Minggu, 28 September 2008

Digital DJ Equipment Vs Crate Digging DJs

Stereotypes abound, for anyone who has caught the wonderful series Nathan Barley by Chris Morris, the cringeworthy world of the Hoxton Elite sums up DJ culture in one fail swoop. It's not just the DJ and his equipment, it's the hangers on, the hairstyles, the pseudo cool crowd baying for a tune that is so left field we are all in danger of getting lost in the wild wood of cacophony. Contrary to popular belief, there is more to being a DJ than just looking cool in a pair of headphones. Unfortunately to some that is all that they think there is to being a DJ.

Back in the day, as a lot of my vinyl friends are fond of saying, being a spinner of tunes took skill, dedication and commitment. It was a status reserved for music geeks. Being so into the scene meant a lifetime of dedication to music, not just a passing interest in the latest pop sensation. The disc jockey would typically get out of bed around noon, go crate digging until the shops closed and then proceed to either travel to a gig and go to bed around 6am, or stay up and mix until around about the same time.

The art of crate digging is akin to grannies at a jumble sale looking for a Faberge egg. Dusty rooms piled to the ceiling with every record from a white label undiscovered Stones LP to BBC sound effects, but who knows what is where. Some classics are just waiting to be discovered, a strange little loop half way through track four on the B side of some unknown 1950s crooner can make the next top ten chart breaker; and the only way to find it is by digging through those crates. Since the fall in popularity of vinyl as the essential DJ tool, the art of crate digging is becoming a dying pastime for all but the most dedicated. Bedroom music maestros probably don't even know about it, they probably don't even own a record.

The demise of vinyl has meant a change in technology; there has been a dip in the demand for analogue turntables and an increase in demand for digital DJ equipment. Eager to distinguish themselves from the iPod generation who just plug in a player and hit the shuffle button, established and talented DJs are calling for updated equipment; MP3 and compact disc as a medium is creating a need for players that can mix tracks like the old turntables do. There is no doubt that not having to lug a flight case with a hundred records in is a positive thing, especially if the option is carrying around a relatively lightweight piece of equipment that can be subsequently mixed from.

Back to the stereotype of the Hoxton 'massive' and we could argue that these guys are actually pioneering the new digital music scene. Creating crazy loops from the depths of the imagination that are inspired by a pair of hair straighteners breaking, or not being able to fit into the latest skinny jeans could be the new big thing. Maybe these guys are one up on the crate diggers who have been accused of just stealing other people's work and stitching it all together on fancy equipment. Maybe a good pair of headphones and a love of popular fashion are just what the music industry needs to bring it into the twenty first century.

Sabtu, 27 September 2008

That Tape May Not Play Because It Has Mold On It

Are you like most people who like to watch movies? We are, and we have a pretty good size collection of movies. We have some on VHS tapes and also on DVDs.

Do you know that if you don't watch your VHS movies often enough that they can develop mold on them, thus causing them not to play anymore? If you have a lot of these kinds of movies you might want to either replace them by buying their DVD counterparts or putting them on DVD discs. If you want to just put them on DVDs, you might have to buy a certain machine that can cost you just about as much as it would cost you to replace them yourself.

You can buy these older movies for almost next to nothing. You can also go to your neighborhood pawnshop and get them even cheaper. But the problem with doing it that way is you might get one that skips really bad. Sometimes these places might not give you back your money because they don't know the condition of the disk. Even so you won't be out a lot of money, so most people will just throw way the one that is bad.

When this mold does show up on these old movies, you can try to remove it by cleaning it off with a clean rag. If this doesn't work you might be able to use a light spray of some liquid right on the tape, but sometimes this might just tear the tape. You will end up having to throw it out anyway. But no matter which way you do this, the mold will still be there and will almost certainly will have to be dealt with over time.

So if you would happen to go and find a movie that you like, and it's on tape you might want to also get a blank DVD disc and see if you can find some way to put it on this disk. If you can't find a way, you might just want to wait and see if you can find it on a disk at maybe a store that just sells movies. There are plenty of them around. You might have to travel some, or you might run across it at a yard sale. Either way this is the best or cheapest way to get the movies you want.

Senin, 22 September 2008

Social Networking Website Software Proves To Be Safe and Secure

Most of the internet users of today are members of one social networking website or the other. There are many popular social networks like MyTube, Face Book and MySpace which has maximum members in them, which is attributed to the safe and secure social networking website software it uses on the website.

With so many people becoming members of social networks, the quest to find out if the information and data provided to the social networks is actually in safe hands goes on and on. And the answer these people always receive is an affirmative one.

This is because this social networking website software is constantly updated to ensure that people on the site are safe. This does not come as much of a surprise, considering the fact that the sudden rise in people being blackmailed through such information has made it important that safety and security is a priority on the sites.

Social networking sites are a great way of teaching children to keep in touch with family members and friends. However, this can be made possible only if you teach your children all the security features and restrictions available on the site to the child. If the child is not aware of these steps that have to be taken to protect private and personal information, the child may jeopardize this information. As the social networking website software offers all these tools on site, it does not prove difficult to teach your child the basic security features of the site.

However, there is no point in having security features in the social networking website software, if you are not careful in using the computer. There are many people who leave their email addresses, home address, full name and phone number on pages that are open for public to see. Remember it is important that you restrict strangers from accessing your personal information to be successful in the internet, and especially social networks.

It is only on visiting a social networking site do you realize the amount of security the social networking website software maintains in the site. The security features of the software includes encryption, CAPCHA codes, spam filters and even passwords that are used to ensure your safety in the site.

Of course, these safety features may not prove to be something special as practically all websites have these features. However there is some additional security provided with the social networking website software which is, providing users with the ability to block and restrict access to the site by people who are not known or recognized by the site.

One of the most popular social networking sites successfully using this software to day is Facebook, which is presently one of the largest social networking sites catering to high school and college students.

Basically, access to any profile page on the site is restricted unless and up till you are added as a friend in the site. Once you are declared and added as a friend, you can view the pages of your friend, leave comments when required and even send messages. It is also possible to see other friends of your friend; and by registering yourself as their friends, you will be able to see their private pages too. With all this security, personal information remains private and personal.

In the case of another site, MySpace, security issues are handled differently. Here the access to your page can be tailored for only friends and in some situations, let everyone else have a look at your page too. You can also place limitations on who can request making friendships with you. With this feature, it is possible to not only avoid spammers, but also prevent inappropriate people visiting or gaining access to your profile page.

All this does not imply that you have to take this software for granted. Remember that hackers will always look for ways to hack into accounts and gain access to information. This is why no matter how safe a social networking website may seem you should never disclose too much personal information on your profile page.

Remember that if you cannot actually control your personal information on the web, you are the one who will suffer from its consequences. Never actually rely only on the security measures found on social networking website software. It is better to consider them to be additional tools that you can use with your common sense for your own safety.

So it can be said that these features, with the safety steps and etiquette you have to maintain when on the internet all leave you with a social networking website software that is not only safe, but will keep you secure at all times.

Using Your Laptop As a GPS Unit

If you don't want to invest in a hand-held or vehicle-mounted GPS unit, you do have the much less expensive option of converting your laptop into a GPS unit with special software.

If your laptop has a good battery and an embedded wi-fi program, you may prefer investing the money into this software, which is very easy to use. With this software you can locate POIs (points or place of interest), or upload new ones for future reference. You can upload maps for regions where you will be traveling.

Of course, not everybody relishes the idea of having to keep a laptop computer up on the dashboard of their car like some police officer. They might instead use the option of finding and then printing out maps or POI, options which this ubiquitous GPS software comes with. On the other hand, for those who need to do a lot of driving in unfamiliar areas such as those who are salesmen, having the laptop GPS software might be even better than a dash-mounted unit; for the screen is much larger and it might be easier to glance over at it than to try constantly glancing down at a small-screen unit even if that unit is in front of them.

In either case, there may be times when it's necessary to pull over for a moment to read the screen. Nevertheless, it's still more convenient than carrying around a glovebox full of maps that aren't pinpointed as accurately as one of the printed out GPS maps.

Laptop-ready GPS software can be found in most major electronics and computer software stores. You can also easily find this software on the Internet. One of the top GPS software programs is that made by DeLorme in its new Earthmate GPS LT-40, which plugs into laptop via USB cable.

The leading features of this GPS software includes a high-sensitivity WAAS-enabled GPS receiver as well as the new Street Atlas USA 2009 software. DeLorme with this also provide a new, advanced interface, the features of which include a "cockpit view" of airplane-inspired navigation cues as well as a wide 3D perspective of the roads you are travelling.

Garmin, a leader in GPS technology, also makes superior laptop GPS software. With its Mobile 10 software, you don't need the USB cable; this is a high-sensitivity GPS receiver which connects to your laptop via wireless Bluetooth technology. This also comes with Garmin's Mobile XT, nRoute navigation software, and detailed City Navigator street maps.

Microsoft also makes excellent GPS software called Streets & Trips 2008, which comes with a high-sensitivity GPS receiver which plugs directly into your laptop's USB port without the need for any cable.

This software also comes with automatic re-routing, a perspective map that simulates what you see ahead of you on the road, day-night backlight modes, voice prompted directions, auto-zoom to that provides a more accurate view of your next turn, and a large database of POI.

So for those who are already enamored of their laptops and who don't want to lay out the cash for a GPS unit, the laptop software is the way to go.

Jumat, 19 September 2008

Tips on How to Buy Front Loading Washing Machines

Are you in the market for a new washing machine? Wondering which washing machine you should buy? If you are, consider making the purchase of a front loading washing machine. Through this article you are provided helpful (and, indeed, necessary) tips on how to buy front loading washing machines.

Space

The first consideration that you will want to keep in mind when it comes to the prospect of purchasing a front loading washing machine is space consideration. The reason many people do elect to purchase a front loading washing machine rests in the reality that some models of these types of machines actually are more streamlined and better able to fit into a smaller space. For example, if you live in an apartment, you might find that this type of washing machine is ideal simply because in many instances such a model will take up less floor space.

Washing Loads

The next tip and pointer that you will need to keep in mind when it comes to purchasing a front loading washing machine is making sure that you will find such a machine appropriate for your circumstances. In most instances, a front loading washing machine will hold only smaller loads per wash. If you have a large family or have a need for larger wash loads, you may find that the front loading variety of washing machine might not be the best option for you.

Energy Efficency

Yet another consideration to keep in mind when it comes to front loading machines is that in most instances these appliances are far more energy efficient than their upright brethren. Therefore, if you want to save money on energy costs and if you want to lessen the impact your appliance use will have on the environment, the front loading variety of washing machine really may be the best option for you. In this day and age, energy and environmental considerations are very important to many people.
Finally, when it comes to purchasing a front loading washing machine, you need to keep in mind that there are variety of these types of appliances in a wide spectrum of prices. Therefore, if you have specific budgetary considerations when it comes to purchasing a washing machine, you will want to make sure that you take the time to shop around. By doing so you will be able to find a front loading washing machine that will best fit within your budget.

Internet Telephony Vs Normal Telephoning

Making a telephone call is probably one of the most common things you can do provided you do run your phone bill up high. The most you will gain out this is a simple use for a few minutes each day, perhaps more and engage in a conversation with the other person on the other end of the line. Telephones and communication across a network has been around for a little over a century, as quick communication is an extremely important part of putting across a message.

With this in mind the communication industry has progressed forwards as technology has advanced. One way of making a relatively cheaper phone call is via a VoIP phone (voice over internet protocol) which simply put is internet telephony software that allows you to make calls across the net. Unlike MSN or a normal messaging chat room, this is an actual telephoning system, which can be done for free or for a low cost across continents. VoIP phones are more popular amongst who live further away from each other and can communicate better through a broadband connection.

VoIP phones normally require both parties to use a broadband internet connection, install the same internet telephony programme and have added each other to their profile (similar to that of MSN messenger). These programmes do not charge for calls from one computer to the other, however, they do charge for landline and mobile phone calls. Over the years the connection and audio quality have improved making communication easier for both parties and the sound quality clearer.

Most internet telephony providers allow using various devices to make the calls, either by using a headset or using VoIP phones. Skype is one of the leading companies that offer such service, others include Paradial, Ooma, NETXUSA, Volt Delta Resources and many more. Some of the VoIP service providers can include different packages, such as Ooma offers a wireless internet telephoning protocol hub, which when connected to the broadband allows for cheaper or free calls.

Unlike conventional telephoning methods there are no wire transference present, which means they do not need to be manually connected. However, unlike normal telephoning, VoIP phones do require the users to be connected to broadband internet only and to have installed the same programmes. Therefore, anybody with a limited knowledge on the internet and computers will need to be shown how to install the programme and set up their own account.

Where normal telephones are permanently attached to a wire, the VOIP systems can be taken anywhere around the world provided you are connected to a broadband internet service and have your own computer (laptop or WAP). This can be done at no cost if the call is made to the same network. Furthermore, these come with in-built caller ID, call waiting, conference calls, repeat dialling, answering messages, and forward calling and voicemail options. Some of these features may be missing in some older conventional telephone models.

It would appear that VOIP phones are better at connecting to long distance calls, making it sound like a normal local call, whereas it could work out to be a costly process to make conventional calls across the border. They are by far more efficient, yet not convincing enough to take over conventional telephones, as they are still not as accessible. Many people are still unaware of internet telephone protocols, which is why the transition will be slow.

Kamis, 04 September 2008

Discover The Latest Models In Photo Printers

Every year the electronics industry gears up for the IFA gadget convention where the giants in consumer technology showcase their latest and greatest. This year has been no exception with much of the focus being on the new mainstream HD ready TV technologies however the other areas have not been forgotten. This article focuses on the new range of photo printers that have been released, offering an impartial assessment of three leading product lines from three top manufacturers.

Autumn collection might be something that is usually associated with fashion houses however now the expression has been commandeered by Cannon to announce the launch of the Pixma All-In-One, or AIO range. The prices range from 50 to 280GBP and the features include auto fix image correction, auto scan mode which makes scanning much more straight forward and ChromaLife 100 plus which claims to give photos a longer life.

Two of the new launches are WiFi photo printers and there are a number of single function photo printers from Cannon which have been announced. Cannon have also announced the launch of three new models of single function scanners, the CannonScan LiDO range which offer a scan at 4800x4800dpi in 14 seconds. The Cannon revelations have however been overshadowed by the unveiling of the EOS 5OD, the flag ship digital camera.

Although Cannon announced a multitude of various new printer models, Epson opted for style as opposed to numeracy. The super sleek series of Artisan printers sees only two models launched, the 800 and 700. Both are piano black AIO printers offering 38 pages per minutes standard printing speed and photos in under 10 seconds, with larger printers taking just under one minutes.

Both models can also print directly onto CDs and DVDs and have a selective panel display which lights up the buttons you need depending on which function you are using, so for fax only the buttons applicable to fax light up making it less energy efficient but more user friendly. The touch screen functions are easy to use and you can crop, rotate, copy and access print options. The only difference between the two models is the 800 comes with WiFi, a larger display and Automatic Document Feeder.

From sleek and sexy to technological wizardry, the Casio photo printer duo just unveiled is more than meets the eye. When first looking at the PCP 1200 and PCP photo printers from Casio you might be forgiven for thinking that they are boxy and nothing on the Epson Artisan. This is until to boxy practicality of the models is revealed, as both models come with a flip screen and keypad. This increases the operational features and the photo printers can print up to A6 size photos, more is due to be revealed on this product as we await the UK launch.

Eliminating All of Your Prank Calls

We have all been on the receiving end of a prank call at some time in our lives, whether it's a call to your mobile, home phone or office phone. There are pranksters that may just perform a one off prank call, which is acceptable to handle. But what about the people that are doing it day in and day out, it does start to get slightly overwhelming and you just want to throttle them. The worst it can get is at night times, especially if you are on call as a doctor or nurse, you leave your phone switched on so that you do not miss any important calls and then a prankster that just hangs up on you wake's you up.

So you've have decide that you have finally had enough and you want to eliminate these prank calls for good. From here in, there are two main options you can take. First and foremost there is the option of hiring a private investigator; this may cost you quite a bit of money in the long run. So you should firstly decide to yourself if it is fully worth the hassle? A private investigator will be able to promptly get to the bottom of things and will give you the evidence so that you can report the abuser to the police.

Alternatively your second choice will be to use a reverse phone number search service. You can get a free version or a paid version. The way in which this service works is that it identifies a caller from a landline but only if there number is unlisted, therefore it will not in any circumstances work for mobile phones or VoIP phones. This is somewhat of problem as most pranksters to tend to call from unregistered mobiles. But this being said if you do sign up for a paid version of the reverse search than you will have access to most of the entire mobile and VoIP numbers. It usually costs a minimal fee to sign up.

Once you have received all of the information of the prank caller, you will then be able to succeed in eliminating the calls. This again can be done in two ways, the first is a more kind approach whereas the next time the prankster calls you, you should address them with all there information. This will definitely give them a scare, if this technique does not work you can then pass all of your information over to the local authorities who will be more than delighted to help you.

Selasa, 02 September 2008

Cell Phone Technology Continues to Advance

Cell phones are arguably one of the biggest impact inventions of the past twenty years. Although telephones are nothing new, cell phones have revolutionized how people communicate, for better or for worse. It's easier than ever to communicate with people anywhere in the world. Phones are no longer used just to speak with people, but now offer a variety of extra features such as texting, cameras, and access to the Internet. Phones are getting thinner and thinner, all while providing more function than ever before.

Almost 100 years ago, people began fantasizing about the possibility of a wireless phone. However, it took several decades for the idea to evolve. Twenty years ago, the impact and global reach of cell phones would have been unfathomable. The first cell phones were ridiculously large and heavy, quite unlike the small, sleek models that are so popular now.

In regards to phone design, there are three main types of phones seen on the market right now: basic "flat" phones, flip phones, and slider phones. There are also a few other types of designs popping up for those in the market for high-end phones, such as touch-screen phones, and those with two sides of interface.

Features such as voicemail, caller ID, and voice dial are no longer pricey upgrades to phone service, but a part of the basic phone plan. Although for many people it's hardly an "option," text messaging is by far the most popular upgrade on the market. Most cell phone service providers have a high per-text fee (around twenty cents per text) as well as several texting packages that are far more affordable. Because so many customers, teenagers especially are addicted to texting (sending thousands every month), the unlimited texting package is extremely popular in the United States.

Cell phones now have a variety of multimedia options available for download at an additional fee. The list includes the "essential" and the trivial, including ringtones, wallpapers, games, and music. This is one area where the cell phone market could improve; the options are typically somewhat mediocre in quality while expensive compared to the other downloads out there.

Unfortunately, there are a couple downsides to this tremendous invention. The actual telephone part of the cell phone is being commonly overlooked or ignored, with far more focus being given to the extra gizmos and fashion statement behind the phone.

Even more of a problem, the cell phone has been attributed with increasingly poor etiquette and discourtesy. People are continuously asked to turn off or silence their phones before entering quiet places like theaters, libraries, and places of worship. However, since there is little way to enforce these rules, people are repeatedly embarrassed when their phone unexpected goes off at the most inconvenient or inappropriate times.

It has become increasingly common for people to use their cell phones while driving, whether for calling somebody or sending a text. Every year, many accidents are blamed on inattentive drivers who were distracted by their phone. So far, the only method for reducing these accidents has been to ban cell phone use while driving.

Technology never ceases to blow people away. Even though the cell phones of today seem remarkable compared to Alexander Graham Bell's first can-and-string device, phones will continue to evolve. Phones are no longer just for calling people, but just one small feature of a larger "smartphone" capable of so much more.

Front Loading Or Top Loading?

Well, today Washing Machine is a necessity in every household and it is also worth the expenditure. But knowing which one is important for you is the main factor. With the improving technology, there have been a wide range of these appliances being launched in the market and as a result we are provided with lot of choices.

It leads to confusion and we are not able to decide which is appropriate for our purpose thus resulting in wrong purchase, many of the times. So to overcome this problem, you should have the basic knowledge regarding its purchase. Here are some of the distinctions made on different kinds of Washing Machines.

The first dilemma is whether to go for a front-loading or top-loading washing machine.

The main difference between a top loading and front loading washing machine is how the clothes are placed inside. A top loading washing machine has a hinged lid on top, allowing the clothes to be placed inside a horizontally-oriented watertight tub. In the center of this tub is a device called an agitator. The agitator's job is to swirl the clothes through the soapy water.

A front loading washing machine has no central agitator, but uses gravity and side-mounted paddles to agitate clothes. Once the front door is closed, it remains locked mechanically until the washing cycle is complete.

One advantage of a front loading washing machine is an increased capacity. A front loading washing machine is also gentler on clothes and generally quieter to operate. Another advantage is less water and detergent usage.

A top loading washer must use enough water to cover the highest level of the clothes. A front loading washing machine, on the other hand, only uses enough water to cover approximately the lower third of the tub at most.
However, it is expensive to buy, heavy, smaller range available, usually no adding clothes.

While a top loader is cheaper, faster, lighter, big ranges available and early loading from top. Well, like the front loader, it also has its drawbacks as well. The top loader uses a large amount of water, not energy efficient, uses more detergent, pace needed to open lid.

Number of features come into consideration like:

- Wash Performance for its effectiveness at cleaning and removing stubborn stains;
- Energy Efficiency, according to the amount of water and electricity it uses, and;
- Spin Speed, the faster the rotations, the more water is extracted and the quicker the drying time.
- Capacity, can be a big deal for many energy efficient models. They save energy by allowing you to wash fewer clothes at once.
- Variable wash temperatures, are a useful feature.

Most clothes only need to be washed on cold, avoid using warm or hot water unless the clothing is heavily soiled or requires it.

Washing Machines come in various range starting from 3,000/- to 45,000/- or even more.

Well, now it might be easier for you to judge which type of machine fulfill your needs and also to make a clear comparison as you know the features of different types of washing machines.