Jan 28

dtv_converter_boxUnfortunately no! It is not possible to record one program and watch another if you have a single converter box. The best option is to get one box for each device.  It is also ideal to have one antenna for each device.  See antennaweb.org for the best antenna for your area. If the antenna signal is strong enough, an antenna splitter can be used.  If you have more than one converter box in one room or close to each other it best to get them from different manufacturers so that each uses a different remote. That way if somebody changes a channel on their box it doesn’t affect you.  Instead of purchasing a converter box you could buy a Digital TV.  They have their own tuners so you will not need the converter box.

COST SAVING NOTE !!
You can keep you cost down by trying the equipment you have before you buy anything.  Don’t let people talk you into anything.  Your old antenna may be good enough.  If you have have Cable or Satellite TV you don’t have to do anything. This is only for those that still want to use antenna along with the old TVs.  You do not need a converter box in that case.

Suggestion
If you don’t understand any of this ask around.  Many people have already made the switch including me.  You shouldn’t have to call any experts here.  There should be somebody that will help you get set up. FREE !! or pretty much so.

Jan 22

I am writing this as a product review.  It is a good camera!

Logitech QuickCam Pro 9000 Webcam
Stay face-to-face, wherever your road takes you! The Logitech QuickCam Pro 9000 is a versatile and easy way to take your webcam on the go. Whether you’re putting together your next home movie for your favorite video sharing site, or just staying in touch with far away loved ones, the QuickCam Pro 9000 allows you to see others face-to-face anywhere. Images stay razor sharp, even in close-ups. Shoot high definition video with the QuickCam Pro 9000-up to 960 x 720 pixels and a 2-megapixel sensor. You can get up to 30 frames per second with the Carl Zeiss lens, which provides more clarity and detail to your shots.

Still photographs look great too, with 8-megapixel resolution. With an easily adjustable attachment, you can place the camera on top of your laptop display. Add an element of fun to your videos with the Logitech Video Effects, which allows you to customize your face and create several avatars. Connectable to your PC via USB 2.0 connection, the Logitech QuickCam Pro 9000 eliminates the guesswork of traveling with a portable Web camera. No matter what application you need the QuickCam Pro for, it’s the perfect fit. Go pro – choose the Logitech QuickCam Pro 9000.

Jan 8

This is a wide subject.  That is to say there are possibly hundred of ways this can be done.  There are a huge amount of software programs out there.  Some computers come with some brand of photo editing software.  Some of these are only trial programs.  That means that after a certain amount (normally 60 days) of time you will need to buy the product.

Roxio

A dynamic program that does many things as you can see in the picture of the product. You can work with music,Photos,Videos and even burn CDs and DVDs.   Please pick the product that suits your needs.

Photoshop

This is still pretty much the big bang of the industry.  I will just say that there isn’t much you can’t do with this product.  The biggest problem is that it is very expensive.  I would only recommend this product if you are a photographer or if you want to do a lot of editing.  I do use it for photos that I want to put on web pages.

This dynamic program is simple and can do great photo editing. Please be sure you get the version that is meant for your particular needs.

Nero

This is also great.  Again be sure you are buying the product that is for you.  Nero StartSmart is a great product.  It even takes out noise from sound recordings.  The photo editing isn’t real extensive but it is fine if you aren’t real picky.

Here are other web sites that may interest you
SHUTTERFLY
SNAPFISH
SMUGMUG
BLURB Great if you like scrap booking or picture books
Wal-Mart allows you to upload your pictures and pick them up at your local store.  It also has a wide array of conversion options. Several other stores offer similar services.

These are only examples of what is available.  Most of them work similar.  You can normally resize, adjust colors, rotate along with numerous other features in almost all similar programs. Some programs offer the ability to overlay your photo with another photo.  Try to be sure what the capability of the program is before you buy it.

Here is a great opportunity if you like to edit photos, burn CDs or DVDs and much more

Jan 4

Buy Creator 2009 and HD/BD Plug-in

This is a tough subject because there are a lot of different programs out there.  Some computers come with their own proprietary programs.  You MUST have the restore disk for that particular program in order to get it back in case you have to ever restore your computer.

We’ll mention a couple programs here.  Mostly there are no bad ones.  However, some programs give you many more options.

You must have a program if you plan to cut or copy CDs or DVDs.

ROXIO
I  like this program.  I have used it a lot.  It easily will copy or format CDs or DVDs.  What it can do will depend on which version you buy.  Some versions allow you to record and copy movies and music as well (click on the picture to see more).    If you use a Re-writable CD or DVD you can format it and drag files onto it just like the old floppy drives.   CD-R or DVD-R will not work for this feature.  These are read only.  Once you cut data on these you can not erase it.  You can check a feature that allows you to add data however.

NERO START SMART (versions very as to the features they offer)
I seem to be stuck on this program.  It literally can do everything that I would ever want to do.  It will cut or copy CDs or DVDs.  It will format either one so you can use it like a floppy drive.  CD-R or DVD-R will not work for htis feature.  These are read only.  Once you cut data on these you can not erase it.  You can check a feature that allows you to add data however.  You can make a movie or music disk.  I like the backup feature. OK! I’m stuck on it.  You can make a backup job and run it every time if you want to. You can even do sound recording and then edit the wave later.  I love that feature.  You can also edit Photos.  It will never beat Photoshop but it works pretty good.  I actually got it free with my Sony CD-DVD recorder.  You can buy it of course.  I think I wouldn’t mind paying for it.  Everything is in one package and I don’t think it could be easier to use.

TO LEARN MORE CLICK HERE

Nov 5

Panasonic Plasma HDTV - 42

With the elimination of Analog signals  it is  important to have a TV that will accept Digital signals.

A crisper sound and clearer picture is the objective. Although the old CRT tubes will still give you a picture, the quality of the sound and picture will be less.

Both Plasma and LCD TV’s are flat and thin. This gives you the ability to put them almost anywhere. You can even hang them on a wall if you want to.

Plasma TVs will be HDTV ready when they are sold. The range in sizes go from 42 to 63 inches at this time but other smaller sizes are available. All Plasma TV’s are wide screen and have an aspect ratio of 16:9.

LCD TVs tend to be somewhat smaller. The computer monitors are normally small but can be used for a TV if need be. In fact you can buy a HDTV card for your computer and use it as an HDTV. Availability of channels will depend on reception in your area.

PRICE
The price of LCDs are normally lower for the same size Plasma screens. However a very large size LCD monitor can be very expensive.

Other differences
* LCD televisions have lower contrast levels than plasma televisions, meaning that they have a harder time reproducing dark colors and grays
* LCD televisions have slower response times, sometimes creating blurs during fast-paced action sequences in movies or in sports
* LCD televisions have a narrower viewing angle, but can be easier to view in well-lit rooms
* LCD televisions run cooler than plasma televisions
* Plasma televisions are of lower quality when paying lower prices

This gives you some idea of the differences. I heavily recommend that you ask a lot of questions when you shop. Check prices in more than one store and look for deals especially on the Internet.

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