Cooking Utensils - Choosing Knives

When choosing a collection of cooking utensils for your kitchen it's important to have a wide selection of knives available for the variety of tasks that occur while preparing a meal. However, if you are not going to acquire a large selection of knives there are several types of knives that are highly recommended to have in your collection of cooking utensils.

Chef's Knife

The Chef's knife is one of the primary knives you should have in your cooking utensils collection. It's a knife that can be utilized for most tasks. A high quality Chef's knife will easily slice, mince, chop, dice and be efficient with most other tasks performed with a knife. Most of the Chef's knives range in size from six to twelve inches with the eight inch knife being the most popular.

Bread Knife

If you make your own bread or you buy loaves of bread that have not been sliced, a quality bread knife should be in your cooking utensils collection. It can provide an even slice and will provide a nice appearance for the remainder of the loaf. Most bread knives have a serrated blade and they usually are about six to ten inches in length. The serrated blade provides a nice slice and is far preferred than other types of knives for cutting bread.

Paring Knife

It's a good idea to add a paring knife to your cooking utensils collection since they are ideal for taking out seeds or making garnishes or taking the veins out of shrimp and can be used for other types of intricate tasks while preparing a meal. Paring knives are typically about two and half to four inches in length.

Utility Knife

A utility knife is also an important knife for a small collection. Utility knives are medium size knifes and are designed for various tasks in the kitchen. It's not a good idea to utilize them for heavy cutting procedures and it's not designed for peeling small types of fruits or vegetables. Some varieties come with a serrated edge.

Boning Knife

A boning knife is appropriate for a collection of cooking utensils in order to take out the bones from the meat items that you have selected for your meal. They typically have a thin blade and are typically five to six inches in length. A boning knife that has some flexibility is a good choice for removing bones from chicken while a s000008FFtiff type of boning knife is a good choice for taking out bones from beef as well as pork. When putting together a collection of cooking utensils make sure you have some high quality knives and life in the kitchen will be much easier.

Echo Wang is a contributing Editor for cooking-tips Find out which cooking products, treatments & solutions will continue to be beautiful at any time. Our site is dedicated to providing information about cooking well options so you can continue to do it perfect, if want to more information, please visit Cooking Utensils

Cooking
Cooking lessons

Outdoor Cooking Catalog - A Great Resource

If you have made it your New Year resolution to get more in touch with nature and the great outdoors, you might want to peruse through an outdoor cooking catalog. Being outside communing with nature and spending time with friends and family means that you are likely going to be doing some cooking outside the home, so you need to be prepared with a few cooking items.

Plethora of Information

An outdoor cooking catalog is going to have a lot of information when it comes to all the gadgets and other paraphernalia needed for cooking outside. Often times, the outdoor cooking catalog will have items that you will never likely see in the stores simply because the general public may not have a need for it but it could still be quite a cool and useful item.

Having a publication that is split up into various categories for utensils, pots and pans, cookware, gadgets and even stoves and grills can be quite helpful in breaking down your needs into manageable portions. An outdoor cooking catalog can make any purchase for cooking supplies be less daunting because it is so organized and easy to read.

Price and Comparisons

One of the best things about an outdoor cooking catalog is being able to compare similar items against one another at a glance. You do not have to make any special trips to a sporting goods or specialty store in order to do so, thus saving time and money for you. In addition, ordering out of a catalog for your outdoor cooking needs will save you money in the long run, not only in travel costs but also because the prices are usually cheaper than what you would find in a store.

Ordering from an outdoor cooking catalog doesn't mean that you won't have any warranties or money back guarantees. In fact, often times, items you order from an outdoor cooking catalog will have even better warranties and purchase p0000130Crotection than what you would buy in the store because they want your repeat business.

An outdoor cooking catalog, in addition to having more selections than a brick and mortar store, will help you if you do not have the time to travel to the store. You can page through the catalog in your spare time, place your order and then have it delivered straight to your home or office without driving from store to store finding everything you need. One stop shopping can be a life-saver when you are short of time but long on intent to have a good time with your outdoor cooking adventures.

Echo Wang is a contributing Editor for cooking Find out which cooking products, treatments & solutions will continue to be beautiful at any time. Our site is dedicated to providing information about cooking well options so you can continue to do it perfect, if want to more information, please visit Outdoor Cooking Catalog

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Cooking8lessons

Using Cooking Wine

Cooking wine is sort of a holdover from prohibition. People who grew up thinking Alcohol is Evil didn't want to have any in their homes. But they wanted those delicious flavors in cooking. Cooking wine seemed to be a reasonable compromise.

In essence, cooking wine is really bad wine that then has lots of salt added to it. This makes it pretty much undrinkable by anyone looking to 'get drunk'. However, being a combination of bad wine and lots of salt, it also is pretty much nasty for adding into food too! If you wouldn't want to put something in your mouth in the first place, do you really want to put it into a dish that you heat - meaning its (bad) flavors are now really concentrated down?

Using cooking wine is, simply put, a way to harm a perfectly good recipe. There's really no reason at all to use cooking wine instead of regular wine. If you're worried about youngsters getting into your wine, put it into a high cabinet. Or put it into a locked cabinet! There are probably MANY other much nastier substances in your house that should be locked up if you're worried about this sort of thing. But deliberately cooking with a nasty substance can literally ruin your recipes. You rarely save any money by buying cooking wine, either.

If you have a recipe that calls for wine or cooking wine, use a real wine from your local wine shop. All of the wines used in cooking should be found there quite easily. If your recipe calls for cooking wine and you go with normal wine, be sure to taste your recipe after adding the wine to see if you should also add in some salt, too. Some common types of cooking wine are:

Sherry

Sherry is a fortified (brandy-added) wine from the south of Spain. Because it's fortified, you can keep a bottle around for months after you open it, as long as you keep it sealed and cool. It usually has a rich, sweet flavor.

Marsala

Marsala comes from Sicily, which is the island at the toe of Italy's boot. It's a wine fortified with brandy and comes in red and white varieties, tho the red is the most popular type. It's a rich, sweet flavor and is used very much in Italian cooking, especially Chicken Marsala .

All Free Recipes

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Easy8cooking

Cooking With Honey-Useful Facts And Tips

Cooking with honey gives you a never-ending list of possibilities and recipes due to the many practical functions honey could serve. Here I list you seven:

Honey

1) enhances browning and crisp -- great for glazing roasted and baked foods to promote surface browning.

2) is a flavour enhancer -- an always welcomed natural sweetener for hot teas and cold beverages.

3) provides texture and feel -- an excellent addition in pastries and cakes making.

4) prolongs shelf-life -- a natural preservative for pickles and sauces.

5) retains moisture -- an essential ingredient for providing the moisture in rich cakes and prolonging the moisture retention.

6) is binding due to its viscosity -- a brilliant ingredient that aids shaping of desserts such as pastries, puddings, and cakes.

7) adds colour -- contributes a delightful golden hue to sauces, dressings, jellies, and frozen desserts.

And there are several tips on cooking with honey which I believe you will find very useful:

1. As a general guide, when using honey recipes, use less of honey because it is almost twice as sweet as sugar. Replace one cup of sugar for half a cup of honey, and because honey is hygroscopic (meaning it attracts water) , reduce the amount of liquid in the recipe by 1/4 cup for each cup of honey added.

2. Give longer time for beating and more vigorous beating000007D0 compared to sugar recipes, and when baking with honey.

3. Add 1/2 teaspoon baking soda for each cup of honey used. This will neutralize honey's acidity and help the food rise.

4. Reduce the oven temperature by 25 degrees Fahrenheit. Honey batter becomes crisp and browns faster than sugar batter.

5. When using honey in jams, jellies, or candies, increase the cooking temperature just a bit to allow the extra liquid to evaporate.

6. The floral variety of the honey should be considered when cooking with honey since honey will impart some of its flavour.

Source: http://www.benefits-of-honey.com/cooking-with-honey.html

R. Tan is the owner of the website benefits-of-honey.com which is a rich honey resource community specially built for all the honey lovers and fans in this world. She has packed this website with a wide range of quality contents on honey based on her knowledge and experience with honey, so as to promote its invaluable benefits which she believes could bring many positive spin-offs in everyone's daily life.

Easy8cooking
Cooking8class

Hairstyles for Prom

Prom night is the most awaited night for all the teenagers. They dream a different look, a unique personality and an elegant hairstyle with flawless attire. Prom hair is the major concern for most of the females. To choose the best prom hairstyles that complement the prom dress, personality and the mood of the night is a big chore. The hairstyle should go with the prom theme as well. Every prom night has a theme that ties together all the aspects of the prom. Prom themes are diverse and play a vital role in the selection of prom dress and prom hairstyles.

There is a vast selection of hairstyles for prom for both short and long hairs. For girls with short hairs there are plenty of short prom hairstyles that look formal as well as trendy. To name a few textured short cuts with plenty of texture and layers, short hairstyle with a fringe and pixie cut are the most popular. Long hairs are bit difficult to manage but yet there is abundance of prom hairstyles for long hair. Curls, waves, updos and chingnons look great on long hairs. Updos prom hairstyles are the staple of the prom night that compliments the flattering features and gives an elegant look. Some of the other hairstyles are simple chic cut with the front part pleated to one side and separated with a hair band; long boho waves with a center parting and waves throughout the tresses; and curly locks created with rollers or barrel.

Most of the girls with medium length hair are worried for the hairstyle but there are various medium length hairstyles as well. Infact they can take advantage of both short hairstyles and long hairstyles. Choppy mid length cut, curled locks and natural wavy are some of the styles that are perfect medium hairstyles for the prom night. Updos prom hairstyles can also be the best styling option for medium length hair. Sassy updo and knotted style updos are the most popular and easy prom hairstyles.

Today the most favorite hairstyle with the young girls is the sedu prom hairstyles. These hairstyles can be natural sedu hairstyle, formal sedu hairstyle or vintage sedu hairstyle. A natural sedu hairstyle simply implies natural beauty. It is either straight hair with curls or a loose bun that showcases the face of the wearer. A formal sedu hairstyle consists of a tight bun or a low ponytail. Vintage meaning old fashioned is the most expressive and elegant hairstyle for prom.

Early planning of the best hairstyle for the most awaited prom night can help to achieve a different, unique, elegant and flattering look that blends well with the ambience of the prom night.

Read on to know more on medium length hairstyles and various other Prom hairstyles.

Ugg Australia Women's Knightsbridge 5119 chest
Ugg Women's Knightsbridge

HDTV CableCard

Look thorough the specifications list of many of the current crop of HDTVs and you will see the term CableCard listed on many of them, but what is HDTV CableCard?

Quite simply, it's a very elegant method of receiving HDTV from a cable provider.
Instead of supplying you with a set-top box to receive and decode its HDTV
transmission, the cable supplier gives you an HDTV CableCard which simply slots
into your TV. The card decodes the channels that your subscription allows your
receiver or integrated HDTV does the rest.

The advantage is that an HDTV CableCard takes up much less room than a set-top
box, doesn't need its own power supply, and reduces the number of cables you
need for cable HDTV. Another advantage is that if you move house and have to
switch providers, you don't need to learn how to use a brand new set-top box. You
just relinquish your existing card and get a new one from your new provider,
everything else stays the same.

Perhaps the biggest advantage of HDTV CableCard is in the picture quality. Cable
companies are not known for the high quality of the components they put into set-
top boxes. Most consumers can't tell the difference between a decent picture and a
very good one. So cable companies tend to go for features rather than quality. With
CableCard your equipment - the HDTV tuner or integrated HDTV does the scaling
and display, so you choose how good the image quality is. If it matters to you, you
can buy a good tuner or integrated TV and benefit from better scaling and display.

The disadvantage of HDTv CableCard is that it is currently one-way, so cable
services which requ00000892ire interaction, such as pay-per-view, on-demand services,
sports season tickets and program guides don't work. For those you'll still need a
set-top box.

A two-way version of CableCard is currently in development.

Kenny Hemphill is the editor and publisher of The HDTV Tuner - a guide to the kit, the technology and the programming on HDTV.

DVD Recorders

DLP HDTV - What is DLP HDTV?

Digital Light Processing (DLP) involves advanced technology that was introduced by Texas Instruments. The process involves 1.3 million microscopic mirrors of Digital Micromirror Devices (DMD). This is a type of technology used to get more pixels onto High Definition Television (HDTV) so the picture is clearer. This entire concept is currently known as DLP HDTV.

The DMD is the main component of the DLP HDTV system. This tiny gadget holds all the small mirrors that reflect the pixels. They are made from aluminum so they are very light weight. One DMD can hold up to 1,280 pixels. Hewlett Packard is working in enhancing the DMD process so it can generate two pixel images at a time. The result will be DLP HDTV with even better picture resolution.

If you compare the cost of a flat panel plasma or LCD television set to that of a DLP HDTV you will find the latter to be more cost effective. You will be getting a very good deal because it offers you a very good picture and they have a much longer life than a cathode ray tub TV set. One of the disadvantages though is that LCD television sets have better contrasting controls and ranges of color than what is offered on DLP HDTV. However DLP HDTV definitely wins when it comes to viewing sports or other materials where there is plenty of motion going on.

The DLP HDTV models use a color wheel system for the colors you can select from. There are three primary colors used - red, green, and blue. When these colors are mixed with the DMD though you can get 256 different shades of color. The best selling DLP HDTV on the market right now is the 56 inch Samsung HLR5667W. It retails from $1,600 to $2,700. They also have a 50 inch model you can get for a price of $1,500 to $2,800.

As the DLP HDTV becomes more popular you can expect a wider selection of models to emerge onto the market. You can also expect a reduction in the cost of them. For now though you will have to pay the high price to have the DLP HDTV, the newest technology in the way of TV and movies.

If you found this information on DLP HDTV useful, you'll also want to read about HD TV Antenna

Rear Projection

Speed Up Slow Computers

If your computer is more than a year old, chances are it does not run at the speed it did when it was new.Maybe you have even tried registry cleaners and spyware removal programs to speed it up with little or no success. While these programs have some value, they are not the main reason computers slow down over time.Neither is it likely to be your processor unless your computer is more than 6 years old. Most processors are under-utilized. They are so fast that they are overkill for the average user - often operating at only 1%-10% of capacity.You can check this for yourself on a Windows PC. Hold down the Ctrl + Alt keys and press Delete. On the pop-up, click Task Manager and read your CPU Usage.This will give an accurate reading of how busy your processor really is.Even if it is as high as 50%-75%, it is still not fully utilized.So if that is the case, you do not need a new computer with a faster processor to gain more speed. But if you do buy a new computer, it will run fast.Not because the processor is so much faster, but rather because there are fewer programs and files loaded on it initially, and it will probably have more Random Access Memory (RAM).

RAM is the key to the speed.When we talk about computer speed what we really mean is not processor clock-speed, but the speed with which pages load, files open, and programs respond. While your connection to the internet has some impact on this for online activities, as long as you are using at least a Cable or DSL service (and not dial-up) your internet connection is probably not the issue.The deficiency is most likely with your RAM, for two reasons.

1) As time passes, new program releases become larger and web content increases exponentially in size and scope. Ergo, more RAM is needed to handle the bulkier footprints.
2) Factory-installed computer RAM is usually well below maximum capacity. While it was sufficient for your system at the time of purchasewith only the original operating system installed, you have probably since added programs, service packs, updates, and all kinds of photo, video, music, and data files. Whether these files reside on your computer or you access them online is irrelevant.It still takes RAM to enable them, especially whenmultiple windows are open.

If you are wondering why computer manufacturers do not consider your future needs by maxing out RAM at the factory, there are two factors.

1) They want to keep costs down. Larger RAM modules are more expensive than smaller ones.

2) They want more computer sales. They do not make RAM. They buy it from memory manufacturers (and re-brand it as theirs). And they do not make any money if you upgrade the memory later from a direct manufacturer. Yet, they can expect consumers unfamiliar with RAM upgrades to buy a new computer sooner rather than later.

Considering the average cost of a computer RAM upgrade is about $100, and in some cases as little as $40, it is far less costly than a new PC.And anyone can do it. If you max out your RAM, you may even have more than would come factory-installed on a new computer today; which would again be the minimum for what that system can handle. The most daunting cost of a new computer is often the soft cost. By that I mean, all the time it takes to set up services and devices again, and transfer all your programs and files from one to the other. It is not uncommon for the Saturday morning computer purchase to turn into the weekend-long PC deployment project.But a typical RAM upgrade takes less than 30 minutes.

Visit here for a complete step-by-step guide to RAM upgrades

Chris Regan is a full-time IT solutions provider and a free-lance writer and marketer.

Digital Video Recorders

Top 8 Benefits of Spy Cameras

Have you ever wondered what the top benefits of having a spy camera in your home or office are? Well, wonder no more - because we have a handy list that tells you what the benefits are, and the reasoning behind them!

i) Multi-Tasking Designs

Today's ultra modern hidden spy nanny cams aren't simply spy cameras. They're now embedded into everyday items and objects that you can use on a regular basis - even if you don't employ the nanny camera features or capabilities. Alarm clocks, wall clocks, pen holders, fully-functioning stereo systems; some of these great items now feature easy-to-use and high-tech micro spy nanny cams.

ii) They Never Ask For Time Off

Security guards need days off, and watchdogs need to nap and rest, but spy cameras can keep on watching and recording - long after you yourself have gone to bed. You can plug them in and leave them up and running for extended periods of time - and even longer if necessary. No matter what your time considerations are, wireless nanny cams will always be on duty for you and your family.

iii) Master Of Disguise

A spy camera or internet IP nanny cam is only valuable if it avoids detection. Fortunately, today's ultra modern spy cams are designed to hide perfectly in plain sight. With some excellent features as pinhole cameras, incredibly small sizes, and, of course, excellent designs, nanny cams can be placed in just about any room and be used in any situation without attracting any unwanted attention to itself.

iv) Use Them Anywhere

Home, office, indoors, outdoors, in dark light or in bright light - it doesn't matter. Today's multi-purpose spy cameras are made to be used in any location delivering perfection and reliability each and every time. Kitchens, bedrooms, storerooms, cubicles - if you have an area to protect and monitor, there's a nanny cam out there that can simply get the job done.

v) Modern Technology

It's absolutely amazing to see just how far body worn spy cam technology has advanced over the years. Before, a video camera of any sort was large, bulky and expensive - not to mention difficult to actually use. Now, spy cameras are so user-friendly, but at the same time employing forward-thinking function, that anyone can have one up and running within minutes - regardless of how comfortable or experienced they are with nanny cameras.

vi) Versatility

How would you like to place a spy camera 3000 feet away from you and see what's going on with perfect clarity and without interruption? Nanny cams are designed to work in the real world - and not just within a 100 foot distance from camera to receiver. If you have large property to monitor, or want to keep a close watch on far, hard-to-reach locations, then there are many kinds of spy cams than can do just that for you.

vii) All Light Long

Some spy cams only work in bright light. Others in dark light. But today's modern nanny cams are manufactured to work in all lighting situations and capacities. In fact, there are spy cameras that are specifically designed to automatically switch onto night time recording when the surrounding light levels diminish. The safety and security of your home and family doesn't stop when the sun rises or sets, and your wireless spy camera will keep on recording - no matter how bright or dim it actually is out there.

viii) The Lens Never Lies

You wouldn't believe to look at it, but that tiny pinhole lens actually can see quite a bit. Most lenses are no bigger than 3/4" in diameter. But, that same tiny lens can actually capture everything that's taking place and going on within a 90 degree field of vision. You won't have to worry about missing anything, because your micro spy nanny cam will record it for you to see.

Manny J. Manuel is an expert on spy cameras and he wants to share his knowledge and passion with you! He believes that all families should have access to affordable, reliable wireless nanny cameras which can keep families, homes and businesses safe from harm, violence and crime.

Living in Canada, Manny J. Manuel understands that there isn't anything more important than the safety of your family. That's why he wants to spread the word and inform people about internet IP spy nanny cams that families can afford and which offer reliable protection and security. He also believes that spy cameras shouldn't be too complicated to families to actually set up and use.

Canon Eos

How to Troubleshoot Video Problems

Few things can be as frustrating as picture problems. You get your system all ready to go, flip the switch, and WHAM! One or more channels look terrible. The good news is that the majority of video problems can be traced to just a few causes. Most problems are comprised of the following:

Snow

Horizontal bars rolling though the picture

Vertical bars rolling through the picture

Ghosting

Herringbone pattern (diagonal lines through picture)

Lower channels look fine, upper channels are not

These six are the main symptoms youll find when seeing video problems. Thankfully, most are fairly easy to fix.

Snow -

Snow is caused by inadequate signal strength at the tuner. Its usually caused by:

1 Splitting the signal too many times.

2 A weak signal from the antenna or cable company

3 A very long cable run

If the signal is snowy at all your TVs, especially if you have more than 4 TVs, you probably need an RF amplifier. Check the strength at the demark (service entrance). If it is fine there, add an amplifier before the splitter. Make sure to use a quality unit with good bandwidth (out to at least 1000MHz). If you have digital cable or a cable modem, get an amplifier with a bidirectional return path to allow for communication back to the cable company. If the picture looks bad at the demark, contact the cable company.

If it is bad at only one TV, you may have a bad cable between the splitter and the TV or a very long run of cable. You can amplify just that run.

Horizontal Rolling Bars

Horizontal rolling bars are caused by DC power getting into the cable system. To fix it, disconnect the TV from all other components in the system. If the bars disappear, add the other components back in until the bars return. When you find the offending component, use a DC blocker to eliminate the DC power path to the system.

Vertical Rolling Bars

Vertical rolling bars are caused by AC power getting on the cable line. The best fix for this is to use a ground breaker. A ground breaker eliminates the electrical connection between the TV and the cable system. A ground breaker is also the main fix for a hum on your audio systems speakers.

Ghosting

Ghosting is caused by the tuner receiving identical signals at slightly different times. It can be caused by your TV receiving a local station broadcasting over the air and via the cable system at the same time. Make sure you are using good quality RG-6 coax cable and good compression fittings. Replace any low quality cable splitters or combiners with high quality units. Make sure they are tight also. This will also cure another cause of ghosting, signal reflection inside a poor cable.

Ghosting can also be caused by multi-path interference on an antenna system. This is especially true in an urban environment with lots of hills and tall buildings. To combat this, use a very directional antenna aimed directly at the desired station.

Herringbone Pattern

A herringbone pattern is caused by radio frequency interference from other stations transmitting on the same channel or adjacent channels, powerful radio signals, computers, etc. Another common cause is being equidistant from two transmitters operating on the same channel.

In short, this can be caused by just about any sort of RF radiation at the correct frequency. Really great shielding found on high quality cables helps to combat this. If you are getting this interference while modulating an A/V source on a certain channel, try switching to a different channel.

Poor Upper Channel Reception

Poor Upper Channel Reception is caused by poor signal strength on the upper channels. Use an amplifier with a tilt compensator that allows adjustment of the upper channels relative to the lower channels. This will prevent overdriving the lower channels while providing the upper channels with enough gain. Also, check to see if all components in the RF system are rated to at least 1GHz and RG-6 or RG-6Quad shield cable is being used throughout.

Bio: Steve Faber has almost 15 years in the custom installation industry. He is a CEDIA certified designer and Installer 2 with certifications from both the ISF and THX. His experience spans many facets of the industry, from the trenches as an installer and control systems programmer, and system designer, to a business unit director for a specialty importer of high end audio video equipment, a sales rep for a large, regional consumer electronics distributor, and principal of a $1.5M+ custom installation firm. He currently is senior sales engineer for Digital Cinema Design in Redmond, WA. For more on how to get the best video in your home or theater see Home Theater Video

MP3 Players

Collecting Photography - Daguerreotypes

There are many types of photographs that you can collect, but the daguerreotype really stands apart from the pack. Not only is every single daguerreotype a rare image, they all have a distinctive look as well. Let's start with a short history lesson on the characteristics, and process of making a daguerreotype.

Although the daguerreotype was not the first method of producing an image, it was the first to make photography a commercially viable product. Although not the sole inventor, the daguerreotype is named after one of its most famous inventors, Louis Daguerre. Daguerre announced the perfection of the process in 1839.

The daguerreotype was a type of photograph that had no negative which resulted in a single copy of any given image. Daguerreotypes were produced by adding a layer of silver halide to the plate, the plate was in turn exposed to a scene through a lens, and then the plate was developed by holding it over a container of heated mercury.

Next, the image had to be permanently affixed to the plate by dipping it in a bath of hyposulphite of soda. The resulting image was so prone to damage by the slightest handling, that most daguerreotypes were protected by covering them with a piece of glass and sealing them with tape, then placing them in a case.

Daguerreotypes are also very prone to oxidation if exposed to air, so if the sealing tape has been removed or has become damaged, the image is likely to turn black or even spotted. Unfortunately there is nothing that can be done to bring back a heavily tarnished or spotted daguerreotype. Do not try to polish a heavily tarnished daguerreotype, you will only end up destroying the image altogether. Slightly tarnished daguerreotypes can be prevented from getting worse by resealing them with special tape sold by archival supply houses. You can easily find the tape online, just Google "archival photo supplies".

The glass produced back in the early 1800s was also prone to have lots of impurities, and as a result many of the daguerreotypes you will find now may have what looks like white mold spots on the image. The white spots are more likely in the glass and will in most cases disappear if the glass is replaced, and the daguerreotype resealed.

It is best to have any repairs to your daguerreotype done by a professional restorer, but if you do decide to make any repairs, remember to never touch the image plate. All it will take to ruin the image is a slight brush of your finger on the plate, or to have a speck of dust get sealed in.

The most noticeable thing that makes a daguerreotype stand apart from other cased images such as ambrotypes, is that daguerreotypes have a mirror surface. You have to hold them at just the right angle to see the image clearly. Daguerreotypes are also prone to damage if dropped, exposed to sunlight for extended periods of time, or miss handled, so treat them with care. The best way to store any photograph including a daguerreotype is to keep it in a metal box, and in a cool dry place.

Daguerreotypes come in the following sizes; Whole plate - 6 1/2 by 8 1/2 inches, Half plate - 4 1/4 by 5 1/2 inches, Quarter plate - 3 1/4 by 4 1/4 inches, Sixth plate - 2 3/4 by 3 1/4 inches, Ninth plate - 2 by 2 1/2 inches, Sixteenth plate - 1 3/8 by 1 5/8 inches, and cover all kinds of subjects including slightly rarer outdoor scenes, fairly uncommon post mortem, rare personality portraits, hand tinted, and common folk portraits, with common folk portraits being the most common. Although all types of daguerreotypes are collected, there are certain genera that collectors gravitate to.

Outdoor Scenes; because of the equipment needed to produce a daguerreotype, outdoor images are fairly rare. Outdoor daguerreotypes cover every subject from occupational scenes to images of a photographers back yard. If you decide to collect outdoor images, you can expect to pay anywhere from a couple of hundred dollars, up to a few hundred dollars.

Post Mortem; it was sometimes a practice back in the 1800s to have photographs taken of loved ones on their death beds, after death. Photographs of deceased people are called post mortem, and are highly prized by some collectors. If you decide to collect post mortem daguerreotypes, you can expect to pay anywhere from fifty dollars, up to a few hundred dollars for an outstanding example.

Personality; among the rarer of daguerreotype images are the ones that have a personality, or personalities. If you decide to collect images of personalities, you can expect to pay upwards of a thousand dollars or more for an unusual image.

Hand Tinted; some of the most spectacular daguerreotypes were hand tinted. Colors were usually red, gold, and/or light blue, but other colors exist. Collectors really like these types of images and will gladly pay upwards of a thousand dollars or more for a fine example.

Common Folk Portraits; although common folk portraits are the most common daguerreotype you will find, they are nevertheless quite worth collecting. Common folk portraits cover everyone from babies to grandparents, and if well composed, they can go as high as a few hundred dollars.

I hope this article has given you a good overview on collecting daguerreotypes, and no matter what genera you decide to collect, you can be sure that you have the only copy of that particular image. If you decide to start collecting daguerreotypes, or any photographic medium, the most important thing to keep in mind is to collect for the love of collecting images, not just as an investment opportunity.

Have Fun Collecting!

Bill writes articles on collecting photography, and is also a collector and dealer of photos. His current inventory as well as more articles on collecting photographs can be viewed via his website PhotoNutz.com

Vintage Photography

Flat Panel LCD Plasma HDTV Accessory
Viewsonic N3760w

Nokia N810 Review - The Swiss Army Knife For Geeks

Everyone has a mobile phone these days. With it comes the ability to get on the internet whenever/wherever they want. Of course, data plans are sometimes just too costly to be justified. There are two other reasons I dislike the mobile internet. Firstly, mobile browsers are just not intuitive or friendly. The navigation is awful. Even a Blackberry's browser is hard to navigate, and it is one of the most widely used mobile phones for business customers. Finally, the majority of data plans are SLOW. They may claim to be "broadband", but while this term implies "fast", it really only amounts to something a litter faster than 56k dial-up.

So, if you plan to use your cell phone for the internet, be prepared for an internet experience that is about as pleasant as getting an infected wisdom tooth extracted. This didn't sound very inviting to me, so I decided to search for a device that meet my needs. I found a few duds along the way, such as the Archos 5. It claimed to be many things but came up very short on actual included features.

That's when I came upon a little gem called the Nokia n810. This isn't your standard Nokia phone. No, this isn't a phone at all, although it can be used as one with VOIP applications such as Skype. It was exactly what I had searched for. It's the next generation of portable internet devices, and here's why it's better than your mobile phone or your laptop.

Read more!

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Nikon D60-10-2mp-digital-slr-camera

Buy Perfume Online to Maximize Choices

Internet marketing has made it possible to purchase an almost infinite number of items online. Most of these items can be purchased at a store near home. There are, however, exceptions. Sometimes, it is preferable to buy certain products online despite their availability nearer at hand.

Often, options exist online that are not readily available or online purchases may carry a lower price. One item that bears consideration is perfume. It may be desirable to buy perfume online to maximize one's choices.

Several designers, Chanel, Calvin Klein, Tomi Hilfiger, to name a few have formulated their own unique perfumes and colognes. These products are normally available only at pricier department stores. Other scents bear the names of famous people.

Elizabeth Taylor's White Diamonds is one example. She did not create the scent, but she did have to approve it before it could bear her name. Again, these products are sold at high end department stores.

Other perfumes and colognes are not even available for sale in the United States. Price is not always a factor. Sometimes, other considerations make importing a particular scent in bulk impossible. The internet makes other options available for perfume consumers.

One option is the ability to buy direct. Most designers have their own websites where they market all of their products including perfumes. It may be considerably less expensive to buy perfume online this way than to seek out a department store. Buying directly from the source is also a perfect way to guarantee that one is getting an original product and not some knock off in a similar package.

Designer knock offs are available all over the internet. One factor that works against the designers is the inability to patent a scent. While their particular formula is proprietary, and usually of a higher quality, any company can create a formula that will reproduce the scent.

While some designer knock offs are sold in discount stores, many are still only available on the internet. The price range runs from very, very low to nearly that of the designer brands. Even so, the money savings involved will make it much more attractive to buy perfume online.

Foreign perfume makers, especially those in Europe, may choose not to export their products in bulk to the United States. Many people who vacation in these countries pick up a bottle of perfume as a souvenir and find that they really like the scent. After returning home, they run out and are disappointed to learn that they can not replace this product.

The internet changes this. It is possible to buy perfume online that is not available at all in this country. While the products are not brought over here in bulk, it is not difficult to order a single bottle from a manufacturer or retail outlet overseas and have it shipped directly to one's home.

The internet has revolutionized business in every market niche in existence. Sometimes it is preferable to buy certain products online over trying to shop for them in retail stores.

There are some compelling reasons to buy perfume online. These are price considerations, availability of designer knockoffs, and simple availability.

Lance Thorington's articles have been published on numerous places online including web sites, ezines, blogs and email lists. A great place to buy perfume online is http://beautyfaire.co.uk/fr-Fragrance.html - a great online shop for buying cosmetics online.

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Red Light Camera Solution

Traffic tickets pack a double blow: there's the cost of the ticket and either the cost of traffic school or an increase in your auto insurance premium.

The cost of traffic tickets and the rate of being ticketed are both rising. A big reasons for the increase in the number of traffic tickets being issued is the proliferation of red light cameras. These red light cameras are there to take pictures of the license plates of vehicles that pass through an intersection after the light has turned red. Somewhere between two weeks and two months later a ticket is mail to the offender, often with his or her picture attached. The tickets can range anywhere from $30 to over $300. The private companies that supply and operate these red light cameras share the revenues with the municipalities where the cameras are located.

We're told that these cameras are placed at intersections for our own good, and not for the financial windfall. The fact is there has been over 1 billion dollars in traffic fines issued to date because of these red light cameras. There are even people who swear that some of the traffic lights are calibrated to increase the number of red light tickets.

There are three huge flaws in this photographic ticketing system.

First, there is the obvious one of a camera malfunctioning and photographing a vehicle when the light has not yet turned red. How do you successfully argue such a case?

Secondly, what if there was a legitimate reason for being in an intersection when the light turned red. Maybe there was a pedestrian straggling through the crosswalk. Or maybe late, oncoming traffic prevented an intersection committed driver from making a left turn before the light turned red. Perhaps there was some obstruction in the road that caused a driver to have to slow down, and thus get caught in the intersection when the light turned red. These type of mitigating circumstances could be explained to and verified by a police officer who could then decide not to issue a ticket. But how do you explain anything to a camera?

Thirdly, there's the problem of the time lag between the traffic infraction and the actual receiving of the ticket. It can be as short as two weeks or as long as two months. How is someone to fight a ticket for an infraction that he can't remember, or didn't even know he committed?

The case against the use of red light traffic cameras has gone to court and in some municipalities there have been moratoriums placed on their use. But, despite these little victories, there use continues to spread.

While the law wrestles with the legality of the red light cameras, the people have decided to fight back. The resistance is two-pronged: legal and creative.

On the legal front, groups like the National Motorists Association (NMA) offer resources to help you fight your red light camera tickets. Their website, www.motorists.com, is full of useful information for drivers in a jam.

Others have sought a much more proactive and preventative solution. The law says that license plates must be clearly visible on the front and rear of all vehicle, but it says nothing about their being photographable.

Fed-up, resourceful drivers have devised ways of making their license plates clear to the naked eye, but virtually impervious to being clearly photographed. One way of doing this is by applying a glossy coating over the license plate which will cause the red light camera's flash to reflect back upon itself thus producing an overexposed, unreadable blur. This is perfectly legal as the plates remain clearly visible.

Thanks to a refusal to roll over and accept this money grab, once again we can approach traffic intersections without worrying whether a quick red light, malfunctioning camera, or minor traffic misstep will turn into a $300 ticket and higher auto insurance premiums.

If you want to protect yourself from red light camera tickets, I strongly recommend you visit http://www.licenseplateprivacy.com

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3D Models For Use in Geological Modeling

Geological modeling serves the purpose of creating 3D models of sections of the earths crust. These 3D models are unique as they can be created with different types of simulations of rocks, even the types of cells within the rocks. 3D models allow seismologists to predict certain events within the crust of the earth from shifting plates to eroding areas of the crust, or new growth within certain areas.

The grid surfaces within the programs are created with diverse polygons representing different structures and types of surfaces. These geological models are created using polygonal modeling using a meshed shell to create a surface that has been triangulated for the specific area.

3D geological modeling incorporates many other aspects of the field, including; diagenesis, structural geology, paleoclimatology and sedimentology.

Oil and Gas industries use these models to determine how the ground will react when the drills are inserted. These models are used to plan for any disturbances that may occur, as well as any weak points within the crust that could cause difficulty. If an accident were to occur, the 3D model allows the engineers to determine a plan of action for a variety of outcomes that may occur.

3D geological models are also used to complete valuable calculations for use in geostatistics. Many times, geologists are unable to calculate what is within the rock or within the crust at certain areas and therefore it is important to have software that can calculate these variables. This data is not available on regular grids and therefore must be estimated in the most effective manner.

Many popular software systems have been developed to create these 3D geologic 3D models; Roxar, Paradigm and Jewelsuite are only a sample of the programs available. These powerful software systems are able to display and calculate parameters required for many professionals involved in Earth Sciences.

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Met Art Photography

As diverse as cultures and people of the world are, so are types of photography. Different from aerial, glamour kirlian and classical photography, Met art photography is a special category of photography that entails taking photographs of nude teens. This category provides the world with the most comprehensive collection of pictures.

Kindly note that this photography is purely artistic and has nothing to do with pornography.In any case the description of these pictures by many people who view them is 'beautiful, natural and dazzling'. The intensity of the description will however depend on the extent to which the models will give a brave pose for the photo shot.

To become a member in this domain as a model you are required to pay an annual membership fee of $100 but this can be payable in installments. After registration you then become a full member on the met art photography web page. the web site is updated daily to keep you posted on the offers available which could be from professional photographers of some free lancers.

Before signing up as a member to this met art photography web site, it is only wise that you get all the necessary information of the dos and don'ts as far as the models are concerned. On the web site you will be able to download photos that appeal for you either for advertisements or so that you can be able to gather information on how you can take part in live shows with the models.

Peter Gitundu researches and reports on Photography. For More Information on Met Art Photography, Visit His Site at MET ART PHOTOGRAPHY You Can Also Post Your Views About Met Art Photography On My Blog Here MET ART PHOTOGRAPHY.

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Digital or Film Pictures - Which is Best?

When taking pictures in the past you simply used a film camera, everyone had a film camera and they either took it to the local processor to get the pictures developed or they learned to develop their own film.

Today you have a choice, digital or film pictures. Anyone who is more familiar with using a film camera may wonder which one is best? There are pros and cons to using both digital or film photos.

The Pros to Digital

Most people find that digital cameras are great. You get instant access to the pictures, you can see the pictures immediately after taking them and decide whether you will need to do a re-take. After taking any pictures you can easily download the pictures to your computer.

The pictures are easily stored on your computer. At any time you can choose to enhance them or print them out on your printer. You can take hundreds of pictures with your digital camera and store them on a disk. Compare that to the number of film pictures you have had developed and are now stored in boxes in your home.

The Cons of Digital

There are several cons to having a digital camera. For starters, your pictures can easily get lost. After taking many pictures, you download them to your computer and then never really do anything with them. Unless you do a back up of the photos, there is always the chance that your computer will crash and you could lose hundreds of your cherished pictures.

Some people think that digital photos do not offer the same look and feel as the film photos. This is one of the reasons why many professional photographers are still using film over digital cameras. If you decide to print out your pictures at home it can become somewhat costly. To do this you will need good quality printer paper and colored cartridges, these things can add up and become pricey.

The Pros of Film

Many professional photographers still prefer using film cameras. For anyone taking pictures as a hobby, with a film camera you are able to make adjustments to get the exact look that you desire. With the smaller digital cameras this is not always possible. Using a film camera, a person is forced to have their photos developed soon after taking them. The pictures are then readily available to look at and not stored away on a disk.

The Cons of Film

Film cameras are not as convenient and so are losing popularity. You are not able to view your pictures before getting them developed. Some pictures may not have turned out the way you would have liked but you have to get the whole roll developed anyway, paying for pictures that you really do not want. You are not able to go through your pictures and delete the bad ones before getting them developed as you can with a digital.

There you have it, which one is best, digital or film pictures? One is really no better than the other; the choice is more of a personal preference.

For example, I prefer the digital because then I have the option to view my pictures right away. In the past, I have taken my film in to be developed and became very excited when picking them up, only to be disappointed to see pictures of people with their heads cut off, fuzzy pictures and so on.

Consider both digital or film cameras when looking to purchase a new one. Weigh the pros and cons and make your decision based on what is best suited for your needs.

Connie McKenzie is a full-time work at home mom who devotes herself to doing the things she loves to do most. Family, friends, volunteer work and writing articles. Shop for your choice of digital or film cameras.

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Canon Powershot SD880is

Discount Men's Dress Shirts Online

In today's rough economy, with gas prices soaring and wallets tightening, dress shirts may not be the first thing on a man's mind. But clothing, especially professional gear, is a necessity.

Although you may be tempted to wear that slightly stained and threadbare button-up for another six months until you pay off your credit card, what message does that send your superiors, colleagues, and clients?

Dressing in clean, sharp clothes sets you ahead of the pack-and it doesn't even have to be expensive. There are plenty of great designer men's dress shirts available at a discount, to men who still want to look sharp on a budget.

If you're the type who hates wading through aisles of racks and the discount clothing store down the road, you now have an easier option. The fastest and most efficient ways to find some of the best discount clothing deals is on the internet.

Not only can you get great deals on discount men's dress shirts, but you can use it to compare prices and styles. Most sites even have reasonable return policies and shipping rates if something doesn't fit or isn't to your liking.

So how do you find good deals on your tight budget? Here are some tips to help narrow down your search.

1. Buy classic shirts. Pink may seem Euro-chic and trendy, but if it sits at the back of your closet for most of the year, it's a waste of money. Avoid odd patterns, colors, and cuts that don't suit you. Choose basic and simple shirts that are likely to not go out of style any time soon. Black, white, earth-tones, and the occasional muted blue or green are all you need. Save the spice for your tie rack.

2. Pick the right size. Measure yourself or a shirt you own that fits you well-and measure everything! Arms length, width, collar width, etc. The more you have an idea of what size you are the less of a chance you'll have to send something back.

3. Mix and match. If you have twelve pairs of brown pants, don't buy three new black shirts that clash with them. If you're able to choose new clothes to match your old ones, you'll save money and be able to create more combinations.

4. Business casual counts too. Casual does not mean a ratty old rock T-shirt. Casual means khakis and a clean polo shirt. These are often inexpensive, comfortable, and can easily be dressed up if the need arises.

5. Look for high fashion bargains. High-end designers often slash prices on great items due to minor manufacturer errors and send them off to the discount clothing store. A misaligned stitch can send that one-hundred dollar shirt into twenty dollar territory. These may sometimes be more expensive than other discount clothing, but often last years longer and are better quality. Snap up these finds when you can in favor of slightly cheaper clothing. A few dollars can make a huge difference.

Buying discount men's dress shirts can be simple and painless even on a budget. Remember to keep your eyes open for special offers, deals, and designers on sale.

The Uber Shop offers discount clothing for men in their mens dress shirt catalog online. All products offered through The Uber Shop are name brand products, like Ralph Lauren and Nautilus, that are available at least 50% off retail. http://www.theubershop.com.

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3D Animated Website Designing

This is the next generation in website designing. The images will be created and stored on the computer and then through various software will be played at a speed of approximately 30 frames per second, thus giving rise to animation of the 3D nature. When a user will visit the site, he will be able to move between difference scenes and thus information can be dispersed in a much more attractive manner.

Attention Grabbing

The use of 3D graphics in a website is all about capturing the attention of the reader or viewer. As can be imagined the communication of information is much faster and you can disburse more information. Moreover, any information that can be offered in the form of moving images has a better retention quality about it as compared to static means of communication.

In terms of ecommerce you want the user of the site to retain information about your products and services for a long period of time and in greater accuracy.

3 D Animation - A Great Illustrative Tool

A 3D presentation will enable the presenter to maintain focus of the audience through the vibrant imagery. This is why it is called such a good and dynamic illustrative tool. If you want to make a presentation through your website then you can generate the much needed interest quotient by using various 3D creations etc. It's like a tool that the presenter has to enable him to enhance the speech or the propagation of in depth information about a particular product or service.

Great for Your Business

The use of a 3D animated website will go a long way in attracting targeted traffic to your site. There are various technologies available that would enable you to incorporate the use of search engine optimization within the precincts of your ecommerce business. This would allow you to attract more and more targeted traffic to your website. It would be a result of the integration of superior visual appeal through 3D graphics and focused search engine marketing.

While choosing a 3D website design service provider you must be sure to choose somebody with the requisite expertise in the field. They must be conversant with the various techniques of creating the best of 3D animation that would cater to the requirements of a successful website design. However, you must be careful that you do not overdo the graphics quotient as your primary focus would be on offering information in a manner that is full of clarity and direct.

For more information on 3D Graphic Animations visit us at http://www.3dnanimation.com and http://www.india-designers.net/3ddesign.php

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3D Ultrasound

The increasing availability of 3D ultrasound has resulted largely from the brisk advancement in computer technology. The aim of three-dimensional imaging is to eliminate invasive tests whenever possible and simplify workflow.

3D ultrasound scans are as safe as traditional ultrasound scanning because the image is composed of sections of two-dimensional images, so the ultrasound exposure is the same. In this procedure, several two-dimensional images are combined by specialized computer software to form three-dimensional images.

With three-dimensional imaging, sonologists can get the full picture in a single image. They can see the entire brain in one view instead of multiple images. Achieving comparable results with a routine 2D scan of the head requires at least three separate scans. In other scenarios, such as abdominal scans, it is not possible to obtain a third view with a routine scan. Three-dimensional imaging allows a physician to get a better look at the organ being examined and is best used for early detection of tumors, discovering masses in the colon and rectum, detecting breast lesions for possible biopsies, assessing the development of a fetus, and visualizing blood flow in various organs. Three-dimensional scans greatly aid in the diagnosis of problems by showing more detail from different angles.

Getting a good three-dimensional image depends on the aptitude of the operator, the position of the baby and the amount of fluid around him or her. A good image of the face, for example, can only be obtained if the baby is facing upwards, he does not have his hands in front of his face and there is a pool of amniotic fluid surrounding the features.

Also, pediatric sonologists are reaping a variety of benefits from improved technologies. Patient care has been enhanced via higher-quality images in 3D. Costs, too, have been reduced due to a need for fewer rescans.

Ultrasound provides detailed information on Ultrasound, Pregnancy Ultrasound, Ultrasound Pictures, 3D Ultrasound and more. Ultrasound is affiliated with Colostrum Milk.

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Nintendo Wii - Get Off the Couch!

Every couple of years, something new hits the electronic scene that really changes the way things are done. A couple of years ago, the Nintendo Wii came out and it is one of the most impressive game systems that I have ever played. As a matter of fact, I stood in line outside of a Target Store overnight in the freezing cold just to make sure that I had one for myself. Since that time, I can hardly get anything done around the house because I spend all of my free time playing the game.

One of the reasons why the Nintendo Wii is so impressive is because it actually get you involved in the game, even physically at times. The controllers can be used to similarly to a regular game controller but in many instances they have the ability to mimic the movements on the screen. For example, if you wanted to throw a baseball you would simply throw your hand as if you are actually doing it in real life. The gyroscopic nature of the controllers allows this kind of interactive gameplay, something that simply wasn't available in any other game.

There is also a variety of games that are available for the Nintendo Wii that aren't available for other game systems. I know that whenever I used to use my PlayStation all of the time, I had a difficult time finding games that were family-friendly. Yes, there were some that were available out there but they were simply for children, and adults did not usually enjoy playing them much. The Nintendo Wii has a variety of games that are perfect for family and friends, regardless of what age they are. Of course, it also has some games that are specifically for older players which allows a level of gameplay that is not available on the other consoles as well. Perhaps my favorite part about this videogame console is the fact that they keep adding Nintendo Wii accessories for new games that are coming out. For example, they have the Wii wheel, which allows you to hold a small steering wheel to control cars on the screen and the balance board which you would stand on and move the person on the screen by shifting your weight.

It is simply something that you have to experience for yourself in order to truly appreciate it. Be careful, however, once you begin playing it can be difficult to stop.

Nintendo wii is the most exciting game console to come along. Nintendo wii game console offers so much more than simply playing video games, it is an extremely interactive experience. Get actively & phyisically involved while having a blast doing it. wii is the #1 game console world wide, grab yours right now.

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DS Cards - The Most Convenient Way to Play Your DS Games

With the emphasis on convenience that handheld systems like the Nintendo DS have, wouldn't it be great to have an even more convenient way to play all your favorite games? DS Cards can provide you with that and much more. These storage devices, which are just as small as regular DS cartridges, can slide right into Slot 1 on your DS. You'll have your entire catalog of games available all on one tiny card.

Various storage capacity sizes are available with DS Cards. Some of these are small enough to fit only a couple of games, while others are large enough to accommodate several games. If you're leaning towards storing as many games as possible, then you'll want to purchase the 16Gbit version. This will give you the space you need for your games, with room left over for additional games you might want to add later on. If you're undecided, you should still get the 16Gbit, so that you won't run the risk of not having enough room for game storage.

DS Cards have the additional advantage of not requiring an external memory system, such as PassMe or FlashMe, to be able to play. You will need a DS Fire Link in order to download the games you want to store and then transfer them over to your card. You can remove the Fire Link once you're done and only have the card itself in your DS in order to play. This convenient setup allows you to carry around only one piece of equipment so you can play, that being the card, instead of having to also bring along additional pieces.

Even if you wind up having a huge list of games on your card, you'll be able to locate the one you want quickly. The touch menu you use with DS cards is very easy and simple to navigate when looking for that one game you're dying to play. This isn't so with some other storage devices, most notably the DSTT. You won't find an alphabetized list of games to go through, and you won't even have an easy browser to use. You're much better off with DS Cards for the ease and convenience they offer.

DS Cards have changed the way people play their DS games. They're no longer limited to only a couple of games when away from home, and they don't have to spend time digging for the game they want at home. Wouldn't you like to have these advantages too so you can also enjoy instant access to all of your favorite games?

Ready to invest in a storage device? For the best deals on DS Cards, head over to http://www.sydneygadgets.com.au right away, where you'll also find the most reliable service available anywhere!

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Miniature Paintings - A Sublime Art

The art, culture and lifestyle of ancient and medieval India is best reveled through miniature paintings. The penchant for religion, divinity and regal aristocracy is ostentatiously illustrated in these paintings. Though miniature in form, the paintings had an innate beauty and distinctiveness that made them stand out of the crowd.

Crafted by the regional artists the miniature paintings narrate the stories of the bygone dynasties. Purely a brush work, these vibrant handmade paintings were the outcome of some dazzling minerals and vegetable colors. Gold and silver powders, conch shell powders and tiny pieces of semi precious stones were used in a miniature painting to make for the extra glow. It is for this luminous capacity, meticulousness and the universal appeal the miniature paintings are very popular even today.

The themes of the this class of paintings were generally taken from the scenes of Indian epics and religious books like The Ramayana, The Mahabharata, The Bhagvata Purana, Git-gobinda, Surasagar, Rasamanjiri and more. Images from folk legends, classical music codes and royal court scenes were also beautifully illustrated in the paintings. Glass, fabric, marble, paper, silk, velvet, leather and ivory panels generally served as the canvas for the paintings. Miniature paintings gave birth to some noted school of paintings namely The Deccan Schools, The Rajput and the Mughal Schools.

The Rajput School of Miniature Painting imbibed inspiration from the Krishna legends. The emphasis was more on the man and woman relationship and paintings were aesthetic portrayal of their emotion, love and passion. The lovemaking scenes of Lord Krishna and Goddess Radha are some of the finest specimens of the paintings. The Mughal School of Miniature Painting had Persian influence on them. The painters focused mostly on court scenes, royal portraits, natural scenes and landscapes. The Deccan School of Miniature Painting derived a kind of hybrid painting form blending several styles of painting. The paintings manifested exuberant and bold themes influenced from Turkish and Persian paintings.

For comprehensive information on Miniature Paintings and related topics, please visit Ethnic Paintings.

Rajneesh Dubey is Content Coordinator for http://ethnicpaintings.com This website gives you comprehensive informations on painting history, development, trends, popular painting styles, great painters, famous paintings, painting galleries and museums, painting tips, painting classes. In other words, this website is a treat to painting freaks.

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Avoid Frustration And Disappointment - Learn To Paint With Good Basic Watercolors!

Recently, I had to admit that a critic could have been right to say that my simple 2 stage learn how to paint watercolors course was too simple...

It was aimed at artist beginners who wanted to learn to paint without having to learn to draw first. This meant that although they may not be too good at drawing, they could still get started painting. Painting landscapes, still-life painting, portraits and mechanical objects can come later.

However, there are 2 reasons to go back to the basics of painting watercolors...

1. It is a good idea to learn how to paint before painting a Mona Lisa
2. It is a good idea to go back to first principles when your paintings are going wrong

Occasionally, there are lucky people who don't seem to have any problems learning to paint. They pick up a box of paints and a brush and easily paint their first watercolor painting. This minority of people who don't struggle with painting are fortunate indeed.

On the other hand, most of us aren't blessed with such talents...

• Truth is that it isn't so easy to learn how to paint watercolor well
• At times it can seem almost impossible to paint a good watercolor picture

Very soon you can find every brush mark on your painting turning into an awful mess. As you find your watercolor washes flooding uncontrollably, it is easy to create a nightmare of badly blended colors.

All too soon you can turn your great art ideas into a muddy shambles. When you do you are lost. Unless you understand what is happening when watercolor paint flows uncontrollably across the paper, your painting will never get better...

• You need to see how color moves where the water carries it
• You need to understand that you will wreck a color wash if you haven't left it to dry before adding the next wash
• It is a great idea to learn how to get a range of different color intensities and tone from a single color before adding other colors to the mix

There is great sense in the old saying... "Don't try to run before you can walk"

Watercolor painting can rapidly convince you that you have no artistic talent. It can make you look like you have no painting skills. It is a shame to become disheartened when your watercolors go wrong.

So, given the choice, which alternative would you choose?

"Frustration and disappointment... or do you prefer to have a deep understanding of how simple and easy watercolors work in your painting?"

Michael Dale is the author of 1- Color Is Best (the quick and easy way to learn to paint watercolor) and 3- Colors Are All You Need (mix any color you want fast using only 3 colors). Contact http://www.Paint-And-Draw.com to find out more.

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How To Choose A House Plan - Part 1 of 10

House Plans are 2D; Houses are 3D

Does this statement seem a little obvious? Of course it does, and yet it's at the root of the dissatisfaction of the buying and building experience of many house plan purchasers.

The drawings that you see on house plan websites and in plan books aren't well suited to describing the design of the house to you. They're really just marketing diagrams - at a very small scale - that tell you a little bit about how big rooms are and which rooms are next to each other, and not much else.

The Design Process

Architects and home designers are "three-dimensional" thinkers; they draw on paper in two dimensions what they see in their heads in three. Architects can look at a "2D" drawing and accurately imagine what it looks like in "3D" because they do it every day. It's a learned skill and one that you probably don't have (yet!). You've probably said to yourself while you looked at a house plan, "This is so frustrating - I just can't visualize it!"

So why don't home designers prepare drawings that show more about the "third dimension" for consumers? Well, they do - during the design process - you just never get to see them! The design process involves lots of 3D sketches, computer modeling, interior elevation sketches, detail studies, and 3D "massing models". But these are tools for the designer, not information to be presented to you, the consumer (unless you've hired an architect for a custom home design). Once the design is done, the 3D information is coded into the construction drawings to be interpreted by the builder.

Construction Drawings

When a plan service purchases the rights the sell a house plan, they receive a full set of "construction drawings" from the designer. Construction drawings are engineered for use in the field and should contain all the information needed to get a building permit.

But all that detail gets in the way of selling house plans - it clutters up the drawings and it "gives away" too much information; information the plan service doesn't want you to have until you purchase the plans. Some of that information describes the "third dimension" of the spaces in the house.

So house plan services "clean up" the construction drawings; all of the notations and details are stripped out before they're placed in the plan book or on the website. The only part of the house that's represented to you in 3D is the front elevation (that nice color rendering we talked about earlier).

Finding The Hidden 3D

But if you know where to look, there's still some 3D information in the plans - maybe enough to give you an idea of what the spaces are like. Here's how to ferret it out:

Find the "stacked" rooms In a two-story plan, some rooms are going to be "stacked" above others but this isn't always immediately obvious. Find a common "reference point" on both floor plans - a stair is good for this - and look at where the rooms on each floor are located relative to the stair. You should be able to see that some rooms can only be "one-story" spaces, while other are or have the potential to be raised or two-story ceilings.

Compare the plans and the elevation Two-story spaces will often have taller windows, or windows "stacked" above others. They're usually in the larger living spaces - family rooms, living rooms, etc. Sometimes they're next to stairs. Look for these kinds of windows on the elevations and line them up with the rooms they're in on the floor plan.

Look for "ceiling breaks" on the plan Ceiling breaks are places where the flat ceiling intersects with a sloped ceiling or where two sloped ceilings intersect. Ceiling breaks are (or should be) indicated on the plans with a dashed line; usually fairly close to the wall. You'll want to know how tall the ceiling is, how steep the slope of the roof is, and how tall the wall is. Sometimes the elevations will give you a clue if the room with the ceiling break is on an outside wall.

Understand ceiling profile terms The terms for common ceiling shapes aren't common at all. It isn't unusual for different builders in the same market to call the same ceiling profile by several different names. Occasionally, designers will include notes on the plans that describe the ceiling profile and/or height.

Complexity of roof shapes Finally, the exterior of the house can tell you a lot about what the rooms inside are like. Sloped ceilings are sometimes reflected in the slope and shape of the roof. If you can put the roof shape, window height, and ceiling break lines together in the same room, you'll have a great start on understanding the character of the space inside.

The list above is intended as a reference to be used while you're looking at plans. The most important this to remember is this: don't assume that what you're looking at on paper is what you think you see in your head - take the time to find exactly what the "third dimension" of the spaces are before you commit to a design.

Richard L. Taylor, AIA is a published author and recognized expert in Residential Architecture. He is President of Richard Taylor Architects, a 5-person firm in Historic Dublin, Ohio. Residential Architect Luxury Home Plans

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Video Converting VCRs

Multi-system VCR

Video standards widely differ with locations. Even in America itself the difference is instantly visible if someone looks at the practices in North America, where, the NTSC is popular where-as, South America, where though NTSC is in use, the more popular ones are PAL-M, PAL-N and PAL. To days complex world environment is also reflected in video standards and we find mixed video standards in most of the countries. The crux of the problem is that these video standards are not compatible with each other. This is exactly the point where multi-system converting VCR steps in, having the ability to play video tapes having different standards.

Multi-system VCR Vs a converting multi-system VCR -

When you opt for a multi-system VCR, you have the ability to play video tapes in any part of the world. But a multi-system VCR, without the converting capabilities added to it, will not convert the video signals. If you have a NTSC television, such a multi-system video will not help in viewing a PAL tape. This is the point where a multi-system converting VCR scores over an ordinary multi-system VCR since it has the ability to convert alien standard signals into system-friendly signals. The same performance can be obtained using an external Tenlab or converter, in case of a multi-system VCR.

Some top brand multi-system VCRs

One bad news for those who are interested for a converting multi-system VCR is that the hitherto most popular Samsung SV-5000W model is no more available as the company has decided to close down the production of this item. There are some other notable VCRs in the market. They include

1. JVC HR S6970 Multi-system S- VHS VCR,

2. Akai VS-X2000EG Multi-system VCR,

3. Hitachi VT-M4080E Multi-system VCR,

4. Sony SLV-ED828 Multi-system VCR,

5. Panasonic NV-SJ530AM Multi-system VCR,

6. Toshiba V-E41 Multi-system VCR, and

7. Sharp VC-AA570 Multi-system VCR

There are many others. But for performance, cost and longevity, these are perhaps the best in the market today.

A few points to ponder while buying a video converting VCR

1. A model akin to the Samsung SV-5000W allows the user to play PAL tapes on a North American NTSC TV, which is not used mostly in North America.

2. Some popular brands like Sony, Hitachi, Toshiba, Panasonic, Sharp, and JVC require the buyer to purchase a converter to enable the users TV to play alien standard video tapes.

3. A PAL/NTSC video converter can be used in the TV instead of going for multi-system TV. This allows playback and conversion system.

4. There are a few models that allow direct conversion of alien standard video tapes on a users TV, the CMD-850 provided by Samsung.

World standards on video tapes requiring a video converting VCR

In general three standards are widely followed world over. These are NTSC, PAL, and SECAM. All other systems followed anywhere and elsewhere are offshoots of these parent systems. The NTSC system was introduced in United States way back in 1953, simultaneously with the coming of the first color TV. While NTSC is used mostly in America, some other countries like Japan also use the same standard. NTSC uses 525 lines frame for running the video. PAL or Phase Alternating Line came in Europe during 1960. France is the only exception using SECAM. SECAM or Sequential Colour with Memory standard also came up along side PAL in the 1960s and uses identical bandwidth and line frames. The only difference between PAL and SECAM is that SECAM transmits colour signals sequentially. This standard is most popular in France. NTSC is not popular outside North America. SECAM is mostly used in those countries which were either under the French dominion during the days of colonialism or its neighbouring countries. PAL is used in South America, most of the Asian and African countries and Europe.

Code Free DVD

Although we are basically discussing about video tapes, these are the days of DVD and no discussion on videos can be complete without a reference to DVD. DVDs also suffer from the same regional standard problems in case of normal Video tapes. A possible solution to this problem is the code-free DVD. The advantage with a code free DVD player is that it can play any DVD from any region in the world. It can play either PAL or NTSC formats. For example, when you obtain a DVD from UK, it will ordinarily be in PAL Format, the accepted format in the region. Here you will require a code free DVD player to play the PAL format DVD on your NTSC TV in America. On the other hand if you obtain the DVD from France, it will be in SECAM format and you again require a code free DVD to enable your NTSC TV to play the DVD obtained. The best part of it is that with a code free DVD system, the requirements of a multi-system TV or a multi-system video converting VCR is done away with. A code free DVD player contains an in-built video converter and no external plug-in accessory is required. Price wise also the model is economical and often comes at a cost around $80-90 only. A good example is a Yamaha model having a 3-way converter, that enables playing and DVD from any part of the world on your TV.

Prices of code free DVDs vary widely with brand and their functioning capabilities, the manufacturer, accessories, etc. Moreover, the separate video converter coming from leading companies like Sony, Panasonic or Pioneer will cost around $300-350, though, on many counts the cost is justifiable and the services offered are excellent. But then again, code free video DVD player like Philips DVP-642/37 and JWIN DVD-501 of Samsung are available within a price range of $70 to $70.

The price tag for video converting VCR

There are quite a number of notable companies in the field competing with each other. This is helping keeping the price within a competitive range for the prospective buyer. The Samsung Hi-Fi multi-system VCR with tape conversion and world wide TV tuner comes at around $390 only, where-as the same manufacturers model, the Samsung HI-FI Multi System VCR Converter & SVHS Playback SV-4000, cost nearly $1090. And a best priced Samsung Multi-system converter VCR will cost around $500. Online buying, of this branded product is still cheaper, available at approximately $250 to $300.

Conclusion

For a common man, academician, businessman, for entertainment, education, training and perhaps for every aspect of life, video has a great influence. A visual is always considering a better media of expression compared to any other means including audio. Video Converting VCRs are here to play an important part for sometime to come.

110-220 Volt Electronics - A multisystem TV is a TV capable of receiving and displaying different video systems like PAL, SECAM and NTSC. You'll be able to operate a multisystem TV in 99% of the world. Their dual voltage design allows them to be plugged into either a 110 voltage source or a 220 voltage source. In some cases, the plug on the television will not fit your country's outlet, so an inexpensive plug-adapter will be needed. They can generally be picked up at an electronics store such as http://www.planetomni.com for $1.95. With a multisystem TV, such as a plasma, CRT tube type, LCD or DLP, you'll likely need a codefree (sometimes called region free) DVD player. These exist in many forms. When used with a PAL-NTSC TV you'll be able to see the full 625 lines of resolution available in the PAL system and the full 525 lines used in the USA NTSC system. There exists a converting type of DVD player which is codefree in that it can read all of the world's 6 regions and both standards, PAL and NTSC. 140,000 other products are available here: http://www.planetomni.com Tel. # 800-514-2984

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Closed-Circuit Television - A Deterrent of Crime

While closed-circuit television, or CCTV, has often sparked debate around personal privacy issues, they are often used my some individuals and business owners as a deterrent for crime. It is important to recognize where the system is set up and not crossing the lines of privacy in areas where there should not be monitoring.

Closed-circuit television consists of the use of video cameras that are connected to a specific number of monitors. You can find them in banks, airports, military facilities and rocket launches, streets and retail stores to name a few. They are often placed in areas where there cannot be a constant physical monitoring of a location or event, such as the shuttle launch where it is not safe for people to be there, or along a street where you cannot have an officer patrolling there constantly.

One of the most everyday places that you may see them is outside government buildings, inside retail stores, or maybe you have one in your home for surveillance of your own property. The easiest way to know they are working is not about preventing crime, although some studies suggest they are effective for this, but they are also a great tool for detection and prosecution. They can provide proof that a crime has occurred and who the criminal(s) are that have been caught on tape.

Another great resource for the CCTV system is for safety monitoring. Many companies place the cameras in locations where they can prevent accidents from occurring. You may have seen them at an amusement park near a ride, in the train or subway system, and even in a manufacturing location to monitor equipment. You may even have it in your vehicle to observe objects or people that are not easily visible or are in your blind spot.

Closed-circuit television systems can consist of one single camera to a complex setup with hundreds of cameras, operators to monitor them and digital recorders that can store many hours of surveillance. Maybe you are thinking of one for your home, maybe for a business that you own or maybe one for your neighborhood. Whatever the need, they offer a sense of safety, are efficient and effective in deterring crime, and most importantly, a great way to record criminal activity should you not be able to physically monitor a location all the time.

There are a few buying tips that you may want to consider when setting up your CCTV system that can prevent you from spending money unnecessarily on a system that is either too expensive or does not offer true surveillance.

1. Determine what and where you want to monitor. Maybe you want one in each room of your home, one in each area of your store or along certain points of your street where you live. This will help you buy only a system that you truly need. Be sure to consult the Better Business Bureau, friends, families or colleagues that have purchased the cameras, and other retail stores that have installed them to find a reputable dealer.

2. Decide what the purpose of the CCTV system is for you. Do you want to be able to clearly see faces, merchandise, crowds of people, vehicles or just general monitoring of everyday events?

3. Be sure to choose a picture quality in a monitor that will show you enough detail and quickly capture movement. Lower resolution and slower frame rates to capture movement can result in jerkier images while higher resolution CCTV cameras and recorders offer more detail and smoother flow of movement. Make sure that you have purchased a recorder that monitors long enough for you to replace the recording tape to offer continuous monitoring.

4. Use signs to let people know that you are using surveillance equipment. This can be a great deterrent of criminal behavior.

Closed circuit television has been shown to be an effective deterrent to criminal activity. Protecting your property with this state-of-the-art technology is a significant step to preventing thieves from taking advantage of you.

Closed-circuit television, CCTV, offers retail stores and personal properties a strong deterrent to crime. Shortage Control, Inc. offers numerous options and products to design a system to fit your needs. Visit us at http://www.scvideo.com to start defending yourself today.

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