Canon Camera Lens Types

The distinctive red ring marks the Canon "L" series lenses.

Canon Inc. produces one of the most comprehensive lens systems for both professional and amateur photography. Canon's EOS lenses, or Electro-Optical System, contain electronic sensors that team with Canon's digital SLR cameras to offer accurate auto focus. These EOS lenses have an EF, or electro-focus, mount on a wide range of more economical and expensive lenses. Please note that the EF-S lens mount works for certain camera bodies, such as the EOS 7D, 60D and Rebel and Digital Rebel. Canon's EF lenses with an EF-USM designation feature an ultrasonic motor that allows for faster focus.

In 2007, Professional Photographer named two Canon lenses as the winners of Hot One Awards: EF 50mm f/1.2 lens for the "Autofocus Lens" category and the 70-200mm f/4L IS lens for "Telephoto Zoom Lens."

Optical Image Stabilizer

Some Canon lenses feature optical image stabilizer technology that works in low light conditions and counteracts camera shake. Low light conditions require a longer or slower shutter speed that can record movement from camera shake, resulting in blurred pictures. Image stabilizer lenses, however, contain gyro sensors that detect lens movement and compensate for it. The lens group shifts off its axis and allows up to three or four stops of light. The imaging sensor records a sharper image.

L-Series Lenses

Canon's L-series lenses are high-end, professional lenses. The "L" designation refers to luxury. An example of an L-series lens is EF 16-35mm f/2.8L. Canon's super telephoto lenses from the L-series use fluorite to reduce chromatic and optical aberrations to ensure accurate color and a sharp image.

Standard and Medium Telephoto Lenses

Canon's standard and medium telephoto lenses with one focal length include 50mm, 85mm and 100mm. These prime lenses produce extremely clear, crisp images.

Wide-Angle Lenses

For a wider angle of view to capture group shots, panoramas or architectural images, the EF series includes 14mm, 20mm, 24mm, 28mm and 35mm lenses. For an almost fishbowl look, Canon offers the 15mm f/2.8 fisheye lens. Ultra-wide zoom lenses provide a range of focal lengths, such as 8-15mm, 10-22mm, 16-35mm and 17-40mm.

Telephoto Lenses

Telephoto lenses with a fixed focal length include 135mm, 200mm and 300mm. The most versatile telephoto zoom lenses include 55-250mm, 70-200mm, 70-300mm, 75-300mm, 100-300mm and 100-400mm. Certain long lenses such as the EF 100-400 lens come with a removable tripod collar that increases stability on a tripod mount. Telephotos lenses from the L-series feature a black and white lens barrel that reduces heat gain and makes for a more comfortable hold on a sunny, hot day.

Tags: Canon lenses, lenses with, camera shake, focal length, focal length include

Satellite Dish Receive A Signal

Origin

Satellite programming signals begin at a broadcast center. The signal is a radio wave, just like the ones used for AM and FM radio reception. However, satellite signals are at much higher frequencies than radio signals. The signal--which contains the television programming you watch--is sent out from the broadcast center to satellites in orbit. Once received, these satellites transmit the signal back to Earth to the satellite dishes at homes and businesses.

Factors

The satellite dishes used for home television reception are designed to receive signals as opposed to transmit. They must be in a direct line with the orbiting satellite sending the signal, with no trees or buildings blocking the path, because high frequency radio signals travel in a direct line and will not bend around obstacles.

Reception

If you look at a satellite dish, you'll notice the large bowl-shaped dish as well as the antenna-like protrusion that extends out in front of the dish. When a signal is sent from orbiting satellites, it reflects off of the dish and is focused on to the protrusion known as the feedhorn. The feedhorn contains the Low Noise Block down converter, or LNB. This device filters and amplifies the signal and sends it out to the home satellite receiver--the box by the TV--via cable.

TV Programming

The satellite receiver then decodes and processes the signal, splits it into individual channels that you can tune through with a remote, and sends it to your TV, where it is displayed as the programming that you watch.

Tags: broadcast center, direct line, radio signals, satellite dishes, sent from

Keep A Computer In Good Shape

Your desktop or laptop computer is a tool you rely on for both work and fun. However it can fail on you or become a chore to use if not properly cared for. With a small amount of effort put in to caring for your computer you can reap the benefits of a computer that is more reliable and less stressful to use.

Instructions

1. Install an anti-virus and anti-spyware software suite and update it regularly. Almost all of the products on the market can be set to automatically update themselves, but remember to periodically check to see if the software is still updating itself. Some malicious software may disable or cripple your anti-virus software.

2. Make sure that your machine has sufficient hardware to run the applications you use. Over time you will add more software to your machine, some with higher hardware demands than other software. Check the documentation for the software you are considering and compare the requirements against what your machine is equipped with as far as RAM, hard drive space, processor speed and video card. All of these components are upgradeable, and money put in to upgrades will improve the performance of specific applications as well as the overall performance of your computer.

3. Run maintenance applications on a regular basis. Most operating systems have built-in programs that handle maintenance task that will keep your hard drive operating optimally, clean up old files and check the registry. Run these applications on a regular basis or set them to automatically run during a time when your computer is normally on.

4. Use the Internet wisely. Avoid downloading software from websites that do not seem trustworthy. Don't be deceived by pop ups that inform you your computer is infected with a virus and then try to sell you a software solution, these sites often are a source of malicious software themselves. Scan any and all attachments such as office documents and images that you may find attached to your email, and avoid opening mail from unfamiliar sources.

5. Keep your computer cool and clean. The components of a computer get quite warm and need sufficient cooling to operate well. Make sure that your computer is in a location when the cooling intake and outlet will not be blocked. On most desktop computers these are located on the front and back of the case. Because the computer uses fans to draw air into the case, that also means it draws in other less desirable material also. Once a year open up the case of your desktop computer and clean out the accumulated dust with a can of compressed air from your local electronics store.

6. Despite your best efforts and intentions components still do fail, especially hard drives. While most parts can be replaced with an identical one, your data is unique and often irreplaceable. Performing regular backups will give you the piece of mind that a complete failure of your hard drive means most or all of your data is not lost.

Tags: your computer, hard drive, your machine, applications regular, applications regular basis

My Canon 40d Flash Is Stuck

The built-in flash will not activate for three Basic Zone settings.

The Canon 40D camera contains a built-in flash that pops up to light dark conditions. Certain camera settings on the mode dial prevent this device from lifting and activating. For example, the No Flash setting is especially useful for scenes that prohibit the use of flash photography. A twist of a dial often releases a stationary flash unit. The References includes a Canon EOS 40D Instruction Manual.

Flash Off Mode

The Flash Off mode prevents the built-in flash from popping up. The mode dial's Basic Zone features this setting. The Flash Off symbol displays a white rectangle frame with a bent arrow pointing down. A white diagonal line cuts across the arrow. The flash remains hidden even after depressing the flash button at the front of the camera.

Landscape Mode

The Landscape mode also prevents the flash unit from popping up. The Landscape symbol shows a white cloud hovering over two white mountain peaks on the mode dial. This flash unit lacks the power to provide the correct exposure at a long-distance range. Pressing the flash button on the front of the camera body fails to bring up the flash unit.

Sports Mode

The built-in flash stays stationary with the mode dial set to "Sports." The Sports mode symbol displays a person sprinting to the left. The built-in flash does not pop up when the flash button is depressed. A stronger external flash has a greater chance of lighting moving subjects farther away from the camera.

External Flash Unit

An external flash unit attached to the hot shoe also prevents the built-in flash from popping up. For example, a Canon Speedlite 430EX II set on the hot shoe's flash-synchronization contacts. The Creative Zone modes feature a flash control setting. The menu controls on the camera body's large LCD monitor indicate the conflicting settings. Opening the "Set Up 2" menu and the "Flash Control" menu displays a list of flash options. Selecting the "Built-in flash func. setting" options brings up this warning, "This menu cannot be displayed. External flash is attached."

Solutions

Setting the mode dial to settings other than "Flash Off," Landscape" and "Sports" allows the built-in flash to pop up. Pressing the shutter half-way activates the camera. Pressing the flash button should lift up the flash. Checking and wiping the hot shoe minimizes the chance of something sticking to the external flash detect switch and giving a false warning. This tiny black switch is under the metal spring strip in the right flange of the hot shoe. Turning off the camera, removing the battery, then reinserting the battery after five minutes and turning on the camera resets the camera. Sharp objects should not pry open a stuck flash. Consulting a qualified service center brings you closer to capturing a correctly exposed image.

Tags: built-in flash, flash unit, mode dial, flash button, from popping

Update Firmware On Kiss Dp 600

Keep your Kiss DP 600 networkable DVD player up to date with the latest manufacturer-issued firmware updates. You can think of your DP 600's firmware as its operating system. As keeping the firmware updated helps to resolve bugs and issues from previous firmware versions, update your DP 600's software compatibility and enhance the performance of key features.

Instructions

Creating an ISO Disk

1. Download and install a copy of the ISO tool--Magic ISO Maker. Download the latest firmware update for your DP 600 to your computer--the firmware will be packaged in a zip file (see links for both files in the Resources section).

2. Extract the firmware ISO image file from the zip file (see Resources for a zip extraction utility). Click on the file--Magic ISO Maker will open the ISO file.

3. Click on the "Tools" heading in ISO Maker, and select the option labeled "CD/DVD Image with ISO" from the list below the Tools heading. Click "Burn It!" in the "Burn CD/DVD" menu that appears.

4. Turn on your Kiss DP 600 and place the burned ISO disk on the ejected disk tray--leave the tray ejected. Use a pin to press the recessed "Default" button on the back of your DP 600. While still pressing the Default button, turn the unit back on and then press the player's stop button.

5. Let go of the Default button after about 30 seconds. The DP 600 will take a few minutes to install the firmware upgrade. The ISO disk will be ejected to signal the completion of the upgrade.

Tags: Default button, Tools heading, update your, your Kiss

How Does Thermal Imaging Detect Heat Loss In A Home

Thermal image of a human hand

Thermal imaging, also known as thermography, detects heat loss in a home by taking a picture of it. These pictures show a two-dimensional image of an area of the home in multiple colors ranging from black for the coldest spots to white for the hottest spots. Thermal imaging is commonly offered as part of a pre-purchase home inspection, and is readily available to homeowners who want to decrease their home's energy consumption.

Outside Air Leaks

A thermographic inspection usually begins with the home's exterior. It can show the homeowner exactly where warm air is leaking out in winter or cool air in summer, depending on which is the greater concern. Windows without thermal panes and poorly fitting doors appear clearly. It also shows areas where insulation has been installed incorrectly, has shifted out of position or is missing altogether.

Other Leaks

The inspector can check a home for interior air leaks in the attic and basement and also in ductwork, floors and ceilings. It can even help find water leaks in roofs by showing where air is leaking when it's not raining.

Other Home Applications

Oak Ridge National Laboratories has called thermal imaging "a significant tool" in understanding how homes can be designed for better energy efficiency.

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Wire An Ivaw205

You can manually wire the Alpine IVA-W205 mobile multimedia station to work with the systems in your vehicle. Typically you would plug the wiring harness from the IVA-W205 into an adapter that will interface with your vehicle, but if no adapter is available, you can solder the connections yourself. Soldered connections are more secure and last longer in the vehicular environment, which can be exposed to extreme heat and cold due to weather.

Instructions

1. Disconnect the negative battery cable from the vehicle.

2. Locate the vehicle audio wiring. Find the wiring colors in your owner's manual. Cut off the old connector from the audio system wiring harness. Strip the last half-inch of insulation from the wires. Do the same for the wires on the IVA-W205 wiring harness.

3. Slide a 2-inch section of heat-shrink tubing over each of the wires on the Alpine wiring harness.

4. Match the white wire from the Alpine harness to the left-front positive speaker wire for your vehicle. Twist the wires together. Touch the bare metal with the soldering iron until it's hot and then touch it with the solder so that a drop or two melts off and coats the wires. Use the process to make all of the harness connections.

5. Connect the white-black wire to the left-front negative speaker. Solder the green wire to the left-rear positive and the green-black to the left-rear negative wire. Attach the violet to the right-rear positive and the violet-black to the right-rear negative. Solder the gray wire to the right-front positive and the gray-black to the right-rear negative.

6. Connect the black wire to the electrical ground. Attach the yellow wire to the battery or constant power and the red wire to the ignition or switched power. Attach the yellow-black wire to the foot-brake indicator and the yellow-blue wire to the parking-brake indicator. Pink-black connects to the mute wire so phone calls can interrupt the audio. Blue goes to the power antenna control, if you have that on your vehicle and blue-white connects to the amplifier. Note that if you don't have some of these features on your vehicle, tape over the exposed wire and leave it unconnected.

7. Connect the vehicle antenna to the port on the top-right of the Alpine unit. Connect any optional inputs and outputs such as the iPod adapter or the video input and output cable.

8. Reattach the negative battery cable.

Tags: your vehicle, wiring harness, battery cable, negative battery, negative battery cable, right-rear negative

Intellitag Rfid Technology

Intellitag is a technology provided by radio frequency identification (RFID) provider, Intermec Technologies, Inc., used in asset tracking.

RFID versus Barcodes

RFID serves much the same function as barcodes, to track items on a production floor or pallets of goods. The difference is that barcodes use a line-of-sight reading, where RFID uses a radio signal, requiring no line-of-sight.

Intermec

Intermec Technologies of Everett, Washington, began operations in 1966 (when it was known as Interface Mechanisms). Its key technologies are in the area of automatic information data capture (AIDC), which includes bar coding and RFID.

Asset Tracking

Asset tracking is the practice of following any asset. Common uses are to track work in process (WIP) in a factory; shipments in transit; baggage in airplanes; and increasingly, patients in hospitals.

Intellitag

The Intellitag product line includes both RFID tags which can be fixed to assets and a dedicated reader. This is the RFID equivalent of a barcode reader. The company offers a vehicle-mounted version of the reader, which mounts on lift trucks, freeing the drivers from having to scan the RFID tags.

Users

The Intellitag technology is popular among retailers and logistics companies which rely upon pallet loads of product. Intermec identifies Intellitag users as European retailer METRO Group AG and logistics provider JR Freight.

Tags: Intellitag technology, Intermec Technologies, RFID tags

The Tahoe Cd Player Won'T Accept My Memorex Cdr

This is an example of a CD-R disc.

The CD player in a Tahoe, or in other automobiles, may not accept all types of CD-R discs. There are some players that do not read any CD-R discs. There is no guarantee that a particular brand or model of CD-R will work in a particular CD player. However, there are steps you can take to make sure that user-error is not causing the player to malfunction while reading the disc. You can do this by properly configuring the CD authoring software and making sure it is burning the disc correctly.

Instructions

Configure a Computer to Burn Audio CD-Rs to Minimilize Errors

1. Open Windows Media Player.

2. Click on the "Library mode" button if Windows Media player is not in Library mode.

3. Click on the "Organize" drop-down menu.

4. Select "Options" from the list.

5. Open the "Burn" tab.

6. Select "Slow" from the drop-down menu next to "Burn speed" under the general section.

7. Remove the check from the box next to "Use media information to arrange files in folders on the disc."

8. Click on "OK."

9. Insert a Memorex CD-R (with a 74-minute capacity if available) into the computer's CD-R drive.

10. Select the "Burn" tab.

11. Drag up to 74 minutes of songs you want to add to the CD-R from the library browser window to the "Burn list" under the burn tab.

12. Click on "Start Burn."

13. Wait for the disc to finish burning and check for any error messages. Repeat the process if an error message says that the disc "was not successfully closed."

14. Play the newly burned disc in Windows Media Player. If the disc does not play correctly, it is possible that the source content is copy protected. Try the process again with different songs.

Tags: Windows Media, CD-R discs, CD-R discs There, discs There, drop-down menu

Make A Dvd Recording Of A Television Show

Want to make a DVD recording of a television show? Start by investing in a DVR or TIVO service. Most DVD recorders require a digital copy to record. The digital copy stored on your DVR or TIVO is perfect for recording on a DVD recorder. You'll need to invest in a DVD recorder, recordable DVDs and a subscription to satellite or cable that provides you with DVR functionality.

Instructions

1. Use DVR to record your television shows. The DVR and TIVO functionality allows you to record a television show's episodes.

2. Turn on the DVD recorder, TV and DVR. Be sure the recorder is hooked up correctly (consult your manual for proper setup). Use the best cable connections to ensure higher-quality recordings. Be sure that the input cables from the DVD recorder are hooked up to the Video 2 or similar on the television.

3. Test the recording. Play the television show you want to record. If it shows up while your television is on Video 2, you will know that the signal is being routed correctly through the DVD recorder to your television. If you don't see a picture, check your connections to make sure that your DVR's output cable is plugged into the DVD recorder and the input cables from the DVD recorder are being routed to the television.

4. Begin recording. Place your DVD+R/RW or DVD+R in the DVD recorder. Begin playing the television show you want to record on your DVR or TIVO while hitting the record button on your DVD recorder.

5. Pause the DVD recorder during commercials to eliminate commercials from the DVD recording. This method also requires you to watch the episode as you are recording it to DVD.

6. Finalize the recording. Most DVD recorders require you to use a "Finalize" function when you are done with recording. This function allows it to be playable on other DVD players.

7. Play back recorded episodes. Before deleting the episodes from your DVR or TIVO, confirm that they recorded correctly on the DVD recorder. You may have to experiment to see how many episodes you can fit on a recordable DVD.

Tags: television show, your television, your TIVO, being routed, cables from, cables from recorder

Tokina 2870 Specifications

The Tokina 28-70 is an auto focus lens that is more commonly known as the AT-X 287 PROSV. Because this lens features a Focus Clutch Mechanism, users are able to choose whether they would like to manually focus the lens or use the auto focus feature.

Optics

The Tokina lens features a focal length of 28mm to 70mm, a minimum aperature of 2.8 and a maximum aperature of 22. This lens was constructed from 16 different elements that have been assembled in 12 groups. Each part of this lens is finished with many layers of coatings to make it as durable as possible.

Zoom

The Tokina AT-X 287 PROSV 28-70 lens can focus on a subject as close as 27 inches away. This lens utilizes an Internal Focusing System when it is set on auto focus but it also has a rotary zooming system to help the user achieve the photo they want. The 27-80 lens features 8 diaphragm blades and has a filter size of 77mm.

Internal Focus System

The Internal Focus System used in the Tokina 28-70 allows for the elements of the lens to move for zooming without changing the actual length of the lens itself, making it ideal for telephoto designs. Advantages of this focus system are the ability to focus faster, improved handling because the center of gravity does not change, compact lens design and improved use of filters with the lens because the actual threads don't rotate.

Focus Clutch Mechanism

Switching from auto focus to manual focus is easy with the Focus Clutch Mechanism featured in the Tokina 28-70 lens. This mechanism uses a ring to determine which setting is being used. Rotate the ring on the lens to switch from one setting to the other.

Dimensions

The Tokina 28-70 optical lens was designed to be lightweight. This lens features an outer diameter of 3.3 inches and a length of 4.3 inches. The lens weights just 25.2 ounces.

Mounting

The Tokina 28-70 optical lens can be mounted on a number of cameras, including the Pentax AF, Nikon-D, Minolta AF and Canon EOS. When you purchase this lens, it comes with a lens hood cap and a soft carrying case for protection. The 28-70 lens can also be used with a variety of filters to achieve desired effects.

Tags: Tokina 28-70, auto focus, lens features, 28-70 lens, Clutch Mechanism

What Is The Difference Between Analog & Digital Tv

Analog TV signals are transmitted over the air as frequency and amplitude modulation, the same as with radio. Digital TV is also transmitted over the air, but as bits and pieces of data, very much like computer files and streaming or a wireless Internet signal.

Function: Analog

Analog TV uses both types of radio frequencies, sending video over AM and audio over FM. The U.S. signal standard for analog TV is NTSC.

Effects

The quality of analog TV is greatly affected by airwave interference, along with the exact distance and location of any television picking up the signal.

Other Issues

The addition of color greatly affects analog TV signals, as it wasn't a factor when NTSC was adopted following Word War II. Many stations have different color shades because of this.

Benefits: Digital

The digital TV signal was designed to accommodate black-and-white and color video along with audio as either a progressive or interlaced signal. This allows signal flexibility.

Potential

Digital television also transmits the same analog signal in less bandwidth space, allowing more space for extra channels with features like extra languages and surround sound.

Tags: along with, transmitted over

Dispose Of Duracell Aa Batteries

Duracell is owned by Proctor and Gamble, an American company that got its start in the early 1800s manufacturing and selling soap products. Today, Duracell produces batteries and power solutions for many different applications. The company's all-purpose and rechargeable batteries are widely available at local retailers. Applications include power for flashlights, cameras, radios and other small products. Duracell AA all-purpose and rechargeable batteries are cylindrical in shape and must be disposed of or recycled properly.

Instructions

1. Dispose of general purpose and alkaline Duracell batteries in normal household trash. Check the label to confirm the battery's composition.

2. Do not dispose of large amounts of alkaline batteries together, as batteries that are not completely depleted of power may come into contact with each other and cause sparks.

3. Recycle Duracell AA rechargeable batteries. Call your local waste management center for battery recycling procedures in your area.

4. Check with local businesses where batteries are sold to see if they accept batteries for recycling.

Tags: rechargeable batteries, all-purpose rechargeable, all-purpose rechargeable batteries

Use My Cell Phone To Switch To Prepaid

Those who use prepaid phones spend less time using their phone and ultimately save more money than those with other types of plans. If you are looking to cut costs, or simply want more control over how much you talk and use your phone, switching to prepaid is a viable option. If you are fond of your phone and are even more attached to your cell phone number, don't despair because there are ways to keep both and switch to a prepaid plan that better meets your needs.

New SIM Card

Every cell phone comes with a removal Subscriber Identity Module, or SIM, card. This card contains pertinent information about your account and your usage history, which the carrier uses to compile your bill. SIM cards can be moved from phone to phone, which means that if you want to switch from a long-term contract to a prepaid phone, all you need is a SIM card prepared by your phone carrier with prepaid data on it.

Keep Your Phone

Many carriers, including Verizon and AT&T, allow you to have your account transferred to a prepaid one without changing SIM cards. This is done by getting your carrier to unlock your phone's GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) code. Keep in mind that many carriers consider this change a cancellation of your current contract, or at the very least a change which will often result in lengthening your contractual obligation.

Fees

If your carrier considers your switching from a contract to a prepaid one a cancellation of your old contract, or if you choose to change carriers but keep your old phone because its GSM code is unlocked, you will likely be charged a contract breakage fee which can range anywhere from $150-$250 per phone line.

Tags: your phone, cancellation your, cell phone, contract prepaid, your account, your carrier

What Is The Difference Between The Pro Duo & Sd Card

Digital devices continue to require larger storage capacities as certain technologies create digital media files with increased sizes. Music, videos and images are examples of digital media that can take up large amounts of storage space. Consumers, however, want to carry digital information in smaller and smaller devices. Pro Duo and SD cards provide digital storage capacities that help to meet this increased demand.

The Pro Duo

Sony introduced the Pro Duo technology in 2003 as a smaller version of the memory stick. The Pro Duo is used almost exclusively with Sony products such as game consoles, cameras, cellular phones and portable PlayStation devices. The Pro Duo is also transfers data at a much faster rate than memory sticks.

SD Memory Card

Secure Digital (SD) memory cards come in the following three formats: SD, mini SD and micro SD. The mini and micro SD varieties commonly come with adapters that make it possible to use them in devices fitting standard-size cards. SanDisk, Toshiba and Matsushita/Panasonic developed SD in 2000. Most electronic devices -- with the exception of Sony products -- can use the SD technology.

Transfer Speed and Physical Dimensions

The size and transfer rates for both formats have increased dramatically since these cards first appeared. As of October 2011, the Pro Duo can read and write up to 30 megabytes per second (MBps). The physical dimensions of the Pro Duo are 1.22 inches high by 0.79 inches wide by 0.06 inches deep. The SD card, on the other hand, can write up to 30 MBps and read up to 40 MBps. Its physical dimensions are 1.26 inches high by 0.94 inches wide by 0.08 inches deep. The maximum storage capacity of both the Pro Duo and SD cards is 64 gigabytes (GB).

Micro and Mini SD

Cellular phones commonly use the Micro SD card because of its size and adaptability. SanDisk originally developed the Micro SD card in 2006 and Motorola standardized the format for cellular phones. SanDisk developed the Mini SD card in 2003, and this technology is commonly used by smaller digital products, including some cameras and handheld gaming devices.

Tags: digital media, dimensions inches, dimensions inches high, high inches, high inches wide, inches deep, inches high

Use A Camera Flash For Studio Lighting

A flash unit for a SLR camera.

A studio gives a photographer complete control over lighting conditions. Using strobes to light a scene requires a little forethought and a lot of experimenting. In the world of digital photography, experimenting is now easier than ever. There are still a few techniques to remember that will help in lighting a scene appropriately.

Instructions

1. A modern flash with remote firing capability

Mount the flash off-camera to avoid dull, flat images. When the flash unit is mounted on top of the camera, the lighting conditions often fill in shadows and lose detail in a subject. By changing the angle of light, shadows are cast, retaining detail in the shot. Use either a hot-shoe cord or wireless flash triggering system--often built into many modern digital SLRs--to remotely fire the flash, which can be mounted on a spare tripod.

2. A studio set-up with multiple sources of light

Add a secondary fill light to your flash setup for even exposures. Using a secondary flash, or constant source of light such as a hot lamp, that is less powerful than the main flash will provide enough light to capture detail in shadows. Consult your camera and flash operations manuals for information on firing multiple flashes at once. If your existing equipment does not support a multiple flash setup, then a commander unit can be purchased to add this functionality.

3. Choose your lighting technique based on your subject. There are a variety of different techniques providing different results. Classic Rembrandt lighting places the main light source in the upper left of the shot with a fill light in the lower right. Beauty shots often light a model from underneath the camera to reduce wrinkles, while butterfly flash setups use a rectangular zone of light to evenly light a subject from each angle.

4. A highly reflective silver umbrella with flash

Choose the right umbrella setup. Umbrellas are used in studio photography to diffuse harsh light from flash strobe units and provide softer lighting conditions. Silver umbrellas provide a highly reflective bounce, ideal for glamour shots, while white umbrellas are available with black backing to prevent light escaping and provide softer light than silver umbrellas. Translucent umbrellas provide delicate light when used to bounce, or can be used to filter light by pointing them straight at the subject.

5. Diffusers and gel filters can be added to flash units like this for creative shots.

Use colored filters and flash diffusers to adjust lighting. Many photographers use colored gel filters to project colored light at their subjects during photo shoots. Tinted flash diffusers fit on top of the unit and are a cost-effective and space-saving method of diffusing raw flash lighting. Experiment with different colors and setups to find the right balance.

Tags: lighting conditions, colored filters, fill light, flash diffusers, flash setup, flash unit, highly reflective

Delete The Map Notice Update From Garmin Nuvi

Delete the Map Notice Update From Garmin Nuvi

Global Positioning System devices, such as the Garmin Nuvi, come with maps that are used determine where you are and what route to take to your destination. A notification is displayed on the Nuvi to remind users when there is a map update available. However, this message may appear each time the unit is started and requires additional action to make it go away. You can delete the map notice update from the Garmin Nuvi by installing a new firmware update.

Instructions

1. Download the WebUpdater program for your system that is available from Garmin (see Resources below). Save the setup program to a convenient location, such as your desktop.

2. Double-click the setup icon to install the program.

3. Click on the "Next" button when the Installation Wizard appears on the screen. Follow the prompts through the wizard to install the WebUpdater on your system.

4. Connect your Garmin Nuvi to your computer with the USB connector cable.

5. Double-click the WebUpdater icon on your desktop to run the program. Alternatively, you can go to the "Start" menu and then click on "Programs," "Garmin" and then "WebUpdater."

6. Select the option to agree to search for additional updates. You will then need to select all available updates and then click "OK" to install the updates to your Nuvi.

7. Wait for the program to complete the update process on your Nuvi.

8. Disconnect your Nuvi from the computer to complete the update process.

Tags: Garmin Nuvi, your Nuvi, complete update, complete update process, Delete Notice Update

Watch A Video On A Tv Connected To An Ipod

You can watch a video on a TV connected to an iPod with the Apple iPod AV Cable. The iPod Video and iPod Photo both support TV out so you can watch videos or slideshows with audio and video outputted to your TV. Follow these steps to watch a video on a TV connected to an iPod.

Instructions

1. Purchase an Apple iPod AV Cable. To make sure you get the official product, go online to the Apple Web site (see link below). Find it under "iPod Accessories" and click "Cables and Docks."

2. Connect the AV cable to your iPod. Plug the smaller end into the headphone jack where the earbuds go. Or plug it into the lineout port on a dock.

3. Find the RCA inputs on your TV. Look for the red, white and yellow jacks on the front, back or side of the TV.

4. Connect the RCA plugs to your TV. They should be color coded, but when they are not, connect the red plug to the right audio input, the white plug to the left audio input and the yellow plug into the video input.

5. Turn on your television and turn on your iPod. Begin playing a video or displaying a picture.

6. Find the right input. Press the "Input" or "Video" button on your TV or remote to scroll through the inputs until you see the video on the screen.

7. Enjoy your video!

Tags: Apple iPod, Apple iPod Cable, audio input, connected iPod, iPod Cable, plug into, video connected

Use The Canon 580ex

The Canon 580EX flash, replaced by the 580EX II in 2007, is Canon's flagship speedlight. The EX II recycles 20 percent faster than the original, has a better build quality, and an easier locking mechanism. The flash has a range of 30 meters and is dust and weather resistant.

Instructions

Getting Started

1. Open the battery door and install the four AA batteries, following the diagram for the proper polarity of each battery. Put the flash on the camera hot shoe and pull the switch to the right to lock it to the camera.

2. Turn on the flash and wait for the pilot light to cycle to green for Quick Flash and red for ready. Quick flash allows the flash to fire at 1/6 to 1/2 power for faster flash work.

3. Test fire the flash by pushing the pilot light. If it fires, wait for the flash pilot light to cycle back to red so that it is ready.

4. Turn on camera and turn the mode to Program, then choose your desired ISO setting. Push the Mode button on the flash until is displayed. Depress the shutter button on the camera halfway to focus on your subject, then depress the shutter button to take your photograph.

5. Check the flash exposure compensation light underneath the pilot light on the flash. If a proper exposure was obtained, this light will flash for three seconds. If it does not flash, move closer to your subject, recompose the shot, and take your photograph again.

Tags: pilot light, light cycle, pilot light cycle, shutter button, take your, take your photograph, your photograph

Basics Of Slr Cameras

Basics of SLR Cameras

Single-lens reflex cameras are one of the major categories of still cameras for amateur and professional photographers. They can be film-based or digital. Single-lens reflex cameras employ a single lens and an automatically moving mirror that allows the photographer to sight the image through the lens exactly as it will appear in the final photograph.

Basic Operation

The single-lens reflex camera takes its name from the use of a single lens that acts as both the viewer when sighting the image through the viewfinder and the lens that focuses the image on the film planes for exposure. Allowing the lens to serve both purposes is a reflex mirror. This small mirror is mounted at a 45-degree angle inside the camera body. When the mirror is in its "down" position, it blocks the light entering the lens and redirects it to the viewfinder. Thus, when the photographer looks into the viewfinder he is essentially looking out through the lens, seeing exactly what it is pointed at from the same angle.

When the shutter is engaged, the mirror flips up, allowing light from the lens to strike the film plane. A curtain shutter (sometimes a leaf shutter) draws open, exposing the film for the selected duration. When the exposure is complete, the shutter closes and the mirror returns to its down position.

The Pentaprism

One major technological element essential to single-lens reflex cameras is the pentaprism.This is a glass prism with five reflective faces. Light is directed from the reflex mirror upward into the pentaprism where it is redirected to the viewfinder by means of a series of reflections. This makes it possible for the user of a single-lens reflex camera to view his subject through a viewfinder located on the back of the camera, rather than being forced to look downward into the camera or from some other difficult angle.

Since the light as seen in the viewfinder has been reflected several times, the image seen by the photographer is generally darker and duller than the light actually entering the lens. An experienced photographer will learn to compensate for the loss of quality of light from the pentaprism.

SLR Advantages

The biggest advantage of a single-lens reflex camera is the fact that the photographer sees the image in the viewfinder precisely as it will be captured on film. Since he is sighting and lining up the subject through the camera's lens, he can frame the image to his liking without the need to correct for the small variations that occur between the image seen by the viewfinder and the image seen by the lens in a rangefinder camera, where the two elements are separate.

Additionally, the photographer sees his manipulation of the zoom and focus as they will appear in the finished photograph. Again, this advantage comes from looking directly through the lens. It allows photographers to manipulate the zoom and focus without needing to measure their distance to the subject or correct for filters or other accessories that might change the quality of light.

SLR Disadvantages

Ironically, the major disadvantage of a single-lens reflex camera also comes from the fact that the image is viewed through the lens. Because of the reflex mirror, the image seen in the viewfinder is not visible during the moment of exposure, since the mirror swings up to reveal the film plane, thus blocking the viewfinder. This means that the photographer sees blackness at the instant the image is exposed. It can be problematic in certain situations, such as photographing high-speed action.

In situations like this, a rangefinder camera may be more appropriate. Although the image seen in the viewfinder is from a slightly different angle than the one seen by the lens, there is no interruption of the image and the photographer can continue to observe his subject as the film is being exposed.

The complex optical system involved in an SLR camera also means that the cameras are typically more bulky than other camera styles and have more components that are capable of breaking down over time.

Variations

Single-lens reflex cameras are very popular and come in a variety of styles. They can feature either manual or auto-focus lens systems. Also, many SLR cameras use internal light metering sighted through the lens. This may be part of an automatic exposure setting or simply an aid for the photographer in choosing the proper exposure.

Although the majority of SLR cameras use 35mm film, SLR cameras have been produced in a variety of formats, including 110 film. Since the late 1990s, digital SLRs have been popular and are produced by most major camera companies.

Tags: image seen, through lens, reflex camera, reflex cameras, seen viewfinder

Wire Up Turn Tables

Turntables have made a big comeback. Many models are available for home listening. If you have a collection of vinyl records you're dying to hear, setting your stereo up with a turntable is a breeze.

Instructions

1. Turn off power to the amplifier, phono preamp and turntable if they are on.

2. Plug the stereo RCA cables into the turntable's RCA jacks. Observe the color code: red equals right, white equals left.

3. Plug the other end of the RCA cables into the phono preamp input, again checking the color code stated above.

4. Locate the grounding wire on the turntable. It will be connected to the turntable's metal chassis. It may have green plastic insulation with a U-shaped lug terminal at the end.

5. Locate the ground screw on the amplifier/receiver. It should be a large silver knurled screw you can turn with your fingers. Loosen it, slip the U-shaped turntable grounding lug in, and tighten it.

6. If your phono preamp is a separate unit, plug a second set of stereo RCA cables into its output and plug the other end into a free input channel on the amplifier, observing the color code for right and left.

7. Turn on the power to the turntable, preamp and amplifier. Put a record on and enjoy.

Tags: cables into, color code, phono preamp, stereo cables, stereo cables into

Build A Macro

Macros are a very useful tool in Microsoft Excel. If you have a spreadsheet in which you perform the same set of functions repeatedly, a macro is the perfect way to consolidate several tasks into one simple mouse click. A macro will record any sequence of commands. You can then save the macro and play it back at any time to perform that same sequence. This is useful when the information changes frequently, but you routinely need to run the same calculations on it, or if you want to quickly format a cell with a specific size, font and colors all in one action.

Instructions

Building a Macro

1. Select the cell in which you will begin your commands. Before you begin you should have an idea of several actions that need to be performed in a specific sequence for your macro.

2. Go to "Tools," "'Macro," and select "Create New Macro."

3. Choose a name and shortcut for your macro. This will determine how you find and use it. Selecting a shortcut key can make using your macro even easier. Note that if you enter "A" as your shortcut key you will need to press Ctrl+Shift+A to activate the macro, whereas entering "A" will require you to press only Ctrl+A.

4. Begin recording your macro. Every action you take will now be recorded as part of your macro. You may want your macro to format cells a certain way, copy and paste or perform calculations. Perform these actions carefully and in the correct sequence.

5. Stop recording. When you are finished, click the stop button in the macro window.

Running Your Macro

6. Select the cell on which you want to run your macro.

7. Click on the "Tools: menu, then select "Macro" and "Macros."

8. Select the name of your macro from the drop down list, and click "Run."

Tags: your macro, your macro, cell which, Macro Select, Macro Select cell, Select cell

View A Picture Slideshow On A Television

New technologies allow us to take hundreds of photographs at a time and edit them on the home computer creating albums, digital prints, and slides shows. Sharing your memories with family and friends is always fun but crowding around the computer's small screen is not. Find out convert slide shows on your computer into DVD presentations for viewing on a regular television.

Instructions

1. Begin digital photo software on your computer and locate digital pictures on your C drive.

2. Organize pictures into a photo album or slide show depending on your software choices. Add music, labels and backgrounds at this time if you wish.

3. Use photo software to create a DVD/Photo CD menu for your slide show. Using your DVD remote control, the menu allows you to return, skipView a Picture Slideshow on a Television or freeze on a particular picture.

4. Preview your slide show before burning to a disc. Most software uses a simulation of DVD player and television screen to check the remote control settings are functioning correctly. Make any necessary changes before proceeding.

5. Place the blank DVD/Photo CD disc into disc drive of the computer and use software to burn your photo album/slide show onto a DVD/Photo CD. Check all settings are correct before burning.

6. Remove disc from disc drive and place into DVD player hooked to a television set.

7. Turn television to DVD channel and press play on DVD player. The menu you created on your computer should appear on the screen allowing you to select and enjoy your photos with the whole family.

Tags: slide show, your computer, album slide, album slide show, before burning, disc drive

Video Record With My Webcam & Laptop

A webcam allows you to record video and communicate online.

A webcam is a small camera designed for Internet video communication. Webcams can capture images and videos, and facilitate video conferencing. Some webcams are accessories designed to mount onto a computer and plug in using a USB connection.

Instructions

1. Connect your webcam to your laptop and turn it on.

2. Install your webcam capture software if you haven't done so already. Some examples of capturing software are Windows Movie Maker, which comes free with Windows PCs, and Quick Time Player, which is free on Macintosh computers and can record the screen in Mac OS X Snow Leopard. Additional capture programs includes CamStudio, Yawcam and Xsplit. (See Resources)

3. Open your capture software and select your camera from the "Devices" menu.

4. Click on "Capture."

5. Click " Capture" again when you've finished recording. The button may now display as "Stop Recording," "End Capture" or "Finish," depending on the specific program you're using.

Tags: capture software, Click Capture, your webcam

Put Movies On Mytouch 3g

The MyTouch 3G is an Android-based, touch-screen smartphone. It incorporates all of Google's primary services (such as Gmail and Google Maps) into the operating system and allows you to customize the look of the phone (including backgrounds and icons) and its functions. Although the MyTouch 3G only includes 288 MB of internal memory, expansion memory is supported via the MicroSD card slot. You can put movies on the MyTouch 3G by adding them to the MicroSD card.

Instructions

1. Insert the MicroSD card (if it's not present already) into the "MicroSD" card slot underneath the battery cover on the back of the phone. Connect the MyTouch 3G to your computer using the supplied USB cable. The notification icon will appear on the phone. Touch "USB Connected." Touch "Mount." The computer will detect the phone and its MicroSD card. The autorun window on the computer will open.

2. Click "Removable Disk [:F]." A folder will open and all of the contents on the SD card will be displayed.

3. Drag and drop the video files you want on the MyTouch 3G into the folder. You can keep things more organized by creating a "Videos" folder. Right-click a blank area on the folder, click "New" and click "Folder." Right-click the new folder and click "Rename." Rename the folder to "Videos" (or something similar).

4. Touch "Turn off USB storage" on the phone and then touch "Turn Off." To watch the videos on the phone, touch the "Gallery" icon on the home screen and touch the thumbnail/name of the video file you want to play.

Tags: MicroSD card, card slot, computer will, folder click, MicroSD card slot, will open

What Is A Camera Lens Extender

A teleconverter is an inexpensive lens supplement for detachable and fixed-lens cameras. Most commonly used with single-lens reflex (SLR) cameras, the device is designed to increase the magnification of any compatible lens. Due to the brand-specific design of lens mounts, the converter must also be brand-specific. The term "lens extender" is used by the Canon brand to refer to its line of teleconverters.

What a Teleconverter Does

A teleconverter optically enlarges the image coming through a lens. The effect is such that the magnification of a lens is multiplied by a certain factor.

How a Teleconverter Works

The teleconverter acts as another set of lenses behind whatever lens is being used. For SLR cameras, the converter is attached to the camera body and to the lens and has no individual focusing capability.

Types of Teleconverters

Because teleconverters attach to the lens mount, their manufacture is proprietary. Canon manufactures its extenders with standard magnification multipliers of 1.4x and 2x. Some other companies manufacture 3x converters.

Dimming

As with greater focal lengths, the use of a teleconverter reduces the amount of light reaching the film or sensor. For cameras with smaller apertures, this could necessitate much slower shutter speeds, and for cameras with in-body image stabilization, the compensation may be insufficient.

Autofocus

Even with the use of a compatible teleconverter, auto-focus may become slowed or inactive.

Price

The biggest advantage of teleconverters is price. While the cost of a whole lens is often less than the equivalent lens and converter, it is almost always less expensive to purchase a teleconverter than to purchase a new lens.

Tags: cameras with

Hang A Plasma Tv Over The Fireplace

Having a fireplace in the center of the room is always desirable for uniform heating in the room. What could be better than watching a television in front of the fireplace? But placing a television in such a heated environment requires great care. Be sure to check on a few basics before mounting your Plasma TV over a fireplace wall. Here are some guidelines on hang a Plasma TV over a fireplace.

Instructions

1. Check that the space behind the mounting area is hollow. The wiring to be done for installation will require this space.

2. Use a thermometer to record the maximum temperature of the mounting wall while there is a lit fire in the fireplace. It should not exceed 90 degrees F.

3. Use cement anchors when mounting a Plasma TV over a brick fireplace. Cement is a poorer conductor of heat compared to bricks.

4. Tilt the television by 15 to 25 degrees from the vertical wall, as you will need to mount it at greater height to avoid heat damage to the Plasma TV.

5. Adjust the tilt to allow proper viewing. Use the "Tilt-Mount" feature to get just the right viewing angle.

6. Verify that you have a plug point nearby to avoid long exposed cables running along the walls.

7. Unless you are experienced, call a qualified person to carry out this installation work properly.

Tags: Plasma over

Use An Air Compressor To Remove Dust

Safety precautions are important when using an air compressor to remove dust.

Dust is an ever-present reality of life in homes and workplaces. Removing dust from surfaces can be accomplished in many ways, including with compressed air. Using an air compressor removes dust from surfaces by dispersing it into the air, so it is never appropriate for dust that might cause negative health effects like brake dust (which may contain asbestos) or sawdust from chemically-treated wood. In cases where it is reasonable to remove dust with an air compressor, there are still a few steps you need to take for safety.

Instructions

1. Attach a regulator to the outlet nozzle on your air compressor. The regulator controls the strength of the air flowing from the compressor.

2. Attach an air hose to the coupler on the regulator. Attach a blow gun (also called an air gun) to the coupler on the hose.

3. Turn on the air compressor. Dial the regulator down to 10 psi. Put on a dust mask and goggles. Make sure that anyone else in the area is also wearing a mask and goggles.

4. Aim the nozzle of the blow gun at the dusty area. Squeeze the trigger to activate the air flow.

5. Move the nozzle back and forth until all the dust blows away, leaving the surface clean. Release the trigger and turn off the air compressor when finished.

Tags: dust from, dust from surfaces, from surfaces, mask goggles

Make An 8mm Film Editor

Using 8mm film for home movies and low-end movie projects used to be a common occurrence. Especially for the latter, it was necessary to have an 8mm film editor at your disposal to work on cutting the film together. Since these are hard to come by since video took over, you can build one yourself.

Instructions

1. Attach the fluorescent light fixture to one of the boards. This will be the base. You will want to use a fluorescent light because it produces less heat than an incandescent bulb. An alternative is an LED light source, but it can't be too bright. There will be little heat to damage film, however.

2. Cut a hole for the frosted glass or plastic in another of the 2-foot boards. Since you will be cutting on this, strong plastic or glass is best. Glue the frosted piece into the hole making sure the smoother side is up.

3. Cut the other two boards to use for the long and short sides. Cut some vent holes in both of the long sides. Cut a hole for the electrical cord. Use screws to assemble the box with the light inside. If you want easier access to change the light bulbs, use hinges to connect the top board to one of the sides instead of screws.

4. Use pieces of smooth plastic as film guide rails. You can glue these down so the film travels from left to right or right to left. These should be in the center of the frosted glass.

5. Attach the film reel supports in a straight line on either side of the top board. You can screw these in. You will need to add spool supports for each reel so they slide on and off easily. You can take these entire assemblies from an old film projector.

6. Attach a support that pivots to the top of the box so you can swing it. Attach the magnifying glass to the top of this. You will need this to be able to see the film frames and to avoid having to construct a lens and viewer system.

7. Attach the hand cranks to either reel assembly. This way you will be able to manually maneuver the film back and forth to make cuts.

Tags: fluorescent light, frosted glass, will need

Differences In Xd Memory Cards

The xD memory card was developed in 2002 by the Fuji and Olympus companies for use in digital cameras. The card is tiny, measuring 1 inch by 1 inch by 2/3 inch, and is offered with a capacity of either 512 MB, 1 GB or 2 GB. Since it was developed by Fuji and Olympus, these companies have used this memory card in most of their newer generation cameras. There are four basic configurations of this card: the standard xD Type-S, the xD Type-H, the xD Type-M and the xD Type-M+.

Standard xD

This is the first generation of the xD picture card. Both Olympus and Fuji offered this card in capacities of 32 MB, 64 MB, 128 MB, 256 MB and 512 MB. By today's standards, this card is slow. This card will display "xD" on the front of the card. This card does not support the current generation software available on Olympus cameras (Panorama and 3D).

xd Type-H

Fuji then developed the Type-H xD card. The primary difference between this and the previous card is that this one is 1.5 times faster than the standard xD. This is useful when snapping photographs in quick succession or when the digital camera is in video mode. This card will display an "H" on the front.

xd Type-M

Olympus developed the xD Type-M, which stands for "Multi-Level Cell". This card has a theoretical maximum capacity of 8 MB, although they are currently limited to 2 GB. They are slower then the xD Type-H but faster than the standard xD. This card will display an "M" on the front of the card. This card, like the standard xD, does not support the newer generation of software in Olympus cameras and therefore will not process Panorama or 3D imaging.

xd Type-M+

The newest generation xD card from Olympus is the Type-M+ card. This memory card transfers data up to 1.5 times faster than both standard xD and the M card. In addition, the embedded serial number allows the 3D mode in the camera software in Olympus cameras to be activated, something which neither standard xD or the M card will not do. It also allows longer movie recording times in resolutions of up to 640 by 480 at 30 frames per second. The M+ card also supports the new generation of Olympus software found in newer cameras which offer Panorama picture storage. Other xD cards do not.

Tags: card will, card This, card will display, display front, faster than, memory card, Olympus cameras

Manually Rewind Film In Your Camera

Manually Rewind Film in Your Camera

You've just finished a roll full of perfect shots on a classic, manual film camera. Now what? If you're new to film, this is an important moment, in which a misstep can ruin all the time and expense you've put into your photography. Learning proper film-handling technique is crucial to keeping the shots you worked so hard to get.

Instructions

Knowing When to Rewind

1. Check your camera's frame counter. Rewinding early wastes film, but trying to advance it too far can tear the film or damage the camera. Most rolls of film contain 24 or 36 frames, and knowing when to rewind is like Blackjack: You want to get as close to the end of the roll as possible without going over.

2. Advance the film with the film advance lever, found on the top right of the camera. If the lever stops in mind-crank, you've hit the end of the roll. Don't force it!

3. Watch your film rewind knob, typically located on the top left of the camera when it's pointed away from you. The knob should turn when you advance the film, unless you've just started the roll. If it doesn't turn, chances are your film isn't loaded correctly, or you've forced the advance lever and torn the film. In either case, it's time to rewind.

Rewinding Your Film

4. Move to a dark area, if possible. If your camera has a light leak, rewinding it in bright light will fog the entire roll of film.

5. Press and hold the rewind button on the bottom of the camera. If you're right-handed, use your left hand for this step; use your right if you're left-handed.

6. With your free hand, pull the rewind crank out of the rewind knob on the top left of the camera. Don't pull the knob itself up, because this will open the film door and expose your film.

7. Turn the rewind crank clockwise to rewind the film. You should feel some resistance, and, when you put the camera up to your ear, you should be able to hear the film rewinding.

8. Keep going until you feel the resistance stop. Turn the knob few more times to be sure the film is completely rewound into the canister before opening the camera.

If Your Film Doesn't Rewind . . .

9. Don't force it! Film can get stuck in a camera for a variety of reasons, and none of them respond well to blunt force on the rewind knob.

10. Take the camera into total darkness. A closet with a towel under the door will suffice.

11. Open the camera. You'll be able to feel the film stretched between the canister and the take-up spool.

12. Remove the canister from the camera and gently turn its spool clockwise to manually retract the film from the camera.

Tags: rewind knob, your film, advance lever, Film Your, Film Your Camera

Install A 3com Homeconnect Usb Camera

Connect the 3Com HomeConnect USB camera to your computer through its USB cable.

The 3Com HomeConnect PC Digital WebCam is a Windows-compatible computer camera capable of taking still shots and capturing video. Provided your Windows-based PC has a USB port and CD-ROM drive, you can install the 3Com HomeConnect USB camera in a matter of minutes. The camera's installation CD works automatically, relieving you of the responsibility of even navigating a setup wizard. Load the 3Com HomeConnect USB camera's Connections CD into your CD-ROM drive to get started.

Instructions

1. Insert the 3Com HomeConnect USB camera's Connections CD into your computer's CD-ROM drive. Connections' pre-installation diagnostic utility loads automatically upon insertion. Run "begin.exe" located on the Connections CD from Windows Explorer or the Start Menu "Run" application if it does not load automatically upon insertion for some reason.

2. Click "OK" when the Connections Install Assistant loads on your desktop.

3. Click "OK" to shut down your computer after the Connections diagnostic check completes. Be sure to leave the Connections CD in your CD-ROM drive.

4. Connect the 3Com HomeConnect USB camera to your computer. Insert the small end of the 3Com HomeConnect USB camera's USB cable into the device's USB port. Insert the other end of the cable into an available USB port on your computer.

5. Restart your computer. The Connections CD will install all necessary drivers once Windows loads completely.

6. Wait for the post-installation utility to launch. The utility will display your camera's video recording and ask if it is visible in the utility's window. Click "Yes" if you see the video content. Doing so completes the 3Com HomeConnect USB camera's installation.

Tags: 3Com HomeConnect, HomeConnect camera, your computer, 3Com HomeConnect camera, CD-ROM drive, 3Com HomeConnect camera, automatically upon

Buy An External Microphone For A Camcorder

While camcorders are equipped with a built-in microphone to allow for sound and image to be perfectly synchronized, the built-in microphone is usually surround sensitive, so it tends to pick up surrounding sounds. In most cases there is a microphone socket on your camcorder for an additional external microphone, which can be used to avoid unwamted disturbances. These items are easy to use and will greatly improve the sound quality of your video recordings. Here's buy an external microphone for a camcorder.

Instructions

1. Ensure that your camcorder is equipped with an external microphone socket. This should be a normal 1/8th" plug.

2. Consider your budget. A good external microphone usually ranges between $120-$300. Read audio-video magazines to investigate reviews and features on the different types of external microphones.

3. Research the different types of external microphones to determine the one that is right for your sound-capturing needs. There are omnidirectional microphones which pick up sounds from all directions, unidirectional microphones which capture audio from one person at a time, or shotgun microphones which pinpoint the isolation of sound.

4. Determine if you need a lavalier or handheld microphone. A lavalier microphone is a small microphone that can be clipped to a necktie or blouse to remain discreet. A handheld microphone is good to use when reporting or when the camera is focused on one person.

5. Consider if you will need a hard-wired or wireless microphone based on your budget and recording needs.

6. Look for noise-reduction features. Some high-end microphones will filter out background and wind noise.

7. Determine if you want an omni-directional or uni-directional microphone. The omni-directional will record sounds that surround the microphone, while uni-directional will only record the sounds from the direction which it is pointed.

Tags: external microphone, microphones which, built-in microphone, different types, different types external

Use Filters On 35mm Cameras

Whether you use film or digital, filters are an important and enjoyable aspect of using a 35mm camera. There's a wide variety of them out there with different effects that you can match to particular lenses and conditions.

Instructions

1. Match your filters to the front threads on your lens. Your lens should have a number listed on it that indicates the size of its front threads in millimeters. You need to fit a corresponding-sized filter onto the lens. Alternatively, you can use stepping rings to adapt different size filters.

2. Protect your lens with clear or UV filters. These filters will not affect your image. Instead, they protect the front of your lens from damage, liquids or dirt.

3. Stop down your exposure with neutral density filters. Neutral density filters reduce the amount of light entering through the lens. They are useful in situations where you have a lot of light and want to slow down your shutter speed or open up your aperture. There are also gradient density filters that allow you to darken a particular part of the image, such as the sky.

4. Polarize your images with a polarizing filter. There are two types of polarizing filters: linear and circular. Linear polarizers interfere with most auto-focusing systems, so if you are going to be using your camera's auto focus you will need to get circular polarizing filters. Polarizing filters add contrast to your images, darken your skies and eliminate reflections from non-metallic surfaces. They are particularly useful for landscape photography.

5. Spice up your black-and-white photography with color filters. By placing color filters on your lens you can selectively brighten and darken the luminosity values of colors. On black-and-white film this can give quite interesting effects. For example, a red filter will darken your skies and add radiance to skin tones.

Tags: your lens, density filters, color filters, darken your, darken your skies, down your

Use Two Amplifiers With One Set Of Speakers

Use Two Amplifiers With One Set of Speakers

Using two amplifiers with one set of speakers requires the installation of a simple A/B switch available at electronics stores. The slide on the switch moves between the A and B positions to determine which amp will provide power to the speaker pair. The connections to a speaker switch are virtually identical to the hookups for the speakers themselves. The only difference is that two extra pairs of speaker wires are required to make the connection.

Audiophiles often prefer the warmer sound of an older, tube-style amplifier for listening to music, especially classical, although a separate amplifier with electronic processing for Surround Sound signals might be preferred for listening to movies in a home theater. If space and speakers are at a premium, using two amps to drive one pair of speakers solves this dilemma.

Instructions

1. Cut three pairs of speaker wires. Two pairs should be long enough to extend from the amplifiers to the AB/Switch. The remaining pair should be long enough to reach from the switch to each speaker.

2. Strip 1/2 inch of insulation from the ends of the wires.

3. Connect one pair of speaker wires to the back of each amplifier by raising the clip on the speaker posts to reveal a hole for inserting each wire. Take care not to cross the connections; the red wire connects to the red terminal on the amplifiers and the other wire connects to the black terminal.

4. Connect the wires from the first amplifier to the "A" terminals on the back of the A/B switch.

5. Connect the wires from the second amplifier to the "B" terminals on the switch.

6. Attach the last pair of wires to the "Speaker Out" terminals on the A/B switch, then connect the other ends of each wire to a speaker, again being careful to connect red to red and black to black.

7. Turn on the amplifiers and slide the A/B switch back and forth to use the speakers with the amplifier of your choice.

Tags: speaker wires, amplifier terminals, Amplifiers With, Connect wires, Connect wires from, each wire, long enough

Format A Sansa E270

The Sansa e270 is a multimedia portable player that is part of the e200 series that allows you to upload music, photos and videos, and it supports voice recording capabilities. It comes in a variety of memory sizes such as 2GB, 4GB and 6GB, allowing you to upload more media files. Formatting a Sansa e270 player erases all currently saved information, allowing you to begin fresh uploads. This is usually essential if the memory card has become corrupt and is not responding to uploads.

Instructions

1. Connect one end of the USB cable to your player and the other end to an open USB port on your computer. Your computer will recognize the new device.

2. Double-click "My Computer" on the desktop. You will see your Sansa e270 player's icon listed as a removal disk together with other hard drives on your computer.

3. Right-click the Sansa e270 icon. Scroll down and click "Format." When the format window opens, click "Start." The formatting will erase any current information on the drive. Depending on the memory capacity, it could be a quick process or take a little longer.

Tags: e270 player, Sansa e270, Sansa e270, Sansa e270 player

Vizio Tv Vs Polaroid

Vizio and Polaroid are fighting for a market share in the current television market.

Comparing the electronics companies Vizio and Polaroid is difficult because, while they both exist in the same broad field of electronics, they seem to be moving in different directions. Vizio and Polaroid televisions could've both recently been found in the television sections of major stores, but Vizio is attempting to increase the amount of shelf space its products occupy, while Polaroid seems to be moving away from the television section and focusing more on the digital camera section.

Vizio's Specialty

Vizio is a relatively new company that is almost solely focused on manufacturing and selling flat-panel televisions. The product's section of Vizio's website offers an array of around 60 TVs, with a variety of accessory products offered on a sidebar. On the Vizio website, a consumer can purchase a television and all the mounting and wiring equipment needed to install that TV in a living room.

Vizio Products

Because Vizio is focused on grabbing a large share of the TV market, the company offers many big-screen TVs at competitive prices. In early 2010, the Vizio website presented a 19-inch LCD TV for around $350, a 32-inch LCD TV for about $500 and a 55-inch LCD TV for around $2,200. Vizio's website will also tell you that the company is America's No. 1 LCD HDTV company, a claim that Vizio cites as verified by the iSuppli U.S. TV market tracker.

Polaroid's Specialty

Polaroid, a company whose name is synonymous with a certain kind of obsolete instant photo film, has recently manufactured televisions that could be purchased at places like Wal-Mart. However, Wal-Mart's website, as of early 2010, showed no Polaroid televisions.

Polaroid Products

In early 2010, Polaroid advertised a 15.6-inch LCD TV for around $500 and an 18.5-inch LCD TV for around $700, but the company offers a much more diverse selection of digital cameras. In addition, the Polaroid PoGo, a digital camera that produces printouts, re-establishes the company in the instant photo genre. Like Wal-Mart, BestBuy.com doesn't offer a Polaroid television, though it does advertise a Polaroid 7-inch portable DVD player.

Which TV Should I Buy?

Compared against the entire TV market, Vizio seems like a solid buy. Most reviews have positive input and the technical drawbacks are only of concern to the most distinguishing viewers. Furthermore, Vizio offers the larger screens at extremely competitive prices. It might be the best TV for the money, though its reputation isn't quite on the level of Samsung and Sony. Compared to Polaroid, Vizio is an obvious choice as it offers bigger televisions at lower prices, while Polaroid seems to be backing away from the television market.

Tags: Vizio Polaroid, Vizio website, early 2010, away from, away from television

Restore Data When Deleted From My Memory Stick

Use file restoration programs to recover your files.

Memory sticks are widely used by both home and business users, and they are used to hold all manner of important personal data. When a file is lost or deleted from a memory stick, it is important to start recovery efforts at once. As soon as you discover that the files have been accidentally deleted, you should stop saving files to the device right away. This will increase the odds that your lost files can be successfully recovered.

Instructions

1. Log on to your computer and right-click on "My Computer." Choose "Explore" from the menu to open "Windows Explorer." Look through the files on the memory stick to make sure the file you want is not there.

2. Download a file restoration program and try it on your lost files. There are a number of file recovery programs on the market, ranging in price from free to hundreds of dollars. Many of these programs that cost do offer a free trial, so you can test the program before you decide to buy it.

3. Open the file restoration program and highlight the drive letter corresponding to the memory stick. The file restoration program will show you a list of recently deleted files that can be recovered.

4. Highlight the files you wish to recover and choose "Recover" from the menu. Be sure to open the restored files to make sure they are usable.

Tags: file restoration, file restoration program, memory stick, restoration program, your lost files, from menu

Sony R1 Tips

The Sony Cybershot DSC-R1 is a 10.3 megapixel digital camera released in 2005. Featuring a 5x optical zoom, a 2-inch movable LCD screen and a fast processor that allows for one picture per second shooting speeds, the DSC-R1 is a high-quality camera for photographers of any ability. The nontraditional design of the DSC-R1 gives the impression it is a single-lens reflex (SLR) camera. SLR cameras are most often used by professional photographers and photography enthusiasts and have interchangeable lenses for different photo types. Though the DSC-R1 does not accommodate interchangeable lenses, the camera takes professional quality photographs.

Adjusting the Exposure

The DSC-R1 features an "Auto" mode that adjusts the shutter speed and exposure according to the conditions when the photograph is taken. Though the adjustments made by the camera are good for most shooting conditions, there are instances when the subject of the shot will be too dark or light. When there is a high contrast between the background and the subject and the "Auto" settings do not adjust correctly, set the exposure manually. To set the exposure on the DSC-R1, turn the mode dial to "M" and turn the sub command dial left to decrease the exposure and right to increase the exposure. If the background is bright, increase the exposure so the subject of the photograph isn't dark. If the background is dark, decrease the exposure so the subject of the photograph isn't too bright. If this is your first time compensating for the exposure, it may take some trial and error to get the proper results. After some experience adjusting the exposure, you will have a good idea of what exposure setting works best for the specific lighting conditions of your shots.

Manual Focus

Though it looks like a digital SLR camera, the DSC-R1 does not have detachable lenses. Despite this, the DSC-R1 allows for manual focus when the auto focus does not properly focus on the subject. The most common situation where the auto focus does not work is in a low light environment.

To use manual focus, press the "Focus" switch located on the left side of the camera to "Manual." You will see the expanded focus frame appear on the LCD screen. Move the focus frame over the portion of the subject you want to focus on by using the arrow buttons. When the focus frame is in place, turn the manual focus ring located on the camera. The manual focus ring is the ring nearest the body of the camera. When the subject is in focus, take the picture as normal.

White Balance

As with the exposure and the focus, the DSC-R1 automatically adjusts the white balance according to the shot. White balance is an adjustment made based on the type of light in the shot so colors in the photograph appear normal. There are times when manually adjusting the white balance will achieve better quality shots. There are seven additional white balance settings besides the auto white balance function, with names that are self-explanatory such as "Daylight" and "Fluorescent." To manually adjust the white balance, press and hold the "WB" button on the left side of the camera and turn the main command dial on the right of the camera. The white balance mode will appear on the LCD screen. After the white balance mode is set, take a photograph as normal.

Tags: white balance, focus frame, manual focus, appear screen, auto focus