What Year Were Pdas Invented

In recent years, Personal Digital Assistants, or PDAs, have become commonplace. Many businessmen, soccer moms and even high school teens have some form of PDA on their person at almost all times of the day. It truly is a piece of technology that the public takes for granted. But did you know that the PDA is a concept that dates back over a quarter of a century?

Casio PF-3000

There is some disagreement over what was the first PDA. The Casio PF-3000, released in 1983, was the first device to allow users to store telephone numbers, memos and addresses. While some consider this to be the first PDA, many consider it to be what it was billed as---a calculator.

The First PDA

Many consider the handheld version of Apple's "Newton," released in 1992, to be the first true PDA. It was the first device to carry the title "Personal Digital Assistant" and was indeed the first product capable of doing what is now standard on most PDAs.

Personal Digital Assistant

The term "personal digital assistant" was first coined by former Apple CEO John Sculley. Sculley was also the man who created the famous "Pepsi Challenge" ad campaign for PepsiCo.

Newton's Failed Past

The Apple Newton was not originally meant to be a PDA. When development began, Newton was meant to be a stand-alone computer that Apple had hoped would "revolutionize" home computing. However, after the failure of what would have been the Newton PC's operating system, Apple decided to redesign the Newton to be a Macintosh peripheral.

Pricing

When the Apple Newton was first released, it cost roughly $6,000. Not surprisingly, it failed to sell particularly well until the PDA was redesigned and sold for the much more affordable $500

Tags: Apple Newton, Casio PF-3000, Digital Assistant, first device, Personal Digital, Personal Digital Assistant

Use A Mobile Phone Charger

A mobile phone allows you to communicate with others while you are on the go.

Rechargeable battery packs, typically composed of either Ni-Cd, NiMh or Li-Ion, provide power to mobile phones. Recharge the battery pack as needed to ensure the mobile phone has enough power when it's in use. Due to the different types of batteries, only use a phone charger approved for use with your cell phone and battery type. Using any other charger can cause an electrical short in your phone, damage the battery or start an electrical fire.

Instructions

1. Insert the mobile phone charger into the charging port or jack on the cell phone. Only use a charger designed for use with your cell-phone brand and model. The charging jack is typically located on the side or bottom of a cell phone.

2. Connect the mobile phone charger to the appropriate power source. The two most common types of phone chargers use power from an electrical outlet or power from a vehicle's cigarette-lighter outlet.

3. Allow the battery to charge. Most phones use some kind of indication system to let you know the battery is charging and when the battery is fully charged. Depending on the brand and model of phone, this could be a battery indicator light that is red or flashes red as the battery is charging and turns green when the battery is fully charged or a display screen showing a charging battery icon, which then disappears once the battery is fully charged.

Tags: battery fully, battery fully charged, cell phone, fully charged, mobile phone, phone charger, battery charging

Make Your Own Radio

During WWII, hundreds of soldiers were stuck in trenches and foxholes. To pass the time and to get information, the soldiers came up with brilliantly simple methods of constructing radios that worked without batteries. These radios, called foxhole radios because of where they were used, were made out of little more than a few pieces of wire and bits of metal. They can still be made today---the instructions below show you make one in minutes.

Instructions

Main Parts

1. Wrap the magnet wire around the length of the cardboard tube about 100 to 150 times. Leave enough room on at least one end to secure the tube to the Styrofoam.

2. Attach one end of the magnet wire that comes off the tube to the antenna wire by wrapping the ends of the wires together.

3. Attach the other end of the magnet wire that comes of the tube to the ground wire by wrapping the ends of the wires together. This wire will run from your radio to metal that eventually contacts the earth (hence, the term ground wire). Attaching the ground wire reduces static electricity in the radio circuit that can cause interference.

4. Glue or tack the cardboard tube in place on the Styrofoam.

Additional Wires and Parts

5. Cut the connector end off the earpiece and trim back insulation from the wire a bit. Wrap the exposed earpiece wire to the joint of the magnet and ground wires.

6. Attach the alligator clip to the joint of the earpiece, magnet and ground wires.

7. Wrap the tip of the short wire to the joint between the magnet wire and antenna wire. The short wire will connect the magnet and antenna wires to the transistor of the radio (the copper penny).

8. Heat the copper penny in a flame until it turns black with carbon. Connect the second end of the alligator clip to the penny and glue the penny in place on the Styrofoam.

9. Secure the ground wire to any metal that goes into the ground.

10. Put the earpiece in your ear and touch the short wire that runs off the magnet wire joint to the carbonized penny. You should be able to pick up at least a local radio station.

Tags: magnet wire, ground wire, short wire, wire joint, wire that

Recover Deleted Text Messages From Your Cell Phone

Some people believe that it's not possible to recover deleted text messages from your cellphone, but in reality, in many cases you can. Depending upon the specific type of phone that you have, you may need to try a few different methods.

Instructions

1. Restore your phone to a previous backup using factory software. Most modern cellphones come with software that allows you to restore the phone to a previous backup point using the USB data connection on your PC. The backup is usually updated each time the phone is connected to your computer, so if you can restore the phone this way, you can recover all the text messages that were present on your phone at the last time of backup.

2. Search for the messages on your SIM card using a recovery program. Some phones store a running log of text messages on the SIM card for a certain amount of time. While the factory software doesn't allow you to read this data, you can purchase third-party software that permits you to access all the information on the SIM card to find out if your lost text messages have been backed up or stored there.

3. Visit your carrier's retail store and ask one of the employees to recover your text messages using a carrier-specific program. Certain cellphone carriers have recovery software programs that are not available to the public but can be used in their retail stores by employees to perform certain procedures on phones, such as data recovery.

4. Contact the customer service line for your carrier and find out if the company can send copies of your text messages to you. You can receive them by email or in the form of a duplicate text message. Not all carriers offer this service, and some require you to pay extra if they comply with your request.

5. Find out if you can get copies from the other person you were messaging. If you had a text conversation that you lost and have tried every other way to recover your messages, you can check with the person you were messaging and see if he still has a copy of the conversation on his cellphone. Depending upon the circumstances of the conversation, he may or may not agree to this, but if you've exhausted all of your other options, it's worth a try.

Tags: text messages, your text messages, Depending upon, factory software, person were, person were messaging

Delete Pictures From A Memory Stick

Connect your camera to your computer using a USB cable.

Different cameras use different types of memory cards to store their pictures on. Memory sticks are found in earlier Sony model digital cameras. They work the same way as other types of memory cards, and once you have downloaded the pictures to your desktop or laptop computer, the memory stick needs to be cleared of pictures before it can be used again. There are a couple of different ways to do this: One is with your computer, and the other is with the digital camera itself.

Instructions

Using Computer to Delete Photos

1. Insert the memory stick into the drive port on your home computer or into a memory stick reader that is connected to your computer. You can also connect the camera directly to the computer using a USB cable.

2. Download the pictures to your home computer the way you normally would. Review the folder where your pictures where downloaded to so you can make sure all have downloaded correctly.

3. Click "My Computer," then click the icon that identifies the memory stick or the digital camera that is connected to your computer. Open the folder that has the pictures stored on the memory stick. Select all the pictures and press the "Delete" button to erase the pictures.

Using Your Camera

4. Remove the memory stick from your digital camera. Insert the memory stick into your home computer or an external reader and download the pictures as you normally would.

5. Remove the memory stick from the computer or external reader and put the memory stick back into the digital camera.

6. Press the "Menu" button on the back of the digital camera and scroll through menu functions and select "Format memory stick."

7. Select "Format." The camera will prompt you to confirm that you want to delete all the pictures from the memory stick. Click on "Yes" and the camera's internal process will erase all the pictures contained on the memory stick.

Tags: memory stick, digital camera, your computer, home computer, your home, your home computer

Nikon Coolpix 5400 Instructions

The 5.1 megapixel Coolpix 5400 is a digital camera released by Nikon in 2004. The 5400 is an advanced digital camera that gives experienced photographers great control over how their pictures are taken while still being easy to use for casual photographers. The camera requires a short setup out of the box after which the user can start snapping pictures.

Inserting Batteries and the Memory Card

The first steps to taking pictures with the 5400 is to insert the battery and memory card. The battery chamber is located on the underside of the camera. Open the cover by pressing the latch toward the back of the camera to release the lock and pulling out on the cover. Insert the battery with the positive end facing the back of the camera and the negative end facing the front. Close the cover and slide the latch toward the front of the camera to set the lock and secure the camera.

First check that the camera is off by pushing the power switch on the top of the camera to the off position. With the back of the camera facing you, open the memory card compartment door on the right side of the camera. Check that the "Eject" button next to the memory card slot is pressed down. Slide the memory card into the slot, contacts first. Once the memory card is fully inserted, close the memory card compartment door.

Taking Pictures

You are now ready to take pictures with the 5400. There are several shooting modes available, but to start taking snapshots use "Auto" mode. Turn the shooting mode dial to the symbol of the camera to set "Auto" mode and turn on the camera. You will hear a beep and the power lamp will light up. The LCD screen will display the view through the lens when the camera is ready to take pictures. Point the camera at the subject of the photo and press the shutter button halfway. The camera will auto focus on the subject in the center of the frame. The "AF" indicator will glow green when the camera is focused. Press the shutter button fully to take the photograph.

Quick Review and Playback

The 5400 provides two options for reviewing your pictures: Quick Review and Playback. Quick Review is used to check that the last picture you took is set to the correct focus and exposure for the shooting conditions. Press the "Quick" button located to the bottom and right of the view screen. You will see the last picture taken in the upper left of the view screen. If you would like to see the image in full screen, press the "Quick" button again. Finally, to exit Quick Review press the "Quick" button a third time or press the shutter button halfway.

Playback mode is used to review all of your picture and delete those you wish to remove from memory. Turn the shooting mode dial to the "Play" symbol. Press the multi-selector button to the left or right to scroll through your pictures. If you want to delete a picture, press the "AF" button when the picture is onscreen and select "Yes" to confirm the deletion.

Tags: Quick Review, back camera, memory card, memory card, Quick button

Use Studio Softbox With Flash

A flash with softbox can be used in place of a studio strobe.

Although studio strobes are the best choice for getting accurate lighting for portrait shots, product photography and wedding shots, they are not always practical, especially for remote location shots where AC power may be difficult to use. Many photographers have found that using an off-camera flash can be just as effective. However, flash light, like strobe light, is harsh if not reflected or controlled properly. A studio softbox is a type of light diffuser that is popular with many professional photographers, and can used to soften the light from a flash unit.

Instructions

1. Screw the bracket mount onto the light stand, then mount the flash onto the bracket stand by sliding it on and flipping or screwing the lock mount system on the flash.

2. Tilt the flash head so that is is angled 90 degrees from the flash body. This is an ideal starting position, as it will mimic the use of a studio strobe.

3. Turn the wireless mode of your flash to slave. This control is typically found in the wireless system submenu of your flash unit, accessed by pressing the menu button on the flash. Alternately, you can use an off-camera shoe cord mounted on the hot shoe of your camera and mounted to the flash itself, if you do not want to fire wirelessly.

4. Mount the softbox onto the flash unit. Typically, the opening at one end of the softbox will slide over your light source, then use screws or bands to lock into place.

5. Place the flash with softbox into position. If using it as a prime light source, position it so that is 45 degrees off angle from your subject, and the center of the softbox is about even with your subject -- for instance, for portraits, have the middle of the softbox and head height..

6. Set your camera setting to synch properly with the flash. Usually, this will mean setting the shutter speed to 250 so that it syncs properly with the flash. Change the white balance on the camera in the camera menu to daylight or flash light so that your camera will shoot with the proper color balance.

7. Focus your camera on the subject and fire a test shot. Ideally, the softbox will eliminate most shadows and remove any glare on your subject. You may need to move the angle of the lightstand in relation to your subject to get the best results.

Tags: your camera, your subject, flash unit, flash light, flash with

Diy Photography Backdrops

A photography backdrop may be made in a few simple steps with the correct materials. Different colored backdrops are made to suit unique photographic requirements. They type and color of the backdrop used depends on the lighting and nature of the subject being photographed.

Preparing the Fabric

Buy a piece of white or natural muslin. Buy four to five yards of the widest possible muslin material. Cut the muslin to the desired size for the backdrop. Plan ahead for any spread of the fabric on the floor or variations in the hanging technique before making the cut. Use a pencil and straight edge to determine where the fabric is to be cut. On the cut edge, place a strip of no-sew fusible tape. Fold the edge of the muslin over the tape and iron it down to prevent any unraveling from occurring.

Dying the Fabric

In a large tub, mix water and the desired color of fabric dye to the specifications as indicated on the dye packet. Make sure the dying process occurs outdoors in a wooded or grassy area, as the dye will stain floors and driveways. Also, wear gloves, as dye will stain hands. For a solid colored backdrop, immerse the muslin and stir frequently for 30 minutes. For a mottled appearance, bunch the muslin into a ball, and then wrap it and tie it together with a cord. Immerse the bunched muslin in water and flip it over every five minutes for 30 minutes without stirring it. Next, hang the muslin to dry or lay it out over a grassy surface.

Building the Frame

Stands for holding the backdrop may be made of wood or PVC. The goal is to make upside-down T-frames on the either side of a vertical rectangle frame's base. PVC connectors are readily available at hardware stores and serve to connect tubes sawed to appropriate lengths with a plastic blade handsaw. The fabric is then secured from the frame with wire or cord. Fabric may droop in the style of curtains or it may be pulled taught. The feel of the backdrop may be adjusted according to the requirements of the photo shoot.

Tags: backdrop made, muslin over, will stain

Set The Focus On A Magnavox Big Screen Tv

Aligning the video image on a rear-projection television set is necessary to acquire a clear, focused picture. All CRT televisions, including big screen models, are designed to project a video image onto the screen using three picture tubes. Each tube projects its own color -- red, green or blue. All three images have to converge correctly to provide a clear video image. If they don't, the picture becomes distorted and out of focus.

Instructions

1. Press the "Menu" button on the remote control and press the right directional key to access the "Picture" menu. Scroll down using the directional button to locate the "Manual Convergence" option. Press the right directional button to enter the "Manual Convergence" mode.

2. Press the right direction button to access the red tube and press the down direction button, then the right direction button to access the blue tube. If the out-of-focus picture has a blue outline, the blue tube needs to be adjusted. If the outline is red, the red tube needs to be adjusted. The green tube is not adjustable and is used as a constant to align the other tubes against.

3. Press the direction buttons to move the cross hair until the outline of the cross hair is white. Press "Menu" to save the changes and enter the "Manual Convergence" menu. Press "Exit" to get back to the standard video screen and verify the picture quality. If the image is still unfocused, adjust the "Multipoint Convergence."

4. Repeat Step 1 to enter the "Manual Convergence" menu then press the down directional button to select the "Multipoint Red" if the picture is still showing a red tint. Select "Multipoint Blue" using the directional buttons if the out-of-focus image has a blue shade. Scroll to any cross hairs that have a color outline and press "Exit" to adjust it.

5. Press the directional button until the color outline of the cross hair is gone. Press "Exit" to move to any other cross hairs that are misaligned. Select and adjust the remaining distorted cross hairs until they all have been corrected. There are 35 cross points on the television screen. Press "Menu" then scroll down and select "Save Multipoint" to save the adjustments.

Tags: directional button, Manual Convergence, cross hair, cross hairs, direction button, enter Manual

Get Glasses Polarized

Polarized lenses have been used by sport fishermen and other outdoorsmen for decades due to their ability to eliminate the solar glare that bounces off of lake water. Light that refracts from flat surfaces typically scatters in a horizontal direction, causing a blinding glare. Having a polarized filter on lenses allows the glasses to remove this glare from view. Because they can greatly improve visibility, polarized lenses have become popular on eye glasses as well as sunglasses, but typically require a specialist to apply the polarizing filter.

Instructions

1. Call a local optometrist and schedule an appointment. Let him know you do not require an eye exam and you only want to get your glasses polarized. Since this is considered a drop off, he may tell you to just come in without an appointment.

2. Take your glasses to the optometrist's office. Give the glasses to the optometrist and explain that you want to get the glasses polarized. Be ready to leave your glasses with the optometrist. Have a back-up pair of glasses ready for when you leave the store.

3. Go home and wait for your glasses to get polarized. The optometrist will need to take the glasses apart to clean them, and also to expose the entire lens surface so a filter can be created and applied. This process could take less than a day or it could take up to a week. The amount of time depends primarily on how busy the particular optometrist is. An approximate time will be given when you drop off the glasses, and they will call you when they are ready.

4. Return to the optometrist to retrieve your glasses. In addition to having the new polarizing filter on the lenses, you will find that the glasses have received a detailed professional cleaning.

Tags: your glasses, glasses polarized, could take, filter lenses, glasses optometrist, lenses have

Midland Gxt 450 Radio Specs

The Midland GXT450 two-way radio is an all-weather, indoor or outdoor consumer radio that has been discontinued. Available with either a silver or camouflage finish, the Midland GXT 450 radio was originally sold in packages of two. The radio is capable of broadcasting and receiving a signal from over 10 miles away, according to the manufacturer.

Main Calling Features

The Midland GXT 450 operates at a range of ten-plus miles, and features a total of 22 radio channels. Calling and paging options consist of five separate call tones, vibrating silent alert and auto squelch. The radio boasts 38 different Continuous Tone Coded Squelch System (CTCSS) codes for all 22 channels. The Midland GXT 450 radio also provides users with access to weather radio provided by NOAA.

Connectivity / Expandability

The Midland GXT 450 radio features a microphone/headset input to provide an alternative method of communication between radios.

Miscellaneous Features

The Midland GXT 450 lets users conserve their radio's battery by operating on low, medium or high power mode, and the automatic battery-save mode means that the unit will turn off when not in use. A keypad lock is available to prevent you from pressing buttons while the unit is in your pocket or stowed away, and a backlight keypad display lets you see each key easily in the dark. A speakerphone is also featured on the Midland GXT 450.

Battery Specifications

The Midland GXT 450 uses four "AA" batteries. A rechargeable AVP3 battery pack is also available for use with the radio.

Tags: Features Midland, Midland radio

Make A Camera Flash In A Prop Theater

You can use a variety of methods to simulate a camera's flash in a theatrical production. Your budget and the level of the production should determine your choice.

Special effects in theatrical productions are one of the things that elevates the medium above many other forms of expression. The idea that chemical and physical effects are performed and presented in front of a live audience adds an element of risk and magic to what could be an otherwise straightforward story. If you are attempting to represent a camera flash, and you want to make an impressive theatrical re-creation, it can be dangerous. With the right planning and preparation, however, many prop artists accomplish similar feats every day.

Instructions

Creating a flash the professional way.

1. Place your batteries in the battery compartment of your electric flash pot. Make sure the switch is set to "Off."

2. Place a small amount of white flash powder in your flash pot (2 to 3 tablespoons). How much flash powder you'll need will depend on how bright you want your flash to be. The flash powder creates a small explosion, however, so be very careful not to use too much.

3. Conceal your flash pot within your flameproof curtain. If you cannot find a flameproof curtain, you can add flame retardant to a normal curtain. You will want to create a prop that will be very near the prop camera used on stage. Old bellows cameras from the early 20th century were shrouded in a black curtain. If you are attempting to replicate that kind of camera flash, then your work is easier. If you are replicating a camera flash of a newer or handheld camera, you will have to create a stage setup that will allow you to hide your flash pot in something easily accessible by your actor or by a stagehand.

4. Activate the switch on your flash pot when you are ready to create the flash.

Creating a flash the cheap way

5. Conceal a small handheld strobe light within the camera or flash apparatus.

6. Plug the strobe light into an extension cord.

7. Plug the extension cord into a power strip. Make sure the power strip is set to "Off," and plug it into the wall.

8. Set the strobe light to create a very slow flash.

9. Press the "On" switch on the power strip (or have a stagehand do it) when you are ready to create your flash. Turn the power off immediately after the flash has been triggered.

Tags: your flash, camera flash, flash powder, power strip, strobe light, camera flash

Start A Photo Booth Kiosk

If you recently attended a wedding or large event, you may have spotted a photo booth kiosk. Over the past few years, photo booth kiosks have become popular party accessories for corporate events, weddings, reunions, proms, parties, fundraisers, and bar mitzvahs. For a few hours, guests can take as many free photos as they'd like. If you're considering starting a business, you may do well with a photo booth kiosk.

Instructions

1. Identify what you will need to get your business off the ground. Photo booth kiosk rental companies rent booths by the hour. The rental company drops off the booth and sets it up, returning to retrieve the equipment once the rental time has expired. An attendant assists guests in operating the kiosk. If you want to open a kiosk rental business, you'll need to find a location to house your kiosks, as well as a trailer to haul them. You may also want to consider hiring an employee to assist in set-up and to administer booths during events. Expect to pay about $10,000 for the booth, trailer, and photo paper and ink. Another option is owning a fixed photo booth, located in a mall or an arcade, in which case you won't need an attendant.

2. Contact your city clerk to obtain a kiosk permit. If your booth will be housed in a fixed location, you may also need a building permit.

3. Purchase your photo booth. Determine what components you want in a booth and then contact a manufacturer. (See Resources for suppliers.) While some booths still use film, many booths now operate digitally. Digital booths process photos more quickly, since they don't use chemicals to develop film. Factors to consider when purchasing a photo booth: overall weight, number of people that the booth accommodates, height of the booth, style of the photos, how easily the booth can be collapsed, photo backgrounds offered by the booth, computer system, printer type, and bill denominations that the booth accepts. Ensure that the computer and printer can be replaced quickly if broken. If you intend to rent out your booths, those made of fabric are lightweight and less expensive.

4. If you intend to station a booth in a fixed location, contact the management of your desired location to discuss placement of your photo booth.

5. If you intend to rent out your photo booth, set up a website for your business. Create a price list based on prices that area competitors charge. Detail your services and delivery radius. Think about offering logos, custom backgrounds, black and white pictures, jumbo prints, and DVDs of all of the pictures taken at given events.

6. Advertise at bridal conventions, fairs, and community gatherings. Consider donating your booths to local events in order to drum up interest and raise your profile.

Tags: photo booth, booth kiosk, your photo, your photo booth, fixed location, intend rent

My Ipod Nano 5th Generation Cover Flow Is Not Showing Album Covers

Fixing the album artwork on your iPod Nano begins with iTunes on your computer.

Many iPod models, including the fifth-generation Nano, include Cover Flow, software that arranges your artwork in a sleek, contemporary fashion. Cover Flow also allows you to flip through your albums and view their cover art, as if you had a digital record collection. However, you may occasionally find that some of the records are missing cover art. This situation can be easily remedied.

ITunes Artwork

ITunes allows you to transfer music, movies and e-books to your iPod or other portable audio device. When you sync your iPod Nano to iTunes, it transfers information from your computer to the device digitally. In addition to the songs, the artwork from iTunes is also transferred. Basically, the artwork that appears, or fails to appear, in your iPod Nano's Cover Flow is linked to iTunes. To edit your iTunes artwork, right-click an album, and then select "Get Info." Click the "Artwork" tab, and then you can view, delete or add an image to the box in the bottom, right corner.

Corrupt Artwork

Corrupt files in computers are essentially files that have gotten bugs, or have stopped communicating properly with other apps. They may become incompatible with certain programs, or they might stop working all together. If you have older artwork in your iTunes library, or you haven't updated iTunes in awhile, some of the artwork may be corrupt. Corrupt files can't usually be fixed, but should instead be replaced. Write down the names of the albums that are missing artwork on your iPod Nano's Cover Flow. If the artwork appears in your iTunes app on your computer, delete the artwork, and then replace it with a new image.

Single Song Missing Artwork

Sometimes a single song from an album may be missing artwork. This could be because the song had a featured artist on it, causing it to be sorted differently, or because you missed it when you were adding artwork to your albums in iTunes. In any case, even a single song missing its artwork can cause the entire album to appear as if it doesn't have artwork in your Nano's Cover Flow. To fix this problem, go to iTunes, and add artwork by highlighting every song in an album. Click the first song, hold down the "Shift" key on your keyboard, and click the last song. Everything in between will be highlighted. Right-click the group of songs, and then select "Get Info." You may receive a notification telling you that you're editing multiple tracks. After confirming that this is what you want to do, add the album artwork as usual.

Third-Party Programs

If you're not particularly tech savvy, or you don't want to take on the task of editing each one of your albums' artwork files in iTunes, you can get a third party plug-in to do it for you. Apps like TuneUp, MP3tag and iArtwork are designed to organize your iTunes library for you. Just purchase, download and install the app of your choice, and then run the program. After all of your iTunes albums have the proper artwork, you can sync iTunes with your Nano, and your Cover Flow should have all the appropriate artwork.

Tags: Cover Flow, artwork your, your iPod, your iTunes, iPod Nano, your iPod Nano, missing artwork

Memory Card Recovery Tools

Several popular memory card recovery utilities are available for recovering files.

Whether your memory card has become corrupted due to heavy usage or you accidentally deleted important files from the card, memory card recovery tools can prove quite effective in helping you retrieve pictures, images and any other types of files from your memory card. And while memory card recovery tools perform the same general task of file restoration, there are some slight differences in the features and functions of memory card recovery tools.

Smart Flash Recovery

Smart Flash Recovery is a lightweight, efficient memory card recovery utility designed to recover lost files from cards formatted in both the NTFS, FAT32 and FAT16 file systems. Smart Flash Recovery supports targeted scans for documents, images, archive and audio files, or users can initiate an all-purpose scan to recover any file type from the card in question.

PC Inspector Smart Recovery

PC Inspector Smart Recovery is a free memory card recovery tool that supports the restoration of lost images, videos, audio and proprietary image formats from popular digital camera manufacturers like Kodak and Nikon. Image files can be completely recovered, or you can save time and get thumbnail previews of the salvageable images on your memory cards before selecting which images you'd like to recover.

Pandora Recovery

The Pandora Recovery application is a general-purpose storage drive recovery utilty capable of recovering any files from any type of removable media, including hard drive, flash drives and memory cards. Simply select the drive you wish to scan, initiate the scan, and Pandora Recovery will display all of the salvageable file on your removable medium.

Tags: memory card, card recovery, memory card recovery, files from, Flash Recovery, Pandora Recovery

Memory Card Problems & Digital Cameras

Digital cameras use memory cards to store images and video.

Digital cameras make use of memory cards in a variety of different formats to store images and video. Problems relating to a memory card can be caused by a malfunction in the camera or by the card itself.

Corrupted Card

If a digital camera can't read from or save to a memory card, the card may have become corrupted -- the possible result of a break in power or connection during a read/write operation. Some software tools are able to recover files from a corrupted card, though it's unlikely that you'll be able to use the card again.

Unformatted Card

Before you can use a memory card, you must format it -- a process you can sometimes perform via a digital camera or a card reader attached to a computer. Formatting a card again will wipe any data stored on it.

Other Issues

Other problems with a memory card may indicate a file format that is incompatible with the computer's software, a malfunctioning camera that isn't saving images and video correctly, or an incompatible card type that isn't supported by the camera in question.

Tags: images video, camera card, card again, digital camera, Digital cameras, memory card, memory card

A Number To A Nextel 2way Phone

Add contact to Nextel phone

Nextel two-way phones operate on the Sprint wireless network. In addition to calling contacts stored in the phone's address book, users of Nextel two-way phones can contact other Nextel two-way phone users with the Direct Connect feature. The Direct Connect feature works similarly to handheld two-way radios. Numbers can be easily added to the phone's contact list using the menu system. Entries in the contact's list must have a phone number, address or email address.

Instructions

1. Press the "Menu" key, select "Contacts" and "New Contacts."

2. Choose "Name" and enter a name for the new contact using the phone's keypad. Press "OK" to save the name. If desired, assign a custom ring tone or picture to the contact by choosing "Ring Tone/Picture" and selecting a ring tone or picture for the entry.

3. Choose "Contacts type" and select the type of contact from the list provided. Contact type options include "Mobile", "DirectConnect", "Work", "Home", "Email", "Fax", "Pager", "Talkgroup", "Group", "IP" or Other.

4. Choose "#" to enter a phone number, "ID" to enter an email address or "IP" to enter an IP address. Enter the phone number or other contact information using the phone's keypad. Press "OK" to save the contact information.

5. Choose "Options" to change the speed dial number. By default, a speed dial number is automatically assigned to a new entry. Changing the speed dial number allows one to be assigned that is more easily remembered. Select the speed dial number by highlighting "Speed #" and pressing "OK." Delete the current speed dial number by pressing "Delete" and enter a new number using the phone's keypad. Press "OK" to save the speed dial number.

6. Assign a voice name if desired to allow for voice dialing of the new contact. Choose "Options" and select "Voice Name." Follow the phone's voice prompts to record the voice name. Press the "Back" key to exit the Options menu.

7. Repeat these steps to enter additional contact information for the entry. Press "Save" to save the contact information entered.

Tags: dial number, speed dial, speed dial number, contact information, keypad Press

Install A Lens In A Laser Pointer

A laser pointer uses a small lens to focus the laser light as it exits the barrel of the pointer. A dirty or cracked lens inhibits the laser light and renders the laser pointer useless. Replacing the lens in a laser pointer can be done by the casual user because it doesn't require replacing any electronic parts. The process requires a new lens from a similar laser pointer, and the entire procedure can be done in as one hour.

Instructions

1. Put a clean cloth down a work surface.

Take the replacement laser pointer and hold it with one hand at each end. Twist the laser pointer to break the glue holding the center seam between the two halvesof the replacement laser pointer.

2. Separate the two halves of the replacement laser pointer. Discard the half with the laser mechanism. Put the other half down on the clean cloth.

3. Insert the cotton swab at the front end of the half of the replacement laser pointer that is now on the clean cloth. Push the lens from inside of the half out and onto the clean cloth. Discard the half of the replacement laser pointer that no longer has the lens in it.

4. Take the laser pointer that is to have a new lens and hold it with one hand at each end. Twist the laser pointer until the glue at the middle of the two halfs comes loose.

Separate the two halves. Put the half with the lens in it down on the clean cloth.

5. Unscrew the battery cap from the half of the laser pointer that has the exposed laser mechanism now showing. Remove the batteries, and put them and the battery cap aside. Place the half of the laser pointer with the exposed laser mechanism down on the clean cloth.

6. Pick back up the half of the laser pointer, which has the lens inside it. Poke out the lens using a cotton swab. Discard the lens.

7. Carefully pick up the replacement lens that is on the clean cloth. Insert it into the half of the laser pointer that had the lens inside of it. Move the lens into position in the half of the laser pointer using a cotton swab.

8. Place the two halves of the laser pointer back together. Put a thin layer of bonding glue on the seam where the two halves come together. Hold the two halves together until the glue sets.

9. Put the batteries back into the laser pointer. Screw on the battery cap.

Aim the laser pointer at a wall that is far away and press the button. Watch the laser light emerge.

Tags: laser pointer, clean cloth, half laser, half laser pointer, laser pointer that, pointer that

Troubleshooting Delphi Myfi

The Delphi MyFi is the result of a joint effort by XM Satellite Radio and the Delphi Corporation to create a devise whereby XM subscribers could listen to satellite radio virtually anywhere outdoors, rather than just in the home or vehicle. The MyFi also features a hard drive capable of storing up to five hours of XM programming for later listening, as well as many customizable options. An important feature of the MyFi is its ability to display on its digital screen many common problems associated with the unit, which allows its user to take corrective measures.

"No Signal"

If the error code on the display reads "No Signal," the unit is unable to read the radio signal transmitted from the satellite due to an obstruction, such as a nearby building. Heavy cloud cover can also prevent the unit from receiving the satellite signal. Move to an unobstructed area to remedy the problem. The MyFi features a signal icon which displays the strength of the received signal. The signal icon is at the top left side of the digital screen and, if the signal strength is strong, produces three vertical bars. As the signal weakens, the number of bars decreases until eventually the "No Signal" message is displayed.

"Off Air"

If the unit displays the "Off Air" message, the problem is actually not with the MyFi. The message means that the radio station that the MyFi is currently tuned to is not currently broadcasting.

"Loading" or "Updating"

Like the "Off Air" message, the "Loading" or "Updating" messages do not mean that there is a problem with the unit. The "Loading" message means that XM's programming or channel selection has changed and the unit is downloading those changes from the satellite. The "Updating" message is similar to the "Loading" message, but rather than updating the programming or channel selection, "Uploading" means that the MyFi's encryption is being updated. Either message will disappear after a few seconds and the unit will be ready for use.

Resetting the MyFi

If the unit either does not operate at all or fails to operate properly without displaying an error message, resetting the MyFi is usually the last resort before contacting Delphi. To reset the unit, first make sure that the battery is charged. Look at the battery level and charging status icon, which looks like a battery, at the top right of the display screen next to the time. If the battery is fully charged, the icon will be black. If the battery has a low charge, it will be mostly white. Remove the battery cover on the back of the MyFi and find the small hole next to the word "Reset." Insert the tip of a bent paperclip into this hole and press the button. Contact Delphi for repair information if resetting the unit still does not solve the problem.

Tags: means that, channel selection, digital screen, from satellite, icon which

Clean Vintage Electronic Circuits

Many of us hold on to vintage electronic devices, often because they still work perfectly well, and are still useful despite being rather behind the times. However, a great deal of dirt and dust can accumulate on electronic circuits during their useful lifecycle. It's important to clean them properly to avoid shorting them out. Before you get started cleaning your vintage electronic circuits, be sure that the device is something which you can open yourself, and then reclose the way it was originally assembled in the factory.

Instructions

1. Unplug the electronic device from the electrical outlet, and remove any auxiliary power sources such as removable batteries. Do not attempt to remove an internally installed power supply unit.

2. You will need to open the case of the electronic device. In most cases you will need a Phillips screwdriver. Make sure that you have some small cups handy for holding the screws.

3. Ground yourself on an unpainted portion of the metal chassis of the electronic device. This will discharge any static electricity which is flowing across your skin. If you touch any electronic component while your body has a static electric charge, you can short out the circuitry even if you don't feel the discharge. So proceed with caution.

4. Get a can of compressed air or a vacuum cleaner. Either use the compressed air to blow the dust out, or use the vacuum cleaner to suck it out. Either way, do not touch the electronic circuits with any cleaning device. If there's thick dust that can't be removed with the canned air or vacuum cleaner, use a soft brush to brush it away, then vacuum up the particles the brush has removed. Pay special attention to any fans which are blocked with dust, such as the fans which cool the CPU, the power supply and the motherboard. If these fans aren't working properly, the heat can fry your device.

5. Use a cotton swab saturated with a small amount of denatured alcohol to clean away any grime which has accumulated on the circuits. If you use this method, it's important to give the device plenty of time to dry before closing it up and reconnecting it to the power source. If your device has suffered a liquid spill, you can probably clean up the spill using distilled water or denatured alcohol. However, it's a good idea to have the device checked out by an authorized service professional after a liquid spill. If it's a cheap device like a keyboard, you may want to simply replace it.

6. After you've given the device plenty of time to dry out, reassemble the casing with the original screws. Be careful not to drop the screws or screwdriver onto the electronic circuit boards, as these are often magnetic and can damage your unit. Once your unit is completely reassembled, try reconnecting it to the power and turning it back on. If it exhibits any symptoms of a malfunction, turn it off immediately and contact a professional.

Tags: electronic circuits, electronic device, vacuum cleaner, denatured alcohol, device plenty

Do Close Up Photography

Close Up Adapter

There will be times that you'll want to get closer to photograph an object than your lens will allow. All lenses have a minimum focusing distance, and if you get too close, the subject will be out of focus. Close-Up Photography is also called macro photography and special lenses can be purchased that are called macro lenses that allow focusing at small distances. In all cases you must carefully consider depth of field and use manual focus for close-up photography. You can buy fairly inexpensive close-up adapters that fit to the front of the lens that allow close focusing. In this article we will provide some techniques and examples for doing close-up photography that do not require buying additional macro lenses--however, if you are serious about Macro Photography you may want to consider investing in a macro lens or a variety of close-up adapters.

Instructions

1. This is a normal image of some lilies in the garden. This was shot with a 55mm lens at about 4 feet, which is the closest the lens can focus. The camera was hand held and the shot is here as a reference for you to compare results of macro photography of the same subject.

2. This shot was taken with a 200mm lens on a tripod at about 8 feet. This is as close as the lens will focus. Notice the reduction in depth of field. It was very windy when these photographs were taken so a smaller aperture could not be used without getting blur from the movement of the flowers in the wind. A smaller aperture would increase depth of field but require a slower shutter speed which would not freeze the moving flower. Yes folks, plants do move.

3. This image was taken with a 1x close-up adapter. You can purchase close-up adapters up to 4x for most cameras. The larger the number, the more the image will be magnified. Notice the reduced depth of field, but also notice the fine details in the leaves of the iris. Close-up photography gives you the ability to see things you might not have seen without the aid of the lens.

4. This photograph was taken with a 2x adapter. This allows you to get within inches of the subject. Carefully consider lighting when using close-up adapters and be careful of your own shadow when you take your picture. You are photographing a very small area.

5. Finally, remember to crop your image for dramatic effect. This is the same image taken with the 1x adapter. However, proper cropping of the image makes it a better photograph

Tags: close-up adapters, depth field, taken with, about feet, called macro, image taken

Use A Rotary Dial Phone To Make A Call Quickly

With technology changing daily, I realized there are probably many young people out there who have never seen an old rotary dial phone. I'm confident they will need some instruction. In case they are stuck at Grandma's house and she keels over and the battery on their cell phone is dead, I'm writing this easy-to-understand article on use a rotary dial phone to make a call quickly.

Instructions

1. To use a rotary dial phone to make a call quickly, you need to be able to identify the rotary phone. Note the classic look. Pick it up and feel the weight.

Be aware that besides the standard black issue rotary, these phones were also available in several fashionable colors. Here is a picture of some stylish samples.

2. After you've found the phone, locate the dial (the round thing in the middle of the phone that has letters and numbers underneath it). Here's a picture. Study this next process well so you'll be able to make a call quickly using a rotary dial phone.

3. Pick up the receiver. Put your index finger in the circle above the first number you are calling (9) and move it all the way to the right until you hit that silver piece of metal. QUICKLY remove your finger and wait until the dial rotates back into starting position. Repeat this strategy using your next number (1) until all the numbers are dialed. 9 - 1 - 1

4. Now you have learned to use a rotary dial phone to make a call quickly, you can bring Grandma home from the hospital, buy her a Jitterbug, teach her to use it and sell that old phone on Ebay! (They're worth a mint these days!)

Tags: rotary dial phone, dial phone, make call, make call quickly, phone make call

Magnavox Projection Television Troubleshooting

Magnavox projection TVs have a reputation for quality, but they don't always work as they should. Like a lot of other TVs, apparent problems may simply be an incorrect control setting, which can be solved with a few button taps on your remote. Assuming the problem isn't outside the TV (such as the power source or the antenna position), you can take several troubleshooting steps to address issues specific to Magnavox projection TVs.

Channels

Magnavox projection TVs require you to insert specific channels into the TV's memory. If you can't get a specific channel, it may have been inadvertently deleted or never added in the first place. Press the "Menu" button on the remote, then use the up and down buttons to highlight the "Features" option on the screen and click it. You'll see a new set of options; use the arrows on the remote to maneuver over to the "Channel Memory" option and click it. You can then add and delete channels from the list as you wish. Make sure the channel you want to watch has a check mark next to it, then press the "Status" or "Menu" button on the remote to clear the screen when you are done.

Specific Shows

If you can't get a specific show on your Magnavox projection TVs, but other shows appear just fine, you have likely set the parental control features. To correct it, press the "Menu" button, then use the arrow buttons to scroll over and select the "Features" option onscreen. A new set of options will appear. Scroll over to the one marked "Parental Controls" and click it. (You may need to press the "More" option several times to reach it, since the various options cannot fit on the screen all at once.) Another set of options will appear. Select either "Content Advisory" or "Channel Blocking" and make sure that the control options are turned off. If you use a pass code with your Magnavox projection TV, you may need to enter it before it will let you change the parental content features.

Remote Issues

The remote control on a Magnavox has a limited range, and like many remotes will only work if it has unrestricted access to the sensor on the TV. Make sure you're within 15 feet or so of the set, and that there are no obstacles between the remote and the TV before proceeding. If that doesn't work (and the batteries in the remote are fresh), then check to see that the remote is set to the television. Magnavox remotes can be used to control VCRs, DVD players and similar devices. In order to set each device, press and release the "Record" button on the remote, then push the VCR, ACC or TV button immediately after that (within three seconds). That clears the previous information and lets you program the correct information in. You have 30 seconds to type in the three-digit code corresponding to the component you want to work (your owner's manual should have a list of codes). After that, whenever you press the VCR, ACC, or TV button, the remote will work only for that chosen device. You can repeat the process if you wish to change the settings again.

Tags: button remote, Magnavox projection, Menu button, button remote then, Features option, Magnavox projection

Connect Your Laptop To Your Tv With Svideo Cables

4-pin S-Video Cable

So much free video content is available online, but watching it on a small laptop screen or a small computer monitor is awful. By connecting your laptop or computer to your TV with an S-Video cable, you can enjoy good picture quality and free content! This tutorial works for Windows-based laptops running Windows XP or Vista ONLY.

Instructions

1. Check to see how many pins your S-Video output and inputs have. 4-pin, 7-pin, and 9-pin are all possibilities. Good news! 4-pin S-Video cables (as seen in the above image) work in all S-Video inputs and outputs! S-Video outlets are always female, and the cable will be same on each end.

2. Turn on your TV and laptop. Make sure your TV is tuned to the correct AV input for your S-Video cable.

3. Plug the S-Video cable into your TV, then into your laptop.

4. Your computer should take over at this point, but if it doesn't you should be able to press the Function key and the F5 key (at the same time) and select your TV as your main display.

5. Depending on the graphic card that you have and video drivers, you may have to adjust the screen resolution on your laptop or your TV.

To adjust the screen resolution on your laptop, return to your desktop and right click, then select "Properties" in the dialogue box that opens. The "Display Properties" window will now be open, click on the "Settings" tab and adjust the screen resolution there.

Tags: your laptop, adjust screen, adjust screen resolution, screen resolution, S-Video cable

Format A Micro Sd Memory Card

Format a Micro SD Memory Card

The microSD card is a variant of the regular SD card designed to work with smaller electronics like cellphones. While the microSD card has all the same features and capabilities of a regular SD card, it's only a fraction of the size, meaning most people need a microSD-to-SD adapter to insert it into any traditional SD card slot. Formatting your microSD card restores it to the factory settings, clearing all data and leaving you with a clean slate.

Instructions

1. Insert the microSD card into the SD card adapter and slide that into your computer's SD card slot. If your computer lacks an SD input, you need an SD card-to-USB-adapter as well.

2. Click the Start button on the Desktop taskbar and select "Computer" or "My Computer" (varies slightly depending on your version of Windows).

3. Locate the microSD card on the list provided and right-click it.

4. Select "Format...", change any necessary settings, and click "Start". Certain versions of Windows may require you to first select "Properties" and choose to format from there.

Tags: microSD card, card slot, Format Micro, Format Micro Memory, Memory Card, Micro Memory, Micro Memory Card

Use Your Sirius One Unit Inside Your Home

Sirius One Radio

The Sirius One is an inexpensive and convenient model of satellite radio that works well in your car. But, you can also connect your Sirius One Radio to work inside your home or other small space.

Instructions

1. Purchase what is known as a "home kit" for your radio. You will need extra parts to get your satellite radio receiver to play at home on your stereo tuner or by plugging it in.

2. Visit your local Radio Shack or electronics store and inquire about models, upgrades and pricing of home kits. You can even look on auction websites. All of these places may carry an FM modulators you can hook up that would enable you to broadcast your signal on FM radio throughout your home. Tune your radio to an empty station either at the lowest or highest end of the radio dial and the receiver would have to be set to the same frequency.

3. Alternatively, attach a cable (patch cord) in the back of the receiver directly to your stereo or portable boom box jacks in the back (or front) as the case may be. Attach it in the same way you would hook up other external electronic devices such as a television. The quality will not be great, as this particular model is not meant to be used this way, but it is suitable for smaller homes, businesses and apartments. Signal interference may occur, be patient. Again, you must use an FM radio to pick up the signal.

Tags: home your, satellite radio, Sirius Radio, your radio, your stereo

Macro Slr Camera Lens Information

Macro lenses are used to take life-sized images of subjects that other lenses simply can't reproduce. These lenses utilize a floating glass element to increase the distance light travels between the lens and the image sensor or film, allowing it to have a much smaller minimum-focusing distance. Some of the key characteristics of macro lenses are magnification, aperture, focal length and minimum-focusing distance. Extension tubes are a less-expensive alternative to a macro lens.

Life-Sized Images

The purpose of a macro lens is to create images that are at least as large in the image as they are in real life. The size of the subject in the picture compared to the actual size is the magnification ratio. A macro lens should have at least a 1:1 ratio, but nicer lenses will have up to a 5:1 magnification ratio.

Aperture

The aperture of an SLR macro lens is crucial, depending on the types of images you will be shooting. If you are taking pictures in low light, or shooting fast-moving objects like small insects, it is critical to have a wide aperture--2.8, or less--in order to use a shutter speed that's fast enough to stop the action.

Focal Length

Single-lens reflex macro lenses range from 50 to 200 mm in focal length, which affects the lens' field-of-view. If you are shooting very close to your subjects, 50 mm is sufficient. However, if you can't get close, perhaps because the insects will fly away, you will need a longer focal length.

Minimum-Focusing Distance

The minimum-focusing distance is how close the lens can get to the subject and still focus on it. For example, if the minimum-focusing distance is 6 inches, the lens would need to be at least 6 inches away from the camera in order to focus on it. The shorter the minimum-focusing distance, the better.

Extension Tubes

Macro lenses can be expensive, sometimes prohibitively so for people who just want to test out macro photography. Extension tubes are much cheaper, but sacrifice some image quality. The hollow tubes extend the distance between the image sensor or film and the lens itself to reduce the minimum-focusing distance.

Tags: minimum-focusing distance, macro lens, Extension tubes, focal length, image sensor, image sensor film, macro lenses

Low Light Camera Vs Infrared Camera

Night scene viewed by an infrared camera

Surveillance cameras come in many kinds, but two that get attention are the low-light and infrared (IR) varieties. An IR camera detects the heat from people and hot objects like car engines. A low-light camera can take pictures by starlight or other faint sources.

Descriptions

An IR camera is sensitive to invisible light at wavelengths longer than 750 nanometers. It can see anything that's warmer than the background environment. A low-light camera amplifies small amounts of available visible light to produce a useful image out of murky darkness.

No Light

A low-light camera needs at least some visible light to create an image. IR cameras depend on the infrared given off by warm objects only. They can image people even in total darkness.

Ambient Heat

An IR camera needs to see differences in temperature, so a warm environment will blur out warm objects and people. A low-light camera will be relatively unaffected by ambient heat.

Sensitivity

Normal room lighting will overload a low-light camera although it functions well in nighttime conditions. An IR camera will lose clarity by seeing its own heat unless it's cooled to cryogenic temperatures.

Illumination

You can invisibly illuminate a scene with an infrared light, making it easier for an infrared camera to see a larger scene. Since a low-light camera is sensitive to visible light, attempts to create additional light will give away the location of a hidden camera.

Tags: low-light camera, visible light, camera needs, camera sensitive, camera will, infrared camera, warm objects

Build A Slide Film Light Box

Film sildes

Photographers and hobbyists who have boxes of slides that need to be organized and digitized may find it useful to create a portable and inexpensive light box to illuminate slides. You can build a light box using materials from home improvement and budget furnishing stores. The light box provides a stable surface to hold slides and backlighting to view the images so you can take a digital photograph of the slide. You can also adapt this light box design to meet needs beyond viewing slides, such as creating a lighted picture frame, tracing surface or small, lighted display.

Instructions

1. Choose a picture frame with wide sides (such as 3 or 4 inches all around) to create a table-like top over the light box.

2. Turn the picture frame over so that the glass is facing down and place on a flat surface.

3. Remove the back plate of the picture frame that holds the picture in place.

4. Measure the area at least 1/2 inch from the picture opening (this should be slightly larger than the picture size). For example, the measurement for an 8-by-10 picture is 9-by-11.

5. Glue the glass to the frame and set it aside to dry and cure completely.

For extended use, consider replacing the glass in the picture frame with a clear, thick plastic panel (cut to the same size as the glass) and glue this sheet to the inside edges of the frame.

6. Cut the wood to the measured lengths from Step 4. For example, a measurement of 9-by-11 requires cutting two lengths of 9 inches and two lengths of 11 inches.

7. Drill a 1-inch hole on each side of a long length of wood, approximately 2 inches from the end, to accommodate the power cord for each of the LED lights.

8. Assemble the four pieces of wood to create an open box.

9. Secure the corners and sides of the box using wood screws.

10. Paint the interior walls of the box with two coats of white paint and allow to dry completely.

11. Install the compact, under-the-counter LED light fixtures on the inside of each of the shorter sides of the box. Make sure to center the light fixture horizontally and vertically on the panel and orient the light fixture so that the power cord is on the same side as the drilled holes.

12. Thread the power cords through the drilled holes and plug into a power strip.

13. Place the picture frame face down and place the light box on top of the frame. Trace an outline of the corners of the light box on the back of the picture frame.

14. Remove the light box and attach the corner brackets to the picture frame to create a guide to hold the frame top in place.

15. Turn the frame over and place on top of the light box, making sure the corner brackets fit around the outside corners of the light box.

16. Cut the translucent plastic glass to fit the picture size (for example, 8-by-10).

17.Remove the protective film on the plastic glass and place on top of the glass surface.

18. Plug the power cord of the power strip into an outlet and turn on the LED lights.

19. Place slides on top of the plastic glass to view the back-lit images.

Tags: picture frame, plastic glass, power cord, corner brackets, corners light, down place, drilled holes

Shop For A Karaoke Machine

Karaoke is a popular singing pastime which originated in Japan. People sing along to popular songs from which the vocals have been removed and which is broadcast over speakers. While karaoke is typically practiced at bars and clubs, you can shop for a personal karaoke machine to keep at home.

Instructions

Establish a Karaoke Machine Budget

1. Decide how you will use your karaoke machine. You will want to allocate a lower budget for your karaoke machine if you plan to just sing once in a while at parties.

2. Consider setting aside more money for a karaoke machine that you plan to use frequently. A more expensive system will offer better sound quality and allow you to practice your singing with a higher level of accuracy than a lower end model would.

Choose a Portable Karaoke Machine

3. Shop for portable karaoke machines for the most ease of use. Portable machines are usually moderately priced.

4. Take advantage of the portable karaoke machine to host karaoke parties. Portable machines combine the microphone, CD player, speakers and even a video monitor into one machine. This way you can simply plug the machine in anywhere and begin the singing competition.

Shop for a Microphone Karaoke Machine

5. Save money by choosing to purchase a microphone type karaoke machine. These simple systems are perhaps the least expensive way to enjoy karaoke at home.

6. Expect lower quality sound and a smaller selection of songs with a microphone only karaoke system. These karaoke machines are just a microphone with some digital songs programmed into it. This type of karaoke machine is best for those who wish to dabble occasionally in karaoke.

Shop for a Karaoke DVD Player

7. Opt for a DVD player style karaoke machine as an addition to your entertainment system.

8. Integrate your DVD karaoke machine into your home surround sound speakers. DVD karaoke machines do not come with speakers, so the sound is channeled through your existing home speakers.

9. Connect your DVD karaoke player to your television. DVD karaoke players use your TV monitor to display the lyrics.

Buy a Children's Karaoke Machine

10. Purchase one of the karaoke machine models created especially for kids who love to sing along. These models tend to be stand alone machines, which feature stronger construction and battery operated options.

11. Use a kid's model yourself to save the most money. Since they are considered toys, many kid's karaoke machines are quite inexpensive.

Tags: karaoke machine, karaoke machines, your karaoke, karaoke machine, your karaoke machine, Karaoke Machine, portable karaoke

Print Pictures From A Digital Camera

Digital cameras brought about a revolution in the way people interact with their photography. Instead of taking roll of film containing 24 or 36 shots to a drugstore to be developed and printed, digital technology allows thousands of images to be stored on one memory card that can be transferred to a computer's hard drive. These images can be sent across the world by email seconds after they've been taken. Many people still like to have a hard copy of their photography, though.

Instructions

Computer

1. Install your camera's PC software and drivers. If you no longer have these on disk, visit the support pages for your product on its manufacturer's website to download.

2. Connect the camera to the computer using the USB cable. If your camera does not support USB connectivity, you'll need to use a card reader connected to the computer.

3. Launch your camera's PC suite and import the images from its memory card or internal memory.

4. Connect the printer to the computer.

5. Load the photo paper into the printer and make sure it's properly aligned.

6. Select the image you want to print, click on "Print" from your camera's PC suite menu and set print properties as directed.

Printer with Integrated Memory Card Port

7. Remove the memory card from the camera.

8. Insert the card into the printer's built-in card reader.

9. Use the printer's controls to select images for printing.

10. Print the selected images.

PictBridge

11. Ensure that your printer and camera are PictBridge compatible. Check the user manuals if you are unsure.

12. Turn the printer on.

13. Turn the camera off and connect it to the printer using the USB cable. You might need to change the camera's connectivity settings before doing so. Check the camera's user manual for instructions.

14. Turn the camera on.

15. Use the controls on the camera or the printer to select images to print.

Tags: your camera, camera suite, card reader, into printer, memory card, select images

Canon Fd Lens Specs

From 1971 until 1987, Canon produced the FD lens-mounting system that replaced the earlier FL mount. This system originally featured the breech-lock mount, a forerunner to the bayonet mount. Although popular in the 1970s to 1980s, the FD family of dozens of lenses was superseded by the Canon electro-optical system and its electro-focus mount.

FD Lens Mount

An FD lens contained three outer bayonet lugs for the breech-locking action. This breech-lock mount allowed a less abrasive action during contact between the camera body and the lens. The inner diameter of the mount measured 48mm. The thin 42mm flange back allowed other lenses to adapt to the FD mount. The FD lens, however, was incompatible with other camera systems. A lens mount adaptor worked with a limited number of fixed lenses.

In 1976, Canon launched the "New FD" mount with the Canon AE-1 camera body that included a built-in micro central processing unit (CPU). The new FD lenses could mount by twisting the whole lens barrel with the mounting surfaces in contact with each other. The Canon F-1 camera featured a coupling pin for lens-body communication to allow fully coupled auto-exposure metering. The FD II series allowed a quicker fit-and-lock type for mounting and dismounting. (See Reference 4) The FD lenses series did not allow auto focusing, a tremendous advantage of the EF lens mount introduced in 2003.

Wide-Angle Lens

One example of a fixed wide-angle lens was the 24mm f/2.8 FD SSC. The SSC designation referred to the super spectra or multi-coatings on the lens. The aperture ranged from the maximum f/2.8 to the minimum f/16. The lens construction included nine elements in eight groups. The maximum magnification was 0.11x with an angle of view of 83 degrees. Focusing ranged from 1 foot to infinity. The threaded filter measured 55mm in diameter. Lens dimensions measured 66mm diameter x 52.5mm length. The lens weighed 330 g.

Standard Lens

In 1979, Canon launched the 50mm f/1.8 FD lens. This standard lens incorporated the New FD mount. The lens construction consisted of six elements in four groups. Focusing distance ranged from approximately 2 feet to infinity. The maximum magnification is .1x with a 46-degree angle of view. The aperture ranged from a maximum f/1.8 to a minimum f/16. This prime lens included five aperture blades. The lens accepted 52mm filters. Dimensions measured 63mm diameter x 35mm length. The lens weighed 170 g.

Zoom Lens

Canon's most powerful telephoto zoom lens of the series was the New FD 150-600mm f/5.6L. The L series refers to the Luxury Series. Launched in 1982, this lens included 19 elements in 15 groups. This compact lens included an inner focusing system and one-touch revolving mechanism. The maximum aperture was f/5.6 and the minimum aperture was f/32. The closest focusing distance was approximately 36 feet. Maximum magnification was .26x. The zoom ratio was 4x. Dimensions included 123mm diameter x 468mm length. This lens weighed 4,350 g.

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Photography Games For Children

Photography games exist both offline and online for those unable to access a camera.

Photography can be a fascinating subject for children to explore, and games featuring photos can either involve kids taking the shots themselves or else examining photos as part of the game. Games can use real cameras, and there are a range of photography-based games online which allow kids to manipulate virtual cameras or photos. Some of these games will require adult supervision, at least initially.

Mystery Objects

This game is based around the mystery object photos often seen in quizzes. An adult should organize the game by taking a bunch of photos beforehand of objects close up. Then challenge the children to identify the actual object in the photo. Potential subjects for these photos include mundane household objects, animals and even places in the local area. Afterward, kids can create their own close-up shots and challenge friends to play the game.

Categories

This game requires each child to possess a camera of their own to play and works best with cameras featuring digital memories on which can play back photos. An adult or one of the children should decide on a category --- for example, red cars or pets --- for the players to take photos of, and then set a time limit; an hour for instance. The players must then race to take as many photos of different subjects of that category within the time set, with the winner being the child with the most on their camera.

Spot The Difference

These puzzle games are typically found online, and feature two photographs, one of which has been modified to alter a few details. The aim of the game is to guess what's different between the first and second versions of the photo. Players typically click on each difference to score points. These games are available for free through a variety of websites. The Spot The Difference website, for example, features photos of landmarks and steam trains to play with.

Underwater Camera Quest

This online game features cartoon graphics and puts the player in charge of operating a virtual underwater camera. The player can explore several different environments, including a system of coral reefs, with the aim of taking snapshots of a variety of marine life. As each creature swims past, the player must click the mouse to take a photo. Getting a shot of all of the marine creatures required allows the player to complete the stage.

Snap Shot

This online web browser game tests how fast and how accurately a player can take a photo. During the game, different subjects will move from the right side of the screen to the left. The player must click to take a photo at the right time so that the subject is fully in frame. Taking an awry snap will cause the player to lose one of her three lives, while a perfect shot progresses the player to the next stage.

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