FTA (Free To Air) Satellite Technology

By: Jeff Herder

Free-To-Air (FTA) is a television or radio broadcast, which is unencrypted. Mostly free-to-air programs are multilingual, no translation as specified earlier. Free to air is a technology that transmits satellite signals, which people may receive without need of registration. Mostly, free-to-air channels are broadcasted from worldwide sources and from small producers. FTA satellite programs are transmitted using large satellite dishes C-band or Ku Band, small satellite dishes and you will need a rotor, however, to receive more than one satellite channel. Free-To-Air Satellite Source offers satellite technology for free-to-air TV, and FTA receivers.

This type of programming is satellite signals that are broadcast through out the world that requires no subscription fee from the broadcasters to bring in the channels that operate in this manner. To support the channels by advertising or donations and government bodies to keep them free. Some of the new channels may be planning to charge subscription fees in the future days but they are free now and these channels are not encrypted so they can be received with no need for unscrambling. This type of programming is mainly often MPEG-2 which means Motion Picture Experts Group-2. It is a standard in which the signal is compressed to aid in the transmission. HDTV and DVD use this same compression and are of a very high quality. Most of these transmissions are in the Ku Band frequency range. The Ku band operates between 12 Ghz (Gigahertz) and 14 GHz that permits today’s smaller dishes from 18 inches to 31 inches in diameter. Before the C band the Ku band was the first developed for satellite television, which operated between 3.4 Ghz and 7 Ghz. The first dishes required to pick up these early signals were 20 to 30 feet wide.

The equipment required for this is a receiver and dish that is dedicated only to picking up the free to air signals. If there are other paid programming channels desired a separate dish and receiver is utilized to pick up paid programming such as Dish Network or Direct TV. A computer can also be customized with a PCI card to pick up the FTA signals turning it into the receiver. This PCI card available requires the computer to be a Pentium 500 and have Windows 98SE or higher installed. The reason you can’t use Direct TV or Dish Network dishes and receivers to pick up FTA channels at the same time on the same system is, Free To Air channels are weaker and require a minimum of a 30” dish and they use a different LNB or LNBF device in the dish itself. Paid channel dishes are normally 18 inches to 20 inches. The receivers are also different and paid channel receivers can’t pick up the FTA channels. An LNBF is a Low Noise Block with an integrated feedhorn. After the signal is bounced off the dish it goes into the LNBF that amplifies the signal. Dual LNBF is for two television sets, For the FTA setup you should decide if you want a stationary dish or a motorized one. The motorized one will allow you to pick up many satellites giving maximum amount of channels.

7 Money Saving Tips For Reducing Inkjet Printing Costs

By: Eli Fry

Did you know that inkjet printer manufacturers make their money on the supplies rather than the printer itself? Have you seen a printer on sale for $49? Doesn't that seem like a lot of technology for such a low price?

Then, you see how much their replacement inkjet cartridges cost. Usually, two or three replacment ink cartridges cost more than the entire printer. They sell the printers at cost or as a loss-leader in order to lock you into long term profits by selling you expensive (and profitable) inkjet cartridges.

Although manufacturers will try to scare you into only using their brand of cartridge, the reality is that there are plenty of quality made generic printer cartridges that will perform beautifully (at a much lower cost). In fact, many times you can save about half.

Here are 7 easy tips that can save you money on printing:

1. Buy an inkjet printer that uses separate ink cartridges for each color. The Epson "CX" and Canon "i" series printers are good examples. Having separate cartridges for each color allows you to change only the cartridge which is empty, rather than forcing you to change them ALL as in a "tri-color" cartridge. This creates less waste, because you only replace what you use, and lengthens the time between replacments.

2. Utilize the "draft" printing mode option. If a document is not visually important, or is temporary in nature, such as an email, office memo, or rough draft -- printing in the "draft" mode can dramatically extend the lifespan of your printer cartridges. Switch back to normal mode when final print quality counts.

3. Purchase generic "compatible" cartridges. These are cartridges that are made by a copy-cat manufacturer, that are often less than half the cost of original brand cartridges.

4. Purchase "remanufactured" cartridges for your printer. Remanufactured cartridges, are from empty cartridges that were collected through a recycling program, cleaned, professionally refilled, and print tested. Typically, empty cartridges still have good electronics -- they are simply out of ink.

5. Purchase a "Refill Kit" to refill your empty cartridge. If you are a "hands-on" person, you can really save a lot of money using this method (plus you'll be reducing landfill waste). It has the potential for being a little messy, but can be very economical.

6. Purchase your cartridges in higher quantities to take advantage of volume discounts. Many places offer a discount if you order more than one cartridge. Plus, your overall shipping costs may be lower as well or even free.

7. Order your printer cartridges online. You'll find your selection online is much greater and prices even lower compared to local retail stores. Competition is fierce online, and you can benefit from it. Plus, you'll get the ease and convenience of front door delivery.

2008 Is The Year Of Solar Energy According To New Changewave Survey

By: Paul Carton And Jim Woods

2008 is the Year of Solar Energy, According to New ChangeWave Survey

“Keep your face to the sunshine...” -- Helen Keller

No matter where you look, alternative energy is the topic du jour. Driven by the economics of record-high crude oil, the spotlight is shifting to non-traditional renewable energy sources, particularly solar power.

But while solar stocks were some of the biggest gainers for much of last year, recently the solar power industry has taken big hits – with several key leaders such as First Solar (FLSR) SunPower (SPWR) and Evergreen Solar (ESLR) down as much as 50% off their 52 week highs.

To find out what's going on with solar energy and the other renewable energy sources, we recently surveyed 182 respondents working directly in the alternative energy industry.

Solar Leads

Solar energy continues to show the most momentum of all alternative energy segments, according to industry respondents. Not only has it shown strong gains since our previous survey in February 2007, but it also leads in each of the following areas:

• Most Rapid Economic Growth – Past 12 Months: When asked which alternative energy sector has experienced the fastest growth over the past year, solar energy (49%) topped the list – up a whopping 14-pts since our previous survey in February. In comparison, Biomass – including biofuels and bio-products – came in at 41%.

• Most Rapid Economic Growth – Next 12-24 Months: Going forward, respondents see solar energy (58%; up 20-pts) as experiencing the most rapid growth in the industry for the next one-to-two years.

•Most Momentum – Next 5 Years: Over the long term, solar energy also retains its strength, as 31% of respondents (up 5-pts) say it will be the top sector for the next half decade.

In sum, solar energy leads all of the other major alternative energy categories in terms of rapid economic growth.

Solar energy is also seen as experiencing the biggest technology breakthroughs (27%; up 2-pts). But perhaps most importantly, solar cells are expected to be affordable enough to achieve a competitive return on investment within seven years (by 2015).

(Detailed charts, along with additional ChangeWave Solar Industry survey findings, can be downloaded at http://www.changewave.com/energy).

“Demand for solar cells is unquestionably robust, the price of oil is trending higher, and solar tax credits will likely be extended,” according to ChangeWave Analyst Josh Levine. The forces are all lining up exceptionally well for the solar industry. It’s the right time for investors to be exposed to the sun and invest in solar stocks.”

According to solar industry experts, the sector’s growth is being propelled forward by global photovoltaics manufacturers like First Solar (FSLR), SunPower Corp. (SPWR) and SunTech Power Holdings (STP) - companies that have developed superior business models and excelled in project management.

Levine adds that the next big challenge for the solar industry is the scaling of production facilities for mass production at the gigawatt level. "The next generation of leaders will be those companies that are best equipped to leverage the latest innovations in materials research through manufacturing know-how," he said.

Clearly, solar energy has the momentum in our latest ChangeWave survey. We’ll continue tracking solar energy and other non-traditional energy sources in the alternative energy industry for new opportunities in 2008.

LCD TV: The New Face Of Indoor Entertainment

By: Roberto Sedycias

New innovations have radically changed the way people around the world perceive the concept of entertainment. Be it cinema or music system, mp3 players or television, people are constantly adopting new ways of entertainment, jettisoning the old ones. Technology changes always. You can`t stop the advancement in technology. There is some advancement in terms of technology in everyday things like cell phones, calculators, computer monitors, and televisions, too.

The latest version of television is Liquid Crystal Display Television or LCD TV. Old model tube (CRT) TVs are large and bulky. They need a lot of space for placing it. During the early 2000`s LCD flat panels started ruling over the television market from the typical CRTs.

LCD TV is a flat screen television which needs less space for placing. They are slim, lighter, and hardly goes beyond 3.5 inch in thickness. They have a very trendy look which draws attention of others. The technology has penetrated our everyday lives. But how does it work? Basically, a very large amount of tiny liquid crystals are held between two electrodes. When a charge is passed between the tiny liquid crystals they react to the change. This reaction emits light which creates an image that we can viewed on the screen of the television.

Usually LCD TVs are cheaper as compared to Plasma models. However, when it comes to large screen size, plasma TV is sold for better prices. If you compare with the CRT tube TVs, then the price is a little higher, no matter the screen size.

The screen lifespan of Plasma and LCD TVs should not be an important way to differentiate them. Plasma TV have a reported half-life of 30,000 to 60,000 hours. While the average tube (CRT) TV set has a half-life of around 25,000 hours. LCD TV can be installed on your own where as you have to depend on an expert to install a plasma TV. The best part of LCD TV is that it draws only about 60% of the power consumed by plasma displays. You are also protected from harmful electromagnetic waves while using it.

LCD TVs have certain minor drawbacks too, with restricted viewing angle and limited contrast ratio. They have graying effects on the screen which deteriorates the clarity of the image, mainly the color factor. The viewing angle of an LCD TV is up to 160 degrees, where as the viewing angle of plasma TV is up to 170 degrees.

The right LCD TV screen placement is a very important point to consider. Sitting the right distance from your TV set optimizes your viewing experience. Also for the viewing height, your eyes should level with the middle of the screen, since the LCD image picture will look its brightest as this level.

LCD TVs may often look better in `real-world` situations, as they reflect very little light, enabling them to keep levels in well-lit rooms. This way, LCD TVs will usually meet the brightness expectations of most customers.

Technology has brought many interesting products in recent years. One of them was the LCD TV. For those who love indoor entertainment, like watching TV, look no further. LCD TV will provide one of the best viewing experiences.

Garmin Dominates U.S. Market For GPS Devices – But Stock Still Takes A Big Hit

By: Jim Woods And Paul Carton

When you’re in need of directions, there’s no better device than a GPS.

But when it comes to mapping out winners and losers in the GPS devices marketplace, we turn to the guidance of our 15,000-member ChangeWave research network. And what they’ve told us is that Garmin (GRMN) – the top GPS manufacturer in the world – has achieved near total domination of the U.S. marketplace.

During February we conducted two ChangeWave surveys on global positioning systems – one on consumer GPS trends (n = 3,773) and the other on corporate purchasing trends (n = 2,013). Here’s what we found:

Consumer GPS Trends

Our February 18-25 survey of consumers who own a GPS navigation device, shows Garmin with a 56% market share – an increase of 4 percentage points since the previous survey in January 2008. Garmin’s percentage towers over its closest rival Magellan, which captured only 12%.

Looking at the next 90 days, Garmin (54%; up 5-pts) remains first on the map in terms of planned consumer purchases of GPS navigation devices. TomTom is second with 8% (down 1-pt), and Magellan has fallen to third place with just 4% (down 2-pts).

Corporate GPS Trends

In our February 11-15 corporate buying survey, Garmin is also the dominant leader with a hefty 58% share of the corporate GPS market. That’s a full 11-pts higher than the previous corporate buying survey in November 2007.

Magellan also gained some corporate ground since the previous survey (12%; up 4-pts), even as TomTom’s numbers have fallen to 9%, down 3-pts since November.

Going forward it’s more of the same, as Garmin is dominating planned corporate GPS purchases for the 2nd Quarter with a 56% market share That’s a huge 10-pt jump since November.

Magellan takes second with 10% (up 2-pts), while TomTom limps in at 5% (down 7-pts).

Best Quarter in History? Now Wait a Minute.

Garmin’s February 20th quarterly earnings call has confirmed our ChangeWave survey findings, with the company stating flat out that it was the “best quarter in our history.”

Garmin reported earnings per share of $1.39, on sales of more than $1.2 billion – a 99% increase from a year earlier, with profits up an impressive 70%. Analysts had projected earnings of just $1.12 per share. To top it off, the company stated that its outlook for the rest of 2008 remained strong.

So with all that good news, you might wonder why Garmin’s share price took a big 20% hit in the weeks immediately following their quarterly earnings announcement. Or why Garmin’s stock price is now down nearly 60% from its 52-week high.

According to Wall Street analysts, the combination of significantly lower profit margins for Garmin (down more than 15%) and a retrenchment in U.S. consumer spending has undermined Garmin’s stock price. In addition, Garmin's average unit selling price dropped precipitously last quarter, and their CFO recently predicted it will drop another 20% in 2008.

Another factor is the continued slowdown in U.S. consumer spending. Our February survey found an astonishing two-in-five U.S. respondents (39%) saying they’ll spend less over the next 90 days than they did a year ago – 5-pts worse than our January 2008 survey.

The decline in spending is occurring across all income levels. But most ominously – not only for Garmin but for the entire GPS devices industry – the survey showed consumer electronics spending in the midst of a major slowdown.

To put this in perspective, it’s the weakest outlook for electronics spending ever recorded in a ChangeWave survey.

Given such a slowdown, it’s understandable why Garmin and so many other high flying electronics stocks have had an extremely rough go of it lately. But despite shrinking profit margins and an extremely tough consumer spending environment, our latest ChangeWave surveys show Garmin is gobbling up share in the high growth GPS market.

The verdict is out on whether Garmin can return to its previously lofty heights – but it’s a company investors should be watching closely.

Surveillance Cameras Talk Back

By: Nahshon Roberts

Surveillance cameras watching you are creepy enough. But when they start talking to you, you start having that twilight zone feeling. Now, they have surveillance cameras that convey the voices of law enforcement authorities over the ether. It is the latest development in surveillance technology and one that presents some interesting questions.

Wired For Sound

These new surveillance cameras are wired for sound. In effect, they give law enforcers the ability to broadcast to the areas being watched. These talking cameras are the latest advance in a field of technology that has grown by leaps and bounds. Surprisingly, a lot of people have embraced this development with an enthusiasm that alarms civil libertarians. And in fact, a lot of civil liberties groups have no problem protesting this new feature.

Such a group in Great Britain estimates that there are over 4 million surveillance countries in the country today. Anyone who lives in London or a large will be captured at least 300 times on any given day. Britain has even been called the surveillance capital of the world. It is in danger of relying too much and too heavily on this technology.

Camera Evolution

Proponents have called the new surveillance cameras a natural progression from previous advances. They say that the paranoia of an overly intrusive system is unfounded. In fact, they propose that that the talking cameras actually reassure citizens because they know that there is a human presence behind the lens. Most of these cameras actually transmit prerecorded messages informing passersby that they are being monitored. These messages further state that any untoward behavior will be reported to the authorities. Other messages remind people to mind their valuables. Some have proposed that children should voice these messages so as to make them less menacing.

These messages can also be broadcast live in real time. The surveillance camera operators can speak directly to people while watching the monitors. They can broadcast spontaneous lines asking people to stop unacceptable behavior or even pick up litter. But civil liberties groups remain unimpressed. They think this type technology is over-hyped and that the new voice broadcasts do not do anything to help in crime prevention. They think it is merely useless gimmickry.

Just Another Day

Most people seem to take the disembodied voices in stride. Few people even take the time to stop and look for the source of the transmission. In fact, a lot of them enjoy the fact that it makes people aware that they are doing something wrong. They reason that discipline will be instilled in citizens if they are reminded.

Whether they are effective or not, these surveillance cameras are certainly revolutionary. It remains to be seen whether they can stop a bunch of rowdy teenagers from vandalizing public property. These cameras may even be the victim of such malicious pranks. But authorities are going to take that chance just to have their voices heard. They hope that a reminder of their vigilance will be the best deterrent to any criminal acts.

Surveillance Cameras And These Dangerous Times

By: Nahshon Roberts

You have reasons to be afraid, really afraid. Terrorists and criminals are real. They're ready to pounce where you think you are safe. The proliferation of surveillance cameras in public places is proof of this.

Terrorists and Criminals

Terrorists and petty criminals are getting more and more ruthless every second. They won't let anybody pass. They can and they will harm anybody. Standing your guard is always a must. You can never be too careful.

There are times when going out is inevitable, you have to go out to work, school, or to run errands and staying safe and out of harm's way isn't an option anymore. You can't always rely on surveillance cameras and the police because they aren't always there to help. You should know what to do in case you have an encounter with the bad kind.

Criminals aren't choosy in selecting their victim; they will harm the ones who look vulnerable. Don't count on anybody else and don't count on coming across surveillance cameras on the streets. As they say, it's every man for himself, out on the streets that is. Some people will be scared to help.

There are various ways on how you can protect yourself aside from carrying pepper spray or hiring a big-muscled bodyguard. There are various means of self-defense and there are a lot of places you can learn them. Aside from learning how to kick-butt, you also have to know what to do or what precautions to take in case something disastrous happens.

When You're On Your Own

These tips will help you stay on the safe side and stay alive:

* Be discreet in making your bank transactions (ATM's, withdrawals etc.) especially on the 1st and 15th of the month.

* Avoid wearing excessive jewelry.

* Walk confidently. Never show that you are tense and afraid that something might happen (because in one way or another, someone will sense your fear).

* Be cautious of approaching strangers.

* Avoid carrying too much stuff; you have to have a hand free in case someone tries to assault you.

* Try waiting for public transport in places where there are a lot of people, police or surveillance cameras.

* Always walk on the lighted part of the streets; some sidewalks aren't equipped with streetlights.

* When you're driving, drive with your car doors locked.

* Vary your driving habits and routes. You wouldn't want anybody to be stalking you.

* Always check the backseat of your car before entering.

* Have your emergency numbers on speed dial.

There are other ways to stay safe. When you sense that something bad is about to happen or you feel that somebody is tailing you, trust your instincts. Hurry to a crowded place or places with police, guards or surveillance cameras.

Though you can't always depend on others, surveillance cameras or anything that help you when it counts most; it's important to have emergency numbers on the ready - police, a friend, or your parents. Never take chances when it's your life on the line. Terrorists and criminals show no mercy when they strike, but will think twice before harming you if they know help is coming fast.

Security Camera Systems - Benefits Of A Digital Video Surveillance System

By: Steve Strong

If you get a digital video surveillance security camera system installed at your home or business premises, you can feel safer and more secure. Though people get these cameras installed for multiple reasons at such places, but these security systems definitely help them feel relaxed as your property is more secure. These security cameras allow you to monitor the activities of your business or home in your absence, and thus allowing you to ensure the safety of your children and pets. If you want to enhance the security further, you can also opt for a motion detector, which can send you security alerts through a pager or e-mail in case there is any sort of disturbance at your home or business in your absence.

It is easy to install a digital video security camera system, and you can do that in less than a few minutes. However, some of the security camera systems installed by government security agencies are more complex, and take more time to install. Moreover, they tend to cover a larger space.

A digital video surveillance system offers a superior quality transmission of signals. In addition, there is a large variety of features offered by a digital video recorder. A digital video surveillance system offers high resolution, greater hard disk storage capacity, date/time or event or segment search. The digital video cameras have an integrator multiplexer, which allows concurrent recording of security cameras installed at multiple locations.

If you want to prevent unnecessary loss and effectively manage emergency situations at home or office, going for a digital video surveillance system is the right solution for your security needs. A digital video surveillance system has a centralized system control, which offers better communication. The camera is equipped with a preset threat identification and notification system, which allows following benefits to the user:

Timely Detection of Security Threats

With the help of a digital video surveillance camera, you can and take immediate action even before the event occurs.

Security System Works 24x7

Most of the security cameras are highly durable and can endure harsh environmental situations, such as heavy rains and snow.

Raise Less number of False Alarms

A digital video surveillance camera allows you to minimize number of false alarms. However, a high quality digital video surveillance system, you get a guaranteed accuracy without missing the true incidents. As a result, a digital video surveillance system is one of the most trusted automated video surveillance systems available in the market.

Minimizes Human faults

It’s difficult to locate the required information through CCTV, but video surveillance system gives you an enhanced sense of security with its recorded video.

Extensive Surveillance Capacity

The system allows you to effectively monitor multiple locations at the same time, and requires no manpower to capture the video. You can even see dark and risky areas with the help of this system.

Available with an easy-To-Use Interface

A digital video surveillance system is easy to use and offers you a cost-effective solution, which fulfills all your security requirements.

Easy to upgrade

A digital video surveillance system can be easily upgraded according to changing security requirements. You can also retain your current hardware and make most out of it.

Computer Problems - 5 Simple Ways To Speed Up Your Computer

By: Donald Mckenzie Jr

When a computer starts to slow down it can really be a big pain. Many people believe that only a computer technician is the final answer. Actually there are things you can do yourself to speed up your own computer. This article will show you a few simple ways to speed up your computer.

1) Clean The Start Up Folder.

Items in the Startup folder are not the actual programs themselves. They are simply shortcuts to the programs. Deleting these items will not affect the programs themselves. If you are lucky enough to be using Windows 98 or XP, you can perform the cleanup right from the same screen used to check your Startup programs list. Move your cursor over the item you want to remove, right-click, and choose delete. Before you delete any item from your start-up folder, be sure that you at least try to determine its function.

Some programs like Microsoft Office will have a Fast Find or Office Start in the Startup folder. These shortcuts are unnecessary and can be deleted. If you don't know the purpose of an item in your Startup folder, you can still delete it. If you later find that you want to return it to the Startup folder, you can simply open the Recycle Bin, highlight the icon, right-click, and choose Restore.

2) Remove Old Programs and Software.

The first thing to do is click Start /Programs then hunt for the program you want to delete. Oftentimes, you'll find an Uninstall program under its program group. Another way would be to click the Start button/Settings/Control Panel. Then open the "Add/Remove programs" icon. You will see a list of programs that Windows can remove from your system. Just click the one you would like to remove and hit the OK button.

3) Scan Your Computer for Viruses, Mal-Ware, Trojans, and Spy ware.

In order to do this, it is highly recommended that you get a very good virus and spy ware cleaner. A free on can be found on the internet, but you should go to your nearest computer store for one. If your computer gets filled with ad-ware, viruses, spy ware, and other things, it will slow down dramatically. Try to detect them early and destroy them before any serious harm can come to your computer.

4) Keep Windows Update Turned On at All Times.

There are so many people who overlook this one simple step. Windows will provide free updates to all users. All you have to do is make sure that the icon is present and turned on. You will be reminded each time a new patch or new software becomes available. Do not overlook this step. Windows keeps all users up to date on all current viruses and other harmful things that can hurt your computer.

5) Remove Old Downloaded Desktop Themes.

The theme you downloaded may have installed onto your computer in a number of ways. Try this option: Click Start -> Settings -> Control Panel -> Add / Remove programs. Look for any themes you may have installed and attempt to remove from here. You can also look in the Program Files Folder: Click Start -> Programs, and search for folders which represent theme names you installed on your system. If you find the themes listed, click the listing and look for the uninstall program button.

Keep in mind that this is only a small list of things to speed up any computer that uses windows. There can be a number of things wrong or altering your computer speed. Do a search online and you can find more things to look for. Good luck and take care of your computer.

Cell Phone: Poised For A Technological Revolution

By: Roberto Sedycias

Two decades back, in emerging economy like India, the cell phone was being associated with the concept of luxury. Today, for most people around the world, the cell phone has become as normal as owning a wrist watch. It is virtually impossible to imagine a world of communication without the existence of cell phones. More than a necessity, very much like wristwatches, cell phones are also being considered a style icon. Hence, if one carries an expensive and latest model, it becomes the centre of popular attention. In fact, cell phones having an attractive look, impressive color, and latest technology always become the matter of discussion among the users.

Cell phones now come with various features to impress its users. Despite competition, it is spreading like an unstoppable storm which won`t leave anybody out of its reach. The best advantage of using a cell is connectivity with its other users when you need to be in touch with them. Another advantage is using it as a music player. It allows listening to your most favorite artist when you are not talking!

With some cell phones you can communicate through emails. However, you must subscribe to internet service for that purpose. What`s more is that you can send attachments in various formats such as .pdf, .ppt. xl and so forth. On the top of it, you can send images and videos as well. Just imagine how thrilled the recipient will be when they receive the pictures or videos you have just taken through you cell phone and sent through the emails from the spot itself. If you are associated with news network, this can become a magical tool to break news.

Cell phones with an integrated 2 mega pixel camera and a digital 8X zoom help you to take outstanding photos and unforgettable videos. The advanced pixel camera keys let you click images without any hassle. You can send and receive files over the wireless network instantly with the Bluetooth wireless connection. Connect the headset and talk with Bluetooth technology. Cell phones with advanced internet features give you easy access to surf the internet on your mobile phone. Now, you can surf the internet, check your e-mails and chat with your friends on the phone. The WAP browser facilitates to open various websites of HTML and XHTML format. It offers you high speed internet connectivity for fast and uninterrupted data transfer. The built-in i radio gives you the latest news, music and gossips. Conference calls for talking with more than two is the latest trend in cell phone users.

Messaging features like Multimedia Messaging Service (MMS), instant messaging, Enhanced Messaging Email (EMS), and embedded java games will entertain you anytime anywhere. The WAP and GPRS services also provide access to the internet, wherever you may go. With mobile internet, you are able to update yourself with latest news and financial quotes, entertainment headlines, weather forecast and more.

The phone with 3G technology works best provided you have broadband internet connection on your phone. It provides high speed consistent data transfer of up to 384 kbps. You can transfer data to a laptop, pc or take prints by connecting to a printer using the wireless Bluetooth connection. Cell gives you updates with recent news and weather forecasts. The phone loaded with 3 D games will surely entertain you.

The technology related to the cell phones is ever-evolving. What is the latest today becomes obsolete the other day. The cell phone manufacturers are constantly trying to invent ways to bring sophistication to their users so that can stand out from their competitors. However, the price factor has also become the deciding factor as well as many cell phone manufactures are offering their products in the market with a price that easily gives their competitors a run for their money. In a nutshell, we are yet to see many more surprises in the concept of cell phones in the days to come.

The Essentials Of Blu-Ray Movies

By: Michael Zeet

Blu-ray is taking the world by a storm. People are slowly yet steadily realizing just how innovative this new technology is. However, people should care to realize that blu-ray DVDs may not always function as effectively as it will when it comes to different regions. This is one special and important feature which every person must understand when it comes to using blu-ray discs. Regional features are pretty much the same thing as it is with DVDs.

Regional settings are used even in DVDs. This simply means that in certain countries, a DVD may not play as effectively as it did with another country. This is the same principle being followed by blu-ray discs. It may not play with dics players belonging to other regions per format specifications. The problem with blu-ray movies is not really the television or the screen which it will be played with. The PAL-NTSC functions found on televisions will not have any effect whatsoever. The issue lies behind the multi-layered format of blu-ray discs.

The regions found on blu-ray discs actually come from film and other Hollywood producers themselves. They use these regional codes in order to control the market of their film or show produce caught on discs. This is needed to prevent the spread of piracy. Showing of films do not happen simultaneously worldwide. It may be that a certain is already being sold in blu-ray discs as well as DVD formats in the US when in fact it is still being shown in movie theaters in Europe. If blu-ray discs will be embedded with regional codes, they can only be played in the country which already showed them in theaters. In this example, region codes would prohibit the blu-ray discs from being successfully sold in Europe where the movie is still showing in theaters.

Moreover, the price of blu-ray movies may also be rather inexpensive as compared to the theater tickets. In addition, blu-ray movies also contain the similar digital enhancements which can be found on wide screen theaters playing these blu-ray movies. So it will really be enticing to buy these blu-ray copies rather than going to theaters. Therefore, sales and profit will be cut down at an alarming amount for these film producers. So if you decide to buy a blu-ray disc with embedded regional codes, you can only play it in allowed countries. Unless of course you have a player which has a built in capacity to recognize multi-layered blu-ray discs.

Blu-ray discs are flexible. They can play in properly formatted disc players. You will not encounter much problems in terms of utilizing video formats on blu-ray discs. But you should also learn that it is still regulated under legal and lawful procedures. However, that would not stop you from enjoying blu-ray disc copies especially if you are waiting for your favorite flick to finally be available in disc format. Yet you should not forget to adhere to legal policies as well, and blu-ray surely does respect such legal proceedings.

Blu-Ray Innovation In A Nutshell

By: Michael Zeet

Gone are the days when people had to endure tapes in order to watch their favorite film. The trouble with VCR tapes is that they are hard to rewind and fast forward when need be. When you skip a scene without your intention, it’s often hard to go back to that because tapes run in film rolls even when using VCRs and not the usual projectors. In addition, tapes are also more vulnerable to scene deletions. One unauthorized press of the record button can send an entire film into oblivion.

Then eventually, the advent of CDs as means of distributing data also came to be. The advent of using discs did not just prove to be very useful when it comes to distributing film copies. Even other forms of media such as music albums and data transfers between computers have found the necessity for using CDs. But just as people have begun to really appreciate the use of CDs in our everyday lives, things have been taken further by the release of Blu-Ray technology.

Blu-ray takes using DVDs up a higher notch. With blu-ray discs, people can finally manage using high density data and store them accordingly. The name blu-ray is coined from the blue violet laser color being emitted for file utilization. Blu-ray discs use shorter wave lengths with a bluish colored laser. In effect, this makes the disc effective for storing higher types of information as compared to usual CDs and even DVDs. The laser being used and emitted in blu-ray discs is essential because this is the tool that reads the data. Even CDs and DVDs use laser technology to facilitate data transfers and recording, however it uses longer wave lengths which affect the storage capacity of the disc.

One may ask however, how can a laser beam actually cause much when it comes to producing greater memory capacity for discs? Laser technology is generally used by discs, both DVDs and blu-ray, when it comes to file transactions—recording, playing, viewing, etc. Lasers are emitted onto the surface of the disc and the focus of laser beams become embedded onto the disc. The larger the focus, the larger the spot is brings onto the disc. The spot will eventually occupy its own space even if does not contain any relevant information. In effect, it becomes a waste. With blu-ray technology, smaller laser beam focus is produced because it has shorter wave lengths. In effect, lesser spots are produced and bigger memory capacity is left for the disc.

Blu-ray discs are still at its prime. However, it is already being compared with DVDs from all angles. It is expected that eventually, blu-ray discs will increase in advantages as it is already doing so at present. It is now being widely used not just in film formats but also in gaming devices such as the Sony Play Station. The technology which blu-ray is made from also looks promising in itself because the production of laser beams can also be used eventually for broader purposes.

7 Steps To A Secure Wireless Network

By: Tim Maguire

Wireless networks, often abbreviated to “Wi-Fi”, allow PCs, laptops and other devices to “talk” to each other using a short-range radio signal. However, to make a secure wireless network you will have to make some changes to the way it works once it’s switched on.

The signal of any short-range radio transmission can be picked up by any device in range that is tuned to the same frequency. This means that anyone with a wireless PC or laptop in range of your wireless network may be able to connect to it unless you take precautions.

If this happens then your network and PC are vulnerable to any or all of the following:

Freeloaders - Most wireless networks are used to share a broadband Internet connection. A “Freeloader” may connect to your network and use your broadband connection without your knowledge or permission. This could have an impact on your own use. You may notice your connection slows down as it shares the availability of the Internet with more users. Many home Internet services have limits to the amount of data you can download per month - a “Freeloader” could exceed this limit and you find your Internet bill charged for the extra amounts of data. More seriously, a “Freeloader” may use your Internet connection for some nuisance or illegal activity. The Police may trace the Internet connection used for such activity it would lead them straight back to you.

Eavesdropping - As information is transmitted an “eavesdropper” may connect to your wireless network and view all the information as it passes by. This is entirely undetectable by the user as the “Eavesdropper” is only listening not transmitting. Such sensitive information as bank account details, credit card numbers, usernames and passwords may be recorded.

Hacking - Even when the security features of a wireless network have been switched on unless these features are set-up correctly then anyone in range can hack in to the network. All home wireless network routers have a standard username and password for the administration of the network. All a hacker has to do is go through the list of standard usernames and passwords until he gains access. A hacker may then use your network for any of the above or gain access to your PC - your firewall may not prevent him because, as he is connected to your network, he is within the trusted zone.

Most wireless network equipment, when it comes out of the box, is not protected against these threats by default. This means you have to configure the network yourself to make it a secure wireless network.

How to secure a wireless network

Although all wireless equipment marked as 802.11 will have standard features such as encryption and access control each manufacturer has a different way it is controlled or accessed. This means that the advice that follows may seem a bit technical because we can only tell you what you have to do not how to do it. You should read the manual or help files that came with your equipment in order to see how to make a secure wireless network.

1. Use encryption. This is the bedrock of any secure wireless network and means that the data that passes over the wireless can only be decoded with the correct system of encryption and the correct password. Currently there are three methods of encryption for wireless networks usually referred to by their acronyms: WPA2, WPA-PSK and WEP. Each method can only be used if all the equipment on the network has the capability. As WPA2 is the most recent method of encryption, unless you have recently obtained the latest PCs, laptops & network device you probably will not be able to use it. WPA-PSK is the next best and is available on most hardware. If you are using older access points and network cards, you may find that you can only use WEP. Each method requires a “key” (a word or phrase used to make the encryption work). Make sure you use a word or phrase that would not be easily guessed. For example, don’t use your address as the key.

2. Set up your network infrastructure as “access point” and not “ad-hoc” or “peer to peer”. These last two (ad-hoc and peer-to-peer) mean that network devices such as PCs and laptops can connect directly with each other without going through an access point. You have more control over how devices connect if you set the infrastructure to “access point” and so will make for a more secure wireless network.

3. choose an obscure name for the network - This important tip to having a secure wireless network is probably not used by about 99% of home users. The technical term for the name of the wireless network is “SSID”. The default SSID is usually the name and model of the wireless router or Internet provider e.g. NetgearDG834G or Sky9091. If you leave the SSID like this it makes hacking very easy so change the SSID as soon as you set up your network. Don’t use your address, house name or family name these are too easy to guess.

4. Switch off the SSID broadcast. This tip goes hand in hand with No3 in creating a secure wireless network. This means that anyone wishing to connect to your wireless network must know its SSID i.e. the name of the network.

5. Change the name and password of the administration user for the wireless router but don’t forget to make a note of what you change it to. A secure wireless network will have an admin user ID that is difficult to guess and a strong password that uses letter and numbers.

6. Unplug the wireless router whenever you are going to be away from home (or the office). It’s also a good idea to set the time that the network can be used if the device allows it. For example, in an office you may not want to unplug the wireless router at the end of every day so you could set it to only allow connections between the hours of 7:30 AM and 7:30 PM.

7. Use MAC filtering If your wireless router or access point allows it, MAC filtering easily adds one more layer to make your wireless network secure. Every network card (the device installed in PCs and laptops that connect it to a network) has its own unique code, called a “MAC address”. In Windows XP you can see the MAC address by right-clicking on the network connection, choose “status” and then the “support” tab. In the support window click on “details”. The code labeled “physical address” is the MAC code for that network connection device. Make sure it’s the wireless network connection you select as the LAN connection will have a different MAC address. Most wireless routers or access points allow you to list the MAC codes that you wish to use the network. This means that you must grant permission to any PC or laptop that wants to connect to the network.

If you can put all seven of these tips in operation you will have a very secure wireless network.