purchase to go through. You will be taken to a page with a "Download" button. Click on this button and choose the "Save" option when it appears. Click the "Browse" button to choose a location to save the program. Select the SD card from the menu and click "Save."

5. Wait for the download to complete. When it does, close the browser window, then remove your SD card from the card reader. Insert the card back into the slot on your GPS unit and power it on. The Hotmaps Premium program will appear on the menu for you to use.

Tags: Hotmaps Premium, card from, card slot, button choose, card from card

Use The Coldheat Soldering Gun

Use the Coldheat soldering gun to execute small soldering jobs in seconds. The cordless Coldheat tool transfers heat faster than a soldering iron or solder gun. The tip of a Coldheat gun is made of two separated electrodes that become a circuit when connected by touching the conductive metal of solder, wire or a connector terminal. The circuit generates heat to 500 degrees in one second and the temperature continues to increase for as long as the tip is against a metal. The tip then cools to touch in a matter of seconds after being removed from a metal surface.

Instructions

Use the Coldheat Soldering Gun

1. Set up the Coldheat soldering tool. Remove the protective cover from the tip and insert it into the opening at the end of the unit, so the inner contacts fit into the slots of the tip mount. Remove the screws at either end of the dark gray battery cover on the underside with a Phillips screwdriver. Pull the cover off to open the compartment. Slide AA batteries into the compartment in two rows with the positive ends toward the tip. Replace the cover and tighten the screws.

2. Turn on the Coldheat tool. Push the sliding switch to the "On" side. The power usage red light will come on and the white pen light sends a beam in the direction of work if the unit is functioning properly. The tip will not generate heat until it touches a conductive metal.

3. Place solder against the tip so it touches both sides of separated tip. Touching only one side of the tip does not complete the circuit that transfers heat to the metal. Remove the Coldheat soldering tool from contact with the metal as soon as possible. The tip continues to heat for as long as contact is maintained.

Tags: Coldheat Soldering, Coldheat soldering, Coldheat soldering tool, Coldheat tool, conductive metal, soldering tool

Make A Bug Sweeper

Build your own radio frequency device to detect bugs.

Bug sweepers are electronic devices that are used to detect listening devices or bugs installed in a room. They work by detecting the radio frequency signals that are transmitted and received by the bugging device. If you believe that someone is listening in on conversations, then you can purchase a bug detection device; however if you like to tinker and build things yourself, then you can make your own bug sweeper to detect a listening device.

Instructions

1. Put all of your equipment on a large table. This will help prevent things from getting lost.

2. Strip the insulation off the 41 AWG copper wiring using the wire cutters. Turn the wire around the end of a toothpick 20 times. This will create a coil. Glue one end of the coil to the toothpick, and allow the glue to dry so that the coil will not loosen up.

3. Get the brass tube and run the other end of the copper wire through it. Measure a half inch of a wire from the end of the tube. If there is any insulation on it, peel it off using the wire stripper.

4. Work on the BNC connector. Inspect the stripped end of the 41-AWG copper wire. Connect the first wire to the positive terminal of the BNC connector and the other wire to the negative terminal of the BNC connector. Solder the connections. Stick the BNC connector to the brass tube using bonding glue.

5. Apply a dollop of glue to the outer side of the toothpick coil. Insert it into the brass tube. The coil should be attached to the brass tube. To do this, push the glued side of the coil to the side of the tube.

6. Get the RF Voltmeter and locate its female BNC connector. Connect the BNC connector to the female BNC connector for the RF voltmeter. Tighten the connection by turning the screws.

7. Turn on the voltmeter and do a test. Turn your cell phone on and make a phone call. Place the RF voltmeter nearby. You will see an increase in signal. Mark the number on the voltmeter when the cell phone was transmitting.

8. Walk around with the brass tube in your hand. Check if there is a change on the meter comparable to when the cellphone was transmitting. If there is, you may have an active bug in that area.

Tags: brass tube, cell phone, copper wire, detect listening, female connector

Operating Instructions For A Sony Dvd Recorder

Sony DVD Recorders allow you to save movies and TV programs to DVDs.

Sony is an international electronics media provider based in Tokyo, Japan. A DVD recorder, also known as DVDR, is a recorder that records video programs onto blank writable DVDs. The Sony company produced a few different DVD recorders before releasing the DVDirect line, which is the latest in home DVD recording technology. Some are stand-alone DVD recorders, while others have a combo video home system (VHS) option as well. The functionality and operations of the systems are similar.

Instructions

1. Press the "Open/Close" button on the DVD recorder. The disc tray will open. Place a recordable DVD into the DVD slot. Press the "Open/Close" button again to close the disc tray. Wait until the word "Load" appears on the DVD recorder panel.

2. Push the "PROG +/-" button to select the program you want to record or choose the channel you would like to record.

3. Select the mode you wish to record in by pressing "Record Mode" repeatedly as you scroll through the different modes. The Sony DVD recorder should have about six modes, including high quality (HQ) and super long play (SLP). Some modes will take up more space on the DVD than others. Refer to the DVD Recorder manual for recording modes versus recording times.

4. Press the "Record" button. The DVD recorder will begin to record and will not stop until either the disc is full or you press the "Rec Stop" button.

5. Pause recording by pressing the "Rec/Pause" button. To resume recording, press the "Rec/Pause" button again.

6. Watch another program while recording by pressing the "TV/DVD" button if your TV is connected to the LINE 1-TV jack. If your TV is connected to the Line 2 Out or Component Video Out jacks, you can watch another program by pressing the "TV/Video" button.

Tags: another program, button again, button recorder, Close button, disc tray, DVDs Sony

Block Telemarketers

There are a number of resources to help you block telemarketers and other annoying callers at home and on your cell phone. The government implemented the Telephone Consumer Protection Act of 1991 to establish rules for telemarketers to follow and later implemented a registry list to further protect consumers from bothersome telemarketing calls.

Instructions

1. Sign up for the National Do Not Call Registry, which is run by the government. When you add your number to this registry, telemarketers are required to stop calling you after 31 days. If they don't, they face fines and penalties. You must register each phone number that you want to block from telemarketer calls individually. You can register for the National Do Not Call Registry online (see the link below, in Resources) or by calling 888.382-1222 (866-290-4236 for TTY callers) from the number you want to register. When you process the application online, you are required to verify your registry through email within 72 hours else the application will be ignored. The Do Not Call list does not protect business lines, only residential and personal cell phones.

2. Use your cell phone ring tone to help block telemarketers. Some cell phones have a feature in which you can change the ring tone for specific callers. So if a specific telemarketer is calling you from a number that you can view on your phone, save the number to your address book. Go back in to edit the entry and select "No Ring" for the default tone. If the telemarketer calls are coming from an unavailable or private number, call your cell phone company and ask it to block all private calls (you may also have a call restriction feature under your cell phone settings).

3. On a land line number, call your phone company and ask it to sign you up for call screening services. With this service, you will probably pay an additional fee each month so that you can add certain numbers to a "block list." Whenever the telemarketer calls, she will hear a message that "this message is out of service" or something similar. You can also buy a call screening machine (see Resources for suggestions) that will allow you to block all calls at a certain time of day, except for your family and close friends.

Tags: cell phone, your cell, your cell phone, telemarketer calls, Call Registry, call screening

Download Ringtones For A Cell Phone

Downloading new ringtones for your cell phone is easy -- and often free, whether your cell phone carrier is Verizon, Sprint, Cingular, Nextel, T-Mobile, or another major company.

Instructions

The Built-in Method

1. Determine if your wireless carrier provides you with a built-in method for downloading ringtones right from your phone. This is usually the most expensive method (around $2.50 per tone), but quite simple.

2. Press the "Web" or "Internet" button on your phone. Once it loads, go to the "Downloads" section. From there there should be a section for Ringtones.

3. Preview and download new tones for your phone from the ringtones section.

Free Ringtones

4. Access a computer with Internet.

5. Go to your favorite search engine and search for "free ringtones." You will get lots of results.

6. Choose a site that does not require registration. If you do have to register, make sure that any boxes that would sign you up for emails or additional services are NOT checked.

7. Find ringtones you like and have them sent to your phone. This will require entering your carrier and phone number if you haven't already. The new ringtones will be sent to your phone.

Setting Your New Ringtones

8. Decide if you want to set one ringtone as a universal ring, which will play every time you receive a call, or whether you want to set specific ringtones to correspond to specific entries in your phonebook. That way different ringtones will play when different people call you.

9. Set a universal ringtone in the settings section of your phone. If you cannot find do this, consult the manual for your phone. If you do not have the manual, you can probably find it online at either the manufacturer's site (Motorola, Nokia, etc.) or your carrier's site (Verizon Wireless, Sprint, Cingular, etc.)

10. Set a ring that is specific to a caller by first finding that person in your phonebook. Select the person for which you want the special ring. Select "Edit." Scroll down in the phonebook entry and select "Ring." Choose the ringtone you want to play when that person calls.

Tags: your phone, ringtones will, cell phone, phone This, play when, sent your

Measure Wind Speed

Measuring wind speed is important in weather forecasting, and in particular the forecasting of hurricanes and tornadoes. The Beaufort scale is used to illustrate the speed of wind at any particular time in terms of knots.

Instructions

1. Use a weather vane. This is a device that measures the direction and speed of wind. If you install a weather vane at the top of a building, it will point in the direction away from where the wind is coming from and will spin around based on how hard the wind is traveling. The faster the vane spins around, the stronger the wind is said to be.

2. Buy a modern anemometer. This is a device that works similarly to a weather vane, except with a heated wire. When the wind gathers strength, the wire becomes hotter. The temperature of the wire then tells the electronic device how strong the wind is traveling.

3. Look at your local Doppler radar. The National Weather Service uses a Doppler radar to inspect the air velocity and the doppler shift. This tells viewers how fast the wind is blowing.

4. Lick a finger and stick it in the air in the direction the wind is coming from. Golfers, football kickers and other sports professionals use this technique to determine the wind speed. The more quickly your finger dries, the harder the wind is blowing.

5. Watch how hard flags are blowing. When flags are barely moving, the wind is virtually nonexistent. When flags are completely erect and firm, the wind is blowing hard.

Tags: weather vane, wind blowing, coming from, device that, Doppler radar, speed wind

Difference Between Dvd & Mini Dvd Camcorders

DVD and MiniDVD camcorders usually have the same basic functionality.

Camcorders that record the DVD and MiniDVD formats have more similarities than differences. They both record video data directly onto DVD discs that will immediately play in a DVD player after recording, and they both share many of the same basic recording features. The differences between the two types of cameras are set mostly by the limitations of each format.

Physical Characteristics

The smaller physical size of MiniDVD discs allows manufacturers to create cameras with a smaller overall size and weight in comparison with DVD camcorders. For example, Sony's DVD650 Handycam records standard DVDs, and measures more than seven and a half inches long and almost five inches high, while weighing three pounds. Sony's MiniDVD alternative, the DVD300 Handycam, measures only five and a half inches by four inches high, and comes in at half the weight of its larger counterpart.

Recording

The data limits of the DVD formats mean both DVD and MiniDVD camcorders record for shorter periods of time than some other camcorder models before needing a new disc. Both formats allow for up to an hour of recording time, but as little as 20 minutes on the highest-quality settings. Dual-layer discs, which record on both sides, double the recording time, but require opening the camera to change sides.

Media

Recordable MiniDVD discs measure about 8cm in diameter, while standard DVD discs are 12cm across. If you wish to use both media types, many DVD camcorders also record to MiniDVD, though since standard DVD discs will not fit into MiniDVD camcorders, the opposite is not true.

Compatibility

Both MiniDVD and standard DVD discs play in most tray-loading DVD players and computer systems. Disc trays have a small circular indent for loading the smaller MiniDVD discs in addition to larger DVDs and CDs. Many slot-loading DVD players will not recognize MiniDVDs, so check your system or device manual before attempting to use a recorded MiniDVD in such a drive. Some slot-loading disc drives, such as the Playstation 3, accept the smaller discs.

Cost

The cost of DVD and MiniDVD camcorders does not vary significantly between formats, with similar cameras for each media type costing approximately the same. Other camera features, such as lens and zoom ability, affect the price more significantly. Both DVD and MiniDVD camcorders may be purchased for $150 to about $400. Some companies have discontinued their lines of DVD-based camcorders.

Tags: MiniDVD camcorders, MiniDVD discs, standard discs, half inches, inches high, record MiniDVD, recording time

Use Small Ac Flash Units

Small AC powered flash units triggered by slave units like the one pictured here can help illuminate a picture.

Setting up and using small AC flash units can turn an ordinary picture into something more interesting. Even if the small AC flash units are not wirelessly controlled, you can attach slave units and they will fire at the same time as the main flash mounted on the camera. Remember when shooting this way, the flash will be firing at full power unless it has an external power setting control.

Instructions

1. Set your camera on a tripod and select a shooting position. Look through the viewfinder to visually identify the entire scene you will be photographing.

2. Select areas in your picture that you feel will need some additional light. One suggestion is to place small flash units into lamps. Since flash units produce a different temperature and are often more powerful than the bulb that is in a lamp, the lights will look they are turned on in the photograph.

3. Attach slave triggers to the bottom of the flash units and attach the flashes to mini-tripods, if needed, by screwing the small tripods into the bottom of the slave units.

4. Position the small flash units and plug them into an AC wall outlet. Turn the flash units and your camera on and take a test shot to see how the scene looks with the additional light.

5. Make any final adjustments to the flash units, for position or angle, and then take your final picture.

Tags: flash units, small flash units, slave units, small flash, additional light, flash units, your camera

Use The Droid Sd Card

The Droid was Verizon's flagship Android smartphone.

Verizon's Droid smart phone includes a 16 GB microSD card for storing application data and personal files. You can use the SD card to store items transferred from a computer, or install compatible Android Market applications on the card. Other devices also use microSD cards, and you can remove the Droid's card for use in a different device, although this will significantly decrease the phone's available storage space.

Instructions

Transfer Data from Computer

1. Connect the Droid to a computer using a micro-USB cable. The included charging cable and generic USB cables will function properly.

2. Tap the "Turn on USB Storage" option on the Droid's screen. The phone will appear as a removable hard drive on the computer. Open its memory from the Computer section of Windows or the desktop of OS X.

3. Drag files to or from the card's memory to transfer between the device and the computer. You can use this method to add photos, music or ringtones to the Droid by adding the files to the corresponding "DCIM," "Music" or "ringtones" folders, respectively.

4. Press the "Turn off USB Storage" button to disconnect the phone when finished. Do not disconnect the devices without first selecting this option, or you risk damaging the SD card's contents.

Install Applications to SD Card

5. Open the "Settings" application and scroll down to select the "Applications" section. Tap "Manage applications."

6. Scroll down to the application you wish to move and tap its name. Tap the "Move to SD card" button.

7. Wait for the process to finish. This may take up to several minutes, depending on the size of the application. During the transfer the "Move to SD card" button will read "Moving" instead.

Remove for Use on Another Device

8. Turn the Droid off and remove any power cable connections. Slide the back cover down and out to remove it and reveal the phone's battery pack.

9. Lift the bottom edge of the battery to lift it out of the phone's casing and reveal the microSD card. Slide the card carefully out of its housing.

10. Connect the card to another microSD card-compatible device or use a card reader to connect it to a computer. You may wish to delete the cards contents or re-format it before use with other platforms or phones.

Tags: card button, microSD card, Move card, Move card button, Turn Storage

Choose A Tv Screen Type

Buying a TV can be complicated. There are many different factors to consider and screen type is just one of them. These steps can help guide you in choosing a TV screen type.

Instructions

1. Consider what size screen you want. Different size images look better on small or large screens. Use your desired size as a guideline for the best types of screens.

2. Take your budget, room size and style into consideration. Some screen types (HDTV for example) start at a higher price tier than others. You should also know what size TV will fit best in your room.

3. Determine how you feel about the picture itself. If you want a flawless picture all of the time, your best bet is a traditional cathode-ray tube (CRT) TV. While other types offer excellent quality also, technology (such as DLP) has yet to fully catch up.

4. Decide whether the TV will go in an entertainment center, be self-standing or hang on a wall. If you want to get trendy or just save yourself some space, many LCD (liquid crystal display) and plasma screen style TVs come in 3 to 4 inch deep screens made to hang on the wall. These slick-looking screens come in a variety of sizes that can fit in any room.

5. Know the difference between analog and digital TV. Your 10-year-old TV is most likely analog. If you're making the investment in a new TV, choose digital TV, preferably HDTV. Analog is on its way out (which is why it's the cheapest of TV screens out there) and will soon be extinct.

6. Consider image quality. Flat screens offer better image quality over shaped screens. While plasma and LCD images are high quality, the highest quality is HDTV. HD offers sharp images, even with non-HD signals.

Tags: hang wall, image quality, screen type, what size

Convert Projector Slides To Digital

Converting projector slides to digital files can be done at home with the correct equipment. It can be a time-consuming and tedious project especially for people who own hundreds or thousands of slides. A better solution, under those circumstances, can be using a photo service bureau. These bureaus will use high-resolution professional scanning equipment to convert your slides to digital files that you can then use for both digital and print projects.

Instructions

Instructions

1. Select a scanning service provider, taking into account location, preparation requirements, resolution, scanning equipment and cost. Selecting a local company might save you money on shipping because you can drop off and pick up your slides in person. Some companies will require you to remove film from sleeves, label and organize the slides prior to shipping them. Other companies will do the organizing and prep work for you. The scanning equipment they use affects the resolution output; technology that corrects for dust and dirt is also important to ensure a quality result. Cost is a real concern when having large lots of slides converted. Many companies have a flat per-slide scanning rate, but be sure to discuss the possibility of a flat project charge, especially if you are dealing with thousands of slides.

2. Prepare your slides for shipping. Follow the instructions provided by your photo scanning service. Most services will offer a discounted price if you do some of the prep work for them. This may include removing the slides from sleeves, labeling the correct screen side for each slide, organizing the slides in groups of 50, numbering the slides within each group and including a detailed list of the name of each group.

3. Place your slides in resealable food-storage bags after prepping. The bags will protect your slides against dust and scratches. It will also prevent them from sliding around in the shipping box. Bag and label them by groups. Then place the bags in shipping boxes. If required by your scanning service provider, place your order form and payment in the box at this time as well. Use packing peanuts or bubble wrap to add extra protection. If you've chosen a local company, you can tape your boxes, label with your contact information and deliver them. If you are shipping your slides to the scanning company, tape your package carefully and address as appropriate. For best results, ship with a delivery company such as Federal Express or UPS so you can track delivery and arrival. Be sure to inform your scanning service provider that the package is on its way. Once scanning is completed, the company will return your original slides along with CDs or DVDs containing your digital images.

Tags: your slides, scanning service, scanning equipment, scanning service provider, service provider, companies will, company tape

Adjust The Aperture On Digital Cameras

Choose your exposure mode before setting the aperture.

The aperture setting on a digital single-lens reflex camera in-part determines how your photos will turn out. Aperture, shutter speed and ISO -- also known as digital sensor sensitivity -- work together and balance one another to expose a photograph. When adjusting the aperture manually on your camera, you must also set the shutter speed and ISO, like a teeter-totter, to achieve a well-exposed photograph. Most DSLR cameras offer an aperture priority mode that allows the photographer to adjust the aperture and the camera automatically balances the shutter speed while the ISO stays set.

Instructions

1. Turn the digital camera's power button to "On."

2. Rotate the command dial on the top, left side of the camera to either the aperture priority mode -- noted as "A" or "Av" -- or the manual mode noted with an "M."

3. Locate the dial near the shutter button, on the top, right side of the camera, and rotate the dial to the left to lower the aperture number, or to the right to increase the aperture number.

4. Look through the camera's viewfinder at the shooting data or at an information panel near the camera's shutter button to view the aperture numbers you're selecting.

5. Stop the dial on the preferred aperture number. Press the shutter button lightly half-way down to save the setting and exit the aperture adjustment feature.

Tags: aperture number, shutter button, shutter speed, aperture priority, aperture priority mode

Download Movies From A Jvc Grd270u Camcorder

Download Movies From a JVC GR-D270U Camcorder

The JVC GR-D270U camcorder is a compact mini DV camcorder that you can use to create movies and other videos. A fully charged battery allows you to record a total of 1.5 hours of digital video on the JVC GR-D270U. You can view your recorded video on the 2.5-inch screen, but you might want to downloaded it to your computer to view on a larger monitor. You can download the video files on your own using one of the cables included with the JVC GR-D270U.

Instructions

1. Turn the power switch on your camcorder to "Off."

2. Connect the USB cable that came with the camcorder to the USB port on the camcorder. If you are using the DV cable, connect one end of the cable to the computer first.

3. Put the other end of the USB cable into the USB port on your computer. If you are using the DV cable, connect it to the camcorder.

4. Power on your camcorder. Wait while your computer recognizes the attached JVC GR-D270U camcorder. Typically you will get a pop-up on your screen asking how you want to proceed once the camcorder has been recognized.

5. Open your video editing software, such as Adobe Premiere, Roxie, iMovie or Windows Movie Maker.

6. Import, or capture, the video from the camcorder to your computer using the video editing software. For example, in iMovie you click on "File," then "Import from Camera" to download the movie from your camcorder to the computer.

Tags: your computer, your camcorder, cable connect, computer using, Download Movies

Email Pictures From My Digital Camera

How Do I Email Pictures From My Digital Camera?

Emailing pictures from a digital camera is a simple but time-consuming task if multiple photos are being sent. Another option for sharing pictures digitally and online is by using a picture hosting website.

Equipment

You will need a USB cable, computer, Internet and e-mail. Every digital camera should come with a chord or a dock, called a USB connector, that will attach the camera to the computer. Most models come with just a chord, and others come with a dock station that the user will plug the entire camera into. Any model computer will have a USB port and every e-mail client will have the ability to attach an image.

Finding and Labeling Pictures

The easiest way to attach pictures to your e-mail, once the photos have been copied onto the computer, is to name each picture something memorable and put it into a folder that is easy to find. Preferably on your desktop, the "Pictures" folder in "Macintosh HD" or the "My Pictures" folder found in "My Computer" on PC. Identifying the photographs and the folder in this way will make attaching them to an e-mail much easier. Another option is to e-mail them directly from the camera folder itself. However, this will use the battery life on the camera and it would be ideal to transfer the files directly onto the computer. This may not be a possibility if using a public computer though.

Attaching a Picture to an E-mail

Once the pictures are on the computer and labeled, you can upload them into an e-mail. The process begins by opening a new e-mail document in your e-mail server of choice and then attaching the pictures. Click the attach button and, regardless of the e-mail server being utilized or what kind of computer you have, a window will open. All of the files and folders on the computer can be found in this window. By using the drop-down boxes in the right folder, the file (photograph) can be found for uploading. Once the file has been attached to the e-mail, it will begin to upload into the message and will be ready for sending.

Other Photo Sharing Options

This process is useful for sending a few photos at a time to one or multiple people, however if you'd like to send multiple pictures at a time, it would be wise to use an online picture site to upload, store and send multiple photos. Most of these sites also have the ability to print the photos and send them to you through the mail. Some options are Picasa (picasa.google.com), Shutterfly (www.shutterfly.com) and Photo Bucket (www.photobucket.com). Each of these sites are free and should have the ability to upload multiple photos at a time, either by the same method as e-mail, except with the option to upload five or more at a time (this is best done with a fast Internet connection) or by downloading an application for easy uploading directly from the website. Once the photos are uploaded into the site, the user has the ability to share the links to whole photo albums.

Tags: come with, have ability, multiple photos, Another option, digital camera

What Media Players Play The Flash Video Format

Flash video can be downloaded from a number of popular websites such as YouTube, Google Video and Megavideo, if you use a Web browser plug-in for snatching the media. The format usually uses the file extension FLV, and although it plays perfectly in a Web browser, external media players usually can't play this format because a few media players support the FLV codec.

VideoLAN VLC

VLC is one of the most widely used alternative media players available. Free and open source, VLC can be downloaded from VideoLAN.org and comes with playback support for dozens of codecs. The application runs on Microsoft Windows, Apple Mac OS X and GNU/Linux, as well as a number of other, less common desktop operating systems. Many people like VLC simply because with a few clicks, you can stream media over your network to a network-connected TV or device.

MPlayer

MPlayer is another popular alternative to VLC that runs on every major operating system. MPlayer can accomplish all of the same tasks, but comes with a stripped-down interface that minimalists often prefer. The FLV codec, along with many others, is supported by ffmpeg, the libraries used by MPlayer to decode, encode and transcode digital audio and video. MPlayer is best supported on GNU/Linux, the operating system the player was originally designed to run on.

Windows Media Player

In the past, Microsoft Windows Media Player did not fluidly support the FLV video format, requiring a lot of rigging to get the player to accept the codec. As of Windows Media Player 10, FLV files can play fluidly as long as you download and install the FFDShow codec pack that adds full FLV support. Since Windows Media Player comes with all versions of Microsoft Windows, this is likely the best option for anyone who does not want to download and install any extra media player packages on their system.

Winamp

Winamp has been around since the early days of digital media and has always supported a wide variety of formats. Although primarily a music player, Winamp has added a lot of functionality over the years, including a Web browser and video support. The latest versions of Winamp support the FLV video format on the Microsoft Windows platform.

Tags: Microsoft Windows, Windows Media, Windows Media Player, comes with, Media Player

Repair A Video Camera

Over the course of the past decade, personal video cameras have become nearly ubiquitous throughout the United States and the world. People use video cameras for a variety of applications, from filming a children's sporting event to producing a homemade feature film. Unfortunately, like all electronic devices, video cameras are prone to failure.

Instructions

1. Ensure the battery is charged and in proper working order. The most common cause of video camera problems is a battery issue. If the battery is old and well-used, there's a good chance it will no longer hold a charge, in which case it will need to be replaced. Inspect the contacts of the battery and the camera's battery slot for corrosion or dirt.

2. Clean the contacts with an electronics contact cleaner. This can be purchased from most electronics or department stores. Often, the bottle of cleaner will include a built-in brush you can use to scrub the contacts. If not, apply a small dab of the solution to a cotton swab and carefully clean the contacts.

3. Record video with your camera and play it back. If the picture quality isn't as clear as it should be, or you notice visual artifacts and freezes, the video heads inside of the camera are probably dirty. This can be remedied by purchasing a head-cleaning tape at an electronics store. Follow the instructions included with the device by running the tape in the camera, just as you would with a recording tape.

4. Use tweezers to remove debris from the transport. To access this area, you'll need to remove the carriage door, which is probably attached with small screws. If any debris remains, use a can of compressed air to blow it free. Keeping the transport area clean will prevent your camera from shredding tapes.

5. Consider replacing the belt inside of the camera. This will be necessary if the camera refuses to eject a tape. Power off the camera and remove the screws holding the camera together. Inspect the belt for damage or wear, and remove it if necessary. Apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol to the new belt, allow it to dry, and thread it through the pulleys.

Tags: video cameras, inside camera, your camera

Use Photography Reflectors

Reflectors add more light to a photographic subject.

Photography literally mean "writing with light." Good lighting is essential in photography, but achieving good light doesn't always require extra lights, just a reflector. A light reflector can be anything that is white or silver and reflects light. White paper, tinfoil, foam board and mirrors can work just as well as a professional grade reflector.

Instructions

1. Reflect light onto your photography subject's face with a reflector if you are shooting on a sunny day around noon. Shooting pictures in the middle of the day is notoriously troublesome for photographers. The sun shines down from directly overhead, causing the subject's hair to be overly bright and the brow bone to cast a shadow over the eyes. Using a reflector to bounce sunlight onto the face fills in unwanted shadows and reduces the unpleasant contrast between the subject's hair and eyes.

2. Place a reflector under a subject who is being lit with a strobe light. Make sure the reflector is angled so that it catches the light of the strobe and bounces upward towards the subject's face. The reflector will act as a "fill" light, reducing shadow caused by the strobe but not overpowering the light so much that the picture's depth is lost.

3. Diffuse strobe lighting by bouncing it off of a reflector. Hold the reflector toward your subject and place your strobe between the reflector and the subject. Aim the strobe away from the subject and towards the reflector. The reflector will enlarge the strobe's light and give it a softer feel on the subject.

4. Place a white reflector behind your subject to create a white background for mug shots. Make sure that the camera is zoomed in close to the subject's face and that the white of the reflector is filling the entire background.

5. Reflect light onto the side of your subject's face if you are shooting on an overcast day. The small addition of light will add a subtle but powerful sense of depth to the subject. Make sure that your reflector does not appear in the shot.

Tags: subject face, Make sure, your subject, light onto, Make sure that, Reflect light

Use A Photo Enlarger

Making a print with an enlarger.

Traditional darkroom procedures for developing film and photographic prints have changed little over the years, with the exception of commercial processes. In an age where digital photography has virtually eliminated the need for a darkroom, knowledge of traditional practices is essential for any serious photographer. This is a basic guide designed to furnish the beginner with simple steps in the use of an enlarger; see the Resources section at the end of this article for information on related processes.

Instructions

Instructions

1. Set up your work area. If you do not have access to a darkroom, set up a makeshift darkroom in a bathroom, closet or other area where sunlight and light from others rooms is completely blacked out. A photo enlarger uses a safelight (a red or amber light that does not activate the photo-sensitive materials in the photographic paper) and is the only light that should be used when the paper is exposed. Color photographs must be printed in total darkness.

2. Mix the developing chemicals according to directions. There will be four trays---developer, stop bath, fixer, and water to rinse the chemicals from the paper. Pour the chemicals into the trays and have the photographic paper ready. Photo paper should be kept enclosed in its packaging until just prior to use, as exposure to light will activate the paper and render it useless.

3. Make sure the lens is properly placed in the head of the enlarger. Set the lens aperture to f8 by adjusting the ring. Turn the enlarger light on and raise or lower the head of the enlarger using the knob or lever located on the right of the column. Adjust the focus knob as needed to sharpen the edges of the light projected onto the enlarger base. If you are using 8-by-10-inch photographic paper, focus the light rectangle so that its edges are sharp and fall within the desired parameters on the enlargement easel.

4. Once you have chosen the negative you want to develop, place it in the negative carrier so that the shiny emulsion side faces up and the image is centered within the carrier frame. Place a piece of printer paper or other plain white paper in the easel and make further adjustments to focus the image as needed with the focusing knob.

5. Turn off the enlarger light. Set the timer and aperture; these settings can be determined using the test strip (see Resources section at the end of this article for information on create one). Insert the filter, if you are using one, into its place in the enlarger head and close the metal flap to prevent light leaks. (See Resources for a helpful e-How instructional video on using filters).

6. Place a piece of photographic paper in the easel with the shiny emulsion side up. Switch the timer on to expose the paper, then transfer it to your developing station to process in the chemicals (see Resources for information on chemical processing).

Tags: photographic paper, article information, emulsion side, enlarger light, head enlarger, light that, paper easel

Top Digital Slr Cameras With Wide Angle

All DSLR cameras have the ability to use wide-angle lenses.

Digital single-lens reflex cameras (DSLR) all have the ability to use various focal length lenses, from super wide-angle to super telephoto. By definition, an SLR (digital or analog) has the ability to interchange lenses. Using a wide-angle lens on a DSLR has nothing to do with the camera and everything to do with available lenses for the camera. Some of the top DSLR cameras have numerous wide-angle lenses available for use.

Nikon D90

Introduced in 2008, Nikon's D90 received rave reviews from the press, photo industry experts and consumers. As with all DSLR cameras the Nikon D90 has a variety of lenses available for use. The Nikon D90 features 12.3 megapixels, 24 frame-per second 720p HD video, built-in image sensor cleaning and a three-inch 921,000 dot color LCD monitor. Because the D90 has a compact sensor, it uses lenses designated with a DX mark. DX lenses were designed from the ground up to function with Nikon's compact sensor line of cameras, but like all Nikon cameras, users can mount any Nikon lens on the D90. Users that use non-DX lenses on their D90 have limited functionality including loss of auto-focus capabilities and automatic exposure modes. Nikon's current line of DX wide-angle lenses includes the 10.5mm f/2.8 G ED fisheye and the 35mm f/1.8G. Nikon also makes two wide-angle zoom lenses for use on the D90; the 10-24mm f/3.5-4.5G ED, and the 12-24mm f/4 IF ED. Considered a "prosumer" camera, the D90 has a suggested retail price of $899.95 as of October 2010. (See Reference 1.)

Nikon D3x

The Nikon's D3x uses Nikon's full-frame sensor (functions with all lens types) and features 24.5 megapixels, a 51-point auto-focus system, two live-view shooting modes and continuous shooting at up to five-frames per second. Unlike compact sensor cameras like the Nikon D90, users that mount older non-DX lenses on the D3x have full functionality of auto-focus and automatic exposure operations. Nikon's extensive line of wide-angle lenses for the D3x include the 14mm f/2.8D ED, the 20mm f/2.8D, the 16mm f/2.8D fisheye, the 24mm f/1.4G ED, the 28mm f/2.8D and the 35mm f/1.4G. Primarily designed for working professionals, the Nikon D3x has a suggested retail price of $7,999.95 as of October 2010. (See Reference 2.)

Canon EOS 5D Mark II

Canon's full-frame EOS 5D Mark II has been popular with both professional and advanced amateur photographers. The camera's combination of a full-frame sensor, large megapixel count (21.1 megapixels) and exceptional lenses make it a favorite with landscape, architectural and food photographers. The camera's live-view feature allows users to obtain critically accurate focus. The 5D Mark II uses Canon's EF line of lenses. Wide-angle lenses available for the 5D Mark II include the 14mm f/2.8L II USM, the 20mm f/2.8 USM, the 24mm f/1.4L II USM, the 28mm f/2.8 and the 35mm f/1.4L USM. As of October 2010, the Canon 5D Mark II has a suggested retail price of $2,499. (See Reference 3.)

Tags: wide-angle lenses, compact sensor, DSLR cameras, lenses available, October 2010, retail price

Buy An External Flash For Your Dslr

Buy An External Flash For Your DSLR

Besides upgrading lenses, upgrading your external flash unit on your DSLR camera is a must if you want to capture sharp and clear images. Most DSLR cameras come standard with a built-in flash; however, they are static and point light in one direction. The answer to this problem is the external flash, which lets you better control how the light source refracts off of the subject you are shooting.

Instructions

1. Review the differences of an external flash; you have two choices, an external flash with a bounce head or a slave flash. The flash with a bounce head allows you to point the flash up or down to diffuse light off of the subject. A slave flash is separate from the hot shoe, but still connected via a wire; a hotshoe is what the flash unit connects to for a power source.

2. Shop the market for an external flash; prices vary from $350 to over $1000, depending on what special features you are looking for.

3. Buy a used flash; the used market for flash units is one way to buy your first flash unit.

Tags: external flash, flash unit, bounce head, external flash, External Flash Your, flash with

High Speed Camera Myths

A high-speed camera is a device used to record moving images in slow motion. This is done by speeding up the frame rate at which the camera shoots and records, therefore slowing down the moving image. This was originally done by "overcranking" a film camera, but in recent years, high-definition digital cameras can now produce a similar effect.

History

Up until the early 1960s, film was the only medium available to record motion that was too fast for observation. In the early 1970s, Video Logic Corp. offered a high-speed video system called Instar that could record up to 240 frames per second. Over the next several decades, many film and camera companies such as Kodak, Photron and Redlake Imaging introduce products that would keep the revolution of high-speed cameras moving.

Operation

High-speed cameras shoot at a high frame rate to achieve a slow-motion effect. Normal speed video or film is shot at 24 frames per second, and anything higher than that will be seen progressively slower the more frames per second that are shot. In still photography, this can capture moments that would usually be missed by the human eye. Examples would be freezing the moment when a balloon pops, a drop of water rippling in a lake, a car driving by or a bird flying in the sky.

Uses

High-speed photography records fast-moving objects, documenting things that are normally invisible to the human eye. Scientists use high-speed photographs to study physical movement. The military takes high-speed pictures to look at the accuracy of missiles and rockets. Sports photographers use high-speed photography to shoot fast-moving events. High-speed photography can also be used as an artistic medium.

Myths

Among the myths about high-speed cameras are concerns about visibility through a crystallized plate or plastic wrap or the ability to capture a speeding car in motion or a bird flying by.

Tested Myth

On the Discovery Channel television show "MythBusters," the myths were put to the test: the crystallized plate and plastic wrap had little effect on visibility, and the camera was able to capture a car in motion and a falcon flying by (at 40 mph).

Tags: frames second, bird flying, crystallized plate, crystallized plate plastic, film camera

Convert A Portable Dvd Player To A Digital Picture Viewer

Portable DVD players also function as digital picture frames.

As with many consumer electronics, portable digital video disc (DVD) players perform as multimedia devices. Units can play movies, music and video games and display pictures. A DVD player that displays photographs becomes a digital photo frame and a money-saver by eliminating your need to purchase a separate product to show your still memories. These players, like digital picture frames, accept many forms of media, making the players more versatile and user-friendly.

Instructions

1. Transfer photos from your computer to a portable media device using a USB storage or jump drive.

Learn if your unit displays digital picture files, or .jpeg files, and what media types your player accepts in addition to digital video discs (DVDs). Find slots on your unit labeled "SD" for memory card and "USB" for universal serial bus storage drives. Also, consult the media types page or section of your owner’s manual.

2. Scan older pictures to your computer to create .jpeg files.

Create picture, or .jpeg files. Insert a memory card into your digital camera or use its internal memory. The camera takes pictures in the .jpeg format. Scan photographs from your album or conventional frames using a scanner connected to your computer. Preview the photograph to assure the image appears as you desire, select the .jpeg file format, press scan and save to your computer.

3. Transfer your picture files from your computer to your media storage device. Insert the memory card or USB drive into your computer. Click the icon on the "My Computer" window for the card or drive. Open in a separate window the folder for your pictures. Highlight the desired files by holding the "ctrl" button and clicking on the file. Drag your cursor with the selected files over the minimized window for your storage device. For DVDs or CDs, highlight the files and click "burn."

4. Insert your memory card, USB drive, DVD or CD into your portable DVD player. Consult your owner’s manual for instructions on displaying photo files. Typical players automatically detect the media storage device and the type of file and will display the pictures.

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Use My Nikon D700

Digital single lens reflex (DSLR) cameras have common features such as manual, aperture mode, shutter speed mode, program mode and autofocus in addition to more esoteric features that are specific to certain makes and models. The Nikon D700 is no exception. The advanced digital SLR has several uncommon features such as an FX shooting option and a time lapse mode, along with standard creative modes. The D700 suits the advanced photographer who is looking to take their work to new creative levels.

Instructions

1. Chose whether you want to take an FX or DX shot in the camera menu under the "Image Area" setting. FX shots are full-frame shots that are the equivalent to a 35 mm film shot. DX shots are cropped down from the full-frame size. Always shoot in the DX format when using DX lenses. Use either the FX or DX format when shooting with an FX lens.

2. Select your image size and file type by pressing the "Qual" button near the shutter release and turning the sub-command dial. Chose whether you want to shoot in JPEG or RAW. JPEG images take up less memory on a memory card, but RAW files hold more visual information. Users of the D700 have the option of recording 12-bit or 14-bit RAW files. Fourteen-bit files hold more color information than the 12-bit files.

3. Select a shooting mode by holding down the "Mode" button and rotating the main command dial until you find your desired mode. Shooting modes on the D700 include program mode, aperture priority mode, shutter speed priority mode and manual mode. Use the sub-command dial to adjust the prioritized setting in aperture and shutter speed priority modes. Use the main adjustment wheel to change the exposure value. In manual mode use the sub-command dial to change the aperture and the main command dial to adjust the shutter speed.

4. Create a time lapse movie by preparing the D700's interval timer. Select the interval timing option in the main menu. Select "Now" or "Start Time" on the interval timer. The "Now" option begins the time lapse three seconds after the settings are determined. The "Start Time" option allows the photographer to choose a specific time when the time lapse starts. Select a start time if you chose that option and select an interval speed using the directional pad on the back of the camera. Choose the number of shots you would like from each interval. Select the "Start-On" option, exit the main menu, and press the shutter release to begin the time lapse.

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Convert 35mm Slides To Photos

Convert 35mm slides to digital using a scanner connected to a computer.

Select flatbed photo scanners come with 35mm negative film and slide attachments to facilitate the conversion from a negative to a digital photograph on a connected computer. This allows a user to convert, store, and preserve older slides and negatives in a digital format for easier sharing management. Once 35mm slides are digitized, a user can edit, color-correct, and restore them.

Instructions

1. Open the scanner's lid and remove the cover on the top lid to access the 35mm slide adapter. Depending on the scanner, the adapter might be removable or built-in.

2. Clean the glass on the scanner bed and arrange the slides on the bed, using the one of the supplied slide templates. Cover any empty or unused slots to prevent light from leaking in.

3. Close the scanner and press the "Scan Film" button on the outside of your scanner. If the scanner does not have any external buttons, start the supplied software that came with the scanner and use the on-screen controls to begin scanning the slides.

4. Select the appropriate options or presets for scanning slides. Also select the "Save to file" option and select the output format in which you want to save the files.

5. Select the location on the computer where you wish to save your new pictures, and click "Scan" or "Save" to convert your slides to photos.

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What Microphone Replaces Shure 590t

The Shure 590T was discontinued in 2010. The 590T served as a handheld universal replacement microphone for more than 40 different two-way radios sets. Shure did not develop an exact replacement, but there are a couple of options available.

Considerations

The most sought-after features of the 590T included the built-in amplifier and the frequency response from 200 to 4,000 Hz. Another highly prized feature was the modular plug cord. This plug allowed the cord to be easily changed. The 590T offered a leaf-type switch that was built to handle rough and continuous use.

Shure 514B

The Shure 514B was designed for paging and public address systems. Although very similar to the 590T, the differences should be noted. It has a wider frequency response, 100 to 6,000 Hz. Also, in order to perform similarly to the 590T, an external microphone preamp is required. Finally, the modular plug cord is not available on the 514B.

Shure 527C

Another similar microphone is the 527C. The 527C has a built-in amplifier that supports its use in a variety of situations. The frequency response is 300 to 5,000 Hz. Also, the 527C offers a similar leaf-type switch.

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Use A 35mm Slr Camera

Basic 35mm SLR camera.

The 35mm camera used to be the standard around the world. Whether it was a single-lens reflex (SLR) or rangefinder, the 35mm camera was used by everyone from tourists to pros to capture everything from family picnics to news to fashion. Digital came along and many people switched, but there is nothing like using a 35mm film camera.

Instructions

1. Buy a 35mm SLR or rangefinder camera. They used to be expensive, but since most companies stopped selling many at all, they have fallen in price dramatically. A Nikon, for example, once fetched $500 to $2,000, but now can be bought used for as little as $50. The same is true for lesser cameras like Pentax and Canon. Rangefinders---where the viewing lens is separate but coupled with the taking lens---died out before SLRs, but the Leica still is one of the best cameras around. Since Leicas tend to be sought by collectors, they are more expensive.

2. Choose at least three 35mm-style lenses for your SLR. The three main focal lengths that are the most useful are wide-to-normal zoom, normal and normal-to-telephoto zoom. There are many others to choose from, but these three will be the most useful. The normal lens is around 50mm and takes an image at the same size and distance as the human eye sees it. Wide-angle lenses push the image back so there is more to the image at the sides, top and bottom. Telephoto lenses bring the image closer while cutting out more of the periphery.

3. Choose the kind of film you want to shoot with. While choices are far fewer than in the past, Kodak, Fujifilm and Ilford still make a variety of color and black and white films. If you want to shoot black and white, you can develop it yourself or send it off for processing. This can be costly. An alternative is the black and white film that is processed like color. Kodak's BW400CN film and Ilford's XP2 both can be processed at the local drugstore in color chemicals, but deliver black and white negatives.

4. Take a variety of film with you and go out and shoot. SLRs allow you to see through the lens exactly what will be recorded on the film. Shooting on a variety of film will give a variety of results that you can compare later. You will not be able to see an instant version of your photos, because this is not a digital camera.

5. Try different lenses. The main advantage of an SLR is that you can change lenses in the middle of film rolls without exposing the film. There are both manual and autofocus lenses. Autofocus lenses only will work automatically on autofocus cameras.

6. Process your film---either yourself or with a film printer---and take it into the darkroom or scan it into the computer. Half the joy of film photography is working with the images after they have been shot. Legendary photographer Ansel Adams said that at least half of the look and feel of his photos was created in the darkroom.

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