Dell Inspiron 600m Notebook Computer

After twelve years of owning desktop computers, I finally opted for a laptop so I would no longer be chained to my desk. After months of research and weighing various makes and models, I settled on the Dell Inspiron 600m Notebook Computer. This particular model has exceeded all of my expectations and at a price that is hundreds of dollars lower than many competing brands.

For several months I agonized over my next computer purchase. I knew I needed to be more mobile and only a notebook computer would permit me to take my "show on the road." Still, the decision making process was not easy as the number of different makes and models out there is mind boggling. Ultimately, I settled on a Dell in part because of previous good experience with the company as well as affordability of their product line.

The model I chose was the Inspiron 600m. As with almost everything that Dell builds, it is a "new" model; at least the 600m designation is. That is one of the confusing things about Dell and some other manufacturers: every month Dell introduces new models and you need a scorecard to compare one model with all the others. Fortunately, Dell's website allows you to do just that.

Key features of the Inspiron 600m include:

Lightweight: Just over five pounds.

Mobile Centrino Technology is standard.

14.1 inch screen

Pentium M 725 Processor

24X CD Burner/DVD Combo Drive

256MB DDR SDRAM 1 Dimm Memory

Wireless Network Card

Extended Battery

Microsoft Windows XP Home Addition

WordPerfect Productivity Pack

I kept my computer fairly basic but I did opt for the latest version of Norton Security, a surge protected cable, a wirless router, and a wireless mouse. I selected the wireless mouse as I thought the keyboard's mouse would be difficult to use. After two days I quit using the wireless mouse as I quickly got used to the built in one.

The screen is bright and the keyboard is solid. The mouse keys, however are noisy, almost clunky; you wonder if Dell could have used a quieter spring for each key.

The battery lasts at least four hours without recharging and when I do need to recharge I can go from nearly dead to fully charged in less than one hour.

For the price -- I paid just over $1100. for everything including shipping and local taxes -- the Dell cannot be beat. I haven't had to call customer service yet, so I cannot comment on that although in years past your call would be routed to a technician in India. This model comes with a standard one year limited warranty; I avoided a later sales pitch over the phone to get a three year warranty. Their top of the line warranty sends a technician to your house to fix your computer, so it can be option for those of you who do not want to ship -- and thereby lose the use of -- your computer back to Dell for repairs.

You will find the Inspiron 600m to be adequate for standard business work. Check out their myriad of other models if you do plenty of graphic design or if you need a larger screen. I am happy with the 14.1 screen, but you may prefer their 17" model.

Electronics Guide: How to Choose a DVD Player

Whether buying for yourself or a gift for a loved one, finding just the right DVD player isn't as easy as it seems. There are so many formats, sizes and added features for DVD players today that you might sift through hundreds of players before finding the right one at the right price. Use this quick guide to compare the types of DVD players available on the electronics market.

DVD Player Sizes

Determine what size player you will need. If you're adding a DVD player to your home entertainment system, determine where you will put it and how much space is available. Normal-sized DVD players can be rather wide so you'll want to be sure of your available space before shopping. DVD players are also very thin in height and most have a slot on the front that slides in and out for inserting the DVD. This is great if you have a wide space that is limited in height.

For odd-shaped spaces or very tight spots, there are different sizes and shapes of DVD players. These are usually available at electronics stores online so you'll have plenty of styles to choose from. The vertical DVD player, for example, sits upright similar to a vertical computer drive. It comes with a stand to hold it in a sturdy position. If you still have your old VHS collection, there are DVD/VHS combo machines that play both formats. This saves space as well. Also available are super slim DVD players and "space saver" DVD players to fit your personal needs.

Types of DVD Players

Once you determine the size you'll need, you're ready to compare name brands and features at the electronics store or website of your choice. You can often find many different brands and styles of players at one single electronics mall online. This will allow you to compare without spending hours searching through many websites.

Some of the features you'll see include progressive scan, time-slip recording, EZ editing, zoom, slow motion, HD (high definition) DVD, front audio/video input jacks, CD-R/-RW playback, MP3-CD playback, D/A converter, favorite scene selection, TV Guardian, and many others. You may not find one particular DVD player that carries every feature, so it's wise to determine which features are important to you before selecting a player. Which features will you likely use the most? Which will you probably never use?

You'll also notice there are many brand names for DVD players. Some of the well-known brands include Philips, Coby, Emerson, Toshiba, Magnavox, Sanyo, and Panasonic. Pricing for DVD players can range from around $50 to $500 depending on the features you choose.

If buying a DVD player for your child, there are also players with children's themes. The player will actually look like the child's favorite cartoon character!

To find the DVD player that's right for you, search online by brand name, features, or price to compare. Or, you can visit an online mall to compare all in one location. Besides electronics, you can also find other great items at an online mall such as computers, laptops, lingerie, pets, automotive products, telephones, jewelry, household products, toys, and more. Take your time to find the DVD player that will meet your needs. You'll enjoy years of quality entertainment!

Battery – Make Electronic Objects Mobile

A battery is a device that stores chemical energy and is available in an electric form. The batteries contain a series of electrochemical devices that contains one or more fuel cells, galvanic cells and flow cells. This electric battery is an interconnected array of one or more than one voltaic cells that are used in the cars, in torches, laptops, digital watches and almost every electronic goods that we use in our daily life.

Series of battery cells

The cells in the battery are connected either in parallel, in series or in both combinations. While the parallel combination of cells has the same voltage power as a single cell, it can supply a higher current than a single cell can. The parallel arrangements, however, suffer from a recurrent problem. If one cell discharges faster than its neighbor cell, then current will flow from the full cell to the empty cell, thereby wasting a lot of power and causing excess of overheating. Another marked disadvantage is if one of the cells gets short-circuited due to an internal fault, then its neighbor will be forced to discharge its maximum current into the faulty cell, thereby leading to sudden explosion.

The capacity of a battery to store charge is often expressed in ampere hours [1 A.h = 3600 coulombs]. If the battery can provide one ampere [1A] of current for completely one hour then it is said to have a real-world capacity of 1 A.h.

Types of batteries

There are some common battery types that are used in everyday life. The different types include rechargeable and disposable batteries, homemade cells, and traction batteries and flow batteries.

Disposable batteries

Also called primary cells are intended to use only once until the chemical changed that induce electrical current supply are complete and the battery is then discarded. They are commonly used in smaller and portable objects with low current drain. They are usually contained in light drain and heavy drain appliances, digital cameras, watches, computer clocks, and hearing aids.

Rechargeable batteries

These are secondary cells that can be recharged after they have been drained. This is done by conveniently applying externally supplied electrical current that reverses the chemical reactions that usually occur in use. It is used in appliances like alarm systems, vehicles, vacuum tube radio sets, absorbed glass mats etc.

Traction batteries

These batteries are designed to provide power to move vehicles like electric cars and tow motors. A peculiar characteristic of traction batteries is the electrolytes in the batteries are gelled.

Flow batteries

They are a special class of battery that stores additional quantities of electrolyte outside the main power cell of the battery and are circulated throughout by pumps or through movement. They have a high capacity and are specially used in the marine appliances.

So whether it’s your car, PC, laptop cell phone or MP3 player, the batteries are almost everywhere to make you electrically mobile.

Understanding The Basics Of GPS

The GPS (Global Positioning System) has been fully functional for nearly two decades. GPS consists of 27 satellites positioned in a medium earth orbit. A satellite is considered to be in medium earth orbit when it is 35,000 kilometers above the Earth's surface, roughly 22,000 miles. The first experimental satellite was launched in 1972. It was not until 1995, 23 years after the launch of the first experimental satellite, that GPS bore fruit as a fully function satellite tracking system. Even then the system was restricted to military and airline industry use.

Once GPS was fully functional both the military and civilian implications were quickly recognized. In 1996, then President, Bill Clinton, opened the system to civilian uses as well as military uses. Due to limitations early civilian GPS was not very reliable and so its wide spread use had been severely limited. In 1998 and again in 2004 extra civilian signals were added to GPS. The net affect of the added civilian signals was that the quality and accuracy of the data were raised to a level that civilian GPS has now become a marketable product and service. Since 2004 GPS as a market technology has realized a boom in demand with no end in potential growth in site.

How GPS Technology Works

The 27 satellites that are collectively known as the Global Positioning System have flight patterns that make four satellites available to a GPS receiver at any time any where in the world. A GPS receiver must be able to contact and communicate with a minimum of 4 satellites to be able to calculate minimally qualified location data. The larger the number of satellites a GPS receiver can contact the better it will be able to calculate a location.

In order to triangulate a geographic position a GPS receiver calculates the time that it takes for the signal of the GPS satellite to reach the GPS receiver. From this data the GPS unit is able to calculate the distance to each satellite. The time distance information is then used by the mapping software on the GPS receiver unit to determine an exact location on earth.

Satellite signal degradation from both natural and man made obstructions can affect how accurate a GPS unit is. This is why GPS units will try to contact as many GPS satellites as possible. The more satellites the GPS unit is able to contact the more accurate the location.

Uses Of GPS

The purpose of GPS technology has not changed much over the last 30 years. Its primary purpose is still to as precisely as possible pinpoint a location anywhere on Earth. How GPS technology is used has not truly changed either. It is used for two primary functions tracking and navigation.

Growth in GPS technology has not come because of changes in use but because of an increase in signal quality, decrease in component costs of a GPS unit, increase in the quality and sophistication of mapping software, the bundling of GPS units with other services, and more sophisticated marketing to a broader segment of the population.

Today GPS units large and small can be found in airplanes, cars, attached to motorcycles, in cell phones, PDAs and hidden in freight to protect from theft.The shrinking of GPS unit component sizes has enabled the use of GPS to be limited only by your imagination.

How To Choose A Barcode Scanner?

Barcode scanners are light emitting devices that are used to read barcodes. Usually attached to a computer or laptop via PS2 or RS-232, the data collected is stored on a computer for processing or storage. It is now used in many different industries such as retail or production.

They have been on the market for many years now with new versions of barcode scanners available every year. The prices can vary from as low as $50.00 to as high as several thousand dollars. So how do you pick a good barcode scanner?

To answer that question, it is important you know there are 2 major classes of barcode scanners, image-based and laser-based. Image-based barcode scanners use a camera usually embedded in a barcode scanner. The camera will capture the images and then processed by complex image techniques to decode the barcodes. Laser-based barcode scanners uses mirrors and lenses to read the barcodes.

Laser barcode scanners are usually more expensive than image-based scanners. They have their own pros and cons. An image-based barcode scanner do not have internal movable parts therefore are more resistant to drops or knocks than laser barcode scanners. Also, image-based barcode scanners have a shorter scanning distance (4 to 10 inches) compared to laser barcode scanners. On the other hand, laser scanners are more prone to wear and tear due to their lenses. They not only have a longer scanning distance (up to 24 inches) but also are able to scan from a wider angle from the barcode.

Be aware that the scanning distance for both image-based and laser barcode scanners have already improved dramatically over the years and I wouldn’t be surprised if a barcode manufacturer claims an image-based scanner has a scanning distance of 24 inches.

Here are some questions you need to ask yourself before getting a barcode scanner. The size of scanner required? Type of environment the barcode scanner will be using (outdoors, shop, warehouse)? The scanning distance required? Are they to be used hands free or hand-held? Your budget?

So my suggestion is if you need a barcode scanner for long range scanning, get a laser barcode scanner. For short range scanning, use an image-based barcode scanner such as a CCD barcode scanner. The environment as I asked earlier also plays an important part. If the barcode scanner is being used outdoors or in rugged environments where it is expected to take a drop or knock or two, then it is best to get an image-based barcode scanner. If it were for example being used in a retail shop, then a laser barcode scanner would be the best choice.

There are such a wide variety of barcode scanners available that I just can’t explain completely in this article. If you are in doubt, consult the barcode manufacturers such as symbol or metrologic who have sales consultants who are able to do an analysis of the type of barcode scanners needed by your business.

Batteries - From Laptops to Motorcycles

What would you do without them? Seriously, if every single battery of every single type were suddenly zapped out of every single thing that it operated, what would any of us do?

Laptop computers, without a doubt, are the lifeblood of many a businessperson today. Portable, convenient, they allow us to work on the run and do more business. Laptop batteries are essential to keep this resource working, as it should.

The precursor to the laptop as we know it today was introduced by IBM back in 1986 and was called “The PC Convertible”. It weighed five and a half kilograms and cost around $3500.00.

As laptop computers have evolved, so too have laptop batteries.

• The first type of battery used in laptops was Nickel- Cadmium (NiCad). These can still be found in some older laptops. Their lifespan between recharges is about two hours, however, this decreases with each recharge. Also, if a NiCad laptop battery is charged for too long it may explode.

• The next type of laptop battery used was Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH). These laptop batteries last longer than NiCad batteries but their total lifespan is shorter.

• The current standard laptop battery is the Li-ion battery. As well as being light and having a long life span they can also be randomly charged and won’t overheat if charged for too long. Being thinner, the Li-ion battery is ideal as a notebook battery and can last for between 950 and 1200 recharges.

Perhaps even more crucial to our business life as well as our personal life is the cell phone. There are also three different types of cell phone batteries:

• Lithium-ion Batteries: these are the newest type of cell phone battery and, while having certain advantages over the older NIMH and NICD batteries, care must still be taken to ensure they perform at their best. For example, a new lithium-ion battery should be “conditioned”. What this basically means is that for the battery’s first three charge cycles, fully charge the battery overnight and allow it to fully discharge before charging it again. This will increase the life and effectiveness of the cell phone battery.

• NIMH Batteries: These batteries also should be conditioned in the same way as a Lithium-ion battery. It is important to remember
that extensive overcharging (i.e.: on a battery charger for more than twenty-four hours) can damage these cell phone batteries.

• NICD Batteries: These are the oldest type of cell phone battery and, as is the case with the laptop computer, are less reliable than the newer types.

Okay, so we know we’d be sunk without our laptops and cell phones. But what about the car? Cars have batteries too. Perhaps you ride a Harley Davidson - not without a motorcycle battery! It’s interesting to think where we’d be if the afore-mentioned “zapping episode” took place. We know that our forefathers coped without batteries but could we?

Here’s a challenge: For one whole day leave everything containing a battery alone. No driving or riding, no cell phone or computer, completely “battery-bereft”. At the end of the day you’ll either feel tranquil and centred, at total peace with your surroundings or a nervous wreck, climbing the walls.

Which will you be?

Rear Projection LCD TV

The least expensive type of large TV is a rear-projection LCD TV. Some projection TVs have three cathode-ray picture tubes (CRTs), which are like smaller versions of the tubes used in conventional sets. The images from those small tubes are projected onto the back of a 40 inch to 60 inch plus screen, giving them the name rear projection TV. Other rear projection TV sets use LCD, digital light processing (DLP), or liquid crystal on silicon (LCoS) technology in place of CRTs. These high tech rear projection TV sets are thinner, lighter, and as a result more expensive than comparable CRT-based sets – but they produce a higher-quality picture.

Major brands of rear projection LCD TV sets include Hitachi, Mitsubishi, Panasonic, Philips, RCA, Samsung, Sony, and Toshiba. The most popular models are HD capable, and there are three basic types of HD TVs.

So how do you choose the right rear projection LCD TV for you and your viewing needs?
First, consider the space you have available before you worry about the screen size itself. Most rear projection LCD TVs have screens measuring from 42 to well over 60 inches. You might be tempted to purchase one of the biggest screens, which can span as much as 70 inches or more, but first determine how much floor space you can spare, and plan to view the TV from around 7 to 10 feet away for optimal picture quality.

Also consider depth and price. Once you know how much room you have, decide whether size or price is more important. CRT-based sets are floor-standing models with deep cabinets mounted on casters. Some take up as much space as an armchair or loveseat. Many rear projection LCD TV sets are tabletop units, or you can buy a separate stand for a few hundred dollars.

Then focus on picture quality. The best rear projection LCD TV sets deliver very good picture quality with HD content and good picture quality for DVDs and regular TV programming. Rear projection LCD TV screens provide much better picture quality than CRT models.

Also check the viewing angle. Some rear projection LCD TV sets display a better image from off-center than older sets did, which is important if your TV will be watched by several people at the same time. Before buying a particular model, see how the picture looks if you step off to the side or move up and down. With some rear projection LCD TV sets you'll see a dimmer, washed-out image as your viewing position angles away.

Once you’ve made your choice, it pays to think about whether you want an extended warranty on your rear projection LCD TV. While extended warranties may not be worth it for most products, they may be for high-priced TVs. Because rear projection LCD TV sets are expensive, check into the cost of a service plan. Find out whether in-home service is covered and whether a replacement is provided if your rear projection LCD TV can't be repaired.

Why I Buy My Computers and Other Electronics Online

I must admit that I'd be absolutely lost without the growing number of desktop and laptop computers, printers, digital cameras and all the other assorted electronic equipment in my house and home office. I know I once got along without all this gear, but that was back in the olden days, in the last millennium. Today I absolutely depend on it. What this means is that I buy a lot of stuff, and I have formed some definite opinions about where I do my shopping and what places I avoid like the plague.

I hate to say it, but #1 on my list of places to avoid are the big electronics chain stores. They are certainly convenient and their prices are usually in the ballpark. And all their glossy brochures have lured me more than once when I quickly needed some RAM, a disk, or a new inkjet printer. Problem is that their sales people are embarrassingly clueless and often only interested in selling extended service contracts. No thank you.

When I build a new desktop computer I occasionally buy the parts from a local electronics superstore. Those places are a geek's paradise, or they could be if it weren't for a couple of really annoying deal breakers. First, half of the boards don't work after I bring them home. And second, I absolutely refuse to buy things that are only a good deal after a mail-in rebate or two. I've been burned too many times with rebates. No more.

Office supply stores are stocking more and more electronic equipment. So when I go buy a ream of paper or some other small stuff I often end up looking at their laptops and digital cameras. And once I even bought a notebook computer there, something that I later regretted as there was, of course, no service or support. I actually like the office supply stores and have no problem buying things like laser printer cartridges there, but that's about it for computer stuff.

Another bad practice that's taking over is luring customers with low prices, make them wade through several order screens, and then break the bad news, like some gargantuan shipping charge or that, sadly, the item is not in stock. Do that to me once and I won't be back.

So where do I get most of my electronics gear? Online. I love being able to browse online stores at my leisure, without any sales pressure and usually with all the information I need. I like neat, clean just-the-facts stores that specialize in the kind of gear I want. I don't need useless "reviews" by folks who always seem to have an axe to grind or hate everything. And I don't need long lists of the 99 lowest prices on the web. All I want is information and a good selection. I do expect a degree of customer support in case I have questions, and most of the better online stores can handle that easily.

Had someone told me 10 or 15 years ago that some day I'd buy things like laptops, digital cameras, printers or even desktop computers online from some website far away, I'd have laughed. But that's where I get most of my electronic equipment and gadgets from these days, and I've rarely ever had a bad experience. Those online stores seem to try a lot harder, and that's good news for guys like me.

Home Theaters: Which ones should I invest in?

Going to the theatres is fast becoming out of fashion. Thanks to the advantages offered by latest technologies like DVD and satellite, folks are turning more and more to watching movies at home. Home theatres are fast gaining popularity as a good set offers one great advantage – You can watch your old favorite movies which are still on VHS tapes, something which you really enjoy. Moreover, the sound is a lot better with “surround sound” technology and so are the latest DVD players, which offer nice quality and can copy over VCR. The video display unit, however, plays a significant role in making or spoiling your entire experience. For most of us, the display unit is just a regular television, which produces sub-acceptable to fairly good images depending on the make and model of the unit, which ultimately results in people going for High Definition.

Now let’s analyze what to look for in a good home theatre setup- Quality sound, VCR to DVD players, and possibly a new T.V. set. We shall consider all these as if the money would be spent from our own pocket and that we shall be viewing movies as much as an average family in the U.S. does, which is roughly 20 hours per week.

The Logitech Z-640 6 Speaker Surround Sound System is being offered for a competent price of only $69 U.S. – Amazon.com price. Or if you are looking for decent performance, look at the Sony HT-DDW670 Home Theater in a Box System costing approximately $179 U.S. – Amazon.com price. Both of these will produce respectable sound without burning a hole in your pocket.

Coming down to the player unit, the Panasonic DMR-ES40VS VHS/DVD Recorder is a great deal, with its performance and efficiency, at an approximate Amazon.com pricing of $210 U.S. It comes in two color sets- silver and black and perhaps the best feature of this unit is that it can convert old VHS tapes, which we all have around, to DVD readily.

And now, enter the arena of display units, with HDTV sets which are available in a broad range in pricing and styling from the flat to the curved and from the small to the gigantic 50” Samsung HL-R5067W 50" HD-Ready DLP TV, costing approximately $1500 U.S.-Amazon.com price, which is hard to turn down. But if you want your images projected across a wall, expect to shell out anywhere ranging from $1100 U.S. to several thousand dollars, and for obvious reasons, they aren’t all that popular yet. So if you own a regular sized counsel that holds the T.V., the books and records, then you might probably be going to look for something in the 32”to 38” range, and these are readily available in the market, ranging in prices from seven or eight hundred all the way up to thousands. Choosing a fairly nice television, the SAMSUNG TX-R3080WH 30" Wide SlimFit HDTV w/ Built-In HD Tuner, costing approximately eight to nine hundred, is worth mentionable with good picture quality, excellent reputation and all.

Affordable Consumer Electronics and Goods for the Small Business

As a small business owner, you probably know what a hassle it can be to shop for electronics and other business goods. You need products that are dependable, affordable, and easy to use. Computers, office equipment, mo bile phones, and many other business necessities are available both online and off-line, so you have many options to consider.

Tips for In-Store Buying

When shopping for electronics or computers at a local store, compare brand names, features and pricing carefully. Sometimes a low price means sacrificing the quality or features you really need. For instance, if you're planning to buy a computer desk, consider the design of the desk and all its features. Does it have drawers or shelves to make organization easy? Does it have a pullout keyboard or a desktop keyboard? Also, consider the size of the desk and the quality of its materials (steel, solid wood or particle board).

When buying a computer, consider brand name, size of the hard drive and memory, as well as any pre-installed software it may contain. Avoid buying computers that have "advertising" menu bars pre-installed on the Windows screen. These tend to hang up often and are not worth the hassle although they are usually lower in price. Look for reputable brand names such as Dell, Pentium, Acer, and Compaq. Dependable laptops are available from these companies: Dell, Averatec, Compaq, HP Pavillion, Acer, Gateway, and IBM.

Avoid rebate offers. Rebates are often more trouble than they're worth, and your name might get added to hundreds of mailing lists! Instead, shop around for a great value up front to get the PC or laptop that will meet your needs.

Refurbished Products

With refurbished electronics or computers, find a reputable company that has a good standing with the Better Business Bureau. Some companies will advertise refurbished items, but will not follow through with a guarantee. Before buying a refurbished item, check for a guarantee and do a little research on the company to find out if other customers were satisfied with the products and service. If buying refurbished computers online, use the search engines to find out as much information as you can about the company.

Buying Electronics and Computers Online

Shop around online for great bargains on brand name electronics and computers. If you're pressed for time, there are discount home electronics online superstores that carry almost everything you'll need for your small business. Some of the products you might find include cables, office equipment, TV and video accessories, scanners, GPS, power protection products, mobile phones, digital recorders, formatted diskettes, CDs, and more.

Online electronics stores for small business can offer you better prices because they have few overhead costs when operating on the Web. You can usually expect to save up to 20% on items.

You'll find shopping online to be a great time-saver because you can shop from your home or office without visiting busy stores.

Use these tips to find electronics, computers and other products for your small business at great prices without sacrificing quality.

The Jewish Pilgrimage - Book Review

The Jewish Pilgrimage – An Exploration of Reality, Mainly in Verse

The Jewish Pilgrimage by Geoffrey Hoffman is clearly written to inspire philosophical discussion. This book depicts the author’s personal journey to find some form of understanding about man, our various versions of God and how this effects society and the use of its knowledge. He debates moral issues and provokes deep thinking in several areas that will never leave my mind as I travel along my own road.

Geoffrey questions the justness of creation itself and the gift of consciousness. Also he cleverly uses metaphors when he depicts various pieces of himself by using the universe, planets and astrological colors. Without a doubt this student of life, takes joy in nature. Throughout the book the author makes his awe in the vastness of the universe quite apparent.

My personal favorite piece was Beautiful Among The Buildings, which used powerful visual statements like:
"Night sprawls among the broken lives that line the broken street;
The lonely and unpitied men whose waste is our defeat.
Men stagger from dank cellars; men, imprisoned in their cars,
Go roaring into sightlessness – unmindful of the stars."

And the equally powerful anti-war piece, No Frontiers:
" The father carrying the limp body of his child,
The soldier staring at his amputated hand,
The little girl among the bloodied pieces of her parents –
What does it matter if they are of one side or another?
Dogma cannot grieve.
It is the pain of individuals that sears."

I also really appreciated Half Sight, which discussed the inability to witness the good and love in life when there is so much horror to distract us from it. Today Near Watford Market was a very moving piece for me in that it was so visual. It describes an event where the author witnesses a man speaking to the public about his lack of belief in religion. And "circling like wolves, the true-believers snarled, snapping at both his arguments and him." Yet nearby an elderly women fell, sprawling her shopping items on the ground around her. The non-believer ran over to her side and helped her on her way, "jostling to her assistance through unmoving ranks of true-believing ice". It is a beautiful story about seeing God where you least expect it.

In the later part of the book, the author moves away from poetry and gets in to verse debating who the Jewish people are, what they are perceived as being and the persecution of this group of people through the ages. His interesting look at the holocaust does not dwell on the sorrow or loss of the people – rather it centers on the people themselves.

By far, Jewish people are not the only race of people who have suffered at the hands of man and I think the author means to use the example as a tool to accelerate the intellectual growth of mankind.


ISBN#: 1-4137-7281-1
Author: Geoffrey Hoffman
Publisher: Publish America

Home Audio Speakers: Choosing A System For Your Home Theater Design

With over 500 models of home theater speakers available through a generous number of high and low-end brands, many consumers rely on salesperson to lead them in the right direction. Consumers with only a limited budget will undoubtedly flock to the cheapest option available to suit there needs. This however, nearly always results in a less than ideal sound system that fails to meet the expectations or needs of the owner. It is therefore a good idea to educate one’s self on the best brands, speaker styles and specifications that will fit a home’s needs before making a choice.

A home theater speaker system is typically made up of a front speaker, left and right speaker, a center-channel speaker, a pair of surrounds, and a subwoofer. A home owner may mix-and-match components but help from a professional is advised to make sure the speakers are all compatible. These speaker types come in varying sizes, sound output and design. The following are the types of styles in which these speakers may be found:

Floor-Standing speakers are the largest home theater speakers available. They can be shifted around the theater area or be moved to another home.

Bookshelf or Cabinet speakers stand independently, just like floor standing speakers, but are smaller and can be placed on or in entertainment centers or shelving to save space.

In-Wall speakers require no floor space, and can disappear if matching the walls. Their quality is usually very good, but they need professional installation and wiring.

On-Wall speakers are recommended for use with a flat-panel television. They provide exceptional sound as well as a pleasing aesthetic component.

Home theater owners or designers must determine the listening requirements and preferences for a specific room in order to create a quality home theater space. Room size and layout are important factors as this will dictate the speaker configuration. Logistics like electrical outlet placement, room size, and useable room space strongly affect the type of equipment that can and should be put in the room.

Home theater speakers are available in many sizes. However not all sizes are meant for all rooms. Large speakers are not advantageous for small rooms because they will need to be played at a much lower volume. This may cause distortion to the audio. Lower quality small speakers used in large spaces may produce a tinny or thin sound if they are unable to produce enough sound at a decent output level. Speakers of similar size may differ greatly in their sound output or reproduce different levels of sound unequally so it is very important to listen to various speaker brands and sizes and compare them before buying.

Speakers are available in a variety of encasement types - natural or laminated wood, metal, and occasionally plastic, but often preferences may be limited by brand or model. Speakers are as varied as tennis shoes so make sure you try on several and know how they fit into your home theater before making a purchase.

~ Ben Anton, 2008

10 reasons to go for body dryers

Technology has made our life more luxurious and comfortable. It has spawned many gadgets without which we can not imagine our lives. Body dryers are one more addition to this long list of gadgets which makes life a little more livable.

what is a body dryer?

A body dryer is a device used for drying the whole body without a towel after a shower or bath. The drying process takes place due to warm air being released by the blower. The body dryer comes with a pre-fixed blower housing along with outlet and inlet openings.

A body dryer is very similar to a hand dryer with the only difference being in size. As compared to a hand dryer, a body dryer is much bigger in size and helps to dry the whole body within just three minutes of operation. To use the body dryer, you simply have to stand underneath the ceiling-mounted unit, switch it on with the remote control and adjust the heating as per your comfort.

You are all set to enjoy the feeling of warm air. Since body dryers come with an adaptable temperature setting, they are perfect for homes with or without an electric shower.

There are quite a few benefits of using body dryers instead of towels to dry your body after a shower. Some of these are:

1. Body dryers help you to dry your body easily after a shower. It takes less effort than using a towel.
2. You don’t have damp, smelly towels hanging around in the bathroom.
3. Body dryers dry your body in a more gentle and relaxing way as compared to towels.
4. When it comes to hygiene, body dryers are a much better option than towels.
5. Body dryers are faster and provide better result than any type of bathroom heater.
6. Body dryers are particularly helpful in drying kids and pets after a bath.
7. If you have difficulty drying yourself with a towel because of mobility issues or skin irritations then a body dryer can provide a more pleasant experience.
8. not only are they easy to operate, they are also economical.
9. With body dryers you get less laundry work to handle.
10. The best part about body dryers is that they help in reducing the moisture in the bathroom by making it dry quickly.

With so many benefits, body dryers are becoming quite popular in countries like the UK, the USA, Australia and also developing nations. However, for safety reasons it is essential to buy a body dryer from a reputable company. When it comes to quality, you can rely on brands such as Triton as they are one of the best quality manufacturers of body dryers.

Before installing a body dryer in your bathroom, make sure that your home has good quality wiring or electrical supplies. In the UK, you can make use of the many well-known wholesalers, distributors and online retailers of electrical supplies for purchasing Triton body dryers along with other reliable electrical equipment like underfloor heating, storage heaters and galaxy showers.

The Rise Of The Apple iPod

Tony Fadell, former employee of General Magic and Phillips, envisioned a brand new MP3 player. Unlike the flash memory-based MP3 players from existing companies, Fadell wanted to deliver a small hard drive-based player that was linked with a content delivery system where users could legally obtain and download music. The first company he pitched it to was RealNetworks (in 2000), who were already in control of a large content delivery system through Real's premium radio and television channels. Real could not rationalize going through the trouble of releasing an accessory to their already profitable system. Fadell then turned to Apple. The executives at Apple were very enthusiastic about implementing Fadell's plan at Apple - unbeknownst to Fadell, Apple had bought the rights to SoundJam MP months before. He was hired in early 2001 and was given a development team of around thirty people and a deadline of one year to release a successful product.

In early October, Apple began hyping the iPod's release (which was still a secret from the press after eight months of development). The hype culminated in an announcement that Apple would make a major announcement on October 23, 2001, and that it was "not Mac". The iPod was announced to the world from a rented auditorium near Apple's corporate campus in Cupertino. The audience - and the rest of the computer industry - was shocked by the product. No one grasped the importance of the device to Apple and the music industry in general until much later. Many reacted to the product with hostility, with criticisms that ranged from its $400 price to the scroll wheel and its lack of Windows compatibility.

The iPod's been around for a few years now but rather than being long in the tooth, it's been re-invented numerous times by Apple Inc. and is now a seriously impressive piece of kit. The recent advent of the iPod Touch has added to the line of existing models, rather than simply replacing existing technology. The result, is a lineup of different models, each bringing their own speciality to the table. From the ipod Nano, with solid state memory and minimal size to the iPod classic, with hard drive and excessively large storage capacity, the range of iPods available will suit everyone from Gym freaks to music fans.

So why is it so popular? Well, it's not so much the design any more, but the hype that surrounds the Apple iPod. You see, when originally released, the iPod was at the top of it's game, with the largest capacity, intuitive design and ergonomics built into the control buttons and software. We've moved on from that though. Every manufacturer out there has an Hard disk mp3 player in some major store. Apple however have moved the whole idea of the iPod, let alone it's range of computers, out of mainstream sales and into a Chique, hip and trendy twenty something got to have it style. Much like say- Greenwich was once a hip place to be seen in Manhattan. Apple have currently cornered the market- even created a brand new market all to themselves. Smacks of Sony and the Walkman all over again. At least Apple have the Mac to fall back on at the end of it all.

Air Compressor Purchasing Guide

An air compressor is a valuable piece of equipment for operating power tools. They are better in terms of efficiency and are easier on you. The type you need depends on the tools you will be using. Good choices include a Copeland compressor, Husky air compressors or Quincy compressors.

Factors to Consider in an Air Compressor

Consider how often you will use air compressors and how it will be used. What tools will you be using and how much power will be needed to operate them? Some tools, like nail guns, don’t need high volume compressor. Others, such as drills or sanders do need high volume because they require steady air flow.

Set a budget for your purchase. The price for these machines varies significantly from brand to brand. Buying a used compressor is one way to make your budget stretch further.

The style of the pump is another consideration. The most common are direct drive and belt drive. Direct drive pumps will last up to five hundred hours. These take up less room in your workshop. They are well suited for moderate uses. Another benefit of these is that no oil changes are needed. Belt drive pumps require oil changes every five hundred hours and will last for about fifteen hundred hours. These are good for do it yourself as well as professional use.

Consider the power of the compressor. Consider both the horsepower and pound per square inch (PSI) pressure. Make sure it is more powerful than the most powerful tool you will be using. Check your tools before purchasing the compressor.

The tank size is another important consideration. These come in sizes from two to one hundred gallons. The more you will use the equipment, the larger the tank you will need. Always go a little larger than you think you will need. This will ensure that you can get the optimum use from the compressor.

Finding an Affordable Air Compressor

Shop around before purchasing air compressor systems. Compare brands and read reviews on the internet. Compare the machines and features of each. Similar machines can differ by hundreds of dollars.

Consider a reconditioned machine. In these, the machines have been completely inspected. Worn or damaged air compressor parts are replaced. Many of these have gotten very little use and are in nearly new condition. You can find equipment at a considerable savings. Look for a model with a one year warranty to be sure you are getting a quality product.

Consider shopping online. Often, the prices are considerably less than in some stores. Many ship straight from the factory, saving retail mark up. This savings can be significant. In many cases, you won’t need to pay sales tax on the equipment, which can add up. Many sites offer free shipping on these purchases, so it won’t cost any additional money for shipping.

Protect Your Home or Business with CCTV Security Systems

With so many reports of burglary, theft, and home invasions recently, you're probably very concerned about the safety of your home or business. There is a definite need for concern. Many homes or businesses are burglarized because they do not have a dependable security system in place.

CCTV security systems are growing in popularity for all sorts of purposes. As the need for security cameras grows, CCTV technology is also growing by leaps and bounds with new innovative features to make video surveillance more dependable than ever.

What is CCTV?

CCTV stands for "closed circuit television" and is a television system that is meant for private use only, not for public broadcast. CCTV is used for many purposes. It might be used to monitor a nanny or a caregiver for an elderly person. As an employer, you might use it to keep an eye on your employees and to monitor daily operations. CCTV can be used to observe public places by government or law officials such as parks, housing or apartment developments, and car parking garages.

Protection and Prevention with CCTV Security Systems

Using a CCTV system can dramatically reduce your risks of becoming a victim of crime. It can protect your child, your elderly loved one, your home, or your business by allowing you to observe what's going on either secretly or openly. A CCTV camera can be placed almost anywhere in any room where sufficient lighting is available. Many of the new model CCTV cameras are wireless and can be operated on batteries. There are external day/night cameras as well for surveillance outdoors.

Types of CCTV Surveillance Cameras

There are many different types of CCTV security systems available. If you want a "hidden" camera, there are miniature cameras and even CCTV cameras that resemble everyday objects, such as the pen camera, smoke alarm camera, and the clock camera. These objects appear to be normal, but actually have a CCTV camera hidden inside. There are covert wireless cameras, multiple cameras with receivers for observing a broad area, dome-covered wireless cameras, and wireless video senders.

Benefits of a DVR Security System

A DVR security system is a digital video recorder that can be used in concordance with the CCTV system. Unlike VCRs, DVRs enable you to record for many hours at the full digital quality. Also, you are able to set it for timed recordings or continuous recordings. Some unique features that you might find with a DVR system include quick replay search using date, time, or day, multiple camera recordings and display, a CD writer for backup, motion detection, remote control, and more.

With these helpful surveillance items, you can feel safe and secure at your home or business. They can be used as a deterrent to thieves or to catch them in the act. There are also other great security products for creating access control to certain areas of your home or business, vehicle security, computer and Internet security, and other uses.

Use online resources to find the right CCTV security system for your home or business. You won't regret it!

Apple I-Pods, Why Are They So Popular?

These days while your just walking around school, work, the mall, or just about anywhere you’ll see many people listening to their Apple I-Pods. You might see some with cool accessories such as portable speakers, cool looking cases, voice recorders, FM transmitters, remotes and much more. Lets face it the Apple I-Pod has become the most popular mp3 player around and it doesn’t seem like it will loose that #1 spot anytime soon with all their new little inventions. So what makes the Apple I-Pod so popular?

Some may say the design is what makes it popular and makes them purchase an I-Pod and some may say the fun accessories that come with it. Also a few people may have bought it just because everyone has one and they just want to fit in. They’re many reasons why people buy I-Pods; you will just have to find yours.

Apple I-Pods started out just playing songs. Then moved on to having photos, then pod casts and now it even plays videos! I-Pod MP3 players do just about everything and more. Not only are they good for many things, they are now also very thin and light. They can fit in your pocket without you even feeling it in there and still have room for just about everything else. With your Apple I-Pod you can watch video pod casts, music videos and your favorite TV shows. You can browse your old memories with the photo slideshows, complete with music. If you love reading you may also read books with audio books it has. But of course most of you already know how good of an mp3 player I-Pod’s are and probably already have one. In this case you must get some cool accessories for your Apple I-Pod.

Accessories for your I-Pod can be a great extra feature to everything the great MP3 player has to offer. Impress your friends with the new portable speakers you get for your I-Pod. With portable speakers you can leave your Apple I-Pod in your pocket while you’re taking a walk and have the speakers amplify all your songs for you. If you are not near your I-Pod while it’s playing with the speakers you may also use a remote to change a song or pick another song with simply a click of a button. You may also want to buy a voice recorder for your MP3 player to record memorable moments. If you are a musician you may also use the voice recorder to record songs you play or sing. If you jog daily for a good exercise and would like to listen to your I-Pod you can also get a sports sleeve for it. Apple I-Pods have just about every accessory it needs out there and now it’s your job to find some and for great prices. If you are interested in buying some accessories for your I-Pod you should first try browsing around http://www.SplayTech.com

Batteries - Charging ahead

In these days of walk-and-talk and walk-and-work, battery chargers are as much a necessity to business as a microwave oven is to the kitchen. Cell phones, laptops, notebooks, and camcorders, just to mention a few.

But how do they work? Here are some types of battery chargers explained:

• Solar battery chargers: These little gems use the sun’s energy to recharge batteries. From car, boat and motorbikes to cell phones, DVD players and computers, there is a solar battery charger to suit.

• Automotive battery chargers: Most automotive battery chargers simply attach to the vehicle’s battery terminals and plug in to mains power. However, there are now new products on the market that work to prevent the battery from going flat in the first place. To comprehend how the process works it is important to understand what causes a battery to deteriorate.

Car batteries rely on a chemical process to provide power. The car battery contains lead plates in a solution of sulphuric acid, which act together to make and store electricity. Over time a residue of lead sulphate builds up on the plates, reducing the flow of electricity. “De-sulphating” technology reverses this process by using sound waves to dissolve the residue build-up.

Of course this won’t help if you’ve left your lights on at the train station …

• Industrial Battery Chargers: These are the big guys. With names such as ferroresonant, Opportunity Charging and Silicon Controlled Rectifier charger, these are heavy-duty long haul pieces of technology. Whether cold storage units, factory or fleet applications, there is an industrial battery charger to suit. Basically though, it is important that the industrial battery charger contains a voltage regulator of some description. This will ensure that the battery is not damaged while it is being recharged.


• Cell Phone Battery Chargers: It is very important to choose a cell phone battery charger that is designed for the model and type of battery being charged. Likewise, it is prudent to make sure that the battery is, itself, the correct one for the phone.

Choosing the correct battery charger will ensure that the connection points will be compatible and the correct amount of electricity is delivered. If too little electricity is delivered, the battery will not fully charge; if too much, it may overheat. Many cell phone battery chargers today do have a built in system to prevent overcharging, however, it is still important to ensure the charger and battery are compatible.

And to make sure that business, or life in general, isn’t inconvenienced too much due to battery recharging, many cell phone battery chargers now allow the user to make phone calls during the recharging process.

So, the next time you’re out and about walking the talk, spare a thought for the hard-working companion who makes sure your equipment is up to the job. And, the most important thing of all … never mistake that cup of coffee on your desk for your cell phone battery charger carriage.

Warm Mist Home Humidifier Review

A home humidifier review is the best place to look for information before purchasing an appliance for your home. You have the choice between a whole house humidifier or a portable unit for use in the bedroom. Unless you live in a very dry climate, a single room humidifier should be sufficient.
A review of humidifiers is the best source of information before you start shopping for a unit for your home. Most reviews are separated by type of humidifier. The most common are cool mist or warm mist types. There are benefits to each type. Read about both before you shop.

Once you have decided on the type you want, read reviews of specific models. Reviews have a variety of sources from professional reviews, to consumer reviews. There are even some slick advertisers that are able to disguise their advertising to look like a review.

Consumer sources are great for information about how a particular unit has worked for others. However, they generally don’t give a comparison to other products. A professional review should be unbiased and often will give comparisons between different models. Read from a variety of sources to give you a good picture of a particular model.

Cool Mist Home Humidifier

A cool mist humidifier uses cold water and vibration in creating the mist. Because these machines use only cold water, they are a great choice for the nursery or a younger child’s bedroom. There is no risk of scalding with hot water, like there is with warm mist humidifiers or a steam vaporizer.

Because the water is not heated, these machines have a greater risk of releasing bacteria and mold spores into the air. The stagnant water inside the machine is a perfect breeding ground for microorganisms. Proper cleaning and disinfecting the machine can help prevent this problem. Empty the water after every use. Clean out the machine and use a disinfectant cleaner regularly. Make sure to dry the tank completely. Add fresh water before each use.

A warm mist humidifier uses hot water to create steam in the room. Because the water is heated, there is less risk of bacteria and mold spores in the air. Proper cleaning and maintenance of the machine will eliminate the risk altogether. This includes cleaning and disinfecting the machine regularly and changing filters as needed.

Warm mist machines are great for treating colds and congestion that are so common in the winter. Many allow you to add liquid medications to the water to help relieve symptoms. Because they use hot water, they are often not the best choice for use in a child’s bedroom. There is always the risk of burns if your child pulls the unit down. This is particularly dangerous with infants or young children.

The Wonderful World of the iPhone

Once you've entered the iPhone universe, the chances are good that you'll never go back. When it comes to making calls, it's simply a matter of tapping a name or number - forget having to scroll down a tiny display.

But making calls is just the tip of the iceberg. The iPhone has SMS with a QWERTY keyboard, visual voicemail, a 2-megapixel camera that takes beautiful images, and a half million possible ringtones are all at your fingertips - literally. The iPhone gives you all of the features of an iPod, and then some. Its widescreen display lets you listen to audiobooks or watch videos, movies, and television shows. You have instant access to the Internet, email, maps, and a YouTube player that launches from the home screen. The iPhone maps feature ensures that you'll never get lost, and myriad widgets keep you endlessly delighted. But a list of features doesn't begin to express what's at the heart of the iPhone revolution. It's gorgeous, it's intuitive, it's sleek, and it's absolutely cool.

iPhone Portals

Best of all, when you buy an iPhone, what you pull out of the box is just the beginning. The possibilities are virtually limitless. That's why an increasing number of iPhone aficionados are turning to what are, in essence, iPhone portals - gateways to accessories, downloads, and information for this technological wonder.

The right iPhone site will unlock a world of resources for both new owners and old-timers. In the accessories department, you'll be able to find leather cases, gel skins, and even books to help you get the most out of your iPhone. You can also find tutorials and software for your device, as well as information about iPhone repair.

Download Services

But perhaps the most useful aspect of an iPhone gateway is that it presents a number of services to download music, music videos, movies, games, and much more. For example, you can find a service that, for a one-time fee, provides you with access to unlimited downloads. This circumvents the cumbersome pay-per-download fees of most sites.

When deciding which service to purchase, make sure that the service you choose has millions of files from which to choose, that it's free of spyware and pop-ups, and that it offers free online help and 24-hour tech support.

Media Transfers

Typically, when you sign up with a download service, you'll also receive easy-to-install software and tutorials on how to transfer media from a DVD or a PC to an iPhone. Look for software that supports multiple video formats, such as .avi, .mpg, .mov, .wmv, and .mp4. Similarly, the software should support a variety of types of images, such as .gif, .jpg, and .bmp.

The iPhone was undoubtedly the best invention of 2007. Now that the iPhone is available in 16GB and 32GB (as well as 8GB), it's easy to download movies, music, and videos to your heart's content. Finding the right iPhone portal will enable you to load up your iPhone and get out the door in no time at all.

What Is A Plasma Television?

The popularity of the plasma television has widely increased since its first release to the general public. People are now seeing the benefits of having a plasma tv in their home. Before, plasma televisions were so expensive but now, since a lot of manufacturers are making them, the competition has grown and the cost of the plasma tv eventually decreased.

Plasma televisions are often advertised in tv commercials and on the Internet. Great offers are always available. The advertisers often talk about the benefits of having a plasma television at home but what they do not usually mention is what a plasma tv really is and the technology behind it.

A plasma television contains transistor electrodes. The pixel cells of this new technology have transistor electrodes that prevent the scan lines from appearing in the tv screen. The pixels are made up of three fluorescent lights that are colored green, red and blue. Scan lines are usually noticeable on the conventional tv screens because these screens use beams of electrons.

Plasma television provides a higher resolution than any other type of tv monitors. It can display the high-definition signals of HDTelevision and DTelevision. Plasma tv's can also receive the computer signals XGA, SVGA and VGA.

The most expensive and the most powerful plasma television can display over 16 million different colors. This means that the color of the pictures seen on the television is so much closer to its color in real life. Your old tv screen is not capable of displaying these kinds of colors.

The design of the plasma television is also for a specific purpose. Plasma tv's are flat. The flat screen gives a wider viewing angle so wherever you are, you are sure to have a clearer view on the screen. You might have noticed that your ordinary tv has limited viewing angles because of its curved screen. It has a smaller viewing angle than the flat tv. The viewing angle of the plasma television is 160 degrees. Therefore, it is very suitable for group viewing.

Unlike the usual tv screens, the plasma television screens are space savers. With ordinary tv's, you need a tv table or stand to hold your tv, occupying a lot of space. Since the screen is flat, only about 4 to 6 inches thick and approximately 50 inches wide, it can be hung on the wall or even on the ceiling if you want to view in a reclining position. Very thin materials are used to produce these wide but flat monitors. Since all the pixels are lit in the process, clear colors are produced.

Everybody would surely want to have his or her very own plasma television at home. It is definitely becoming the most popular way to watch your favorite movies and tv shows.

How To Shop For A Flat Screen TV Online

When it comes to shopping for a flat screen TV, consumers have the option of browsing the local retail store, internet shop or mail-order catalog. Because of it's convenience, many choose to shop online and leave the heavy lifting to someone else. In exchange for a shipping fee, consumers can have the product delivered directly to their doorstep.

When shopping for any product online, including a flat screen TV, there are several ways for the customer to make sure that their bargain purchase doesn't become a real pain. There is something to be said in the old adage, which declares that if something is too good to be true, then it probably is! Anyone shopping for a flat screen TV should familiarize themselves with the retail price of the particular model that they are interested in purchasing. If the buyer comes across an unrealistic low price for this item, this may throw a red flag to indicate a questionable offering. Technology is expensive and no business, no matter how great or small, can afford to practically give away their merchandise. Extremely high shipping fees combined with low pricing is also a legitimate concern among internet shoppers. Because of the weight of a flat screen TV, consumers can expect to pay a larger shipping fee, but only within reason.

As with most new technology, a warranty is generally available from the manufacturer. During an occasion when a customer purchases a flat screen TV online, they need to make sure that the guarantee is from an American warranty. In addition, customers should pay close attention to exactly what is covered under the warranty, the period covered and which party is responsible for shipping costs if applicable.

Before making any purchase, including that of a flat screen TV, consumers should always check out the business's reputation with the local Better Business Bureau in their area. It is also a good idea to learn about the company's return and/or exchange policy in the event that a problem should arise. While it is important to purchase a flat screen TV from a reputable dealer, the sales approach should never be an aggressive one. Even if the company is legitimate, a pushed sale is never a good idea.

As a final thought, when purchasing anything online, including a flat screen TV, consumers may wish to consider doing so with a credit card. The majority of credit card companies offer a dispute process, which enables the customer to gain a full refund if the product is not as advertised or if the company refuses to stand behind their product. Each credit card company retains a unique policy when it comes to customer disputes, which is outlined in the Terms & Agreement paperwork included with their card.

Home Electronics: How to Find Hot Deals

On wish lists around the country, home electronics have bypassed traditional favorites like clothes, lingerie, and jewelry as the most coveted items. But whether you're buying home electronics for yourself and your family, or as a gift, the burning question is always: Where do I find hot deals?

After all, why pay premium prices for LCD flat screen TVs, an iPod, a digital camera, or a cell phone when you can get hot deals at a fraction of the cost? While it's true that the prices for all home electronics are trending downward, it pays to shop around for the best possible prices before you make a purchase.

LCD Flat Screen TVs: Although LCD flat screen TVs for home entertainment systems are massive and relatively expensive, portable LCD flat screen TVs are ultimately affordable - especially when you can find hot deals and discount prices. For example, a seven-inch LCD flat screen TV with a full channel VHF/UHF receiver, built-in speakers, 1440 x 234 resolution and an active matrix display, a detachable and mountable stand, and A/V input jacks might list for $249.99. You can, however, find it for $144.29, a savings of over 42 percent.

iPod: Every family needs at least one iPod, and although the iPod Shuffle lists for $179.99, there are places where you can get hot deals and purchase an iPod shuffle for $109.43, or a discount of 39 percent. Likewise, you can save over 27 percent on an iPod Nano, and pay only $289.77. If you're willing to buy a refurbished model, you can get it even cheaper.

Digital Camera: Let's face it: film cameras are so twentieth century. There's no need to bother with bulky camera equipment and film and developing costs when you can snap all the pictures you want with a digital camera. And, there's truly a digital camera for every budget, with prices ranging from $100 to $10,000 and more. But when you look for hot deals, you can get a lot more camera for your money. If your budget is $150, for example, you can probably find a digital camera that retails for $299, but that is discounted almost 50 percent. Again, if you are willing to buy a refurbished digital camera, the savings can be even greater.

Cell Phone: Everyone in the family needs a cell phone, so it only makes sense to look for hot deals on cell phones. If you buy every family member the same cell phone (or the same cell phone in a variety of colors), you can usually find a calling plan that is extremely cost effective.

There's no question that hot deals on home electronics - and even electronics that double as a car accessory - are out there. Your best bet is to look for an online discount source. Because online stores don't have to pay the overhead that brick-and-mortar stores have to pay, they usually offer lower prices. Online stores also move a lot of inventory, so their hot deals usually surpass those of even the electronics megastores. Always comparison shop, but remember that for the best hot deals, let your mouse do the clicking.

LCD Versus Plasma - Which One is Best?

A new television is high on everyone's wish list. Who wouldn't love a brand new fifty-inch flat screen TV hanging on their living room wall? The makers of televisions are taking advantage of ever-changing technology by creating scientific marvels that can produce clear pictures and lifelike colors in just a few inches of depth. But all of this technology means that buying a TV is harder than ever. These days, the battle between LCD and plasma is on, and choosing sides can be hard. Which one should you purchase?

Why buy a plasma TV?

Plasma TV's have a wide viewing angle. This means that the person sitting to the side of the television can enjoy the same picture quality as the person sitting in front of the television. With an LCD, the picture quality diminishes if viewed from an angle. If you plan on mounting your TV high on a wall or above a fireplace, a plasma is your best bet, since the picture will remain clear when viewed from the ground. Plasma TV's are known for having high contrast and deep black levels. This is most evident in nighttime scenes in movies and shows; the colors appear lifelike and every detail shows, even in dark scenes. Plasma TV's are also less expensive than LCD's. When the price per inch is compared, plasma TV's are a budget's best friend.

Why buy an LCD?

If you are looking to reduce your monthly electricity bills, you will want to purchase an LCD TV. The savings are minimal - often just a few dollars a month - but will add up over the lifetime of the television. And since an LCD TV uses less electricity, it is the greener option. You might also want to purchase an LCD if someone in your family is an avid video gamer. Video games often feature static images, like the score box or the countdown timer, that do not move. With a plasma TV, these static images can burn into the screen; this burn-in is not a problem with an LCD. You also need to consider the level of light in the room. LCD's are well suited to bright rooms. The screen is less reflective than a plasma, and as such will not show the reflections of windows or lights. Also, LCD's have a brighter picture; under the harsh glow of daylight or lamplight, viewers will still see a clear and bright picture on the screen.

In a battle between plasma and LCD, there is no clear winner. You should buy whichever television best suits your needs. But before purchasing a TV, you need to remember some key rules. First, match the size of the television to the size of the room; contrary to popular belief, the television should not be larger than the room itself. Second, shop around. Prices for both plasma and LCD TV's are coming down by the day, so you might find a bargain if you do a little comparison shopping. And third, if you are technically challenged, hire someone to install the electrical components for you. This way, you can sit back and enjoy your favorite show with all of your fingers intact.

Tips On How To Buy A Plasma TV

Plasma TV Buying Tips

Plasma technology seems to be the buzz these days and its popularity continues to grow as HDTV, DVD-video, DTV, and digital satellite become more commonplace. These plasma TV buying tips will help you make the right decision.

Plasma resolution is higher than traditional TV sets and it’s capable of HDTV, DTV, as well as VGA, SVGA, and XGA. A plasma television will have a display of 1366 x 768 and it will provide much more vibrant colors and clarity than anything we’ve seen in the past.

Plasma is measured diagonally just like other televisions. The smallest screen is 32 inches and the largest is 63 inches. If you are recessing your TV, you need to leave 3 inches of space at top to provide proper ventilation. You will also need 6 inches on each side for your speakers.

You need to make sure your plasma will allow for proper viewing from all directions. Don’t just purchase the largest screen because it’s a good price. Purchase a size that works best with your room.

Thirty-two to thirty-seven inch screens are viewed best from 6 to 10 feet. Forty-two inch screens are viewed best from 10 to 14 feet; and 50 inch screen are best viewed from 12 to 16 feet. Screens that are over 50 inches should be viewed from at least 15 feet away.

The flatter the tube is on the television the less glare you will get from windows, doors, and lamps. You’ll also get less distortion on the screen. If you are going to the expense of buying a plasma television, go for the flat screen right away. It’s definitely a smart investment.

Make sure the TV has at least one set of audio video inputs and at least one set of audio output. More is better if at all possible. Also check for RCA composite, component video inputs, and S-video. If you are going to use HDTV, then check for the HD component firewire.

When it comes time to go shopping you can choose to purchase from a local retail outlet or you might want to have a look online. There are often some great buys to be found online. Of course, as with any purchase, use common sense. If the price sounds too good to be true it usually is. Always buy from a reputable dealer that you know you can trust.

There are several pricing portals online such as Nextag, Pricegrabber, and Bizrate. These sites are a quick way to see what is available at different sites online. Remember the only sites you’ll find on these portals are paid advertisers but it’s still a good place to start looking.

Be sure to check the warranty on the television you are looking at. If an extended warranty option is available it’s definitely worth considering if it’s reasonably priced.

Follow these plasma TV buying tips and you’ll be well on your way to buying that new TV!

Checklist for Buying Quality Printer Toner Supplies on the Internet

More and more people are shopping online for their printer and toner supplies. There are online stores that carry almost every brand name and accessory in existence. There are advantages and disadvantages of using an online source for these products, and a few things to watch out for while shopping as well. Here's a quick checklist of what to look for when buying printer and toner supplies online.

Check for Compatibility

The tricky part to buying laser printer supplies and toner is making sure the accessories are compatible with your printer. Most printers come with a toner cartridge already installed. But when it comes time to replace the cartridge, you should look at the old cartridge and write down the product serial or identification number on the cartridge. If you're not sure about the type of toner cartridge needed, check in your printer manual.

You can also check in the printer manual to find out about other replaceable parts if your printer needs a repair. It's important to buy parts that are compatible. Trying to install toner or other parts that are not compatible could harm the machine. Also, you'll save time and money by checking the compatibility in advance. If you order the wrong toner, it will have to be shipped to you and then shipped back to the company for an exchange. The company might not refund your original shipping amount so that's money lost.

Price versus Quality

Compare prices on printer supplies and toner, but don't go by price alone. There are many companies that sell cheap made products at cheap prices. It's better to pay a little more and get a good brand name product than to waste money on a product that won't last.

Search online for quality brand names such as Apple, IBM, Lanier, Epson, Dell, Brother, Canon, Digital, GCC, Genicom, Samsung, Panasonic, Pitney Bowes, and HP Comp. This will ensure you are getting printer accessories that are of a good quality.

Ordering, Shipping, and Other Products

Check to be sure the online company offers secure ordering and has reasonable shipping charges. Sometimes the shipping charges can eat up your savings. You'd be better off buying from a local store. But if you live far from the nearest printer supply store and the shipping is affordable, it's well worth buying online.

Some online companies will offer a variety of products along with printer supplies. These products might include Sony tape drives, laptop hard drives, notebook batteries, CD/DVD drives, floppy drives, cell phone batteries, digital cameras and batteries, inkjet cartridges, and more.

When you find a dependable company online that offers all these products at reasonable prices, you've found a goldmine! You can shop for your own printer toner supplies along with other related items and combine shipping amounts to save money. Or, you can use the services for holiday gift shopping. Either way, you'll save time and money by ordering these products online from the comfort of your own home.

Electronics Tips: Questions to Ask before Buying an iPod or MP3 Player

Finding just the right iPod can be a confusing task. Every few months, new technology is being used to improve iPods. You probably want to get one that's not going to be obsolete within a few months, so here are some questions to ask before buying an iPod.

Why am I Buying an iPod?

As with all electronics, you should think about how you're going to use an iPod before making a buying decision. In your personal life, you can download songs onto your iPod to listen to while walking, jogging, traveling, or doing yard work. If you're a photographer, you may use your iPod to store digital photo files. Knowing "why" you need an iPod will help you choose just the right size, color, and type of iPod.

How Many Songs do I Plan to Store on my iPod?

If you plan to store hundreds of songs on your iPod, then you should be sure that the storage space can accommodate your needs. Expect to pay more for more space. Also, consider how file size relates to the quality of the songs you download. Some iPods and MP3 players state that you can download hundreds of songs, but the quality of the sound isn't that great. This is because the sound files are compressed to make them fit the available storage space. If you can't afford a lot of storage space, it's better to sacrifice the number of songs you want than to sacrifice quality.

What Type of iPods are Available?

iPods come in many shapes, sizes, colors, and with different storage capacities. Keep in mind that you are not limited to the "iPod" brand because MP3 players serve the same purpose. There are also many types of MP3 players available that give you a variety of choices. The types of iPods available include iPods specifically designed for Mac or Windows computers, regular iPods with lots of storage space, iPod minis for storing just a few of your favorite songs, and iPods with other functions and capabilities.

What Accessories Will I Need for My iPod?

Accessories for iPods might include an iPod case or sock for protecting the device, a remote control, camera connectors, an iPod dock, in-ear headphones, power adaptors, and software to expand its uses. Determine which accessories you will need and factor them into the price of your iPod.

If you are buying an iPod or MP3 player as a gift, consider purchasing a gift card so your recipient can buy iTunes for his or her iPod.

Where Should I Shop for an iPod?

You can shop locally for iPods or MP3 players or go online to get an even greater selection. At an online shopping mall, you can get an iPod or MP3 player, along with other great electronics such as cell phones, computer supplies, Xbox, PS2, and more. There are a variety of brand name items available online, such as Nokia, Sony, Samsung, and Blackberry, so you can get a great quality PDA and other electronics.

The bottom line is that you should choose an iPod or MP3 player that best suits your needs and your lifestyle. When you do, your favorite tunes will always be close at hand.

HDMI and DVI, Similarities and Differences

If you just acquired a new HD television, a television complete and equipped with the right HDMI connectors for attaching a DVD or Blue Ray disk player with HDMI interface, you will definitely need a the right kind of HDMI cable to make the connection. Other wise you won’t be able to use the high definition capability of either your television or your disk player and cable or satellite box. You need to pay attention to the component outputs as well as inputs so you can plug in the HDMI cable and connect your television. In every instance where you use electronic devices, home or office, you must have the proper cables for them to work properly. Most of the time electronic devices such as televisions will not work properly or to their full potential if you don’t use the right cable connectors. There are however do many different options out there, so many cables to choose from, so you will need to be prepared and know which one to choose so you won’t waste your time and money. With so many different cables out there and electronic equipment sales men and women making a living off commission the buyer ought to be careful when selecting HDMI cables. These types of cables can be very expensive, and consumers buy ones they don’t really need or can’t really use, very often.
The two most popular types of HD cables are HDMI cables and DVI cables. Although, they are similar in many ways they have many subtle differences that you need to have in mind. HDMI cables as well as DVI cables are not cheap. Be careful know the differences and don’t waste your money. The DVI cable was released in the late 1990’s and DVI stands for Digital Visual Interface. The DVI is capable of carrying uncompressed digital video to a display, a monitor. The first use of the DVI cable was associated with connecting the personal computer with a monitor. Over the past years however, their use expanded and they are now used to for connecting televisions as well. There are also different types of DVI cables as well. For instance there is the DVI-D, D for digital, refers to digital cable, DVI-A is for analog television and the last one is DVI-I the one that accommodates for both digital and analog interfaces. DVI cables in general are considered relatively outdated in comparison to the more recent and in high demand HDMI cable. HDMI stands for High Definition Multimedia Interface. The HDMI cable is relatively newer than the DVI, it as introduced in 2002 and came out as high definition televisions did. The HDMI cable is an all-digital, no analog, video interface cable that can transmit uncompressed streams of data. That means that any HDMI cable even if it a Cheap HDMI Cables, can carry both audio and video signals. Both cables will work fine in getting the image to your television screen The HDMI is to considered better because of the two because of the fact that it is all digital.

Laguna – Book Review

The first thing that stood out for me about Michael Putegnat’s novel, Laguna, was the author’s excellent writing skills. He has the ability to create a vision in the readers mind and employs a clever use of humor. Attractive hooks at the ending of most chapters kept me unable to resist reading at least the first paragraph or two of the next one.

Laguna opens with Octavio Paredes, the missing fisherman, and his wife Anajita. This interesting inter-racial marriage gives glimpses of underlying racism in their families. From there we are introduced to Jason, a sergeant at a police station, and his brother Jack, who is depressed and out-of-work. The hands of fate drag these two brothers into the case of the missing fisherman. Intriguing threads lead back to Jack’s old job and his only refuge is his sailboat. However the unexpected romance with Angela brings a ray of relief to Jack’s battered life.

Sweet Angela, the green-eyed daughter of Sophia Poole, is more than she seems. She gets that from her mother. Sophia, no ordinary elderly lady, holds an emotional secret.

John Mange, his wife and two sons are facing financial loss on a grand scale. But nothing small in this family has been done in more than four generations. Greed runs deep in John’s genes and like his forefathers, he stoops to unspeakable levels to get what he desires most.

Enter Fester Stubb, a former IRS tax fraud specialist is employed by John Mange. John doesn’t yet know it, but he has just made his biggest mistake.

As you can probably tell by the list of characters, the back cover statement accurately describes the setting for Laguna as a place where “power and greed are the new religion and love is an accident”.

This book invokes political scams and rich men’s schemes, harbored loves and dedications that control women’s lives - and my favorite of all themes – the love and desire to protect the environment. I love the good verses evil scenario set out from the start. Here we have greed working against vengeance with the backdrop of romance and the need to do what is right. I was stunned to discover this is this author’s very first book. It is of excellent quality with writing skills I have seldom seen.

The characters are made to appear so real. No one in particular is a “hero”, yet they all play a heroic part in some way – each without knowledge of what any of the others were doing. It was a great example of what each of us can do by playing an active role.

In his real life, author Michael Putegnat is familiar with the political arenas and enjoys sailing. He also comes from a long line of Texans; his family has lived in the state for 5 generations or so. Because of this, his book comes alive for the reader with seemingly little effort on his part.

Capture all Your Daring Feats with a Helmet Camera

If you're the adventure type, helmet cameras can help you capture all those daring feats easily for motocross, flying, ATV, road racing, kayaking, skydiving, cycling, snowboarding, karting, and other adrenalin-pumping sports.

Helmet cams give you the capability to record every moment of the action without depending on an outside cameraperson. These action video cameras are popular with television and movie recordings as well as daredevil athletes, and now you can record your feats just like the pros! You can show the recording to your friends, and they can imagine being there with you on every twist and turn.

What is a Helmet Camera?

A helmet camera is a very small type of camcorder that can be attached to a protective helmet to record all the action while doing extreme sports activities. It can also be used for more relaxed sports such as fishing, golf, hiking, and biking. Helmet cameras are also called helmet cam, bullet cam or bullet camera, lipstick cam or lipstick camera (resembles a tube of lipstick), or wireless helmet camera.

A helmet camera works in conjunction with a DVR (DVD video recorder) and can be played back again and again for your enjoyment.

Benefits of Helmet Cams

Helmet cams provide hands-free recording during your extreme sports activity. This promotes safety and easy use. You won't have to worry about holding the camera or adjusting it as you go. You can concentrate on the activity and still capture all the details without distraction. Also, you can record sound with a helmet camera and narrate the activity as you go. If you're participating in an extreme sporting competition, you can record every moment as a keepsake for years to come.

Buying Helmet Cameras

When you get ready to buy a helmet camera, check online for a dependable retailer. You can always find great deals on quality lipstick cameras with all the accessories to go along. Search for helmet or bullet camera reviews to find good quality products. Also, check for sound quality, durability, and features before buying. Sometimes paying a little more is well worth it if you get a better quality helmet camera. There are affordable, high-quality cameras available online such as the Oregon Scientific ATC-2000 action adventure cam.

Tips for Using Helmet Cameras

Once you buy a helmet camera, take time to study on how to use it properly. Be sure the helmet cam has been properly secured before starting your activity. High speeds, bumps, and falls can cause the helmet camera to become lost or broken if you don't secure it properly. The camera's cable should also be secured so that it doesn't flap in the wind. Take quick breaks to check the lens to make sure it's clean if you're out on the road or in the dirt, water, or mud. Also, be sure the camera is actually recording before getting started!

During extreme sports, you can be the star every time with an amazing helmet camera!

Father's Day Reflections: My Dad, the Electronics Enthusiast

With Father's Day just around the corner, it's time once again to figure out what I'm going to get my dad. Like many men, he's an electronics enthusiast through and through. He's what companies like (or love) to call an "early adopter" - someone who just can't wait to buy the latest gadget, the faster computer, the bigger HDTV, and anything else you can think of. His obsession definitely has its benefits, though. My sister and I regularly go through his "electronics graveyard" and get fully functional computers, DVD recorders, and all manner of accessories.

But this knack of his to buy the latest electronics makes it that much more difficult to figure out what to get him for his birthday, Christmas, and Father's Day. My sister and I are thinking about buying him a new digital camera for Father's Day, one that has 7.0 megapixels, an optical zoom, and a special setting for taking eBay pictures. Dad is an avid eBay seller, and the right photos can make the difference between selling an item at a decent price and at a great price. The new digital cameras that have the special eBay setting would complement two of his passions: electronics and eBay.

We're also considering buying him a GPS receiver. The Global Positioning System is a set of satellites in orbit high above the earth, and a GPS receiver can tell you, in terms of latitude and longitude, exactly where you are. Some GPS receivers have built-in mapping tools that not only include road maps, but that also show places of interest. So, for example, when Dad's traveling and needs to find a gas station, he can "ask" the GPS system where the nearest gas station is, and then receive directions to it.

A GPS receiver is also perfect for a new "sport" that I've become interested in, and one that I think Dad would love. Geocaching is a hobby that is quite a bit like a treasure hunt. People all over the globe hide small containers that contain trinkets and logbooks, ascertain the latitudinal and longitudinal coordinates of the hiding spots, and post them online. You can go online and find the coordinates of caches near where you live or travel, enter them into your GPS receiver, and then try and find the cache. It's not as easy as it sounds, but it sure is a lot of fun. Once you find a cache, you can pick up a trinket, leave a trinket, and sign the logbook. Dad's expressed an interest in geocaching, and since he does a lot of traveling for his work, my sister and I think that a GPS receiver and a book on geocaching might make the perfect Father's Day gift.

In my heart, I know that our dad will appreciate whatever gift we choose. Any type of electronics will tickle his fancy, and I'm sure that he'll enjoy either a digital camera or a GPS system. The only thing we have to worry about is whether he'll go out and buy one for himself before we get a chance to give him his Father's Day gift!